Events & Festivals
A New Sunshine Trolley in Medicine Hat
More tours and more sunshine.
More tours and more sunshine.
In Clarke’s Beach, Newfoundland sat a 2008 Supreme Trolley that was owned by a vintage vehicle collector. In 2022, Tourism Medicine Hat sent two drivers to bring the Trolley across Canada to its new home in Medicine Hat.
“The driver said every time they stopped, they always had people come up and ask what the vehicle is, why they have it, and why it's being driven across the country,” says Mo Cranker, project coordinator, Tourism Medicine Hat. “There was definitely a lot of curiosity and excitement among people along the way.”
Jace Anderson, executive director of Tourism Medicine Hat, says the community response to the first Sunshine Trolley was immediate with its unique and playful shape, and it inspired the search for a second Trolley to add to the fleet.
“We see so many locals on the Sunshine Trolley, and they often have their visiting friends and family with them. It's become a great way for locals and visitors to see Medicine Hat together. And Tourism Medicine Hat is fortunate to be leading that experience now and, with the addition of the new Sunshine Trolley, years to come,” says Anderson.
Over the years, Cranker says they’ve seen a surging popularity in a number of Sunshine Trolley services and tours in Medicine Hat, with private events and the regular scheduled loops. In 2021, the Sunshine Trolley saw the most riders for their scheduled summer loop tours to date, and in 2022, 30 classes for school tours embarked on the 90-minute tour of the city as part of their curriculum.
“Knowing it’s getting more popular and the community supports what we’re doing, we felt the time was right to get another Sunshine Trolley. When people are visiting, it definitely offers a very unique experience. Oftentimes, people can get on a bus to view a city, but it’s not often it’s on a vintage trolley,” says Cranker.
Finding a new Sunshine Trolley, Cranker says they wanted to purchase one that is just as classic as the first one, and he believes they achieved that. Not only was it originally built to be a Trolley in 2008, it also has a wheelchair lift, A/C, bike rack, and two large sections of the windows come out, known as a ‘convertible’ in the trolley world.
“Whether it’s a local child experiencing their city through a different lens or a visiting child who is experiencing a new city, the Sunshine Trolleys are very unique to our city. And that extends to adults as well. People who live here can ride the Sunshine Trolleys and have a totally new view of certain landmarks and sights, and learn about the history on the tours,” says Cranker.
Book a spot on the Guided Tours
Watch the Sunshine Trolley reel
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A 2008 Supreme Trolley purchased from a vintage vehicle collector in Newfoundland. The newer trolley is propelled by a 5.9L diesel Cummins engine that was newly-built in 2019 by Cummins in South Carolina. Tourism Medicine Hat purchased this unit in 2022.
Local filmmaker uncovers the stories behind Monarch Theatre.
"It’s the heritage value, the architectural significance, and the human component that has been so compelling to discover." - Luke Fandrich.
Most 12-year-olds watch their favourite movies on the television screen and become lost in a familiar storyline, until a relevant melody brings it to an end and the credits finally roll up. At 12-years-old, Luke Fandrich was filming home-directed movies in his spare time with a handycam. And throughout the years, his interest in searching for the story and filming it in present time became a wonderfully infectious feeling.
Fandrich studied film and media production at the University of Regina where he built a website to share his early work and movie-making ambitions. By 2014, the project had evolved into a production company, and he officially became the full-time artist behind Editing Luke.
Born and raised in Medicine Hat, Alberta, Fandrich directed his first feature-length documentary in 2019 titled, Clay, Creativity & the Comeback, a film that dives into the long history behind the National Historic Site, Medalta in the Historic Clay District. The response to the documentary inspired him to search out another story in Southeast Alberta.
"The Medalta project really clued me into the fact that there are fascinating stories in Medicine Hat that haven't been told in this way before. It made me realize I should create something again, find another place I'm curious about and try to put a story together, because there had to be another one. Sure enough, that was the case with the Monarch Theatre," says Fandrich.
The Monarch is believed to be one of the oldest surviving cinemas in Canada and was built in 1911. While it presented movies and stories on the inside, the Monarch's own historic story had never fully received the spotlight until Fandrich picked up his camera to film his new documentary, 'Your Cinema Needs You'.
