Historic Downtown
Historic Tours in Medicine Hat
Medicine Hat is a hub for history, from old buildings, to century-old museums, and historic Indigenous spaces.
Medicine Hat is a hub for history, from old buildings, to century-old museums, and historic Indigenous spaces.
All play a role in the culture that is rooted in the Southern Alberta city, and there are stories behind the walls and trees that stand throughout Medicine Hat.
Join the guided tours to explore the oldest streets in Medicine Hat, First Street SE, First Street SW, and Historic Railroad District! Actors make an appearance for the First Street SE tour, and the Railroad District visits the restaurant Hometown at the end for guests to enjoy 25 cent coffee or tea, which was approximately the price for coffee when the location used to be Coffee Bar & Grill in 1947.
Medalta in the Historic Clay District is the largest historic site in Canada. And clay/pottery was a booming industry in the early 1900s in Medicine Hat. Tour the space to find a 2,000+ Medalta collection, view old machinery, step inside a beehive kiln (that used to fire pottery at volcanic temperatures) and more during this guided tour.
Join Pat and April for a guided tour through Saratoga Park, where there was a Métis settlement until the early 2010s. The two had family who lived in Saratoga Park, and often spent time in the area. They’ll share stories of community members and what life was like living in Saratoga Park.
.JPG)
Medicine Hat Art Club invites professional artists, aspiring artists, and leisure artists.
They gather at the Cultural Centre to create, learn, and socialize with a group that has similar interests with one another.
The group hosts workshops, where professional artists show how to use a variety of materials, from acrylics, to oils, watercolour, and alcohol inks, as well as “skill share” gatherings. Members of the group show their specialty in art to those looking to learn a new expressive skill.
The space offers art enthusiasts a casual drop-in studio for when members need a space to work on their art. The club hosts events for members to meet new people, grow friendships, and help people find a “third place” in Medicine Hat.
“Third place” is a term from sociologist Ray Oldenburg, who defines a third place as somewhere that isn’t home or the workplace for people to connect.
All ages and levels are welcome, from people who have been doing art for years, to people who have never picked up a paint brush.
The perks of living in Medicine Hat, is there has always been a strong, rooted artist community in the city already. It dates back to when there was a clay district in the early 1900s. Artists still move to Medicine Hat to take the Artist in Residence program at Medalta in the Historic Clay District.
Clay was derived from the coulees in the city, and the various landscapes within and around Medicine Hat still gives artists ample inspiration when painting their homeland. From coulees, to prairie farmlands, canola fields, and the rolling hills in Cypress Hills, Hat Art Club members Angela, Loretta, and Theresa say the way the lights his Southern Alberta is always a breathtaking sight.
“The different hues in the sky, I’m always stopping to take photos of a sunset. The way the light hits the prairies, it gives a different view every time you look out the window. Now that I’ve started taking art classes, I see the world a little differently,” says Angela.
“The art club is an underlying thread for Medicine Hat’s artist community. It’s a way to meet other artists and make friends,” says Theresa. “For people who want to learn about art media, it’s a really welcoming and safe space and we’re always open to welcoming new members.”
“If someone is new to the city, it’s a great way to meet people. This is more of a social space. A cozier setting to grow friendships through something everyone’s interested in,” says Loretta.
The Hat Art Club has around 60 members, and also hosts shows throughout the year, including an art show at the Esplanade Arts & Heritage Centre every second year.
Wednesday and Friday are double toonie days, only $4 for general admission.
Visit Medicine Hat during Stampede Week from July 23-26, 2025 for live music, thrilling rodeo, exciting amusement rides, free entertainment, tradeshows and exhibitions, and more!
Thursday, July 24
In Medicine Hat’s Historic Downtown, set up your lawn chair to see vibrant floats during the Medicine Hat Stampede Parade, featuring local businesses, organizations, and performers. Find the parade route here.
July 19. Homestead Market. 8-11am. 1750 Gershaw Dr SW.
July 21. Medicine Hat College. 8-10am. 299 College Dr SE.
