Things To Do
in Olds

Olds, Canada is a charming small town located in Alberta, known for its rich agricultural heritage and vibrant community spirit. Nestled between Calgary and Red Deer, it serves as a gateway to the picturesque landscapes of the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The town is home to several parks and recreational facilities, making it an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

With a variety of local shops and eateries, Olds offers a quaint, welcoming atmosphere for visitors exploring the region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Olds
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, then visit the Olds College Botanic Gardens to explore beautiful plant collections.

afternoon
:

Take a stroll through downtown Olds, visiting unique shops and the Olds Museum to learn about the town's history.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and then catch a live performance at the Olds Institute for Community and Regional Development.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Begin with a morning hike at the nearby Olds College Trails, enjoying views of nature and wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the local Farmers' Market to sample fresh produce and artisan goods, followed by a picnic at Riverside Park.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with a night out at a local pub, where you can enjoy some live music and mingle with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$10
Coffee$4
🍽️Dinner for Two$60
🚌Public Transport Ticket$3
🏨Hotel Night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Friendly community atmosphere
  • Access to beautiful natural scenery
  • Rich agricultural heritage and local markets
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Small-town ambiance may not appeal to everyone
  • Fewer dining options compared to larger cities

Places to Visit in Olds

Visit one of these nice places.

Olds College Botanic Gardens

A beautifully landscaped area with diverse flora, making it a perfect spot for nature photography.

Riverside Park

Featuring scenic river views and walking paths, this park is ideal for capturing sunsets and wildlife.

Downtown Olds Murals

Explore colorful murals that depict the town’s history and culture, providing great backdrops for photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Olds

Olds offers a delightful culinary experience with a focus on local produce and hearty comfort food.

Olds Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Beef Stew

A classic Canadian dish made with tender beef, root vegetables, and rich broth, perfect for warming up after a day outdoors.

Must-Try!

Bison Burger

A flavorful alternative to traditional beef, the bison burger represents Alberta's rich ranching culture.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Olds Farmers' Market

Held weekly, this market showcases local produce, homemade goods, and delicious baked treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Olds experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers are warm, averaging around 25°C (77°F). Spring and fall are mild, with beautiful foliage and blooming landscapes, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Canadians are known for their politeness; saying 'please' and 'thank you' is appreciated.

Respect for Nature

When enjoying outdoor spaces, it's important to respect nature by leaving no trace.

Queuing

Forming a line and waiting your turn is standard practice in shops and restaurants.

Safety Guide

Safety

Olds is generally a safe place for visitors, but standard precautions should be taken. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit areas at night and to keep personal belongings secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 911.

Tipping in Olds

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Custom

It is customary to tip around 15-20% in restaurants, depending on the service received.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit and debit cards, but having some cash on hand is useful for markets and smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm weather invites visitors to enjoy outdoor markets and parks, but be sure to stay hydrated.

Fall

Autumn brings stunning foliage, perfect for hiking and photography, along with harvest festivals.

Winter

Cold temperatures and snow create a winter wonderland for activities like ice skating and snowshoeing.

Nightlife Guide

Olds at Night

Olds offers a laid-back nightlife scene with a few pubs and bars where locals gather. Live music and events often take place, especially on weekends. The atmosphere is friendly, making it easy for visitors to mingle with the community.

Hiking in Olds

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Olds College Trails

A series of well-maintained trails that offer beautiful views and are suitable for hiking and biking.

Lions Park Trail

This scenic trail follows the river and is perfect for a leisurely hike while enjoying nature.

Airports

How to reach Olds by plane.

Calgary International Airport (YYC)

Located about an hour's drive from Olds, this major airport offers flights to and from numerous domestic and international destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Olds is a walkable town, with many amenities located within a short distance of each other. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are available at major intersections, making it safe for visitors to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Olds has a strong family-oriented community, with many activities and amenities catered to families with children.

Agricultural Workers

Given its agricultural roots, many residents are involved in farming and ranching, contributing to the town's economy and culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hockey

Ice hockey is a beloved sport in Olds, with community leagues and events drawing local crowds.

Football

Canadian football is also popular, with local teams engaging in friendly matches throughout the season.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Olds is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation options are limited, but local services connect to nearby towns. Most residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Olds.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Gluten-Free Options

Many restaurants in Olds offer gluten-free options, but it's wise to inform staff of your needs.

Vegetarian and Vegan Choices

Several establishments provide vegetarian and vegan dishes, but checking menus in advance is recommended.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Olds is provided through local clinics and the nearby Olds Hospital. Emergency services are available, and residents can access family physicians for general health needs. It's advisable for visitors to have travel insurance to cover any medical costs.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide