From coast to coast, authentic Canadian experiences can be found in every province through Indigenous tourism. This fall, immerse yourself in Canada’s rich history by safely experiencing Indigenous attractions and adventures close to home.
In partnership with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC), we have gathered seven ways you can experience and support Indigenous tourism across Canada this season.
Alberta
Métis Crossing
Travel back in time at Métis Crossing and hear stories of the families who formed a Métis community along Alberta’s first road, Victoria trail. During your visit, you can learn about Métis life on the land, try your skills with a bow and arrow and taste delicious food infused with the flavours of Métis kitchen. With an array of cultural and interpretive experiences, Métis Crossing offers an all-inclusive look at Alberta’s largest Indigenous population.
Closest WestJet destination: Edmonton, AB
British Columbia
Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort
Nestled within the traditional territory of the Ktunaxa First Nation (pronounced ‘K-too-nah-ha’) in BC’s Kootenay region, the Ainsworth Hot Springs have long been deemed good medicine for the body, mind and soul. For thousands of years, the Ktunaxa embraced the nupika wu’u, or hot mineral waters, for their healing and rejuvenating powers. Imagine waking up in the comfort of your well-appointed guest room, knowing a relaxing soak in warm mineral water is only steps away. Stay in their new Yaqan Nukiy Suites, built in a style and décor that honour the history and traditions of the Yaqan Nukiy People. Or indulge with a massage at the Spirit Water Spa to infuse natural healing and relaxation into your stay.
Closest WestJet destinations: Cranbrook, BC
Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre
During the fall season, the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler, BC offers a blend of virtual and onsite experiences for visitors. Hear stories, see the mountains, rivers and forest through the eyes of the Squamish and Lil’wat People. Their rich and unique Culture can be experienced through hand drummed songs, inspiring films and guided exhibit tours by Cultural Ambassadors from Squamish Nation and Lil’wat Nation.
Closest WestJet destination: Vancouver, BC
Wya Point Resort
Visit Wya Point Resort in the heart of the storm season. Listen to the waves crash against the rocks in this coastal rainforest setting. Located minutes away from Pacific Rim National Park in Uclulet BC, the resort rests on pristine, private beaches surrounded by 600 acres of old-growth on First Nation’s traditional territory. The resort welcomes visitors with luxurious lodge accommodations, waterfront yurts and beachfront camping. Wya Point won the Outstanding Accommodation Award by Indigenous Tourism BC in 2014.
Closest WestJet destinations: Nanaimo or Comox, BC
Ontario
Indigenous Walks
Indigenous Walks is a walk and talk through downtown Ottawa from an Indigenous perspective. Together walkers and guides will explore Indigenous social, political and cultural issues through architecture, landscape, monuments and art. The walks are offered in English, French, Spanish and Portuguese. Put on your walking shoes and experience Canada’s capital like never before.
Closest WestJet destination: Ottawa, ON
Ojibwe Cultural Foundation
This fall, the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation (OCF) will feature Jeanice Toulouse, an Ojibwe artist, born in Genaabaaging, Serpent River, Northern Ontario. With a Masters of Fine Arts from Concordia University in Montreal and a dedicated painting practice, Toulouse has been exhibiting and teaching for over 36 years. She is a recipient of various awards including the National Museum of the American Indian Award and the REVEAL Canada 150 Indigenous Art Award in 2017.
Closest WestJet destination: Toronto or Ottawa, ON
Saskatchewan
Wanuskewin
For over 6,400 years, Wanuskewin has been a gathering place for the Indigenous People of the Northern Plains who came for trading, ceremonies and bison hunting. Today, the park is on the cutting edge of conservation as they recently planted wild prairie grasses as a habitat for a new herd of Plains Bison. The bison are a cultural herd and teach guests about the special relationship of kinship and resiliency to prairie Nations. Wanuskewin is also home to the longest-running archaeological dig sites in Canadian history. Guests are invited to go on a medicine walk, dine on bison, and learn about the bison hunt and their connection to the earth. Wanuskewin has twice been named as the “Indigenous Tourism Destination of the Year” by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada.
Closest WestJet destination: Saskatoon, SK
To learn more about Indigenous tourism, visit Destination Indigenous.
In partnership with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC).
