The Okotoks center point is about 15 miles southeast of Fish Creek Provincial Park and 19 miles south of Subway Soccer Centre.
For most people, the best time to visit Okotoks is between June and August, when the temperature is relatively warm. Outside of the June to August period, the weather will be too cold for most people to truly enjoy the many wonderful nature sites that Okotoks has to offer.
Of course, this also happens to coincide with the peak travel season for holidaymakers. If you can brave the lower temperatures, you might find visiting at another time of year is preferable. During the winter months, Okotoks is home to a number of cross-country ski trails. During the peak travel season, accommodation becomes more expensive. If you want to reduce the cost of your trip, visiting out of season is generally more affordable. April and September are both reasonably warm months, usually above freezing, at least. This is a great time to visit if you have elderly relatives or young children in tow.
If you are planning on visiting during the peak season, make sure that you book your hotel room well in advance as demand will be high. It is a good idea to check what the opening times of the local museums and other historical buildings are if you plan to visit any, as some will operate seasonally and you don't want to be disappointed.
If you are traveling as part of a group, then Okotoks offers a number of opportunities to obtain a discount on your stay. Otokoks is the perfect backdrop to an elegant corporate retreat and there are numerous hotels in the area that are well-suited to business clientele, some of them even offer guests generous group discounts.
Members of AARP - formerly known as the American Association of Retired Persons - can take advantage of low rates at the Residence Inn, which is located in the southern portion of Calgary. Calgary is the nearest city to Okotoks, many older travelers will appreciate easy access to pharmacies, chain stores, and other urban amenities.
The Residence Inn is an upmarket hotel, so the opportunity to stay here at a reduced rate should not be missed. The hotel is also only a short drive from Okotoks. You have access to the bountiful landscapes of Okotoks when the weather is good, and access to city trappings when the weather makes nature a bit less appealing.
The Residence Inn also has plenty of spacious suites and is one of the most consistently comfortable hotels you'll find anywhere. The suites come with sofa beds, work areas, and even fully equipped kitchens. Throw in the indoor swimming pool, fitness center, and free breakfast buffet every morning, and The Residence Inn is an excellent choice for any senior travelers.
Members of the military, as well as federal employees, can receive a discount on their stay at the Ramada, which is located by Wyndham High River. This is a mid-tier hotel that offers a great balance of everything. For a perfectly reasonable price, you can have a suite or room at pretty much any tier you choose.
The Ramada caters to all budgets, whether you are traveling for business or for pleasure. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, and there is a complimentary continental breakfast every morning. Once you're done with breakfast, there is a pool and hot tub to take advantage of. The Ramada is also one of the few hotels in the area that allows pets.
A little way outside Okotoks, just a short drive north, you will find the Service Plus Inns & Suites. If you are traveling on a budget, but are still determined to get the best experience possible, the Service Plus Inn is a great place to look. Here, you will find and both affordable accommodation and an abundance of amenities. You can choose for the more modest standard room, or you can go all out with a mini-suite or full suite, the latter of which includes a jetted tub.
Even the basic room comes with a generous range of extras. For example, you will get access to the complimentary breakfast buffet, karma free movies in your room, free Wi-Fi, and an outdoor pool to use at your leisure. You can even take advantage of discounts at the nearby Deerfoot Inn & Casino if you are so inclined.
The attractions around Okotoks fall into two main categories, history and nature. On the history front, there are a number of museums and cultural centers available to explore. The Okotoks Museum and Archives is an essential stop for any history buffs. Here, you will find and a number of exhibits that document the fascinating history of the area.
Another unmissable attraction for both nature and history buffs is Big Rock, or Okotoks Erratic to give it its proper name. This natural landmark has been considered significant to First Nations Peoples throughout their history. The size and age of the landmark continue to impress visitors today.
If you'd like to absorb a bit of culture, the Okotoks art gallery is your best bet. The gallery is located in the old 1920s railway station, the building is quite a sight to behold. The gallery carries work from a mix of local artists and craftspeople.
If you are traveling with your family, then the Crystal Ridge Golf Club is the perfect place to unwind for the day. The Okotoks' premier golf course features both regular golf and miniature golf. You can either reserve a time to play 9 or 18 holes, or you can simply turn up for a round of mini-golf with the family. Once you've had your fill there, why not head on over to the Sheep River Provincial Park, where you will find and two short hiking trails that are ideal for kids. More adventurous kids can have a go at cross-country skiing, horseback riding, or even mountain biking.
Okotoks may be a relatively small town, especially when compared to the nearby city of Calgary, but it is overflowing with things to do and excellent places to stay. Among this quaint slice of life, nestled in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, are several reasonably-priced hotels situated in gorgeous buildings. The stunning architecture around Okotoks means that even the more modest accommodation options are elegant and stylish. Whatever your budget, there is something here for everyone.
Below are reviews of the city of Okotoks, AB from an actual visitor's perspective.
Car show!
It was easy to get around. The city has a great selection of restaurants and a Costco to be envious of :)
Hotel recommended a nearby Greek Restaurant that was absolutely fabulous.
Family friendly, pretty good shopping, not too large, easy to get around. A city with a small town vibe.