Visiting Us

The first visitors in Drayton Valley were explorers looking for the fur trade. They ended up finding a splendid valley with tall and thick pines all around.

It was at the turn of the century when the first settlers arrived in the area. They made their living as lumberjacks and trappers. No road connection existed with Edmonton, and the North Saskatchewan River was their only connection to the outside world. In 1953, the town discovered oil. It grew from approximately 75 persons to 2,000 within a year. Oil has since become the primary economic base of the community. The Pembina oil field is Canada’s largest and most prolific oil field, encompassing more than 900 square miles.

Many of the local attractions are focused around the area’s industrial history. The pump jacks that dot the landscape are an essential part of the town—not only industrially, but also, in spirit. Right near the Omniplex, looms a large pump jack painted in the town’s colours.

Visit our parks and relax in a gazebo or listen to the babbling of the creek. Bring the family and have a picnic in Lion’s West Valley Park. Walk the extensive trails and get a close and personal experience of the Town. Take in the Drayton Valley and District Historical Society Museum or visit the Farmer’s Market at the Derrick Mall on 50th street every Wednesday.

A unique feature of Drayton Valley is the newly developed main street streetscape concept. The project portrays community pride by celebrating the industries that have shaped Drayton Valley. The red steel structures over the thoroughfare create a sense of drama. They also serve a function, supporting traffic lights and signage.

Are you a hockey lover? Then head on down to the Omniplex and see the Drayton Valley Thunder. They Joined the Alberta Junior Hockey League in the 1998-1999 season and they play a fast-paced, highly skilled game.

There is plenty to do and see around Drayton Valley—you just have to know
where to look.