Experience Guide | Tourism Medicine Hat

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South Saskatchewan River

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Indigenous Spaces & Places pages 9-15

Indigenous Spaces & Places pages 10-11 Saamis Tepee pages 12-13 Miywasin Story Tour pages 14 Medicine Hat's Name pages 15

Food & Beverage pages 19-27 This City's Got You Covered pages 20-21 Savour the Southeast

City Parks & Trails pages 29-42 A Dog's Second Home page 28 Echo Dale Regional Park pages 30-31 City Parks pages 32-33 Trails pages 34-35 Marina Cole, Chainsaw Artist page 36 Disc Golf page 37

pages 22-23 Pack a Picnic

page 24 AleTrail page 25 Brewing and Distilling pages 26-27

Scenic Views pages 38-39 On the Water pages 40-41 The Great Bigs page 42

Medalta in the Historic Clay District pages 16-17

Cover Image Victor Aerden. The 2023 Experience Medicine Hat Guide is produced and printed for free distribution in Canada by Tourism Medicine Hat. Tourism Medicine Hat is managed by the Medicine Hat Destination Marketing Organization under contract through the City of Medicine Hat. Partners of Tourism Medicine Hat provide information for this guide and every effort is made to ensure that the information is accurate at the time of printing. Tourism Medicine Hat assumes no responsibility for any unpredictable errors, changes and/or omissions. Printed in Canada FOR FREE DISTRIBUTION

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Historic Downtown pages 49-65

Self-Guided Tours Map pages 50-51 Downtown Murals pages 52-55 Bakery Tour pages 56-57 Historic Downtown Tour pages 58-59 Indy Coffee Tour pages 60-61 James Marshall Murals pages 62-63

Mountain Biking pages 43-47

Full Day with Family pages 66-67

Events & Festivals pages 69-75

Golf page 80

Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede page 70

Rise Up Hot Air Balloon Festival

page 71 JazzFest page 72 Tongue on the Post page 73 PorchFest page 74 Quonset Days page 75 Entertainment Venues page 75

Southeast Alberta pages 81-89

Day Trip Destinations pages 82-83

Esplanade Arts & Heritage Centre page 64

Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park pages 84-87

Sunshine Trolleys

Sport & Events

Hotels & Motels

page 8

pages 77-79

pages 92-93 pages 96-97

Medicine Hat Summers page 18

Hidden Valley Ski Resort pages 88-89

City Map

History of Hatters

Camping

Découvrez Medicine Hat page 98

page 65

pages 90-91

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What are you riding in? A 1998 Ford Motorhome that was transformed into a vintage trolley, powered by a Chevy Big Block V8 gasoline engine. This trolley was purchased and transported from Drumheller, Alberta five years ago. A 2008 Supreme Trolley purchased from a vintage vehicle collector in Newfound land. The newer trolley is propelled by a 5.9L diesel Cummins engine that was newly-built in 2019 by Cummins in South Carolina. Tourism Medicine Hat purchased this unit in 2022.

Medicine Hat’s Sunshine Trolleys are your way to see the most prominent landmarks and sceneries in Canada’s Sunniest City, starting from the Visitor Information Centre (330 Gehring Rd. SW). Once you arrive at each spot, you’re invited to briefly adventure the area and soak in Medicine Hat’s culture. Experi ence the vibrant, feel-good atmosphere, and enjoy your trip in the most stress free way possible.

Bring your headphones, scan a Trolley Stories QR code, and listen to the history behind each must-see destina tion told by the locals. Occasionally, the Sunshine Trolley is guided by a local, who shares communi ty-loved stories and interesting insights of each destination.

For updates and information, follow @sunshine.trolleys on Facebook and Instagram! Operates Seasonally

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INDIGENOUS SPACES & PLACES

Land Acknowledgement We acknowledge that Southern Alberta is situated on Treaty 7 and Treaty 4 territory, traditional lands of the Siksika (Blackfoot), Kainai (blood), Pikani (Peigan), Stoney-Nakoda, and Tsuut`ina (Sarcee) as well as the

Today, Southern Alberta is home to a diverse population of Indigenous peoples, which now includes Métis Region 3, Inuit, and other Indigenous peoples. We recognize the contributions Indigenous peoples have made, both in shaping and strengthening this commu nity in particular.

We acknowledge that the Blackfoot Confederacy never surrendered its land in the signing of Treaty 7 but agreed to share it. We recognize and deeply appreciate Blackfoot peoples’ connec tion to this place. We acknowledge that we, as people living and benefiting on these lands, are accountable to the laws and protocols of the people who have cared for this land. It is our intention to continue learning how to honour this responsibility and relationship.

Cree, Sioux and the Saulteaux bands of the Ojibwa peoples.

Photo Travel Alberta/Chris Amat

Saamis Tepee The site of the Saamis Tepee in Medicine Hat marks a historical location. If you take a short walk through the Tepee, to the edge of the path, you will see the beautiful Seven Persons Coulee. You are also looking down on the very important Saamis Archaeological Site. The area was once used as a late winter, early spring buffalo meat processing site by early First Nations. Archaeologists believe there are over 83 million artifacts buried in the valley. Note: Visitors are reminded that no digging for artifacts is permitted at the site.

Saratoga Park Saratoga Park is highly valued for its connection to First Nations use of the area, Medicine Hat’s early industrial development and, more recently, to Medicine Hat’s Métis community. Use of the area stretches back to before Medicine Hat’s earliest days. The history of this part of the City can, somewhat arbitrarily, be considered in three overlapping aspects: Early Settlement, City Development, and Métis Community.

The Miywasin Friendship Centre and partners created a self-guided tour of some of Medicine Hat’s Historic Indigenous Spaces.

