Drumheller is a must-visit for anyone interested in dinosaurs, striking badlands landscapes, and rugged Alberta scenery. Unlike many destinations, this small town packs a punch with its world-class Royal Tyrrell Museum, stunning Hoodoos, and historic sites like the Last Chance Saloon. What makes it especially appealing for full-day tours is the variety of experiences available—whether you want a guided group trip or a private, customized adventure, Drumheller offers options for every type of traveler. We love how these tours blend outdoor exploration with fascinating history and geology, ensuring a truly memorable day.
One of the best ways to get the most out of Drumheller is by joining a well-planned full-day tour. It means you can soak in the sights without worrying about navigation, enjoy expert commentary, and focus on the fun. For example, the Drumheller Full Day: Tyrrell Museum & Canyon Adventure combines the best of museums, outdoor hikes, and local history all in one 12-hour trip. Meanwhile, the Private Sightseeing Tour offers a personalized experience suited for those who prefer a flexible, intimate outing. Lastly, the Coach Tour from Calgary is perfect for budget travelers who want a budget-friendly day trip with highlights like the Dinosaur Trail and the Atlas Coal Mine. Read on for detailed reviews of each, so you can pick the right fit for your trip.
1. Drumheller Full Day: Tyrrell Museum & Canyon Adventure
For around $233 per person, this all-day tour offers a comprehensive look at Drumheller’s top attractions in a 12-hour adventure. It includes visits to the Royal Tyrrell Museum, where you’ll see some of the world’s most complete dinosaur fossils, and a hike through Horseshoe Canyon, known for its dramatic layers of badlands rock. The tour also visits the historic ghost town of Wayne, home to the Last Chance Saloon, which has been entertaining visitors since the 1920s.
What makes this tour stand out is its blend of indoor and outdoor attractions, giving you a full picture of Drumheller’s landscape and history. The guide shares insights about the fossils, geology, and local legends, making the experience both educational and entertaining. The 12-hour duration ensures you have ample time to explore without feeling rushed. Guests consistently praise the tour for its thorough itinerary and friendly guides, with a perfect rating of 5/5 based on one review.
Bottom Line: If you want a detailed, full-day experience that hits the major sights and offers a good mix of history and nature, this tour is a top choice. It’s especially suited for those eager to cover a lot of ground in one trip.
$233 per person
2. Drumheller Full-day Private Sightseeing Tour
For $275 per person, this private tour offers a flexible 10-hour exploration of Drumheller, tailored to your interests. It focuses on visiting the Royal Tyrrell Museum and the iconic Hoodoos, but the real advantage is customizing your itinerary with your guide. Since it’s private, the guide can spend extra time at particular sights or include additional stops like the Badlands or local landmarks.
What makes this tour unique is its personalized approach—your guide shares detailed stories about the area’s dinosaur fossils, geological formations, and coal mining history. The reviews are more mixed here, with a 3.6/5 rating from five reviews, often reflecting the personalized experience’s value rather than the scenery or logistics. This tour is ideal if you’re a keen photographer, a family with specific interests, or someone who prefers a more relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: The private tour is perfect for those wanting a tailored experience with flexibility. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate personalized attention and want to customize their day.
$275 per person
3. Full Day – Drumheller tour by Coach from Calgary
At just $86 per person, this coach trip delivers a budget-friendly way to experience Drumheller in a single day. It offers a full-day experience with a private driver/guide, covering up to six or more stops depending on your interests. Highlights include the Royal Tyrrell Museum, where one of the world’s largest collections of dinosaur fossils is showcased. You’ll also visit the Atlas Coal Mine to learn about Drumheller’s coal mining past and drive along the Dinosaur Trail, with a photo stop at the T-Rex statue.
Guests can expect a flexible schedule, spending between 6 and 8 stops during the day, and the tour can be customized based on your preferences. The reviews are currently unavailable, but the price and itinerary make it a practical choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive, affordable day trip. It’s especially good for those on a tight schedule or traveling with a group that prefers shared transport over private guides.
Bottom Line: This tour offers great value for those wanting a full, well-rounded look at Drumheller’s highlights without breaking the bank. It’s ideal for budget-conscious travelers who still want a full experience.
$86 per person
How to Choose Your Drumheller Full-Day Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, preferred pace, and interests. If you’re after a thorough, guided experience with plenty of outdoor activity, the Drumheller Full Day: Tyrrell Museum & Canyon Adventure is your best bet. For a personalized, flexible trip tailored to your specific interests, the Private Sightseeing Tour stands out. Budget travelers or those with limited time may prefer the Coach Tour from Calgary, which covers main sights at a lower cost.
Think about physical activity—if you’re comfortable hiking and exploring outdoor sites, the canyon and Badlands stops will be rewarding. For those keen to learn about fossils and geology, all tours include the Royal Tyrrell Museum, but some offer deeper dives or additional local landmarks.
Booking early is recommended, especially in summer when Drumheller’s weather and attractions get busy. Remember, each tour offers a different way to experience this fascinating part of Alberta — choose the one that best fits your interests and travel style.
In summary, Drumheller’s full-day tours range from detailed guided trips to private customized adventures and budget-friendly coach excursions. The Drumheller Full Day: Tyrrell Museum & Canyon Adventure is our top recommendation for its comprehensive, well-paced itinerary and excellent reviews. For a personalized experience, the Private Sightseeing Tour is ideal, while budget travelers will appreciate the value offered by the Coach Tour from Calgary. Whatever your choice, booking early guarantees a smooth, exciting day exploring Alberta’s dinosaur capital.