Life Among Canyons and Dinosaurs: What Makes Drumheller Special

When people think of Alberta, the majestic Rocky Mountains usually come to mind first. Head northeast, though, and you’ll discover a completely different world — Drumheller. Here, nature and history meet in a striking landscape of painted canyons, traces of ancient cultures, and dinosaur statues that recall the creatures that roamed this region millions of years ago.

This small town blends day-to-day calm with a lively tourism scene. If you dream of living close to nature while enjoying new discoveries year-round, Drumheller deserves a spot on your shortlist.

A Town in the Canyons — and Its People

Drumheller, with a population of about 8,000, sits along the Red Deer River in Starland County, Alberta, roughly 110 km from Calgary.

With steady visitor traffic, the town offers solid prospects for opening a small business. Many residents work in retail and services. The cost of living is lower than the national average, though wages tend to be more modest as well.

Drumheller is a great choice for families. The town has three schools—two public and one Catholic. Kids can join sports clubs and enjoy a skate park, outdoor pool, and a water-sports park.

Healthcare is well covered. The local hospital provides a wide range of services and has a 24/7 emergency department. You’ll also find the Riverside Health Centre — a complex that includes a private clinic, pharmacy, and laboratories.

Day-to-day banking is easy, with branches of major Canadian banks and multiple ATMs in town. Residents and visitors have access to pharmacies, a variety of shops, supermarkets, and boutiques — most conveniently located in the town centre.

Drumheller: The Dinosaur Capital of the World

It’s no surprise that visitors associate Drumheller with dinosaurs. You’ll find more than two dozen dinosaur figures throughout the area. The largest stands over 25 metres tall, and you can take in a fantastic view of the town and badlands right from its mouth.

Top attractions include:

• Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology — Home to an exceptional collection of dinosaur skeletons and other prehistoric discoveries. Guests can join educational programmes and guided tours, and even observe researchers at work in the lab.
• Badlands Hoodoos and Canyons — Drumheller’s valley is famous for its unique rock formations and dramatic terrain. The Dinosaur Trail loops around town, passing canyons, rivers, and historic lookout points. The area has been a backdrop for many Hollywood productions and is a favourite for photographers and Instagrammers alike.
• Atlas Coal Mine — A preserved early-20th-century coal mine with original buildings and equipment. Now a museum, it offers a fascinating look at miners’ lives and Alberta’s coal-mining history.

The town also takes pride in the Napier Theatre and the open-air Badlands Amphitheatre. In summer, families love Barney’s Adventure Park, and a range of themed tours make it easy for visitors to explore the region.

Best Moves: A Smooth Relocation to Drumheller

From modest starter homes to premium properties, Drumheller offers housing for every budget. When it’s time to relocate, Best Moves makes the process simple and stress-free. We handle residential and corporate moves from other cities into Drumheller, as well as local moves within the town and surrounding communities.

With us, your belongings are protected and your timelines are respected. Don’t leave your move to chance — work with professionals who plan every detail.

Ready to get moving? Contact Best Moves today to schedule your Drumheller relocation with confidence.