Indigenous Culture & Heritage Experiences Near Nova Hotels in Western Canada

Western Canada is home to some of the world’s most vibrant and deeply rooted Indigenous cultures. From the First Nations communities of Alberta and Saskatchewan to the Dene, Gwich’in, and Inuvialuit peoples of the Northwest Territories, this land has been shaped by thousands of years of Indigenous history, art, language, and tradition. For guests of Nova Hotels, exploring this rich heritage is one of the most meaningful and unforgettable travel experiences available. This guide highlights the best Indigenous culture and heritage experiences near our locations across the region — offering a respectful, enriching window into the living cultures that define Western Canada.

Alberta: Where Plains and Mountain Cultures Converge

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump UNESCO World Heritage Site

One of the world’s oldest, largest, and best-preserved buffalo jump sites, Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump near Fort Macleod is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an unmissable stop for anyone interested in the history of the Plains peoples. The interpretive centre, largely staffed by Blackfoot community members, tells the 6,000-year-old story of how Blackfoot hunters used the landscape itself as a hunting tool, driving bison herds over a sandstone cliff. The centre features archaeological artifacts, oral histories, and traditional food, all presented with cultural authenticity and pride.

From Nova Inn Calgary, Head-Smashed-In is approximately a two-hour drive south — an easy and deeply rewarding day trip.

Indigenous Art at the Art Gallery of Alberta, Edmonton

Guests staying at Nova Inn Edmonton are just minutes from the Art Gallery of Alberta, which maintains a significant and growing collection of Indigenous contemporary art. Rotating exhibitions frequently spotlight First Nations, Métis, and Inuit artists whose work engages with identity, land, sovereignty, and storytelling. The gallery is a vital space for understanding Indigenous perspectives in a contemporary context.

Métis Crossing Cultural Site

Located along the North Saskatchewan River east of Edmonton, Métis Crossing is Alberta’s first and only major Métis cultural destination. Visitors can experience traditional Métis activities including jigging, bannock-making, voyageur canoe paddling, and guided interpretive walks through the river valley. Overnight lodging is available on-site, but Nova Inn Edmonton makes an excellent base for a day visit.

Indigenous Tourism Alberta Events

Throughout the summer, Indigenous Tourism Alberta partners with communities across the province to offer guided cultural experiences, powwows, hand games tournaments, and traditional cooking classes. Check the Indigenous Tourism Alberta calendar before your visit for events happening near your Nova Hotels location.

Saskatchewan: Honouring the Spirit of Treaty Land

Wanuskewin Heritage Park, Saskatoon

Sitting on the banks of the South Saskatchewan River just north of Saskatoon, Wanuskewin Heritage Park is a National Historic Site and one of Canada’s premier Indigenous cultural destinations. The park is set on land that has been a gathering place for Northern Plains peoples for over 6,000 years. Guests can walk ancient trails past tipi rings, medicine wheels, and bison kill sites, while cultural interpreters share stories of the land’s significance.

Wanuskewin is currently undergoing a significant expansion that includes the reintroduction of a bison herd to the landscape — a deeply symbolic act of cultural and ecological restoration. Nova Inn Saskatoon is less than 20 minutes away, making it the ideal base for a visit.

First Nations University of Canada Cultural Programs, Regina

Based in Regina, the First Nations University of Canada hosts public lectures, art exhibitions, and cultural events throughout the academic year that are open to the community. Guests at Nova Inn Regina can check their schedule for events celebrating Indigenous language, art, and scholarship during their stay.

Gordon Tootoosis Nīkānīwin Theatre

Located in Saskatoon, this professional Indigenous theatre company produces powerful productions rooted in Cree and other First Nations storytelling traditions. Attending a performance is one of the most intimate and moving ways to connect with Indigenous cultural expression in Saskatchewan.

Northwest Territories: Living Arctic Cultures

Dene Cultural Experiences in Yellowknife

The Dene Nation — whose traditional territory covers much of the Northwest Territories — has maintained a continuous cultural presence in the region for thousands of years. In and around Yellowknife, visitors can access guided cultural tours led by Dene knowledge keepers, covering topics like traditional land use, medicinal plants, drum dancing, and the Dene language. Operators such as Dene Nahjo and various Yellowknife Dene First Nation community programs offer experiences throughout the year.

Nova Inn Yellowknife staff can help connect guests with reputable local cultural tour operators — just ask at the front desk.

Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre

The Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre in Yellowknife is the Northwest Territories’ primary museum and archive, housing an exceptional collection of Dene, Métis, and Inuvialuit artifacts, artwork, and documents. Permanent exhibits explore the history of the land and its peoples from pre-contact times to the present. Admission is free, and the centre is a must-visit for any culturally curious traveller staying at Nova Inn Yellowknife.

Inuvialuit Cultural Experiences in Inuvik

In Inuvik, Inuvialuit Regional Corporation cultural programs offer visitors the opportunity to learn about Arctic survival skills, traditional clothing-making, and the significance of the land and sea to Inuvialuit identity. The iconic Igloo Church (Our Lady of Victory) — shaped like an igloo and decorated with Indigenous motifs — is a beloved landmark and spiritual centre in the community. Nova Inn Inuvik is perfectly positioned to explore all of this and more.

Gwich’in Gathering Events

The Gwich’in people of the western NWT host periodic cultural gatherings that celebrate traditional games, hand drum dancing, drumming, and storytelling. These events are typically open to respectful visitors and offer a rare and deeply authentic window into one of Canada’s most northern Indigenous cultures. Ask Nova Inn Inuvik staff about upcoming community events during your stay.

Tips for Respectful Indigenous Cultural Travel

• Ask before photographing: Always seek permission before taking photos of people, ceremonies, or sacred objects
• Listen more than you speak: Cultural experiences led by knowledge keepers are opportunities to learn — be present and attentive
• Support Indigenous-owned businesses: Purchase art, crafts, and food from Indigenous artists and vendors directly
• Acknowledge the land: Familiarize yourself with the traditional territories you’re visiting before you arrive
• Be open: Indigenous cultural experiences may challenge your assumptions — approach with curiosity and humility

Experience Western Canada’s Living Heritage with Nova Hotels

A stay at Nova Hotels is more than just comfortable accommodation — it’s a gateway to the full richness of Western Canada, including the Indigenous cultures and heritage that have shaped this land for millennia. Our properties in Edmonton, Calgary, Saskatoon, Yellowknife, Inuvik, and beyond are ideally situated to help you explore these extraordinary experiences.

Pair your cultural journey with other Nova Hotels travel guides, including our articles on the charm of Nova Hotels across Western Canada and summer road trips near Nova Hotels, for a truly complete Western Canada itinerary.

Ready to explore? Book your stay at Nova Hotels today and connect with the heart of Western Canada’s Indigenous heritage.