"The interesting twist was that, by the time my funding proposal had been submitted for the new film, we found out two weeks later The Monarch was closing. This was either going to throw a wrench in things or make the story more interesting," says Fandrich.
Onward the story progressed, but not without a search for some answers. Unlike his Medalta documentary, where the filmmaker had archives, museums, and known people he could draw information from, The Monarch project was a story that was quite literally in the dark. It'd been through numerous operating companies over the years, with lots of different managers - there wasn't really a single repository for information Fandrich could draw on.
"It was a totally different challenge to take on a project where it felt like so much of it was going to be discovered as I went looking for it. It was a lot of detective work. I'd uncover one thing and that would give me another clue that brought me to my next piece of information, and so on," says Fandrich.
‘Your Cinema Needs You’ is now in post-production, and Fandrich has found a story he hasn't heard anyone tell before. With a still unspecified release planned for 2023, the filmmaker's hopes are to premiere the documentary inside the Monarch Theatre.
"The story shows that emotional component. Why is the Monarch here in the first place? What were the other theatres in town, and how did the Monarch outlast all these other cinemas? It’s the heritage value, the architectural significance, and the human component that has been so compelling to discover," says Fandrich.
The process has been eye-opening in many ways, and it's been fascinating for Fandrich to uncover a story with broad appeal. Anyone who has an interest in movies, cinematic history, or century-old cinemas will gravitate towards The Monarch, and see it as the undiscovered gem it truly is.
Thrift locally in Medicine Hat.
In the basement of DYL Fashions, Bargain Basement Thrift has a flat price sheetand everything is under $10, from $6 dresses to $5 skirts. Bargain Basement also occasionally hosts a Saturday Toonie Sale and has $50 wedding dresses. And even better, the basement donates 25% of profits to the Medicine Hat Women's Shelter.
Local Tip: Head across the street to The Yard Patio & Eatery for lunch!
Stephanie has a passion for fashion and truly wants her pieces to go to a home that will fully love them. With a ‘no pressure to buy’ mindset, DYL fashions is a welcoming and relaxed environment, with an owner and team who is ready to give advice and help you feel most comfortable.
Local Tip: Head across the street to Jj Kitchen for lunch!
A local downtown business that finds and repairs old Levi's jeans, as well as re-creating them into jackets, jeans, and bags.
Local Tip: Around the corner Nosh. serves creative latte's, sandwhiches, and salads.
For those looking for good tunes, find thrifted records, cds, and cassettes at Poprocks. On your way to the record room, spot the nostalgic, hard to find candy to pair with your evening of listening to your new-to-you records.
Local Tip: Neighbouring is Country Crumbs Bakery & Cafe. Stop in for a hot drink and fresh pastry!
Dozens of records, cds, and cassettes are found inside Round Again Records, from 80s rock, to country, 90s pop, and so much more. For those who love the hunt of finding their favourite artist, and love being in a record store, one could spend a couple hours searching through.
Local Tip: If you're looking for lunch, stop by LOCAL Public Eatery, next door to Round Again Records!
Located on Third Street in Medicine Hat's Historic Downtown, Y Treasure Thrift Store has everything, from clothing, to year-round and season home decor, books, bags, jewelry, and furniture. YMCA of Medicine Hat runs this location, so while you're doing good by shopping second-hand, your money is also going to a great cause.
Local Tip: Across the street is Teas R Me. Shop over 300 flavours of tea, and take one to go while you continue your day!
Little Munchkins Clothing and Such
Looking to buy the little one something? This thrift shop is packed with everything for young children and at a great price! Some days, they’ll host one dollar sales, where all clothing is one dollar! Nestled in Medicine Hat’s Historic Downtown on Second Street, you can’t go wrong with making a quick stop to this store.
Local Tip: Stop by the other locally-owned businesses on the street, like Station Coffee Company!
Chloe’s Closet and Curio Shop
The owner of Chloe’s Closet finds the most unique, trendy, and comfortable clothing pieces while she travels. Along with quality clothes for women of all shapes and sizes, she has beautiful accessories to match any outfit. Head into this curio shop to find quality second-hand clothing.
