Things To Do
in Fort McMurray
Fort McMurray is a northern Alberta city that serves as the service hub for the Athabasca oil sands and surrounding boreal landscape. It combines industrial vistas with rivers, lakes and access to Wood Buffalo National Park, offering a mix of working-town energy and outdoor recreation. The community reflects a diverse population of local Indigenous peoples and a transient workforce from across Canada and abroad.
Visitors will find rugged nature nearby, practical amenities, and a culture shaped by resource-industry rhythms and northern living.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Fort McMurray Heritage Park, where you can stroll through the reconstructed buildings that depict life in the early 1900s. Enjoy a guided tour to learn about the history of the region and the importance of the fur trade. Don’t forget to take some stunning pictures of the picturesque surroundings.
In the afternoon, head to the Oil Sands Discovery Centre to delve into the region's industrial heart. Interactive exhibits and informative displays will give you insights into the oil sands and their impact on the local economy and environment. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café, sampling local cuisine.
As the sun sets, make your way to the Snye Point Park for a relaxing evening by the waterfront. You can take a peaceful stroll along the trails or enjoy a picnic as you watch the vibrant colors of the sunset reflecting on the water. To cap off your day, visit a local pub for a taste of Fort McMurray’s nightlife.
Begin your day with an early morning drive to Gregoire Lake Provincial Park, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Enjoy a refreshing hike along the trails, taking in the serene lake views and diverse wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for birds and other animals that call this area home.
After a morning of exploration, set up a picnic at one of the park's scenic spots and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. Post-lunch, rent a canoe or kayak to paddle on the lake, relishing the tranquility and the stunning landscape. Spend the afternoon soaking in the sun and the natural beauty around you.
As evening approaches, return to Fort McMurray and treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a local restaurant renowned for its fresh ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely walk in the downtown area, appreciating the charming architecture and lively atmosphere. Wind down your day with a visit to a nearby coffee shop for a warm drink.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-5 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (pub) | $6-10 |
| 🚕Local taxi (short ride) | $10-25 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $120-220 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to remarkable northern landscapes and Wood Buffalo National Park.
- Good base for outdoor activities year-round and strong community amenities.
- Straightforward services and amenities for travelers, with unique cultural experiences.
- Remote location means higher travel costs and fewer dining/entertainment options than large cities.
- Weather extremes (very cold winters, potential wildfire smoke) can disrupt plans.
- Industrial presence and transient workforce can make the town feel utilitarian rather than scenic in some areas.
Places to Visit in Fort McMurray
Visit one of these nice places.
Clear water, sandy beaches and boreal shoreline create beautiful sunrise and sunset opportunities, plus reflections and migratory birdlife in season.
Rivers carve scenic channels through the town—good for golden-hour shots, river reflections and photographing local wildlife along the banks.
Vast wetlands, salt plains and the Peace-Athabasca Delta offer dramatic landscapes and abundant birdlife; access may require permits or guides, and some areas are sensitive.
Industrial infrastructure juxtaposed with northern landscapes can produce striking images; always respect private property and safety protocols—photograph from public viewpoints or organized tours.
Modern recreational facilities and riverside trails provide accessible compositions, especially during community events and winter ice/snow scenes.
Food in Fort McMurray
Fort McMurray Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Simple fried or baked bannock served with jam or savory accompaniments; often available at Indigenous-run cafes and cultural events.
Must-Try!
Local beef and game feature heavily—try a tender Alberta steak or bison burger at a downtown steakhouse or gastropub.
Classic Canadian poutine and other comfort dishes are common in diners and pubs—good for refueling after outdoor activities.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Summer markets (check local calendar) offer baked goods, preserves, local produce, smoked fish and Indigenous crafts; great places to sample bannock, jams and local treats.
During warmer months and events you’ll find food trucks near parks and MacDonald Island—options range from burgers and tacos to regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Canadians value politeness and orderly lines—say please and thank you, give way when appropriate, and be patient in service settings.
Be respectful when visiting or photographing Indigenous cultural sites and communities—ask permission before taking photos, and follow local protocols.
Fort McMurray's rhythms are shaped by shift work in the energy sector—expect varied business hours and plan travel around shift change traffic and service availability.
Respect wildlife and fragile ecosystems—pack out trash, stay on trails when required, and follow park rules and seasonal access restrictions.
Safety
Tipping in Fort McMurray
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard tipping in Canada is 15–20% at sit-down restaurants; tip bartenders $1–2 per drink or 10–15% for table service, and round up or tip taxi drivers and hotel porters as appropriate.
Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted; contactless tap payments are common. Cash is useful for small vendors or remote purchases, and ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Short but pleasant summers (June–August) bring mild to warm days ideal for lake swimming, boating and hiking; mosquitoes can be heavy in wetlands—bring repellent and expect long daylight hours.
Crisp, cool temperatures with colourful boreal foliage in September–October; ideal for photography and fishing, but weather can change quickly—layer up.
Long, cold winters (November–March) with temperatures often well below freezing and frequent snow—dress in warm layers, be prepared for icy roads and limited daylight; winter sports are abundant.
Spring thaw brings muddy conditions and fluctuating temperatures; some trails and backcountry roads may be soft or flooded—check conditions before heading out.
Fort McMurray at Night
Hiking in Fort McMurray
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of trails around the lake suitable for short hikes, birdwatching and lakeside photography; accessible and family-friendly in summer and autumn.
Extensive and varied terrain—wetlands, salt plains and boreal forest offer remote hiking and wildlife viewing; many areas require permits or guided access and are environmentally sensitive.
Short, scenic walks along river corridors in and near town that provide good birding, photography and easy hikes.
Seasonal routes suitable for longer day hikes in summer and snowmobiling or backcountry skiing in winter; check local maps and conditions before departing.
Airports
How to reach Fort McMurray by plane.
The primary airport serving the city with regular flights to Edmonton, Calgary and other Alberta hubs; about a 15–30 minute drive to downtown depending on traffic.
Major international airport approximately 4–5 hours' drive southwest (roughly 430–450 km); offers more flight options, car rentals and connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The area has a significant Indigenous presence—Cree and Métis communities with deep cultural ties to the land and local history.
Many residents are employed in the oil sands and associated industries; a sizable transient and fly-in–fly-out population influences the local economy and demographics.
Local families and long-term residents maintain community institutions, schools and cultural organizations that anchor social life year-round.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Hockey is extremely popular, with local rinks, junior teams and strong community participation in winter.
A common recreational activity in winter—extensive trail networks and guided tours are available.
Summer boating and angling are popular on regional lakes and rivers, supporting a strong local fishing culture.
Curling clubs are active social and sporting hubs through winter months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Fort McMurray.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but more limited than in larger cities—look for salads, grain bowls, veggie burgers and international eateries; call ahead for special requests.
Some cafes and newer restaurants offer vegan and gluten-free options, but choices can be sparse outside downtown—plan ahead and bring snacks if you have strict needs.
Restaurants are generally accommodating; always notify staff of serious allergies and double-check cross-contact risks, especially at busy pubs and buffet-style venues.