Alberta
Alberta is a western Canadian province known for its vast natural resources, stunning mountain ranges, and strong economy. It is one of only two landlocked provinces in Canada.
Quick Facts
- Capital: Edmonton
- Largest City: Calgary
- Population: Over 4.7 million (as of 2024)
- Official Language: English
- Time Zone: Mountain Time Zone (MT)
Geography
Alberta is bordered by British Columbia to the west, Saskatchewan to the east, and the U.S. state of Montana to the south. Its geography includes prairies, foothills, boreal forest, and part of the Rocky Mountains.
Major Cities
- Calgary – Economic center and host of the 1988 Winter Olympics
- Edmonton – Capital and home to North America’s largest shopping mall
- Red Deer
- Lethbridge
- Medicine Hat
Economy
Alberta’s economy is driven by:
- Oil and natural gas (including the oil sands)
- Agriculture and cattle ranching
- Manufacturing and petrochemicals
- Tourism and technology
Education
Alberta is home to several major universities, including:
- University of Alberta
- University of Calgary
- Mount Royal University
Attractions
Popular tourist destinations include:
- Banff National Park
- Jasper National Park
- Calgary Stampede
- West Edmonton Mall
- Drumheller and the Royal Tyrrell Museum (dinosaur fossils)
Did You Know?
- Alberta has no provincial sales tax (PST).
- The Calgary Stampede is called “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.”