July 22. Hillcrest Church. 7-10am. 3785 13 Ave SE
July 23. Medicine Hat Lodge. 7-10am. 1051 Ross Glen Dr SE.
July 25. South Country Co-op. 7-10am. 3030 13 Ave SE
Friday, July 25
Free admission for children 12 and under, Methanex Kiddies Day is a full day of children's activities, like jelly bean guess contest, colouring contest, bouncy castles, pony hops, face painting, scavenger hunt, and photo booth.
July 21. At Stampede Summer Jam, a variety of local bands and musicians take the stage, featuring Rising Star Mila Reid, Desperate Measures, Presley Battle Band, Bramble & The Rose, Fox & The Hounds, Smiling Politely, and KMAG.
July 23. Doc Walker with special guest Rent to Own. Doc Walker is a country music group from Manitoba, Canada. They’ve won Canadian Country Music Awards and had radio hits with the songs, “I am Ready” and “The Show is Free”.
July 24. Tim & The Glory Boys are a Juno Award winning backwoods hillbillies playing boot-stompin’ country and bluegrass music, from Chilliwack, British Columbia.
July 26. Crash Test Dummies with opener Wide Mouth Mason. Crash Test Dummies are a Canadian rock band from Winnepeg, Manitoba, and received Canadian recognition in 1991, reaching sales of $400,000, for their album “The Ghosts that Haunt Me”. Their album “God Shuffled His Feet” earned the band members three grammy nominations and three Juno nominations. They’ve sold more than five and a half million copies worldwide.
July 24-26. The Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede is proud to be a part of the Canadian Professional Rodeo Tour for the rodeo season. The tour is made up of a number of high-profile rodeos in Canada.
July 23-26. Find thrilling rides, classic games, and midway food throughout the park for a full day of fun. Pre-sale wristbands are at all Co-ops and Co-op gas bars.
July 23-26. Browse the artisan markets at the Summer Stampede Tradeshow, and then check out the local artists who are featured at the Visual Arts exhibit.
July 23-26. There are various performances from noon until midnight during Medicine Hat Stampede week that are free to enjoy with daily gate admission.
July 23-26. This initiative connects urban and rural communities by having informative, educational, and interactive displays on topics related to agriculture, energy, recycling, and living in the country. This is sponsored by UFA.
July 23-26. An exhibition featuring crafts and horticulture-related displays and art pieces.
July 23-25. The beer gardens is open from 5p.m. to midnight. Admission is free and people must be 18+ to attend. Each night there is live music.
Don't let summer pass by too fast! Stay present and breathe in the fresh air at two yoga studios.
Nestled in the vibrant heart of downtown Medicine Hat YogaRevolution offers a diverse range of yoga classes catering to various preferences and needs. Emphasizing holistic wellness, they specialize in heated/hot classes, invigorating vinyasa sessions, and deeply restorative practices. In addition to group sessions, they offer personalized attention through individual and small group sessions, allowing for tailored guidance and support on your yoga journey. Step into their warm and welcoming space where the air is filled with tranquility and the energy of community.
Where every breath unlocks a journey to inner harmony, Yoga You4ia is a sanctuary of serenity, inviting you to discover the transformative power of movement and mindfulness. Immerse yourself in the practice, find strength in stillness, and let the rhythm of your breath guide you. At Yoga You4ia, they believe in the profound simplicity of “Just Breathe” – a mantra that echoes through each class, connecting mind, body, and spirit. Join us on this path of self-discovery and wellness, where every inhale is an opportunity to exhale a better version of yourself.
—
Post to social media and tag @TourismMedicineHat
Email a photo to summers@tourismmedicinehat.com
Fill out a ballot at the Visitor Information Centre, 330 Gehring Road SW
Shop Medicine Hat to find local creators and vendors. From Medicine Hat made to Canadian made, browse culinary and creative finds in these small shops!
Medicine Hat, Alberta, and Canadian vendors are found in this cozy boutique, from souvenirs, to home essentials, and self-care products. Owner Sarah also hosts the 7 Rivers Downtown Series: Eat, Explore, Create in the evenings where people start at 7 Rivers to try appetizers, and then join a workshop before indulging in a dinner at a second downtown local eatery.