“For hundreds of years, Indigenous peoples gathered in this valley, which supplied everything they required to live. This land provided food, shelter, fuel, and water and sustained a way of life we now try to connect with through story-telling.”

—Brenda Mercer, regarding the Saamis Archaeological Site behind the Saamis Tepee.

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MMIW Mural Indigenous artist Jesse Gouchey and the Miywasin Friendship Centre Youth Development Program spent a weekend in October of 2019 redesigning and painting the First Street underpass mural. The mural was constructed to show the dark and tangled times our women are facing in Canada today. The red dress flows across the mural and ends with the loose flowing fabric surrounding a jingle dress dancer. The increasing vibrancy and colours as well as details in the dancer show the resiliency and strength of our women, community, and people.

Ómahksípiitaa (Big Eagle) This gathering space at Medicine Hat College (MHC) creates a welcoming, inclusive, and nurturing environment that enhances cultural awareness and understanding for MHC students and the region. Cultural components support cross-curricular education directly aligned to the Truth & Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and provide a unique venue to honour and celebrate Indigenous culture and history.

Strathcona Island Park Located along the South Saskatchewan River, Strathcona Island Park was home to First Nations and Métis. On the south side of the spray park and camp kitchen, are the remains of some Métis home steads, although obscured now by time and foliage. Riverside Veterans’ Memorial Park Indigenous Military Service Thousands of Indigenous men and women have served in the Canadian Military, including all of the conflicts presented on Medicine Hat’s Cenotaph. In some cases many members of the same family went overseas to serve, sacrificing much. Four Bliss brothers; Pat, Joe, Bill, and Tassie, served in the trenches of the First World War. Tassie was injured, having his forearm ampu tated, and Bill Bliss struggled in his return to civilian life. Bill Bliss signed up in 1915 at the age of 19 with the 3rd CMR. Bill was wounded at Ypres in 1916 by shell in the trenches. He contracted influenza in 1917 and was discharged in 1919 at the age of 23.

Old Man Buffalo Stone

Police Point Park Police Point Park was known as a safe crossing place for the South Saskatchewan River. It is home to many different plants such as chokecherry bushes and buffalo berries, which have been harvested by the First Nations people for many years. Areas like Police Point Park would have offered sheltered camping with an abun dance of firewood available for the First Nations people. Police Point Park has an important sacred history, too. During the winter, an ice free part of the river was regarded as a breathing hole for the water spirits. The distinctive cottonwood trees have had ceremonial uses. Anecdotal sources have said that Police Point Park has also been used historically as a location for tree burials. The Old Man Buffalo Stone can be found while you are walking through the park. Inspired by the Manitou Stone, this two-sided sculpture was crafted to be a guardian watching over the buffalo herds.

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The Blackfoot Confederacy Interpretation and Painting by

The Saamis Tepee is a tribute to Canada’s native heritage. It was originally constructed for the Calgary 1988 Winter Olympics. The late Amerigo “Rick” Nella Filanti, a prominent Medicine Hat entrepreneur and philan thropist, purchased the Tepee from the City of Calgary in the hope to give the City a landmark with some allure. After being moved to Medicine Hat, erection and assembly of the major structural elements of the Saamis Tepee began Oct. 20, 1991, and was completed in less than one week. The Saamis Tepee has a foundation weight of 800 metric tons, and the dead load of the structure is 200 metric tons. The main masts of the Tepee measure 215 feet (equivalent to a 20 story building!) and 960 bolts hold it all together. Below the Saamis Tepee, in scenic Seven Persons coulee, lies one of the Northern Plains archaeological sites — the Saamis Archaeological Site. Take time to explore and photograph this area. It boasts one of the foremost important archaeological sites of the Northern Plains.

THE STORYBOARDS Within the circle of the Tepee, ten illustrated storyboards are visible. These boards were all hand-painted and represent a variety of influences and history of Indigenous heritage. The Legend: How Medicine Hat Got its Name new bride for the sacrifice of a fellow human to the merman. The merman is excited over his new meal. The Tepee is the gift the otter man has given Eagle Birth to use on his Tepee design. The blue circle, where Eagle Birth and his woman are drawn in is our world and the little blue circle is the merman world. The green half of the picture is the colour of deep water. The yellow depicts the brightness of our own world. The Eagle feathers are the truths by which every man lives. Interpretation and Painting by Joseph Hind Bull. The scene depicts the sadness that overcomes Eagle Birth and his

Henry Standingalone. This scene depicts the things that are important to Blackfoot

people yesterday and today. The Sun was worshiped for its life-giving source to the Blackfoot people. The buffalo skull represents the Power and Spirit of the traditional food source and the painted symbols on it represent: Sun in the center, pairs of Sun Dogs on each side, Crescent Moon above, Morning Star below, and Hail Stones, or Thunder, all around. The Tepee represents the main household that was originally made from buffalo hides, The Seven Moons is a representation of the Legend of the Dipper and all the legends that have been passed down from genera tion to generation.

