Top things to see and do in Cardston

A quiet, laid-back town with incredible history and views, Cardston is the perfect hub from which to explore southern Alberta’s Rocky Mountains.

Against a beautiful mountain backdrop that includes the spectacular Chief Mountain—a sacred mountain to local First Nations for hundreds of years—Cardston has its own rich history. It is a place where pioneers from Utah, as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS) or Mormon, first arrived as part of the last great wagon train migration in 1887. This heritage is celebrated throughout the community, and can be seen in nearly every aspect of the attractions it offers. 

And while the Remington Carriage Museum tops the list of places to see and experience in Cardston, it also offers a number of other attractions just waiting to be discovered. If you’re looking for a place to step back and experience life as an early pioneer, or just a place to relax and unwind amongst some breathtaking scenery, Cardston can give you all that and more:

1) Back in the good old days

The Remington Carriage Museum has an extensive collection devoted to 19th century lifestyle and transportation. The museum boasts interactive galleries and a carriage factory that guests can visit. Check out vehicles from days gone by, a blacksmith shop and livery stable, and the largest collection of horse-drawn carriages in North America. If weather permits, carriage rides are offered during the summer months.

2) The house that Card built

A little house on the prairie that was built by town founder Charles Ora Card in 1887, The Card House is an original log home that is now a registered provincial historic site. Standing where it was first erected right on Cardston’s Main Street, The Card House offers visitors a unique glimpse into early pioneer life through the guided tours that are given during July and August. The home also contains many original artifacts that once belonged to Card and his family. Recounting the journey of the man who was tasked with leading pioneers northward as they aimed to expand the reach of the LDS from Utah, Card helped not only to build a new community, but also a place of worship and a new life for himself and other members of the Mormon community.

3) The show does go on

A working theatre for both live productions and movies, the Carriage House Theatre was built in 1912 and creates outstanding live theatre pieces. Each summer, starting the first day after Canada Day and running until the end of August, the cast and crew of the 350-seat theatre put on three or four different productions. With a repertoire that ranges from dramas to comedies and musicals, the Carriage House Theatre alternates productions on successive nights. This is their way of granting visitors the opportunity of seeing more than one production during their stay.

4) Home on the range

The scenery surrounding Cardston just begs to be explored, and with two outfitters ready to offer visitors an authentic Western experience, no trip to Cardston would be complete without venturing out on the trail for a little pioneer exploring of your own on horseback.

Through Mountain Meadow Trail Rides, and Duce Outfitters, you can discover your cowboy side on any number of different trail riding options. Go for an hour and a half, overnight or even a weekend, and experience the peaceful solitude of riding beside a mountain lake, across an open meadow, atop a high vantage point, or as you meander through the pines. 

Join them for an old-fashioned Western cookout, and taste the succulent flavours of pure Alberta beef, as well as dessert you cook over an open fire yourself.

It’s a wonderful way to view the countryside, and get a taste of the pioneer lifestyle at the same time—no matter what your level of comfort or skill.

5) Elevate your game

Set in the glorious Alberta Rockies, the Lee Creek Valley Golf course is a beacon for golfers from as far away as Calgary, who prefer the idyllic setting and the considerable cost savings compared to mountain-view courses closer to home. 

With four tee decks at each hole, this 18-hole course is designed for both new golfers and those looking for a challenge. 

Expertly managed with a friendly and helpful staff, the facility also boasts a pro shop, practice driving range and putting greens to help you perfect your shot. For those looking for a little post-game bite, the course’s close proximity to Main Street also allows you to choose from any number of restaurants downtown.