Local Sites
Looking for something fun to do? Check out these options!
1. Fort Vermilion Heritage Centre
Address: 5001 44 Ave, Fort Vermilion, AB T0H 1N0
Phone: 780-927-4603
Explore the history of one of Alberta's oldest settlements through exhibits covering Indigenous history, the fur trade, agriculture, transportation and the natural environment. The centre also features two heritage houses, interpretive mini golf and an Escape House. Admission is by donation.
2. Old Bay House & Fort Vermilion National Historic Site
Location: Southeast corner of River Road and 45 Street, Fort Vermilion
The Old Bay House was built in 1906–1908 as the Hudson's Bay Company factor's house. It is the surviving component of the Fort Vermilion National Historic Site and sits overlooking the Peace River.
3. Fort Vermilion River Walk
Location: River Road, Fort Vermilion
Take a leisurely walk along the Peace River and enjoy views of the river, surrounding landscape and historic community. The riverfront is also a great spot for photography and wildlife watching.
4. Fort Vermilion Bridge
Location: Highway 88, north/west of Fort Vermilion
The bridge crosses the Peace River and provides a great viewpoint of the river and surrounding landscape. The nearby Fort Vermilion Bridge Campground also provides access to the river and views of the bridge.
5. The Peace River
Location: River Road / Fort Vermilion riverfront
The Peace River has been central to Fort Vermilion's history and was once the area's main transportation route. Visitors can enjoy the river for boating, fishing, photography, wildlife viewing and scenic walks.
6. S.S. D.A. Thomas Day Park
Location: Along River Road, Fort Vermilion
A good place for a picnic or to enjoy the river. The park has a boat launch, dock, day-use area, shelter and fire pits.
7. Fort Vermilion Arena Park
Location: Along 44 Avenue, Fort Vermilion
A family-friendly recreation area featuring a playground, splash park, volleyball, skate park and heritage buildings.
8. Historic Walking & Driving Tour
Starting point: Fort Vermilion Heritage Centre, 5001 44 Ave
Fort Vermilion has a large collection of historic buildings, including dovetailed log houses, the Old Bay House, Clark House, HBC Cookhouse and other early settlement buildings. Pick up the Fort Vermilion Historical Guide and explore the community's historic sites. Some historic buildings are on private property, so visitors should respect private residences.
10. Mackenzie Applied Research Association
Location: 5901 River Rd, Fort Vermilion, AB T0H 1N0
Explore the agricultural history of the region and learn about Fort Vermilion's historic role in northern agriculture. The Experimental Farm is featured in the Heritage Centre's historical attractions and exhibits.
11.Buttertown Historic Area
Location: Across the Peace River from Fort Vermilion
Take a drive through the historic Buttertown area, where a number of original buildings remain. The area includes historic log houses and former community buildings and is an interesting extension of Fort Vermilion's heritage tour.
12. Wadlin Lake
Location: Approximately 60–70 km south/east of Fort Vermilion on Highway 88
Phone: 780-927-3718
Wadlin Lake is a great option for fishing, camping, boating, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. The lake is known for northern pike and pickerel and has a protected pelican nesting site.
13. Fort Vermilion Bridge Campground
Location: Highway 88, north side of the Peace River
Phone: 780-927-3718
Enjoy camping beside the Peace River with views of the Fort Vermilion Bridge. The campground has 9 non-serviced sites and a trail leading down toward the river.
14. Machesis Lake
Location: Approximately 30 km east of Fort Vermilion on Highway 58
Machesis Lake is an outdoor recreation destination offering fishing, camping, boating and equestrian camping facilities. Alberta Parks lists the site as a Provincial Recreation Area.
15. The Vermilion Chutes
Location: Peace River, approximately 78 km downstream from Fort Vermilion
The Vermilion Chutes are a spectacular remote river feature and one of the area's biggest natural attractions. They are best suited to visitors with appropriate boating/outdoor arrangements because access is remote.
For a truly unique tourism experience, this could also be promoted as a guided boat trip or helicopter sightseeing destination.
16. Wop May Memorial Airport
Location: Fort Vermilion
Visit the airport named in honour of Canadian bush pilot Wop May, who played an important role in northern aviation. It is also a point of interest for aviation enthusiasts and connects to Fort Vermilion's unique northern aviation history.
17. La Crete Mennonite Heritage Village
Address: 15411 Township Road 1060, La Crete, AB
Step back in time and explore the history and culture of the area's Mennonite settlers. The village features historic buildings and demonstrates traditional life and activities.
18. Mackenzie Crossroads Museum & Visitor Centre
Address: 10803 96 Street, High Level, AB T0H 1Z0
Phone: 780-926-4811
Learn about the history of High Level and the surrounding region through historic artifacts, Indigenous history, trapping, fur trading and farming exhibits. The building itself is also an interesting photo stop.