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universe and unity. Our creator made man and woman to carry on our native culture and traditional way of life. The Tepee is our shelter and our birthplace to

Plains Cree Way of Life

First Peoples Today

Interpretation and Painting by Nona Foster. In the center of this design is a late fall or early winter campsite, The trees are

Interpretation and Painting by Marilyn Fraser—King. Even though there is a passing of our Native culture from the old

continue the generations of life. Arrival of the Europeans

bare and it has snowed, the people are going about their business and prepar ing for colder days to come. Most of the tools shown are still primitive and most of the activities and skills shown are traditional and time-honoured. Around the bottom half of the border are traditional outfits. The top half of the border shows some of the animals that my ancestors shared the land with and used for food,clothing and shelter. Tobacco was used in many ceremonies and rituals Plains Cree Ceremonies Interpretation and Painting by Robert Anderson. This sweet lodge can be used to ask for guidance from the spirit powers, for a time of prayer, or as part of a ritualistic cleansing prior to any ceremony such as the Sundance. In Cree culture, the peace pipe plays a very important role. A pipe is lit to call upon the spirit powers. The smoking of the peace pipe also symbol izes peace and friendship. The stone border has engraved Cree symbolic lettering, which says “Plains Cree Ceremonies.” The rock is strong and by having the title engraved in it shows that the strength of our culture will never be destroyed and is permanent in its ways. The Plains lndians painting represents some of the many ceremonies in our Cree culture. The four ribbons are representative of the four directions. The

world into the new, we have kept our songs and sang them. To this day we still pass on the feather, we still sing, we still hear the stories, we still listen to the wind, and we still feel the power of the Northern Lights. It is a time to walk a path of treasure and enlightenment. This painting depicts the acceptance of both worlds and their challenges. Circle of Unity – Multiculturalism Interpretation and Painting by Nona Foster. This is set on a dark and stormy sky, but there are breaks in the clouds and the life giving sun is shining through. Pointing towards the sun and bright light, the native warrior holds his peace pipe invoking the wisdom of the Great Spirit. The pipe represents the unity of all people and all things in the universe. The crossed circle is one of the very earliest forms inscribed by humans to express the cosmos, life has no beginning or end, and it is a symbol of unity. The cross pieces represent the directions. The different races of people are portrayed here by different coloured hands.

Interpretation and Painting by Marilyn Fraser-King. The original human settlers of the Americas welcomed these new people with

open arms. Within these arms held trust, kindness and wonder. Little did native people know that these explorers would initiate a transformation that revolution ized the First People‘s civilization. No more was there the spirit of freedom that man belonged to the land. Treaty #7 between the Blackfoot and the Queen‘s government. The five Chiefs depicted in the picture are: Chief Crowfoot (Siksika Tribe), Chief Red Crow (Blood Tribe), Chief Bears Paw (Stony Tribe), Chief Eagle Tail (Peigan Tribe), and Chief Bull Head (Tsuu Tina tribe). Sharing the Pipe Ceremony represents peace between two parties. The promises in the treaty were that the Blackfoot would be ensured their survival and a continued way of life for as long as the sun shines, Interpretation and Painting by Henry Standingalone. In the fall of 1877, Treaty #7 was signed at the Blackfoot crossing

grasses grow and the rivers flow. The Métis of the Plains

Brenda Mercer has been beading for 51 years, as she started when she was eight years old. Her non-Indige nous cousin taught her how to do the daisy stitch, and

Interpretation and Painting by Nona Foster. The Métis people came from a meeting of two powerful human cultures and

Mercer was hooked. The artist always has earrings inside her purse, to give to strangers and friends. When giving, she shares a little bit about who she is and her story, “I tell them, ‘I made these for you with all my love and good intentions. I’ve had people come up to me a year later saying they wear them with pride and still feel the love.'” Brenda Mercer owns White Horse Rider Co., and her jewelry can be found online and at the Visitor Information Centre (330 Gehring Rd. SW).

the emergence of a new and distinct people; this is shown by the native woman and the pale skin man. The Métis sash originated in Quebec and was worn by the French Voyagers. The thistle represents the Scots, and the yarrow shows that these people still need plants in their medicines. The “North West Half Breed Commission'' paper is shown because the signing of the scrip gave the native people a small amount of cash and took away their treaty rights.

Interpretation and Painting by Manybears. The relationship between man and nature’s survival. The symbol of the

buffalo was our main source of provid ing man with food, shelter, clothing and tools, As you see in the painting, the buffalo has no eyes. He surrendered his being to the Plains Indians. The eagle is our spiritual direction and symbolizes our creator. The eagle sees that man is aware of his values and surroundings. The circle represents the creation of the

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Experience Medicine Hat’s Indigenous history through our local guide’s eyes. An integral part of the preservation and expression of culture in Indigenous communities woven with social and political commentary. Saamis Tepee Our story begins at the Saamis Tepee. The hand-painted illustrated story boards represent a variety of influences and history of Indigenous heritage. Listen as they are interpreted through your local guides' experiences. Saamis Archaeological Site Below the Saamis Tepee, in scenic Seven Persons coulee, lies one of the Northern Plains archaeological sites — the Saamis Archaeological Site. Take time to explore and photograph this area. It boasts one of the foremost important archaeological sites of the Northern Plains. Métis Community in Saratoga Park The history of this area stretches back to before Medicine Hat’s earliest days, and Métis peoples lived here until the 2000s. Walk with us as we share the land and tell its stories. Miywasin Friendship Centre

What’s Included: • Transportation pick-up and drop-off from downtown Medicine Hat. • Guided-tour of Saamis Tepee, with time to explore the Saamis Tepee site on your own, Saamis Archaeological

Site, and what was the Métis Community in Saratoga Park.

• Participate in hands-on experiences at the Miywasin Friendship Centre. • Gather together and share in

the celebration of our Indigenous cultures.

Running two days this summer: June 21, 2023 and October 14, 2023

Join in a hands-on experience led by our guides, while sharing knowledge and stories at the Miywasin Friendship Centre.