The owner Cindy designs all the quality blazers in store, and they are then made in Toronto, Canada. She also carries more clothing items and accessories.
A boutique of plants big and small, and an assortment of hand picked products to compliment your home. Owner Kari partners with local candle maker Lunahrin Candles to create exclusive scents to Botanicals.
From painting ceramics to renting a pottery reel, and smashing dishes in the “smash” room, Creative Freedom Art Hub is a space that encourages creativity and trying new things. All moulds are made by the owner.
A thoughtful small shop with Canadian made home decor, self care, jewelry, food seasonings, and so much more.
GRUP opened their storefront in early 2025, and this is their first summer on 6 Avenue in Downtown Medicine Hat. The duo repairs vintage Levis into jeans, jackets, purses, shorts, and skirts, and also do repairs.
Featuring over 60 Alberta vendors, Homestead Market is just off Highway 3 and features a cafe with a drive through. Find artists, selfcare creators, bakers, distilleries, and so much more inside the year-round market. Homestead Market is hosting Outdoor Markets every second Saturday this summer.
Snug on South Railway, Miller’s Herbs and Haunts focuses on having natural, Canadian made products, from food and drink to skincare. In the evenings, the owner Tamara hosts a Haunted Trolley Tour on the Sunshine Trolley, where she shares ghost stories throughout Medicine Hat.
Browsing through, one can have insight into Medicine Hat’s history through the antiques and vintage finds in Patina. This spot is for collectors, a thrift enthusiasts, or someone looking to add some charm into their space.
Owner Hilary hosts evening workshops and craft parties every month. Her store is also filled with local artisans, restyled furniture, household decor items, and vintage antiques.
Two sisters who are interior designers opened this shop in downtown Medicine Hat. They carry a variety of home decor items from vases, to paintings, kitchenware, and more.
A library of teas line the walls. Over 300 flavours to choose from, ranging from green tea, black tea, herbal tea, oolong, fitting all flavour favourites.
With over 1,000 books in store, Unlimited Characters has two large shelves dedicated to local authors that span genres. Read Medicine Hat written novels, and be sure to stop by the arcade inside the bookstore.
Staple summer finds are inside this clothing boutique, featuring Canadian made styles that match perfect for patios and summer girls nights.
—
Post to social media and tag @TourismMedicineHat
Email a photo to summers@tourismmedicinehat.com
Fill out a ballot at the Visitor Information Centre, 330 Gehring Road SW
Here’s where you can get your tune ups and find summer essentials.
From mountain biking, to paddling, strolling the 190+ kilometre paved trail system, and camping in the coulees, the outdoors are an adventurous place in Medicine Hat and surrounding areas!
It’s summer, and Boarding House has summer sport essentials in stock. From skateboards, to paddle boards, wakeboards, and all the accessories to go along, Boarding House also has outerwear that pairs with these outdoor sports. This local spot has served the outdoor adventure community of Medicine Hat for 30 years.
For you and your little ones, Bumbleboo has natural sunscreen and bug spray that’s made locally in Saskatchewan, our neighbouring province. For summer adventures at the pool, on the trails, at the waterparks, or in the backyard, the products are perfect for sun and bug protection.
Located on the South side of the city just off the highway, CyclePath has been offering tune ups, repairs, and bikes, from mountain to e-bike, for 30 years. Stop by to find a new ride, or bring in your favourite for some bike-care.
With an abundance of fishing ponds surrounding Medicine Hat, find what you need to catch the biggest fish. From rods, to bait, hooks, and more, Gone Fishing supports Canadian made products and a refreshing day of fishing.
Located in Medicine Hat’s Historic Downtown, Gravity Sports is rider owned and has served the cyclists in Medicine Hat since 2011. Find a bike, bring in your current bike, browse accessories, water bottles, and get your bike tuned up for summer adventures on the trails.
