Historic First Street SE Tour
June 21, June 28, July 19, August 2, August 23, September 13th | 10 - 11 AM
Step into the past with our new immersive walking tour! Join us on select dates from June to September as we tour the city's history with the help of some of its most intriguing historical characters.
Walk the tree-lined boulevard of First Street SE, once known as the Esplanade, and discover the stories of Medicine Hat's earliest settlers. Marvel at the well-preserved architecture and delve into the lives of the people who once called this area home. Each tour is unique, with our guides sharing their own anecdotes and memories, offering you a true sense of the neighborhood's past.
The Historic First Street SE Walking Tour starts OUTSIDE the Esplanade, 401 1 ST SE.
Please note that the Esplanade does not open to the public until noon.
Historic First Street SW Tour
July 5, August 9 & 30, September 20 | 10 - 11 AM
Steps from where the Southeast tour leaves off, you will journey into a very different piece of Medicine Hat history. Once considered outside our city limits, First Street SW was homestead land.
Venture “off the grid”, beyond Medicine Hat’s historic boundaries to follow our story to its very edge without ever leaving the tree lined boulevard of First Street.
Each tour is subtly different as our guides delight in sharing their own stories and memories of this neighborhood, imparting a true sense of place to those eager to listen.
The Historic First Street SW Walking Tour starts at 78 First Street SW.
Historic Railroad District Walking Tour
July 5 & 26, August 16, September 6 & 27 | 10 - 11 AM
The arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway sparked the need for hotels, restaurants, and other services—establishing a central hub from which the community grew. Discover the roots of our city by uncovering the dreams, triumphs, and challenges of the people behind the brick-and-mortar landmarks of this vibrant, culturally diverse neighbourhood.
Our guided tour blends storytelling and historical insight with forgotten architectural details—like hidden facades and ghost signs—to help you connect with the past in unexpected ways. Your final stop is Hometown Culinary, originally opened in 1947 as Coffee Bar and Grill. As a tribute to its heritage, you’ll cool down with an iced coffee at the original 1947 price of just 25 cents, while getting a glimpse inside the building’s nostalgic interior.
Please NOTE:
The Historic Railroad District Walking Tour departs from Towne Square.
A complimentary walking tour guide will be provided.
**Don't forget to bring a quarter for your coffee!!**
Tour is approximately 1 hour in length. Participants will encounter uneven walking surfaces.
Be ready to be outside in the sun (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottle, etc.).
This event is weather dependent – if raining, the event will be rescheduled.
Space is limited so please book in advance.
Low registration numbers may result in tours being rescheduled.