Scan the QR code to find tickets to the Miywasin Story Tour

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THE STORY BEHIND

In 1883, the Canadian Pacific Railway stopped to build a train bridge across the South Saskatchewan River. With the construction, a tent town was born taking the name from the numerous legends. A nearby hill was marked by the name Medicine Hat on a map of the Department of Interior the same year. In the CPR’s search for water, their drills accidentally struck natural gas west of town, heralding the exploration that mapped out one of the largest gas fields in North America, providing Medicine Hat with its moniker “The Gas City”.

The Great Spirit told the man to spend the night on the small island (Strathcona Island Park) and “in the morning when the sun lights the cut-banks, go to the base of the great cliffs and there you will find a bag containing medicines and a Saamis (holy bohnet)”. The hat, he was told, was to be worn only in war, and would ensure victory to the wearer. Aided by the magic of his Saamis, the young hunter located the much-needed game, saved his people, and eventually became a great Medicine Man. Thus, the first “medicine hat”; a symbol of leadership, prowess, and mysticism on the western plains, came into existence. The City was founded at the location of the ancient legend.

Medicine Hat inherited its name from the Blackfoot word “Saamis” which is loosely translated as “medicine man’s hat.” Several legends tell this story, one of which is beautifully depicted in a sculptured brick mural at City Hall. The legend tells of a winter with great famine and hardship for the Blackfoot Nation. The elders of the Council chose a young man to save his tribe from starvation. After many arduous days he made his way to the “breathing hole”, an opening in the ice of the South Saskatchewan River believed to be the place of the Great Spirit. The young hunter made camp and summoned the spirits who appeared in the form of a serpent.

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IN THE HISTORIC CLAY DISTRICT

Medalta in the Historic Clay District is over 100 years old and was instrumental in building Medicine Hat’s economy in the early 1900s, through clay production and distribution. It still stands as an industrial heritage museum with original framework and working areas. Along with the museum and gallery, cultural events often take place inside the National Historic Site year-round. The organization has offered the artist in residence program since 1998, where artists from around the world are invited to find inspiration through the authentic historic space and grow their craft in pottery. medalta.org | 403.529.1070 | 713 Medalta Ave. SE

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Museum Tours The museum can be toured leisurely or guided. Join a guided tour at Medalta, and learn about the prominent faces in the industry, how many fires tried to burn Medalta Potteries down, how the kilns worked, and how a single electric engine ran through each of the rooms, connecting every machine.

Beehive Kilns The iconic beehive kilns were used to fire pottery in the 1900s and were built using medieval designs. The bricks rely on gravity to keep the over head domes together — there is no mortar holding these structures together. The little arches around the base of the kilns was where the fire entered the kilns through long gas pipes. There was so much heat pro duced, it could make a penny evaporate. People can now tour inside the empty kilns, and experience them as music, dance, and art gallery venues during certain times of the year.

Crockstock Festival, We Built This City on Crocks and Bowls Medalta hosted a free, 12-hour festival in September 2022 that featured Canadian performers, Bif Naked and TOQUE, local artists, an Indigenous dance group, and a salsa band. All the food trucks in Medicine Hat fed the community, and there was a market with over 20 local creators and artists. Medalta has a venue room that can be used to host corporate events, fundraisers, Christmas parties, and other special events. Their entire campus is the result of a dedicated restoration effort supported by the local commu nity and all three levels of government. The result is a stunning context for dynamic experiences inside a National Historic Site.

Pottery Collection (Schlachter Gallery)

Tony Schalchter is a prolific collector of Medicine Hat pottery, with his incredible collection of over 2,500 pieces. He donated these pieces in 2008. They represent nearly every factory that ever operated in Medicine Hat. It all began with a nondescript chicken waterer that Tony found on his farm in 1954. These pieces can be spotted in the gallery.

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Photo Travel Alberta/Chris Amat

On the calendar, the first official day of summer is June 21, with the season ending in late Septem ber. But in Medicine Hat, summer begins once the snow melts and the weather temperature is officially in the positives. With one of the longest golf, mountain bike, and river float seasons, which can start as early as March and last until late October, Medicine Hat summers are when we collectively endure the hot days, so we experience as much as we can. In these eight months, from March to October, during outdoor events, celebrations, festivals, and life-changing moments are when we create the most unforget table memories. Our hearts are warm, we’re inspired to explore, and we just might see a late-night sunset or two.

THE SEASON OF LATE NIGHT SUNSETS AND STEADY ADVENTURES.

“The wildlife and the trails make you feel you’ve escaped the City even though you’re in the heart of it.” — Teanna Church,

In a City that averages 330 days of sunshine every year, summer begins when the bike tires feel the bumps and ridges of a beautiful pathway, the kayak can softly float on the river water, a stroll outdoors brings a warm feeling of gratitude, golf clubs are swung through the air, hitting a ball across a green grass field, the sounds of a cheering baseball crowd echoes throughout the coulees, and when freshly -scooped ice cream melts as we indulge in each bite underneath the sun.

Medicine Hat local.

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FOOD & BEVERAGE

Our eateries will delight you with their diverse authentic flavours. Recipes here have often been handed down through generations. At the same time, you can find talented chefs from all over the world offering unique spins on their cultural traditions.

Photographed: Chef’s Tableside Carved - Tomahawk 26oz AAA Certified Ribeye from Redwood Steakhouse & Bar

Jj Kitchen A bright space in downtown Medicine Hat features authentic and fresh Korean food, with a weekly rotating lunch menu and ready-to-take-home kimchi and baked goods. 635 3 St. SE

“We hope people come in and enjoy the Korean food and culture shared in this space. When people finish their plate, it makes us so happy. We want to introduce a lot of different types of Korean food to the community.” — Jane Jeon and Brian Yoon, owners of Jj Kitchen.