Everything is Canadian made in this local store, and sustainable since it’s a refillery. From sunscreen to bug spray, coat yourself in natural products while staying safe in the sun and free from bugs. Or fill your travel size hygiene products before camping or heading out on a Southern Alberta road trip.
—
Post to social media and tag @TourismMedicineHat
Email a photo to summers@tourismmedicinehat.com
Fill out a ballot at the Visitor Information Centre, 330 Gehring Road SW
If you’re looking for a local spot to grab a bite, check out the list below for farm to fork meals, chef curated menus, and unique atmospheres that’ll match perfectly with your dinner vibe.
This fine dining spot opened in 1977, and is an exquisite take on a classic steakhouse. From Beef Neptune, to The Beefeater, Steak & Lobster Combo and Alaskan King Krab Legs, fill up on Alberta beef this summer.
Authentic Indian food from a family-owned restaurant, choose your choice of meat with each dish, from chicken, lamb, beef, goat and prawn, and pair it with naan, roti, or kulcha. Dine in or takeout for a delicious dinner.
For those on the lookout for live music, this bustling spot has a stage that hosts local and traveling bands, spanning the genres. The flavourful food menu features Southern Alberta beef from Mike’s Meats with the steak fajitas. For an appetizer, try the salsa flight and pair with the tequila flight.
Start the morning with Golfers Choice Breakfast or Tee Off Breakfast Sandwich, the afternoon with Golfers Steak Sandwich or Handmade Beef Burger, or the evening with Baked Atlantic Salmon or League Day Grilled Chicken Breast. And then play a round of golf at this 100+ year old golf course.
Chef Carlos’ love for cooking started at a young age when growing up in Guatemala. This date night spot has a “build your own” style menu. The Caesar salad is a must order as an appetizer, and pairs nicely with the complementary freshly baked bread.
A tiki-style small batch craft distillery, producing a variety of vodka, gin, rums, absinthe, and whiskeys; using traditional botanicals and locally sourced ingredients. Next door is the Tasting Room, where a trivia game is often hosted, and outside is the Patio Playground. Pair a creative cocktail with a savoury meal, and visit on a Friday to try an extravagant feature fishbowl.
The name is inspired by Rudyard Kipling’s famous quote from the 1800s about Medicine Hat having, “all Hell for a basement”, due to the abundance of natural gas found under the City. Framed beer bottle labels line the walls, a cupboard of board games invites a friendly game, and the many taps serve beer, vodka seltzers, and their non-alcoholic drink, Heck-of-a-Root Beer. For a snack, local small bites are available from Medicine Hat Meat Traders.
Located in the Clarion Pointe, a variety of western classics and Indian staples are served for lunch and dinner, including soups, sandwiches, burgers, pizza, liver & onions, and butter chicken.
Chef Adam and General Manager Jen opened Hometown on historic North Railway Street, bringing a beautiful view of the Canadian Pacific Railway. A familiar place emulating a welcoming home, and serving upscale comfort dishes, elevated brunch, and a blind menu for Sunday Dinner Feature. Alberta-sourced ingredients are sprinkled throughout the seasonal menu, to pair with a premium cocktail and mocktail list and local craft beer.
After attending farmers’ markets in Medicine Hat, Jane and Brian opened their downtown eatery in 2022. The rotating lunch menu keeps dishes fresh, as well as their staples like CupBap and Korean Corn Dog. Brian is always front of house, while Jane prepares every dish.
Recently launching their summer drink menu, LOCAL Public Eatery has more seats outside than inside, and it’s a popular spot in the summer. Try a frozen margaritas, watermelon sling, or aperol spritz with a hearty meal that’ll fill you with flavour.
Lolo & Lola are celebrating their first summer in downtown Medicine Hat. The authentic Filipino restaurant serves up the classics. Try the Mango Sago, a Filipino dessert drink made with mango, tapioca and milk (non-dairy option available) or the Halo-Halo, a dessert made up with Ube, sweetened banana, shaved ice, milk, topped with Ube ice cream, corn flakes, and more.
