Things to do near downtown Fort McMurray

Experience a thriving cultural community and a booming economy in the midst of some of Canada's most awe-inspiring natural northern beauty

Welcome to Fort McMurray, Alberta, Canada, where the road less travelled unfolds amid towering pine trees and gently rolling hills, creating a captivating panorama. This destination beckons to those who cherish the embrace of rugged natural surroundings and the exhilaration of outdoor activities and things to do.

Nestled in the heart of the boreal forest, where four rivers converge, Fort McMurray is a bustling community of 70,000 people, steeped in history, and teeming with opportunities for exploration against the backdrop of a promising future.

Man tanning fur featuring things to do in Fort McMurray in Heritage Village near Merit Hotel & Suites

Heritage Village

Explore Fort McMurray's Heritage Village, a timeless haven, and immerse yourself in its captivating history.

Mother & child cycling together on a running track near Merit Hotel & Suites, featuring things to do in Fort Mcmurray Canada

Syncrude Sport and Wellness Centre Recreation

The onsite sports arena for Keyano College, this state-of-the-art facility hosts concerts and Huskies sporting events and features a fitness centre, running track, studios for classes and personal training.

Chef cooking on a stove with flames in the Fort McMurray restaurants at Merit Hotel & Suites

Food & Entertainment

Whatever your cravings for breakfast, lunch, dinner and everything in between, from popular chains to local favourites, the Fort McMurray restaurants, bars and entertainment scene offers a plethora of options.

Family canoeing on a serene lake featuring things to do in Fort McMurray near Merit Hotel & Suites

Northern Adventure

In the areas surrounding Fort McMurray opportunities for outdoor adventure are almost limitless.

Mother & child cycling together on a running track near Merit Hotel & Suites, featuring things to do in Fort Mcmurray Canada

Northern Fun

Winter offers cross country skiing, snowmobile tours and more. Summer serves up a choice of 18-hole golf courses nearby including the Fort McMurray Golf Club, Miskanaw Golf Club and Quarry Ridge Golf Course.

Northern Lights in the sky over a lake near Merit Hotel & Suites

Northern Lights

During the winter the northern lights (Aurora Borealis) make the sky dance with mesmerizing hues of red and green.

Silhouette of Native American dancer featuring Northern Spirit near Merit Hotel & Suites

Northern Spirit

Enjoy unique cultural events such as Interplay and the Blueberry Festival and special community festivals, parades, live theatre almost every week during the summer.

Oil Sands Discovery Centre featuring things to do in Fort McMurray near Merit Hotel & Suites

Northern Energy

Discover the history, science, technology and 380-ton trucks behind the world's first commercially successful Oil Sands project at the Oil Sands Discovery Centre.

Man tanning fur featuring things to do in Fort McMurray in Heritage Village near Merit Hotel & Suites

Heritage Park & Historic Building

Discover various displays of the History of Fort McMurray highlighting fur trading, fishing, the lumber industry, river and rail transportation.

Woman crouching & gathering tiny plant in Wood Buffalo National Park near Merit Hotel & Suites

Wood Buffalo National Park

Visit the largest national park in Canada and one of the largest in the world, renowned for idyllic bird watching.

Sunset at rocky shore of Northern Lure near Merit Hotel & Suites

Northern Lure

The area is surrounded by many lakes and rivers and is a sport fishing paradise in all seasons.

Bird's eye view of the Oil Sands development and surrounding area near Merit Hotel & Suites

Aerial Tours

Take in an exhilarating bird's eye view of the Oil Sands development and surrounding area.

Endless Activites

Let loose your inner adventurer, where the town's backyard boasts dense boreal forests and plains abundant with diverse wildlife. Just a stone's throw away lies Wood Buffalo National Park, Canada's largest park and home to the world's largest herd of wood bison. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history of fur trading and forts or opt for an adventurous jet boat tour for a firsthand learning experience. From golfing to zip-lining, fishing to hiking, Fort McMurray invites you to uncover endless activities, promising an exploration-filled escape in a region that seamlessly blends natural wonders with cultural treasures.