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Step Into the Past and Beat the Heat: Why Galt Museum Is Your Summer Must-Visit!
Posted on June 11, 2025 by Nerissa McNaughton
In Lethbridge, Alberta, the Galt Museum & Archives is a hub of storytelling, education, and community connection, capturing the history of Alberta’s diverse cultural heritage. Here’s why you should make it a stop on your summer road trip this year.
Galt Museum & Archives?
Galt Museum & Archives focuses on historical preservation and education. From its permanent and temporary exhibits to its interactive programs and community events, the museum brings history to life in a way that’s both engaging and accessible. Central to its mission is the goal of connecting people to the rich cultural narratives of the region. With a sprawling archives collection, the museum safeguards photographs, documents, and artifacts that span generations, offering visitors a tangible link to the past.
Akaisamitohkanao’pa – A Place of Sacred Stories
The Galt Museum is also referred to as Akaisamitohkanao’pa in Blackfoot, meaning “an eternal gathering place.” This highlights the museum’s deep respect for Indigenous history and its commitment to preserving the narratives of the Blackfoot people and other Indigenous communities who shaped this region.
Historical Experiences
Step into exhibits that cover everything from local sports legacies to the dynamic cultural landscapes of southern Alberta. The permanent exhibition, Taking Care, tells the story of the Galt Hospital and its pivotal role in regional healthcare, while special rotating exhibits such as Behind Racism and Lena and Thomas Gushul’s Photography shine a light on diverse aspects of community history.
Hands-On Programs and Events
The museum hosts a variety of interactive offerings, perfect for visitors of all ages. Programs add a creative twist to learning, while thought provoking speaker series and live performances explore Alberta’s heritage from new angles.
Inclusion and Community Impact
With free admission for self-identified Indigenous visitors and accessible sensory kits to support all guests, the museum drives inclusivity and makes history available to everyone.
How to Enjoy Your Visit
- Explore the Exhibits
Start your visit with the permanent exhibits, where you’ll uncover stories of local healthcare, Indigenous culture, and early settler life. Then move on to the rotating exhibits for a fresh perspective on contemporary and historical themes.
- Take a Guided Tour
Enhance your visit by booking a guided tour. Knowledgeable guides bring exhibits to life with behind-the-scenes insights and fascinating historical tidbits. Tours can be tailored for groups or individuals, and customized themes may be available upon request.
- Attend a Special Event
Don’t miss out on the museum’s seasonal programming! This summer, Walking Wednesdays offer guided tours of the area’s cultural and historical landmarks, while Toddler Time invites younger visitors to engage with hands-on activities. Check the event calendar for details.
- Visit Fort Whoop-Up
No trip to the Galt Museum is complete without a stop at Fort Whoop-Up, a living history site that explores the region’s fur trade era through immersive exhibits and demonstrations.
- Relax in the Outdoor Spaces
Bring a picnic and unwind in the museum’s scenic outdoor space overlooking the valley.
Support the Museum
Galt Museum & Archives thrives due to the support of its community. Memberships grant unlimited access to the museum and exciting perks like discounts on events and programs. Help bring history to life by volunteering in archives, artifact preservation, or educational programming.
Your financial support aids in the preservation of artifacts, development of new exhibits, and delivery of inclusive educational initiatives. Donations can be made via the museum’s website or by participating in their fundraising events.
Plan Your Visit This Summer!
Consider planning your visit to coincide with a special event or program. Don’t forget to explore the museum’s extensive online resources for deeper dives into local history. Every visitor’s experience at Galt Museum is unique. There are countless stories waiting to become your personal favourites. What speaks to you most? Share your story with others and keep these histories alive.
Nerissa McNaughton is a freelance writer and a contributor to Alberta Newspaper Group. This story was written for the Alberta Newspaper Groups Summer Escapes Guide advertising feature. Summer Escapes is a special feature about things to do in Alberta this summer. Activities like, staycations, road trips, camping, and other adventures including local attractions, events and food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
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