Explore the many memorable filming locations of the popular HBO series, The Last of Us, as you make your way across Alberta.
This itinerary is great for The Last of Us fans, film junkies or anyone looking to explore Alberta.
At a glance
- 7 day itinerary
- 1395 km (867 mi) total distance
- 16 hrs 54 mins drive time
- Your starting point is in Edmonton
Alberta Legislature Building
Begin at the legislature building, where you can visit inside the beautiful building for free to immerse yourself in the rich history of Alberta’s politics and further understand the legislative process. It may not look as battered, but you’ll definitely recognize it from season one, episode two.
Food Bike Tour
From there, you can hop on a Food Bike Tour with a wonderful guide who will showcase the amazing River Valley system in Edmonton and stamp your “passport” as you eat your way through the city. Luckily these bikes are electric, so very little pedal power is needed for the hills and valleys of Edmonton.
West Edmonton Mall
While the mall from season one, episode seven has since been torn down, there is still plenty to do at West Edmonton Mall! Enjoy the waterpark, amusement park, bowling, movie theatre, ice skating rink, mini golf course, escape room, virtual reality arcade, or even the indoor shooting range.
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No visit to Edmonton is complete without a stop at the Green Onion Cake Man, a beloved Edmontonian snack.
4th Avenue Flyover
While this isn’t exactly a destination where you can stop, it is worth a drive by. Calgary’s 4th Ave Flyover is a major overpass leading into the city’s downtown core. It was transformed into a decrepit scene as Joel, Tess and Ellie attempted to make their way to the Massachusetts State House.
First Street Market
One of the most iconic scenes in The Last of Us takes place in the Bostonian Museum, and the exterior of that can be found on 1st Street & 12th Avenue. While a beautiful building, it marks the beginning of a hidden gem of a street, where you can spend the afternoon exploring the First Street Market.
Calgary Central Library
The New York Times named the Calgary Central Library one of the top places to visit in 2019. Known for its immaculate architecture, every corner of this library is photogenic. But better yet, if you are traveling with children, the climbing area is a great place to get their wiggles out.
Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo
Get ready for a wild adventure at the Calgary Zoo! Hang out with over 1,000 animals from tigers to penguins. Be sure to visit the Masai giraffe, 'Nabo' who made an appearance in season one, episode nine. He is the tallest of the bunch at 5.2 m (17 ft), so he’ll be easy to spot.
The Westley Hotel
Stay at the Westley Hotel, one of Calgary’s newest hotels, which was also seen in the background of season one, episode nine. The Westley offers vintage vibes in a modern way. It also has one of the top in-house restaurants in the city, Fonda Fora, which will kick your visit up a notch.
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Calgary weather can change quickly. Be sure to dress in layers and always check the local forecast.
Inglewood
Inglewood is a trendy and historic neighborhood in southeast Calgary, known for its vibrant shops, restaurants and nightlife. It may look familiar, as it was featured in the series premiere. Be sure to stop by the Artesano Galleria for unique collectibles, treasures, and kitchen gadgets.
Heritage Park Historical Village
Heritage Park is a living history museum that offers visitors a glimpse into life in Western Canada from the 1860s to the 1950s. The park features over 180 exhibits, including a working steam train. It’s also home to the Wainwright Hotel, which was used in season one, episode six.
Fish Creek Provincial Park
Fish Creek is one of the largest urban parks in North America, covering over 13 square kilometers (5 square miles) in Calgary. This park was featured in season one, episode three, as Joel and Ellie traveled to Kansas City. This scenic park offers a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, picnicking and fishing.
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While in Inglewood, try Spolumbos Deli, a local fave that offers Italian sausages and sandwiches.
Fort Macleod
Fort Macleod is a town that was established in 1874 as a North-West Mounted Police post and played a significant role in the development of Western Canada. As you wander through Fort Macleod’s Main Street, we’re sure you’ll recognize some sights from season one, episode one.
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump
Head about 20 minutes west and you can explore Alberta’s Indigenous history at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, one of Alberta’s six UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It’s an archaeological site that was used by Indigenous people for over 5,500 years as a communal hunting ground for bison.