D’carlos Pasta House Reserve a date night inside this romantic pasta house, and be sure to call at least a week in advance. The owner and chef cooks every dish with detail and passion, inside an Italian inspired patio atmosphere. With each hand-made noodle comes sauce, flavour, and provokes an extra appetite for pasta. 554 3 St. SE

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The Mexican Hat The Mexican Hat’s brick walls invite you into this colourful, small space with big food portions. The menu is full of authentic Mexican cuisine, from a salsa bar, to enchiladas, tacos, and burritos. 70 8 St. NW

Izote Latin Cocina In Medicine Hat’s Historic Downtown, you’ll find eye-catching, hand-painted artwork as you savour the taste of authentic Salvadorian cuisine. From tacos to the national dish pupusas, and all day breakfast with huevos rancheros, this eatery will have your tastebuds happy dancing for more. 650 3 St. SE

Takumi Japanese Restaurant This Japanese restaurant has a menu that’s full of steaming ramen, fresh ly-rolled sushi, crispy gyoza, and so much more that will have your curious taste buds ordering a feast. This very modernly-designed hole in the wall will keep you feeling warm and full. 23 8 St. NW

The Whiskey District This bar and eatery is found right off the Trans-Canada Highway, on the third floor of the Badlands View building. The one-of-its-kind view of vehicles passing by and the taste of hearty meals and chilled beverages pair well together. 12 Gehring Rd. SW Redwood Steakhouse & Bar The refined restaurant specializes in premium-cooked steaks, scallops, crab, salmon, ribeye, sirloin, and lobster tail.

Casa Amigos Cantina With paintings inspired by Mexican culture, the vivid colour palette on the walls welcome you inside Casa Amigos Cantina. Located in downtown Medicine Hat, the authentic Mexican restaurant often hosts live music and has an appetite for flavour. 1-480 3 St. SE

Camp Ice Cream From as early as March, you can indulge in a scoop or pint of local,

Redwood always serves an exquisite dinner experience. 1051 Ross Glen Dr. SE

home-made ice cream on a sunny patio. $1 from each pint goes towards summer camps in Southern Alberta. 1870 6 Ave. SW

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For two weeks in November, Savour the Southeast encourages local restaurant, café, and brewery owners to collaborate with local producers in Southeast Alberta. They feed the community fresh, hearty meals full of locally-raised cattle, freshly grown vegetables and hand-mixed sauces. But, Savour the Southeast goes beyond the two week celebration. Farmers still farm, ranchers still ranch, growers still grow, producers still produce, and local owners continue to partner with them year-round.

Cowboy Salad — roasted corn, black beans, and locally-sourced vegetables, tossed in a house-made Dijon vinaigrette.

The Clubhouse Restaurant at Paradise Valley is especially nice before or after a round of golf. With open windows and views of greenery, you will have the chance to experience a full menu of splendid appetizers, light meals, fresh sand wiches, and mindfully crafted entrees. During Savour the Southeast, The Clubhouse featured a three course menu, including the Cowboy Salad.

NOVEMBER 1-14, 2023

Rosewood Bistro partners with their neighbour, Douglas Meats , year-round to serve cheesy, beef burgers, loaded steak stir frys, and other exquisite

German Flammkuchen — bratwurst sausage from Douglas Meats , bacon, carmelized onion, mushroom, tomato sauce, creme fraiche, and mixed cheese.

dishes that are hearty with locally-raised ingredients.

The Rosewood Burger — between two fresh burger buns, is a local beef patty from Douglas Meats , chickpea-floured dusted onions, pickles, tomatoes, aioli, greens, with an option to add cheese and/or bacon.

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Thai Orchid Room brings comfort while you treat yourself to mouthwatering, family recipes from Northern Thailand. The menu displays a wide array of authentic, skillful, and excep tional cuisine that’s bound to pique your interest.

Thai Matsaman Beef Stew — made with local potatoes and vegetables from The Market Centre , and beef from Mike’s Meats Inc .

“When you put a lot of time and love into a dish, and then people appreciate it, that’s what I find most fulfilling when cooking and creating recipes. People will tell us how great their food was, whether they’re traveling through or are from Medicine Hat, and for us to be a place they’ve found and love feels really good,” — Sounantha Boss, owner and chef since 1997.

"We can tell people to go down the road to see the rancher who supplies our meat. It's very rewarding to know we supply people with food and they know where it comes from,” — Chris Deering, co owner of Deerview Meats Ltd.

Poolhouse Café & Roastery imports beans from around the world and roasts them right in Medicine Hat’s Historic Downtown.

"Medicine Hat is a foodie City, and we think it's one of our secret strengths. Everybody loves good food here, and there are so many great suppliers, producers, and ranchers locally — this gives us a great opportunity to really showcase something that is a taste of Medicine Hat.”

For 21 weeks during the warmer months, the Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede hosts Farmers’ Markets that have over 100 vendors come together to sell their home-made and home grown goods to the community.

— Emily Wright, Justin Wright, Amanda Baker, Ryan Baker, Owners, Fryer Tuck's Food Truck.