Local Tip: Stop for lunch at Tracy’s Place the Chocolate Shop!
Located on Kingsway, a range of beautiful and decadent home decor is featured in this store, from furniture, to dishware, decor, and so much more. Find nostalgic and durable items close to Medicine Hat's Historic Downtown.
Local Tip: Make your next stop The Shabby Vintage Belle, located in the same building!
Located just off the Trans-Canada Highway, The Rail Yard Inc. holds hundreds of treasures that you’ll easily spot. It is full of vintage collections from furniture to home decor and entertainment items for all who love the hunt.
Local Tip: Stop at Redcliff Bakery or Camp Ice Cream for a sweet treat!
Women’s clothing is what you’ll find inside this consignment boutique. All elegant and amazingly-good quality, you can find pieces for any type of event or occasion that is in mint condition.
Local Tip: Head down the street to Café Verve for lunch or a refreshment!
Located on Kingsway Avenue, The Shabby Vintage Belle lives up to its name and showcases many items that bring you back in time. While featuring the unique collectables, the owner also has shelves that feature local makers and creators in Medicine Hat, and hosts workshops throughout the year.
Local Tip: Make your next stop Infinity Antique, located in the same building!
Thousands of books are found inside this used book store. There is even a section featuring Alberta and Medicine Hat-based authors. Spend an afternoon searching for the perfect read, or two, or three. The owners have a great memory of what's in store, so if you're looking for a specific novel, be sure to ask.
Local Tip: Head down the street to McBride's Bakery for a sweet treat!
| If furniture and household items is what you’re looking for, stop by Mickey’s This or That and Habitat for Humanity Restore. For more clothing, home decor, and entertainment items, stop by Value Village Medicine Hat, King of Trade, and Salvation Army Thrift Store.
Looking to refurbish an item? Sewline Upholstery are the experts in the city and have been serving Medicine Hat and surrounding areas for over 30 years. They have a showroom and in-house interior designer that can help you decide on style, fabrics, and paint.
The ultimate guide to shop local in Medicine Hat's Historic Downtown.
Yoke X Hem is an ode to Medicine Hat (YXH) and fashion (“yoke” and “hem” are alteration lingo, which they offer). This local boutique is high fashion and pays close attention to detail.
Neighbouring Yoke X Hem is Labels, a passionate dedication to men’s fashion. A modern and men’s high fashion spot on third street. You can’t miss Yoke X Hem and Labels on third street with their outdoor walls painted in solid pink, black, and forest green.
It’s the image of comfortability, support, confidence, and acceptance. The women in this store are passionate about finding quality casual or celebratory lingerie and swimwear that’s best for you.
Wild Clover Clothing & Lifestyle
Flowy, fitted, cozy, and classy clothing is folded and hung at Wild Clover. Specializing in women’s wear and accessories, the store welcomes anyone who loves anything about dressing themselves up in what feels best.
Every woman needs a blazer, but not just any blazer. By the C orders in custom made blazers specifically for their store. The material feels light and the cuffs have relatable designs. Don’t let the name fool you, there is more than just blazers worth checking out.
The owner of this pre-loved boutique carefully selects flawless clothing to find a new home for. As you wander through and pick pieces, you’ll wonder if it was previously in a closet. Day to day, event wear, vintage, and modern clothes are found at DYL Fashion.
High-quality and extremely flavourful oils and balsamic sit on the shelves inside this tuscany-themed store. Recipe cards are found throughout the space, and there are mini tasting cups to try the oils and balsamic to fuel inspiration on how to best use the quality condiments.
You don’t have to go far to shop locally inside 7 Rivers Trading Co. With everything created in Alberta, the products on their shelves are made close to home.
Inside Botanicals, you’re surrounded by an artistic boutique of all plants large and small. The natural light in this building is beyond bright and fills you with uplifting energy. And, they’re dog friendly.
Minimalistic and modern, the style is free inside this small shop. Elliot Home + Lifestyle has both men’s and women’s products that simply make life a little better.
