A time for the industry to unite!

Celebrating the Operators Who Power Alberta’s Visitor Economy 

In honour of Alberta Tourism Week, April 7–11, 2025, the Tourism Industry Association of Alberta (TIAA) is spotlighting some of the incredible businesses that shape our province’s tourism story. From cultural institutions and historic attractions to regional airports and convention centres, these organizations are helping to drive economic growth, community connection, and unforgettable visitor experiences. 

To support Alberta's tourism operators, destination marketing organizations, sector associations, and those who love to travel, TIAA has compiled resources to help make getting involved easy. Check out our:

• Alberta's Visitor Economy - The Economic Significance of Travel in Alberta (One Page Infographic)
• Tourism Impacts by Federal Riding 
• Tourism Impacts by Provincial Riding 
• Travel Alberta's Alberta Tourism Week Toolkit

The Hangar Flight Museum: Inspiring Dreams of Flight for 50 Years 

Home to  Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame, The Hangar is a place where visitors of all ages can explore the transformational power of flight. With 36 historic aircraft (both military and civilian), over 30,000 aviation artifacts, and special events like National Aviation Day, Open Aircraft Days, and the Wings & Wheels Father’s Day Weekend, the museum blends history with hands-on learning for 50,000+ guests annually including a record-setting 13,000 students in the past year alone. 

In 2024, The Hangar celebrated multiple milestones, from completing major accessibility upgrades to launching exhibits in honour of the Royal Canadian Air Force Centennial. These improvements, which include widened walkways and mezzanine expansions, have made the museum even more welcoming and accessible to all visitors. 

Tourism has played a vital role in supporting growth, boosting revenue, and allowing the museum to expand its programs, exhibits, and community impact. Even when facing construction and material cost increases, The Hangar pushed forward, thanks to the support of its partners, donors, and all levels of government. 

The Hangar is preparing to celebrate its 50th anniversary on November 17, while also embarking on major infrastructure upgrades including a new facility plan that will house restored aircraft, additional classrooms, galleries, and community space. With $14.5 million in municipal funding already secured, the museum is now working to match that support at the provincial level. 

“We’re proud to be a place where aviation history comes to life and inspires future generations,” says Brian Desjardins, Executive Director of The Hangar Flight Museum. “This milestone year marks not only a celebration of our legacy, but also an exciting leap forward as we grow, expand our facilities, and reach new heights in 2025 and beyond.” 

Plan your visit or learn more at: https://thehangarmuseum.ca  

Alberta Prairie Railway: 35 Years of Heritage, Hospitality & Horse-Mounted Robberies

Operating out of Stettler, Alberta Prairie Railway Excursions offers a one-of-a-kind blend of vintage rail travel, live entertainment, themed excursions, full-course buffet meals, and even horse-mounted train robberies. Powered by classic steam and diesel-electric locomotives, their trips give guests a rare opportunity to ride the rails through Alberta’s countryside.

In 2024, they celebrated 35 years in operation, making them one of the oldest continuously operating heritage railways in North America. Welcoming 20,000–25,000 visitors annually to communities off the main Alberta corridors, they’ve created a major tourism draw for the region.

In 1997after losing access to most of their destinations due to railway restructuring, they quickly pivoted from destination-based excursions to immersive, event-driven experiences, ensuring visitors still had a reason to return.

“This year we don’t want rising costs to keep people from experiencing the joy of riding the rails,” says Bob Willis, General Manager of Alberta Prairie Railway. New this year is an “All You Can Eat Special”, offering the same great experience with a simpler meal and a more accessible price point. A family of four can save up to $220 and still enjoy the magic we are known for on a total of seven of the 57-day excursions we are offering this year.”

Learn more at https://www.absteamtrain.com.

Agri-food Hub & Trade Centre: Where Southern Alberta Gathers 

Operated by  Lethbridge & District Exhibition, the  Agri-food Hub & Trade Centre is the largest convention facility south of Calgary, offering an unmatched variety of events in its dynamic, multi-use spaces. 

From  one of North America’s largest agricultural trade shows (Ag Expo) to provincial conferences, upscale galas, and community favourites like  Whoop-Up Days  and the  Lethbridge & District Pro Rodeo, the venue has quickly become a cornerstone of tourism and economic activity in southern Alberta. 

In 2024, the Pro Rodeo saw record attendance, and third-party rentals surged, leading to an anticipated 25% increase in bookings  this year. The centre also partnered with  LA Chefs to elevate its food and beverage offerings, ensuring the highest quality experience for all guests. 

Tourism plays a central role in the success of the venue. With support from partners like  Tourism Lethbridge and the Lethbridge Lodging Association, the centre draws thousands of leisure visitors, event attendees, and business travelers bringing investment to the region and enriching the local community through sport, culture, and commerce. 

In response to guest feedback, the team is actively improving accessibility by increasing the number of accessible parking stalls, offering QR-code ordering at concessions, and collaborating with volunteer groups to provide services like bike checks and golf carts during major events. 

Looking ahead, 2025 is shaping up to be a big year, with events including the  Governor’s Finance Officers Association Conference, the Regional Jehovah’s Witness Convention (which attracts over 3,000 guests), and the return of beloved community staples like  RibFest, Alberta Livestock Expo, and the  Lethbridge Handmade Market. The Lethbridge Farmers’ Market also kicks off on  June 14, welcoming approximately 3,000 visitors every weekend. 

“We are proud to be a driver of economic growth in southern Alberta and to welcome events and leisure visitors that help our local businesses thrive,” says  Kim Gallucci, Acting CEO of Lethbridge & District Exhibition. “When people come together for sporting, cultural, and business events, it improves quality of life in our community—and that’s what the Agri-food Hub & Trade Centre is all about.” 

Learn more at: https://www.agrifoodhub.ca  

Fort McMurray International Airport: Connecting the North, Powering the Region 

Operated by the Fort McMurray Airport Authority, Fort McMurray International Airport (YMM) is a vital economic driver and community connector in northern Alberta. 

As a unique not-for-profit capital corporation, YMM reinvests every dollar earned back into improving operations, safety, infrastructure, and sustainability. Each takeoff and landing directly supports the region’s future, while driving over $290 million in economic impact annually and supporting more than 500 jobs. 

In 2024, YMM became one of only five airports in North America to earn the Airport Workforce Development Accreditation from Airports Council International, North America, highlighting its leadership in building a skilled and engaged aviation workforce. 

Tourism continues to play a growing role in YMM’s success. Increased visitor traffic strengthens airline service, drives business growth on the airport campus, and helps shine a spotlight on Fort McMurray’s cultural identity. Through initiatives like the YMM Digital Art Exhibit, the airport is using art and storytelling to shape powerful first and last impressions for travelers. 

While the return to pre-pandemic flight frequency remains a challenge, YMM continues to work closely with airline partners, leveraging local data and insights to demonstrate demand and re-establish key routes. 

Recent and upcoming initiatives speak to YMM’s commitment to community and creativity. The Art of Connection exhibit launched in April, a new art installation will debut in June, and the public is invited to the 2025 YMM Annual Public Meeting on April 30. 

“Tourism is a powerful connector, both for people and for place,” says Jessica Lipton, Manager, Marketing & Communications at the Fort McMurray Airport Authority. “Every visitor that walks through our terminal contributes to the vitality of our region. At YMM, we’re proud to create not just a point of arrival or departure, but a true sense of welcome and community.” 

Learn more at: https://flyymm.com