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Artisan Breads and Spreads The bakeries in Medicine Hat all bring something unique to the breads they bake, and each is soft, fluffy, and melts in your mouth. You can find loaves from Redcliff Bakery , Country Crumbs Bakery & Café , or McBride’s Bakery . House-made bagels from King Bagel are a nice choice. Homestead Market Inc. has a variety of spreads — Yummy Hummy’s hummus dip, Lucky’s Grit Dip , locally-canned jams and jellies, and

Fresh Veg Neighbouring Medicine Hat is Redcliff, Greenhouse Capital of the Prairies. You’ll find a hub of greenhouses full of fresh lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, carrots, and so many other nutritious and colourful vegetables. Gourmet dips are found at Huber’s Farm Market . The freshly-grown veggies mix well for a sandwich, salad, or veggie charcuterie board. Stop by The Hat’s Olive Tap to pick out a nice pairing of oil and balsamic for a complimentary salad dressing. Hearty Snacks Prairie lands have farmers and ranchers all around. Beef jerky and pepperoni sticks from local producers are an easy addition to any picnic basket, like Douglas Meats , Deerview Meats and Medicine Hat Meat Traders . A trip to Homestead Market Inc. will show you everything local — pickled carrots, asparagus, and beans, and home-made tortilla chips. For dessert, haskap berries ground grown by Desert Springs Farm are on the shelf.

Sweet Pure Honey . Sunshine Sips

A refreshing, cold beverage on a warm summer’s day is music to the ears. Iced coffees and teas from a local café or house made sparkling sodas from Hell’s Basement Brewery are a perfect picnic beverage. Your Preference Kombucha can be found at Nutters Everyday Naturals and The Hat’s Olive Tap . A camping or backyard setting might call for a trip to one of Medicine Hat’s three breweries or its distillery.

Once you’ve packed your picnic, find a sunny City Park on pages 29-33, to lay a blanket and enjoy your local food and beverages

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Photo Travel Alberta/Chris Amat

Hell’s Basement Brewery #102, 552-18 Street SW Medicine Hat, Alberta 403.487.0489 hellsbasement.com Medicine Hat Brewing Company 1366 Brier Park Drive NW Medicine Hat, Alberta 403.525.1260 medicinehatbrewingcompany.ca Travois Ale Works 612 3 Street SE Medicine Hat, Alberta 587.289.1000 travoisbeer.com Spectrum Ale Works 3500 9 Avenue N Lethbridge, Alberta brewing@spectrumaleworks.com spectrumaleworks.com

Theoretically Brewing Company 1263 2 Avenue S Lethbridge, Alberta

Adventuring the open roads through Southeast Alberta, you’ll start this tour surrounded by beautiful coulees and bluffs, with a welcoming

403-715-5140 theorybrew.ca Stronghold Brewing Company 230 24 Street Fort Macleod, Alberta 403.635.9381 ​strongholdbrewing.ca Oldman River Brewing Ltd. 101 Breckenridge Avenue Lundbreck, Alberta 403.751.0017 oldmanriverbrewing.com The Pass Beer Company 10801 20 Avenue Blairmore Crowsnest Pass, Alberta 403.753.1100 passbeer.ca

blue sky and sunshine. Canada’s Sunniest City, Medicine Hat, offers three unique breweries — all with dog friendly patios. They each tell a different story of the City’s history with their brewery names and locations, while serving a wide array of tasty beer. Onwards toward The Rockies, you’ll visit five more breweries along the way and sip a variety of refreshing home-made brews. From IPA’s, Blondes, Lagers and Stout, to Scotch, Citrus and Pale Ales, and food menus that elevate each drink, you'll savour the flavour of authentic Alber ta-made beer, one brewery at a time.

Medicine Hat

Fort Macleod

Lundbreck

Lethbridge

Blairmore, Crowsnest Pass

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Want to try all three breweries in Medicine Hat? Book a spot with Medicine Hat Breweries Tour through Tixx.ca. Transportation, beer flights, and snacks included

with ticket purchase.

Hell’s Basement Brewery With a name inspired by Rudyard Kipling’s famous quote about Medicine Hat having, “all Hell for a basement,” — due to the abundance of natural gas found under the City in the early 1900s, Hell’s Basement Brewery continues to bring stories and good times to Medicine Hat. With walls decorated in hundreds of stickers from breweries and small shops around Alberta, the brewery is a hot spot for live music and tasty beer. The energy throughout is emphasized by the echoes of laughter and conversa tion. Grab a cold one and visit until your heart’s content inside this inviting brewery. #102 552 18 St. SW

Grit City Distillery This small batch craft distillery on South Railway Street has been producing a variety of vodka, gin, rums, absinthe, and whiskeys; using traditional botanicals and locally sourced ingredients, since 2017. Have a seat and take a look at their extraordinary cocktail menu that features the liquors and liqueurs made in-house. On Fridays, try one of their extrava gant fishbowl features that’s sure to hit the spot with an in-house dish from their full food menu. 680 South Railway St.

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If you have a larger party, you can book private brewery tours at all breweries and distilleries in Medicine Hat. See how and where the magic happens, and then enjoy a taste of it yourself.

Medicine Hat Brewing Company In 1912, the Medicine Hat Brewing Company began serving old fashioned lager, ale, and stout to our City’s early, thirsty residents. When the Temperance Movement picked up, this popular brewery was forced to close. Over a century later, the Medicine Hat Brewing Company name was dusted off and again serves pristine and tasteful house-brewed beer with an impressive food menu. Sip back and relax, and order yourself a flight to indulge and relish in the variety of aromas each beer embodies. 1366 Brier Park Dr. NW

Photo Travel Alberta/Chris Amat

Sip the South Join Prairie Sprinter on a curated craft brewery and distillery journey through the Canadian Badlands with Sip The South. Meet the passionate people behind the brands, sample tasty grain-to-glass libations, and get connected to the stories of these unique Alberta businesses — all while being surrounded by the breathtaking land scapes of the badlands region.