A locally-owned business featuring locally-made products right here in Medicine Hat. Also offering craft classes, follow their social media to see if something is happening while you’re in the city.
Turn back in time the moment you step through the door to this used vinyl, CD, cassette and 8-track store. Located in Medicine Hat's Arcade Plaza, Round Again Records has a wide selection at great prices. Nothing feels cooler than adding to the record collection.
In the winter, this small local store sells skis and snow gear, and in the summer, bikes and bike gear. The space also has disc golf goods throughout the year.
Nostalgic, hard-to-find candy, and a very well curated selection of records, cd’s, cassettes, and movies are found inside this funky space. Spend some time in this store, and grab a movie or music, along with a snack or two, for an evening inside.
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Visit 17 scenic views in Medicine Hat!
The large coulees and ridges surrounding Medicine Hat offer clear, beautiful views of the South Saskatchewan River and surrounding natural areas filled with trees, intriguing woodlands, and interesting wildlife.
Scenic Views is a new resource that helps explorers find 17 of the best views in Canada’s Sunniest City. Whether you walk, bike, or drive to your desired location, the gentle charm of the native grasslands, rolling hills, and riparian areas invite you to indulge in favoured activities like bird watching, photography, or simply being in the moment to just breathe.
Along with maps and signage, Scenic Views has web-based guides highlighting special features of each spot, where you learn more about the value and economic benefits of maintaining natural areas within the city. With this information, you can be more aware of nature around you while you adventure.
Find the locations with the digital map!
This park encompasses the history of local Indigenous peoples and the North West Mounted Police. Visitors can experience the natural beauty of the old cottonwood trees, Silver Sagebrush, and the new pollinator garden. Visit the Interpretive Program at the Nature Centre to learn more.
You can view almost all of the city, including Medicine Hat’s Historic Downtown and St. Patrick’s Church in Riverside. There are natural hillside slopes and the cliffs above the river are bordered by native riparian forests. On a clear day, views can extend as far as Ross Creek Coulee and even Cypress Hills Interprovincial Provincial Park.
At this Scenic View, enjoy a bird’s eye view of the large trees in the Riverside community. After soaking in the beautiful view of the entire downtown and more, you can take the stairs to experience Finlay Bridge and other key locations in Medicine Hat’s Historic Downtown up close.
Have a clear view of the sunshine bouncing off the South Saskatchewan River and brightening up the city waterfront. Here you will have a very close view of the riparian landscape including native plants, cottonwood forests, and beaver lodges.
Many mountain bikers enjoy this area as it extends along the South Saskatchewan River to trails leading to Redcliff. At Mr. Burnside, you can enjoy panoramic views of Gas City Campground, Echo Dale Regional Park, and riparian cottonwoods bordering the river.
Surrounded by nature, you can walk a paved path or bike on dirt trails to see a variety of flowering plants like Needle and Thread Grass, Purple Prairie Clover, Silver Sagebrush, and Chokecherry shrubs. This area presents views of Echo Dale Regional Park, the South Saskatchewan River, and the Redcliff hills.
Here there are park amenities, like a lake for swimming, fishing pond, boat launch, historic farm, Ajax Coal Mine, and multi-use trails. Across the river, unique views of massive hillsides of striated coal seams and red cliffs invite mountain bikers to ride the many challenging trails that connect with Mr. Burnside.
Shoreline birds, pelicans, turkey vultures, raptors, beavers, bald eagles, and blue heron nests can be spotted at various viewpoints along the South Saskatchewan River. Kayakers, canoers, paddle boarders, and river floaters might wave a hello as they pass by. Various boat launches are found along this stretch to cruise the river.
This site is home to the Saamis Tepee and the Saamis Archaeological Site, which dates back thousands of years. When exploring, you will see a coulee dip that features Seven Persons Creek, native grasslands, wildflowers, and paved paths. Follow these pathways from the top of the coulee and immerse yourself in untouched nature rich in Indigenous history.
This native grassland area gives you views of endless coulees while you walk or bike the lengthy trails. The sunshine gives the scenery a softness that reflects a painting. This open space views the CP Railway mainline, where you can often spot long trains traveling through the prairies.