Elizabeth Hall Wetlands
Our final stop of the day – Lethbridge! Enjoy a walk in Elizabeth Hall Wetlands, where you might spot the iconic Lethbridge viaduct bridge, which was seen in season one, episode four of The Last of Us. Elizabeth Hall Wetlands is a system of walking trails where you can enjoy birdwatching or wildlife spotting.
High Level Bridge
The viaduct bridge, or as the locals call it, the High Level Bridge, is actually a massive steel trestle that crosses the Oldman River. This bridge is the largest railway structure in Canada and the largest of its type in the world! We recommend visiting at sunset for some amazing views.
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If you’re visiting in September, check out the Heritage Inn Balloon Festival in High River.
Waterton
Waterton was heavily featured in season one, episode eight of The Last of Us. The town storefronts can also be seen throughout the episode. Support the small business owners along the street by trying a Beavertail or getting a hot dog at Wieners of Waterton – a local favourite and a must-try for visitors.
Bear’s Hump Hike
Put on your hiking shoes and head to Bear’s Hump, which provides epic views of where the Prairies meet the Rockies. It’s a shorter hike, only taking about an hour, but is a little on the steep side. However, it’s worth every step, and is amazingly rewarding once you arrive at the top.
Water sports at Waterton Lake
During the summer you can also spend time on the beautiful glacial lake! Visit Blakiston & Co. for all your canoe, kayak, stand-up paddleboard, and other adventure gear needs.
Prince of Wales Hotel
One of the most iconic views from The Last of Us can be seen from the historic Prince of Wales Hotel. Cozy seating near the windows overlooking Upper Waterton Lake offers a place to unwind after your day’s adventures, and comfortable guest rooms are the perfect place to relax and recharge.
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At night, look up! Waterton is the world’s first international transboundary Dark Sky Park. Book a guided tour with Dark Sky Guides.
Downtown Canmore
Enjoy downtown Canmore, nestled between the Bow River and Policeman’s Creek. The historic Canmore Engine Bridge – which Joel and Ellie crossed before coming to Jackson – is a must-visit while in the area, with gorgeous views of the Rocky Mountains surrounding it.
The Grizzly Paw
Be sure to grab a cold one at one of two Grizzly Paw Brewing locations. Get a flight so you can try many of their offerings without FOMO. They also have six house-made sodas available for children and non-drinkers, all made with mountain-fed water.
The Malcolm Hotel
Check into the Malcolm Hotel, a luxurious mountain retreat. The hotel features 124 guest rooms and suites, each with stunning mountain views. On-site dining options include a gourmet restaurant and a casual lounge, as well as wonderful amenities including an indoor pool and outdoor hot tub.
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While in Canmore, we recommend checking out Stonewaters for all your shopping needs.
Rocky Mountain Bagel Co.
On your final day in Canmore, you’ll want to try the local haunt Rocky Mountain Bagel Co. They offer a variety of breakfast bagels, but our favorite is “The Works”. You’ll be fueled up for a hike at Barrier Lake, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the crystal-clear lake.
Barrier Lake Hike
Barrier Lake served as the location in the season one finale where you see Joel and Ellie’s final hiking location to the Jackson overlook. The hike is a moderate level, with a round trip distance of approximately 5.8 km (3.6 mi). Once you reach the top, there are plenty of places to relax and take in the scenery.
Lunch at Communitea Café
Communitea Café has a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere, with an eclectic mix of furniture and decor that gives it a unique and quirky feel. You’ll find delicious, healthy and locally-sourced ingredients on all their menu items.
Boundary Ranch
Canmore was portrayed as Wyoming in The Last of Us, and luckily for Joel and Ellie, his brother Tommy sent them on their way with a horse! While no one in Canmore is likely to gift you a horse, you can experience horse riding through the mountains like Joel and Ellie by visiting Boundary Ranch.
Dinner at Bridgette Bar
Finish the day off at Bridgette Bar, nestled in the heart of Calgary’s Design District. Known for its creative cocktails and contemporary American cuisine with an emphasis on wood-fired dishes, the menu at Bridgette Bar is designed for sharing, with a variety of small plates and larger entrees.
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The Last of Us was the largest film production in Alberta's history, and one of the biggest in Canada.
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