Travois Ale Works This micro-brewery has everything beer — beer slushies, beer cocktails, canned and bottled beer, and good ol’ beer on tap. Revolutionary American and traditional European ales are brewed in small batches inside a historic brick building in down town Medicine Hat. Indulge in a flight inside their public tasting room, and take a peek at their small but mighty food menu, take part in one of their trivia nights, or simply have a seat on the patio and soak in the downtown views with a cold drink. 612 3 St. SE

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Most hotels in Medicine Hat offer pet-friendly rooms. See a list of pet friendly hotels on page 93. Wherever the exploration takes you, furry four-legged friends should be well behaved, listen well, and, unless on a designated off-leash area, be on-leash.

Many Medicine Hat parks are a stunning escape into nature and the tree-lined trails are great for shade on those sunny days. Some trails allow for dogs to roam off-leash, while others are on-leash only — designated signage can be found in these areas. A list of parks and trails to visit can be found on pages 30-35. For a fenced in, outdoor, off-leash spot, Westvue Dog Park is a popular space for big and small dogs. Near Medicine Hat’s Historic Downtown is another fenced-in space, Saratoga Dog Park.

Over 20 eateries allow dogs on their patio. Edmonton-influencer Linda Hoang put together a blog that lists them all. If your furry friends need stimulation to burn some energy, True North K9 Compound has an open area and playground area, with equipment and toys, where owners and dogs can play, train, or bond in a safe and controlled environment. Botanicals is a pet-friendly plant shop that is happy to see dogs come through the door. More small shops are becom ing pet-friendly every year. Call before you shop and ask if your puppers can tag along.

Scan the QR code to find Linda Hoang's Guide to Dog-Friendly Patios in Medicine Hat.

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CITY PARKS & TRAILS

Being Canada’s Sunniest City, the outdoors is a warm and welcoming place to spend time with friends, family, your furry friend, or solo. Whether it’s at a park, on a trail, in the water, or lakeside in the summer, or, in the winter, snow-shoeing, on the ski hill, or cross-country skiing, you’re bound to make solid memories with some fresh air.

Paved Trails Stay on flat land or take a stroll into the coulees, there are kilometres to explore on the paved trails in Echo Dale Regional Park. Take the path to the top of the coulee, and you'll find a beautiful viewpoint that overlooks the entire Regional Park.

Surrounded by comforting bluffs and coulees, Echo Dale Regional Park is a stunning outdoor space where everyone can spend time together. Medicine Hat’s largest park is full of ways to explore the outdoors, and a beautiful view is always nearby. With plans for a picnic, there are designated spots for a little or big lunch — accessible spots are available.

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Swim Lake Lay in the sand, swim in the water, find a tree to relax in the shade, or have your children play on the playground, whichever you choose will be a splendid day underneath the sunshine. There is a Swim Centre that has food, drinks, and your swim essentials! There is large green space that surrounds the sand, as well as picnic spots, and a gathering space that can be rented for larger groups.

Historic Farm This free experience invites you to learn what a day on the homestead looked like more than 100 years ago. Head to the farm from the swimming lake, take a tour of the historic farm house, and say hello to the farm animals!

Camping Escape solely into pure prairie lands with surrounding coulees. Set up a tent or park your trailer and start a fire to indulge in s'mores. This space is beautiful, peaceful, and quiet. There is always something nearby with all the activities — swim lake, South Saskatchewan River, and paved and mountain bike trails. Book campsites at cityofmedicinehat.ca handling skills with the mini wooden trail structure built alongside the boat lake. Mountain Bike Trails Echo Dale Regional Park is home to over a dozen new mountain bike trails, with black, blue, and green. Ride the flowy trails along the coulees or explore the whole park on an approximately 6-kilometre cross country trail. Hone your bike

Boat Launch The South Saskatchewan River is a refreshing way to experience the City from a whole new point of view. Use the boat launch for your kayak, canoe, stand up paddle board, floatie, or boat! You can rent river activity essentials with Outdoor Xcape Rentals or Let's Go Adventures . Refer to page 41 for contact and booking information.

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Police Point Park Named because it was once the location of a Northwest Mounted Police outpost, the park is now a great place to surround yourself in nature in Medicine Hat. Kilometres of trails wind through cottonwood forests and sagebrush. Some of the older cottonwood trees are thought to be between 200 and 300 years old. The Nature Centre at Police Point Park Knowledgeable interpreters offer fun and informative scheduled programs in the park and are ready to answer any questions you may have about the area. Each winter, the designated cross-country ski trail offers a unique perspective of the park. Skis, boots, poles, and snowshoes are available to rent from the Nature Centre, as well as GPS units to go on a hunt for geocaches. natureline.info | 403.529.6225 | 1001 Police Point Dr. NE

Deer in the Parks Deer are resilient and adaptable animals who’ve lived in Medicine Hat for thousands of years. Two types are found in the City: Mule (white tail with a black tip) and White Tail (brown and white tail). Deer can run up to 50 km/h and jump up to 10 feet.

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Lions Park A classic picnic park with grassy,

tree-covered areas, a ballpark, and a playground. This park has fantastic views of the South Saskatchewan River and Police Point Park. Nearby is the

Strathcona Centre, which offers swimming and pickleball courts.