This spot showcases a breathtaking view of Medalta in the Historic Clay District and IXL Industries Brick Plant. Many historical facts on the nearby WWII German Prisoner of War camp are detailed within the Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede grounds. This view also entices you one to explore Police Point Park and Strathcona Island Park, and highlights fascinating formations in the cliffs towards Veinerville.
Within Saratoga Park is a paved multi-use trail that has many other trails attached to it, leading walkers and bikers through a nature-filled adventure near Seven Persons Creek, Ogilvie Flour Mill, and through the Métis settlement that once thrived in this area. Nearby is an off leash dog park next to a memorial arboretum.
Walking the trails will immerse you in a cottonwood riparian forest full of native flowering shrubs along the river, and confluence of the Seven Persons and Ross Creeks. Nearby are park amenities such as a water park, playground, picnicking, and fire pits, as well as a boat launch for enjoying the river.
This east facing hillside, showcases views of Saamis Tepee, Seven Persons Creek, Ross Creek Coulee, Kingsway Ave, and South Railway Street, including the CP Railway Station in the River Flats. This viewpoint is a wonderful central location within the heart of Medicine Hat.
This riparian coulee reservoir has native dryland and wetland plants, shrubs, and wildflowers. On site is a South East Alberta Watershed Alliance riparian restoration project and various places to fish. There is also a dock for paddling access. Wildlife species like Caspian Terns and Yellow-headed Blackbirds can also be seen.
Stand above the South Saskatchewan River and face an endless landscape of bluffs, ponds, and trees. Conservation and Education interpretive programs are available on www.grasslands-naturalists.org.
Located in city limits, this spot has a beautiful view of the South Saskatchewan River and Trans-Canada Highway.
Scenic Views Project
Scenic Views is a partnership between the Society of Grasslands Naturalists, the City of Medicine Hat, Alberta Ecotrust Foundation, and Tourism Medicine Hat. The Scenic Views map and locations are available at www.grasslands-naturalists.org.
When invasive weeds aren’t kept under control, the seeds can spread into natural areas, which can choke out native plants and stop the natural growth of greenery. Examples of invasive weeds are Russian Olive, Baby’s Breath, and Downy Brome.
Leave no trash by properly disposing of items in the garbage or recycling bins. Consider bringing a trash bag with you to help clean up along the way. Bags for pet waste are also important when keeping natural areas clean and smelling fresh. This also prevents attracting wild animals like coyotes.
Keep nature healthy by staying on designated trails to minimize disturbances and soil erosion, which causes the establishment and spread of invasive weeds and lost biodiversity.
| While exploring the Scenic Views, you can relish in the beauty and fresh air, reminding yourself that as long as you take care of our environment, it will be here for you to enjoy.
Saturday, June 14, 2025
Participants of the River Run have the option of selecting a three, five, 10, or 21.1-kilometre trail. The paved pathways in the event allow for all mobility levels and families of all ages to breathe fresh air and take in the beautiful views.
“The trail is along the South Saskatchewan River, where people run through the trees on the paved path system that borders multiple park areas. It’s absolutely amazing being immersed in nature during this event,” says Helene Nicholson, philanthropy director, YMCA of Medicine Hat.
Those who choose the half marathon will be brought through Lions Park, Strathcona Island Park, Saratoga Park, and Police Point Park pathway systems which all trails bring many trees for shade and stunning coulee views.
Every year, the YMCA hosts this fundraising event with proceeds raised supporting the YMCA’s Strong Kids Campaign, allowing families to attain memberships or register their children for camps when facing financial barriers. The last few years, the River Run has raised up to $10,000 annually for the Strong Kids Campaign.
“To see everyone come together that day and watch people complete a goal that they’ve set for themselves is really amazing. There is so much beauty in everyone coming together, sharing an experience, cheering each other on, and celebrating accomplishments over the three-hour period,” says Nicholson.
“The success of the event is because of the sponsors, planning committee, volunteers, and participants. They all play a crucial role to make sure this event is a great experience for everybody, whether it's the first run or the 38th."
