Welcome to Indigenous Tourism Alberta

Story Starter: Cultural experiences will change your perspectives.

We still live in a society set up on a colonial system that disadvantages Indigenous peoples and creates barriers between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. Indigenous Tourism Alberta members, however, are bridging gap between ignorance and education by opening the door of the tipi and inviting people into spaces that promote cultural understanding and appreciation.

Métis Crossing will transport you back to the 1800s to retrace the footsteps of a Métis settler. From learning to set a beaver trap to sampling dried bison and dancing a Red River jig, expect to be immersed in the Signature Experiences offered across at this 512-acre cultural centre.

You'll be guided by Métis interpreters, who will walk you through this historical site full off cultural experiences, sharing the distinct Indigenous story of the Métis people interactively with the changing seasons. Exciting new additions for 2023 are the Sky Watching Domes — an experience that will connect you with the night sky and the Indigenous ancestorial practice of interpreting stars and adds to the overnight offerings alongside a boutique hotel.

Just a few hours southwest of Métis Crossing is Painted Warriors which shares Ojibway, Cree and Mohawk heritage by reconnecting visitors to the land through wilderness education, Indigenous traditions and hands-on training. Run by Tracey Klettl, Painted Warriors challenges stereotypes about Indigenous women by teaching such traditional survival skills as hunting, archery and horseback riding - all activities that do not conform to traditional gender norms.

Head south to visit a historic site at Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park. Located on a designated National Historic Site, the stunning facility allows you to embark on an unforgettable visit featuring exhibits, interpretive tours, and educational programs that tell the history, traditions, and way of life of Siksika (Blackfoot) Nation and its people.

Story Starter: Take your tastebuds on an experience unlike any other.

With a deep and intimate connection to the land, Indigenous cuisine draws on ingredients native to the land and culture. A symphony of contemporary and traditional cooking methods is displayed in Pei Pei Chei Ow’s (pronounced pe-pe-s-che) approach to cooking. Pei Pei Chei Ow is a catering-company based in Edmonton founded by Scott Iserhoff. Iserhoff uses a combination of traditional and Western ingredients, sharing food experiences that tell a story and draw inspiration from the seasons , going beyond contemporary cuisine. Inspired by Indigenous ways of cooking outdoors, Pei Pei Chei Ow examines the concept of Indigenous food in today's society and the impact of colonialism on the Indigenous food system.

A delicious example of Indigenous and non-Indigenous partnership in practice is found in a can of KIKAWINAW Sparking Gin Tea. Carrie and Kelly Armstrong’s locally grown berry blend tea infused with Wildrose Gin expertly crafted by Righand Distillery is packaged in a ready-to-drink concoction that is based on a traditional tea recipe passed down from the owners’ Cree grandmother.

Tee Pee Treats is an Indigenous takeout and delivery joint serving innovative yet traditional foods. The unique dining experience is located inside Edmonton’s new multidisciplinary art and music venue, CO*LAB. Founder Curtis Cardinal born and raised in northern Alberta, is a member of the Whitefish Lake First Nations, who’s business has become a symbol of resilience within the community.

With a deep and intimate personal connection to the land, Indigenous cuisine draws on ingredients native to the environment. Culina is family of restaurants and catering offerings worth nothing. Founded by Mètis chef Brad Lazarenko with a philosophy of providing quality and affordable comfort food using products from local suppliers and producers. Regardless of location or style of cooking, expect fresh, local ingredients spotlighted in every bite.

Story Starter: Contemporary Indigenous experiences start with fun and laughter.

Despite Hollywood stereotypes, Indigenous tourism operator members are often fun, approachable, and love to use humor to melt away the hesitations of travelers uneducated in Indigenous culture. Meet some of our larger than the ITA personalities:

Joe Urie, a Métis guide and owner of the Jasper Tour Company, always has a big sense of adventure and a punchline on the tip of his tongue. Joe comes from a proud Métis family who have been living and guiding along the Athabasca River for decades , and he loves sharing stories of his people, culture and history while spotting the famous wildlife of Jasper, including elk, bighorn sheep and, occasionally, bears.

Mother Earth Essentials was founded by Carrie Armstrong who comes from a long line of Cree medicine women. She is warm and nurturing, with a calm presence that immediately puts people at ease. This spirit of comfort and healing is captured in the creation of her luxurious bath and beauty products derived from natural ingredients based on her grandmother’s traditional recipes. Mother Earth Essentials was founded to share the nature-inspired teachings rooted in the sacred plants of the medicine wheel.

Alex Janvier is a world-renewed artist and a member of Canada’s famous Indigenous Group of Seven artists. Peek into Alex’s vibrant imagination in the Janvier Gallery. His unique bold and colourful abstract lines tell stories about his unique culture and life experiences in ways that blend traditional and modern art. Garnering accolades and recognition from organizations around the world, at 87 years old, Janvier is still a creative force who paints almost every day.

Check out the latest in Indigenous fashion with Native Dive Creations. Melrene Saloy is from the Blood Tribe of Southern Alberta whose and her jewelry is influenced by the beading traditions of her family, the Blackfoot people and the land. Her brand, Native Diva Creations has had national and international recognition and she has showcased her work globally during Paris Fashion week and New York fashion week.

For a slice of remarkable history, stop by Boy Chief Trading Post to learn the story of Boy Chief — a warrior, medicine man and respected leader renowned for raising the finest steeds in southern Alberta. His name now graces the Indigenous owned-and-operated retail store established by his grandson Darrel Royal and his wife Mona. The store carries a collection of high-quality, authentic Indigenous craftmanship, including giftware, western wear, horse hardware, jewelry and beaded purses containing as many as 1,500 beads per item. Boy Chief Trading Post offers a collection of items showcasing true Indigenous craftsmanship excellence.