Minto Avenue & 2 St. SE Kin Coulee Park

With 100 acres of open space for outdoor activities, Kin Coulee Park is Medicine Hat’s most popular picnic area. Surrounded by coulees and bluffs, you’ll find playgrounds, fire pits, beach volleyball courts, ball diamonds, and an impressive skateboard park. In the winter, the toboggan hill is popular, and the large fire pit provides warmth. 104 South Kin Coulee Rd. SE

Strathcona Island Park This large park located along the South Saskatchewan River has a playground and waterpark, along with many kilometres of tree-lined, paved trails. There are picnic areas to have a fire and a boat launch to experience the river up close. You can easily bike to Medicine Hat’s Historic Downtown to make it a full day adventure. 210 5 St. SE Kiwanis Central Park

Located on the Southeast Hill in a quaint neighbourhood, Kiwanis Central Park has a playground, nature playground, and waterpark. The City-favoured whale slide, Moby Dick, has sat there since the 1960s and was recently updated to ensure safe play. Four of Marina Cole’s wood carvings can be found on page 36. Nine disc golf nets are set up around the park for a friendly-game. In the winter, check out the ice rink surrounded by tall, snow-kissed trees. 200 11 St. SE Leinweber Park Along with tall trees that shade the sunshine, nine disc golf baskets can be found at Leinweber Park. This park is conve niently located near Gilwell Park, turning the nine-basket disc golf course into an 18-basket course. Lay down a blanket, pack a picnic, bring some activities, and enjoy the open field with a view. A beautiful pond sits in the summer and is turned into a skating rink in the winter. 2293 Crestwood Dr. SE Ross Glen Water Park This waterpark is full of fun features, like a giant bucket that fills with water and pours over those who stand underneath it. There is a large green space to lay a blanket and bask in the sunshine and have a picnic. This park is located in a family-ori entated neighbourhood near the south side of the City close to hotels, restaurants, and shopping. 150 Ross Glen Rd. SE

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Devonian Trail This paved trail features the South Saskatchewan River, Historic Finlay Bridge, and Historic Railway Bridge. If you find yourself in Medicine Hat’s Historic Downtown, this trail is only a few blocks away. A starting point could be behind the Medicine Hat Public Library. Local Tip: Stop by the World’s Largest Chess Set and GIANT King Piece before heading onto this trail!

Medicine Hat has 155 kilometres of trails that lead you around the coulees, up and down the hills, throughout the trees, and along the South Saskatchewan River. A trail can be found in every neighbourhood in Medicine Hat. Whether you’re taking a stroll, biking, rollerblading, or skateboarding, you’re able to explore the City solely on the paved trails. Saratoga Trail Between Kin Coulee Park and Strathcona Island Park, this paved trail makes for a nice, long outing and the perfect bike ride. It connects with so many other trails; the whole experience is in your hands. Local Tip: What is now Saratoga Park, Métis people called home for over a century — the space was announced a Municipal Historic Resource in 2021!

McCutcheon Trail Atop a northside coulee in the neighbourhood of Crescent Heights, there is a trail that brings panoramic views of Medicine Hat — its Historic Down town and the other natural scenes in the City. In the far distance, you will see the rolling hills in Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park.

Local Tip: Stop by one of Medicine Hat’s newest coffee shops, Ooh la la! Coffee Shop for a drink and freshly-baked snack!

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Police Point West Trail Connected to the main trail in Police Point Park, this trail has a beautiful view of the South Saskatchewan River — it’s seriously right beside you. Pet some puppies along the way, or bring your own for some fresh air, and watch the bright sunlight reflect off the water and onto the trees. Local Tip: Stroll this trail during sunrise or sunset to see colours clearly in the sky, and their soft reflection on the river water!

Police Point Park Trails Police Point Park is located on the north side of the City and is known for its Northwest Mounted Police and Indigenous histories. While you walk the paved loop, enjoy the view of old cottonwood trees — some being 200 to 300 years old. Local Tip: Check the Nature Centre to learn more about the area!

Cactus in the City Often spotted along

the trails, Plains Prickly Pear is the biggest and most common cactus in Medicine Hat, Pincushion is the smallest of the three, resembling a pincushion, and Brittle Prickly Pear, thumb-like

Echo Dale Regional Park This beautiful park invites you in with a sunshine glow and the most breathtaking view of coulees and bluffs. This park has paved, unpaved, and mountain biking trails. Read everything you need to know about this park on pages 30 & 31. Local Tip: Stop at Homestead Market Inc. for a coffee and a treat on your way in or out of the park!

shape, is the most fragile. All bloom yellow, pink, and orange flowers.

TransCanada Trail This trail is a part of the Trans Canada Trail in Canada. The entire length is 27,000 kilometres and connects the Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic oceans. The TransCanada Trail in Medicine Hat passes many great spots in the City. For a leisure stroll or bike ride, you can start this trail in two spots. Strathcona Island Park: A trail that features playgrounds,

Ross Creek Coulee Trail This quiet paved trail will lead you in and shortly after, you’ll be met by a fork in the road. You can’t go wrong, either way you’ll have a clear view of the coulees and little hamlet, Veinerville. The left turn will take you towards Scholten Hill, with a view of the City. Turn right, you’ll become lost in the prairies with the train tracks beside you. Local Tip: Bring your camera, because these photos are picture perfect! Saamis Archaeological Site Downhill from Saamis Tepee, this Indigenous space dates back thousands of years ago. Nature surrounds you as you walk around and hear the calming sounds of Seven Persons Creek. Go through the tunnel underneath Trans-Canada Highway, and you’re in Kin Coulee Park. Local Tip: Take the uphill trail to see the Saamis Tepee up close and view Saamis Archaeological Site from a new perspective!

wildlife, and up-close views of the South Saskatchewan River. Deer often roam and relax with their families in this space, so be sure to keep any four-legged pets on a leash. The Strathcona Island Park Pavilion lists the individuals who played a crucial role in making the trail happen.

Riverside: Connected to Police Point West Trail, become encompassed in trees, leaves, and feel the warmth of the shaded sunlight while you explore this tunnel of nature. In the open peeks, you’ll have a shiny view of City Hall, and if you look up at Finlay Bridge, you’ll be enlightened to know the truss bridge was built in 1908. Local Tip: Rent a bike from Gravity Sports or Let’s Go Adventures to explore these trails!

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