Lethbridge Attractions
Image © Kim Siever
The Lethbridge Viaduct, commonly known as the High Level Bridge, is the longest and tallest viaduct bridge in the world. Construction was completed in 1909 on what was then the western edge of the city. The bridge is often displayed on tourist postcards and official city publications.
Indian Battle Park, located in the coulees of the Oldman River, commemorates the last battle between the Cree and the Blackfoot First Nations in 1870.
Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden, located in south Lethbridge, was opened in 1967 in celebration for the Canadian centennial. It was a royal event with Japan’s Prince and Princess Takamatsu leading a list of special guests. Fort-Whoop Up in Lethbridge. Fort-Whoop Up in Lethbridge.
Fort Whoop-Up was also known as Fort Hamilton; during the late 1800s it served as a centre for various illegal activities. Fort Whoop-Up was first built in 1869 by J.J. Healy and A.B. Hamilton with the purpose of being a whiskey post. Its first structure was destroyed by fire within a year of its construction — whether this was an accident or deliberate arson is unknown. A second, more sturdy structure later replaced Fort Whoop-Up.
Galt Museum & Archives is the largest museum in the Lethbridge area. Its building once served as the main hospital in the city during the late 1800s and early 1900s. It has an extensive collection of archives and hosts exhibits. Between 2004–2006, it underwent major renovation, which included a 5,000-square foot exhibit centre, a larger store, and a 2,500-square foot education centre.
Paradise Canyon Golf Resort, located in the city's southwest, is a world-class golf course with amenities available in larger cities. The eighteen-hole course lies alongside of the Oldman River, and is often prone to damage from spring floods.
Skyline of downtown Lethbridge
Image © Kim Siever
There are several prominent structures on Lethbridge's skyline, some of which are unique to the city. One prominent landmark is the post office. While not as widely recognized as the High Level Bridge, it is one of the most unique buildings in Lethbridge, especially when compared to other buildings in southern Alberta. The four-storey building was built at the turn of the 20th century and is crowned by a functioning clock tower.
The remainder of prominent buildings in Lethbridge's downtown skyline consist of several office towers. In addition, some other prominent landmarks outside of downtown are the water tower, which was originally built in 1958 and sold to a private developer who converted it into a restaurant, and the Alberta Terminals grain elevators.
