If you’re planning a trip to Drumheller, you’ve made a smart choice. This small Alberta town is a treasure trove for anyone interested in dinosaurs, geology, and striking landscapes. What makes Drumheller especially appealing are the variety of tours available—each offering a different way to experience the region’s fossil history, rugged badlands, and iconic landmarks. Some tours focus on the world-renowned Royal Tyrrell Museum, which houses one of the most impressive dinosaur fossil collections on the planet, while others take you into the wilderness of Horseshoe Canyon or the Hoodoos—those strange, towering sandstone formations.
Among the highlights, the full-day tours offer a comprehensive look at the region, combining museums, scenic hikes, and visits to historic ghost towns. Meanwhile, private guided experiences cater to those looking for a personalized touch, often providing more flexibility and depth. And for travelers starting from nearby Calgary or Banff, several options are available to combine the natural beauty of the Rockies with Drumheller’s prehistoric wonders.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we feature six of the best tours in Drumheller, each with a unique focus. Whether you want an all-inclusive full-day adventure (Drumheller Full Day: Tyrrell Museum & Canyon Adventure), an affordable guided day trip from Calgary (1 Day of Drumheller Dinosaurs and Badlands Guided Tour), or a luxury private experience (Private Exclusive Drumheller Tour), there’s an option for your style and budget. We’ll explore each tour’s highlights, what makes it stand out, and who it’s best suited for.
1. Drumheller Full Day: Tyrrell Museum & Canyon Adventure
This full-day tour packs in the major sights of Drumheller with a well-rounded itinerary. Starting early, you’ll visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum, which is a must-see for anyone fascinated by dinosaurs. The museum boasts an extensive collection of fossils and engaging exhibits that bring the prehistoric world to life. Afterward, the tour heads to Horseshoe Canyon for a guided hike, allowing you to marvel at its layered cliffs and unique formations.
A visit to the ghost town of Wayne offers a glimpse into early settlement life, complete with the Last Chance Saloon, a perfect spot for photos and a bit of history. This tour is particularly appealing because it combines educational stops, scenic hikes, and historical sites in one day. With a dedicated 12-hour itinerary and a glowing 5/5 review, it’s ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive experience.
Bottom line: If you want a full taste of Drumheller’s outdoor and cultural highlights with minimal fuss, this tour is a strong choice, especially since it covers the museum, canyon, and historic town in one seamless package.
$233 per person
2. 1 Day of Drumheller Dinosaurs and Badlands Guided Tour
For about half the price of the full-day option, this guided day trip from Calgary offers a fantastic introduction to Drumheller’s dinosaur heritage and rugged landscapes. The tour kicks off with a visit to the Royal Tyrrell Museum, where you’ll see the world’s largest collection of dinosaur fossils—a highlight for science lovers. From there, the adventure continues to the Willow Creek Hoodoos, a surreal landscape of weathered sandstone pillars shaped by erosion.
One of the real treats is a stop at Horseshoe Canyon, where the layered cliffs make for superb photo ops. The tour also includes a visit to Wayne’s downtown, and a scenic drive through the Dinosaur Trail, with a chance to see the famous T-Rex statue. This tour is praised for its engaging guide and well-paced itinerary, making it perfect for first-timers who want a solid overview without overextending the day.
Bottom line: For travelers on a budget seeking a comprehensive, guided introduction to Drumheller’s dinosaur and geological attractions, this tour offers excellent value and memorable sights in just 10 hours.
3. Drumheller Full-day Private Sightseeing Tour
This private tour offers a tailored experience with a dedicated guide, making it ideal for those who want flexibility and a more personal touch. The 10-hour itinerary can include visits to the Royal Tyrrell Museum, Hoodoos, and the Badlands, depending on your interests. Since it’s private, your guide can customize the pace and focus on specific attractions—whether that’s geology, paleontology, or local history.
Guests have praised the tour for its personalized insights and flexibility. The guide’s expertise helps bring the landscape and fossils alive, making the experience more engaging than a standard group tour. Although it’s slightly pricier at $275 per person, the private setting ensures you won’t feel rushed or crowded.
Bottom line: This tour suits travelers who want a more intimate experience and the ability to customize their trip. It’s perfect for families, small groups, or anyone wanting a deeper dive into Drumheller’s secrets.