Participation medals are given to everyone who completes the race. Placement medals are awarded to the top three finishers in each run category. A virtual option is also available — participants can choose to run an outdoor trail and use a tracker to send YMCA the route they ran. In 2021 and 2022, the event had participants from Nova Scotia, Ontario, and Calgary participate virtually.
A friendly place to stop.
Our sanidump is open all year, 24/7, and is free! Please no commercial dumping at the Visitor Information Centre.
Note: Water is turned off in October. Please call us to inquire if the water is turned off for the season — 403.527.6422
Our public washrooms are open during business hours.
The Visitor Information Centre is staffed by our travel counsellors during business hours. They are happy to assist with any questions you may have during your travels and/or stay.
Free maps and Experience Guides are printed yearly and offered at the Visitor Information Centre. Printed materials for many Alberta cities are also available.
If you’re arriving after hours, take a Tourism Medicine Hat bag from the front of the building. They have guides and maps.
The Visitor Information Centre is home to a water fill station, which is free for all who stop by during business hours.
We have a fenced, off-leash dog run. Please be courteous and clean up after your animals.
A large playground and picnic area is available for use when stopping.
Overnight parking at the Visitor Information Centre is not offered.
330 Gehring Road SW | tourismmedicinehat.com | 403.527.6422
All souvenirs in our gift shop are made by local Hatters!
Edison Flat
Designed by born and raised Hatter, Cam Hoff, the artistic badges showcase well-loved scenic or cultural spots in and around Medicine Hat.
Medalta Pottery
From vases, to mugs, crockpots, and more, browse authentic and beautiful Medalta-stamped pottery.
Southeast Alberta Colouring Books
All pages are hand-drawn by local artist Leanne Stock, who specializes in cityscapes and landscapes with a slice of life element, portraits, and pet portraits.
White Horse Rider Co.
Find colourful, beaded earrings and more hand-made jewelry by Brenda Merer, who’s Dakota Sioux from Standing Buffalo First Nation.
Open Year-Round
We are located just off the Trans-Canada Highway at 330 Gehring Road SW | 403.527.6422
A winter wonderland snug in the prairies.
With tall, snow-kissed lodgepole pine and aspen trees and rolling hills that act as mini mountains, this oasis is a must-see in the winter. On the approximate 45 minute drive, view the prairie landscape, and once you take that turn into the Interprovincial Park, you’re suddenly surrounded by forest and rolling hills.
The gem of a ski hill features a quad chair, t-bar handle tow, and a magic carpet. All the lift’s combined can bring 2,400 skiers and snowboarders to the top of the hills every hour. Then, the outdoor enthusiasts can choose between green, black, and blue level runs to race down. For beginners there’s the Bunny Run and for those wanting to build their skills, ramps and bars are featured on Show Off.
“Being located in Cypress Hills Provincial Park, Hidden Valley is surrounded by picturesque evergreen forests and vistas overlooking the prairies. Our lifts provide incredible views and our runs are unlike any others in the province. We pride ourselves on offering a unique experience that will leave you counting down the minutes to your next visit,” says Bridget Burgess-Ferrari, Communications and Public Engagement, Government of Alberta.
Once lunchtime arrives, the cafeteria is a warm indoor place with burgers, chicken tenders, fries, salads, and wraps. There’s chocolate bars, chips, vegetable and fruit cups for a small snack throughout the day.
Accommodations in Elkwater is a short drive away to remain in the rolling hills. Elkwater Lake Lodge & Resort is a family-friendly spot with a swimming pool and hot tub. Book a cabin or a room and ice-skate the loop, snow shoe or explore the trails, or stay indoors and relax after spending the weekend at Hidden Valley Ski Resort, located just ten minutes from Elkwater.
Hidden Valley Ski Resort offers lessons and rentals. It’s the perfect place for beginners who want to experience the winter activity. Never too crowded, there is space for friends and families of all ages to enjoy the scenery around them.
“Our trails and amenities are diverse, offering something for visitors of all skill and experience levels to enjoy. We believe in creating opportunities for kids to get active and learn to ski from a young age, which is why we do our best to accommodate school groups. We also offer private lessons for kids as young as 2 years old,” says Burgess-Ferrari.
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