A cozy eatery serving soups, sandwiches, salads, and shareables inside the historic site Hargrave-Sissons Block. Owners Miranda and Bryton want guests to feel at home and feature local artists, local ingredients, and a comfortable space to spend time in downtown Medicine Hat.
A 50s inspired BIstro located on one of Medcicine Hat’s most historic streets, across from the CP Railway Station. Rosewood Bistro partners with their neighbour, Douglas Meats, year-round to serve cheesy, beef burgers, loaded steak stir frys, and other exquisite dishes that are hearty with locally-raised ingredients.
This refined local restaurant is located inside the Medicine Hat Lodge, and specializes in premium-cooked steaks, scallops, crab, salmon, ribeye, sirloin, and lobster tail. R Kitchen serves an exquisite dinner experience with premium plating.
Chef for 38 years, owner Sammy learned from the best throughout her years in Korea, while cooking for the Korean Embassy, India, and Calgary. Sammy has developed her culinary skill and now serves the Medicine Hat community fine dining cuisine.
A seasonal family-friendly patio that serves locally crafted beverages, finger foods to full on meals, and is a hub for local art and live music. Have a seat under the sun, and enjoy this outdoor eatery in Medicine Hat’s Historic Downtown.
Indulge in everything beer — slushies, cocktails, canned, bottled, and on tap. Revolutionary American and traditional European ales with a twist are brewed in small batches inside the historic building in downtown Medicine Hat. Try their nachos of the month or another chef-curated dish on their menu. Check their events webpage to join a Name that Tune Bingo, Trivia Night, or Taproom Dinner Series.
Owners Mario and Yasmin serve a menu full of authentic Mexican cuisine. From a salsa bar, to enchiladas, tacos, and burritos, you’ll also find locally-sourced ingredients featured in the dishes, like the Quesotaco with beef from Deerview Meats.
Familiar dishes served fine dining style on the third floor of the Badlands View Building, complemented by a one-of-a-kind view of the World’s Tallest Tepee, Saamis Tepee. The details are in the dishes, and with an inviting open concept kitchen you can visit with the makers of your meal Chef Aaron, Sous Chef Michael and the team.
Find Medicine Hat's food trucks at local events and at the Food Truck Festival in Kin Coulee Park every Sunday in July & August.
Flavoured shaved ice on a hot summer day. Mix n' match or stick to a favourite, and choose from over 20 flavours to drizzle on your cold sweet treat.
The classic Canadian meal, Pooty's Poutine has dill pickle poutine, pierogi poutine, and so much more, all loaded with toppings.
—
Post to social media and tag @TourismMedicineHat
Email a photo to summers@tourismmedicinehat.com
Fill out a ballot at the Visitor Information Centre, 330 Gehring Road SW
Ice cream was made for summer, and local spots have crafted flavourful and fun frozen desserts for your summer in Medicine Hat!
Owner Annegret mixes and molds silky chocolate using her very own recipe year-round, and in the summer she adds 10 gelato flavours to the mix.
Serving annual and seasonal flavours handcrafted in-house, you can order by the scoop with a waffle cone, or fill up on a pint.
Grit City is busy this summer with trivia nights and their playground patio, and they’ve recently introduced their “Tipsy Soft Serve”. Each week, they feature new flavours like White Peach Sangria and Prickly Pear.
Swirls has a Strawberry Shortcake with ribbons of soft vanilla ice cream, cake made by local Country Crumbs Bakery & Café, whipped topping, and sweet strawberries. A classic ice cream spot since 1984, Swirls is a place where you park and stroll up to the window and order.
Recently The Mexican Hat has opened their Churro Bar. Churros are a popular Mexican dessert. These ones are made in house and are paired with Canadian-made ice cream.
Over 100 milkshakes to choose from at this staple spot in Medicine Hat. A classic burger and milkshake drive-through and walk-up window since 1967.
—
Post to social media and tag @TourismMedicineHat
Email a photo to summers@tourismmedicinehat.com
Fill out a ballot at the Visitor Information Centre, 330 Gehring Road SW