$275 per person
4. Banff: Private Badlands Tour with Royal Tyrrell Museum
This luxury private tour from Banff combines the natural beauty of the Rockies with Drumheller’s fossil-rich landscape. With a 9-hour itinerary, you’ll travel in style to explore the Badlands of Alberta, visiting the Royal Tyrrell Museum and other geological wonders. The tour includes a delicious lunch at the museum’s café, and a deep dive into the region’s geological and ecological features.
What sets this tour apart is its personalized nature and the opportunity to learn about Indigenous cultures, geology, and paleontology from a knowledgeable guide. It also offers the convenience of pickup and drop-off from Banff or Canmore, making it a seamless addition to your Rockies itinerary.
Review-wise, the focus on education combined with luxury transport makes this ideal for adventure travelers who appreciate comfort. The comprehensive experience and high-end service make it a premium choice for those with a bigger budget.
Bottom line: If you’re after a luxurious, educational trip with maximum comfort and customization, this private tour is worth the splurge. It’s perfect for those combining a Rockies visit with a dinosaur adventure.
$1,291 per person
5. Full Day – Drumheller tour by Coach from Calgary
This coach-based day trip from Calgary is designed for convenience and flexibility, offering a private, customized experience. The tour includes stops at the Royal Tyrrell Museum, the Atlas Coal Mine to learn about the region’s mining past, and the Dinosaur Trail, with opportunities to see the iconic T-Rex. The itinerary is adaptable, with time allocated for 6 to 8 attractions, depending on your pace.
What makes this tour stand out is its customizable nature—you can prioritize museums, outdoor sights, or history. With an affordable price of $86 per person and the option to spend more or less time at each location, it’s a versatile choice for budget-conscious travelers. Reviewers note that the tour is a good value, especially for those wanting a personalized yet affordable experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want to maximize their day with a flexible, private guide and a manageable price point. It’s a great way to see a lot in one day without feeling rushed.
$86 per person
6. Private Exclusive Drumheller Tour with Royal Tyrrell Museum
This high-end private tour offers the ultimate personalized experience, focusing on dinosaur fossils, Hoodoos, and mining heritage. With a 10-hour schedule, your guide takes you into Horseshoe Canyon, Hoodoos, and the Atlas Coal Mine, along with ample time at the Royal Tyrrell Museum to explore its exhibits thoroughly. Hands-on learning, photo opportunities, and insider insights make this tour a standout.
Guests have described it as “a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” thanks to the customized itinerary and expert guidance with 25 years of paleontology experience. The tour includes a climb of the World’s Largest Dinosaur for panoramic views, and a visit to the Atlas Coal Mine for a taste of local industry history. The price is $237 per person, which reflects the premium service and exclusivity.
Bottom line: Perfect for serious dinosaur enthusiasts, families celebrating a milestone, or travelers seeking a luxurious, tailored tour. Book early to secure this personalized experience.
$237 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
Choosing between these tours depends on your budget, time, and interests. If you want a comprehensive, all-in-one experience, the full-day Tyrrell Museum & Canyon Adventure is a solid pick. For a budget-friendly, guided day trip with highlights like the Willow Creek Hoodoos and Wayne’s ghost town, the 1 Day of Drumheller Dinosaurs and Badlands Guided Tour offers great value.
If you prefer a personalized, flexible experience, the private tours provide the chance to customize your day, especially the Private Exclusive Drumheller Tour, which is suited for those with specific interests or celebrations. For travelers based in Banff or Calgary wanting luxury and in-depth cultural learning, the Banff private Badlands tour combines comfort with excellent educational content.
Consider your budget, time constraints, and whether you prefer a guided group or a private, tailored experience. Booking early is recommended, especially for private or high-end tours, during peak summer months.
Final Thoughts
From full-day excursions that cover all the major sights to luxury private tours for a highly personalized experience, Drumheller offers something for all. For first-timers, the guided Drumheller Dinosaurs and Badlands Tour provides a great overview. For those seeking a customized, in-depth visit, the private options deliver unmatched flexibility.
No matter which tour you choose, booking early will ensure you get the experience that best fits your interests. Prepare to be amazed by the prehistoric landscapes, fossil discoveries, and rugged beauty that make Drumheller a truly unique destination.