Ah, that classic Alberta dilemma—too cold and slushy to fully enjoy spring, but also too warm to embrace winter activities. You could sit around watching the weather forecast flip-flop… or you could embrace the in-between season with some fun indoor adventures! From immersive science experiences to underground tunnels and even a few quirky local gems, here’s your guide to staying entertained while Alberta makes up its mind about the weather.
1. Telus World of Science (Edmonton) – Where Science Meets Fun
Edmonton
If you haven’t been to Telus World of Science (TWoSE) in a while, it’s worth a revisit—especially if you have kids (or are a big kid at heart). With hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and the always-impressive IMAX theatre, there’s plenty to explore.
Must-Do Activities:
- Walk through the Arctic Journey exhibit and discover the north like never before.
- Catch a show in the Margaret Zeidler Star Theatre—because who doesn’t love a good space show?
- Sign you and yours up for a Science Tots 8 weeks class.
Why It’s Great for This Season: Indoor, interactive, and ever-changing exhibits keep it fresh for repeat visits.
More info: Telus World of Science
2. Oil Sands Discovery Centre – A Glimpse Into Alberta’s Energy History
Fort McMurray
If you’re heading north, the Oil Sands Discovery Centre is a fascinating stop that showcases the science and history behind Alberta’s oil sands. Even if you’re not a die-hard science fan, the interactive exhibits and industrial-sized equipment make it an engaging visit.
Must-See Attractions:
- Watch the hot water extraction demo—it’s like a science experiment, but with oil!
- Check out the massive mining equipment (yes, it’s as big as you think).
- Test your knowledge at the interactive displays—perfect for curious minds of all ages.
Why It’s Great for This Season: Warm, educational, and a cool way to learn about Alberta’s resources.
More info: Oil Sands Discovery Centre
3. Explore the Galt Museum & Archives – A Deep Dive Into Southern Alberta History
Lethbridge
If you like your indoor activities with a side of history, the Galt Museum & Archives in Lethbridge offers an engaging look at the region’s past. From Indigenous history to the city’s wild prohibition-era stories, it’s an underrated gem for history lovers.
Must-See Attractions:
- Check out the exhibits on Lethbridge’s coal mining and railway history.
- Take a walk through time with their extensive photo archives.
- Learn about the famous Lethbridge Viaduct (High Level Bridge)—one of Canada’s engineering marvels.
Why It’s Great for This Season: Great for history buffs and families alike, plus it’s a cozy way to spend an afternoon.
More info: Galt Museum & Archives
4. Step Into Another World at VR Core
Calgary
If you’ve ever wanted to fight zombies, explore space, or walk a virtual plank high above a cityscape—without actually risking life and limb—VR Core is the place to do it. This immersive virtual reality arcade in Calgary lets you step into all kinds of digital worlds with cutting-edge VR technology. Whether you’re looking for high-energy multiplayer games or just a wild solo experience, it’s a fun and futuristic way to escape the awkward season outside.
What to Expect:
- A variety of VR games and experiences, from action-packed shooters to creative sandbox worlds.
- Escape rooms in VR—work together to solve puzzles in fully immersive environments.
- Friendly staff to help beginners get comfortable with the controls.
Why It’s Great for This Season: You can battle dragons or explore the deep sea without worrying about the weather outside.
More info: VR Core Calgary
5. Explore the Cave & Basin National Historic Site – The Birthplace of Canada’s National Parks
Banff
If you’re looking for an indoor adventure in the Rockies with a mix of history, nature, and a little bit of the unexpected, Cave & Basin National Historic Site in Banff is the perfect choice. This site marks the birthplace of Canada’s national parks and offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s hot springs, wildlife, and conservation history—all while staying warm and dry inside.
What to Expect:
- Explore the underground cave where railway workers first discovered the thermal hot springs in 1883.
- See bubbling thermal waters filled with tiny, endangered Banff Springs Snails.
- Walk through interactive exhibits that tell the story of how this site led to the creation of Banff National Park and, eventually, Canada’s entire national park system.
- Visit after dark (seasonal) for a lantern-lit cave experience that makes history feel even more alive.
Why It’s Great for This Season: It’s an amazing way to experience Banff without freezing outside—plus, the steamy caves make for a perfect escape from unpredictable spring weather.
More info: Cave & Basin National Historic Site
6. Discover the Underground World of Rats Nest Cave with Canmore Cave Tours
Canmore
If you’re craving adventure but don’t want to deal with spring’s unpredictable weather, why not go underground? The Rats Nest Cave near Canmore is a massive limestone cave system that stays a steady temperature year-round, making it perfect for an off-season adventure. Canmore Cave Tours offers guided caving experiences where you can scramble, squeeze, and explore stunning underground chambers filled with ancient fossils, unique rock formations, and total darkness (don’t worry, they give you a headlamp!).
What to Expect:
- A thrilling underground journey through tunnels, caverns, and tight squeezes (optional).
- See 6,000-year-old bones and ancient rock formations.
- Learn about the cave’s history, geology, and the critters that call it home.
- No experience needed! Guides help you navigate every step of the way.
Why It’s Great for This Season: Since the cave stays around 5°C year-round, you won’t have to worry about snow, rain, or mud—just a guaranteed adventure.
More info: Canmore Cave Tours
7. Laugh Your Way Through an Improv Show
Edmonton & Calgary
Sometimes, the best way to deal with Alberta’s unpredictable seasons is to just laugh about it. Both Rapid Fire Theatre (Edmonton) and Loose Moose Theatre (Calgary) offer hilarious improv comedy nights that’ll have you in stitches.
Where to Go:
- Rapid Fire Theatre (Edmonton) – Home to some of the best improv comedians in Canada.
- Loose Moose Theatre (Calgary) – An improv institution that’s been making audiences laugh for decades.
Why It’s Great for This Season: Laughter is the best medicine—especially when you’re sick of second winter.
More info: Rapid Fire Theatre | Loose Moose Theatre
Embrace the Awkward Season!
While we wait for Alberta to decide if it’s winter or spring (or both in the same day), these indoor activities are the perfect way to stay entertained. Whether you’re geeking out at the science centre, exploring hidden tunnels, or rolling a strike at a retro bowling alley, there’s no shortage of fun things to do—no parka required.
What’s your favourite indoor activity this time of year? Let us know in the comments! 
