All Attractions in Peace River

Paddling furiously along the Peace River to beat freeze up, Alexander Mackenzie and his crew must have been very glad to reach the area where Fort Fork was to be built and where they were able to find shelter from the coming winter weather.  Soon after his arrival Mackenzie observed “the river stopped” indicating freeze up had arrived!  Mackenzie, a Scottish born explorer and fur trader was to spend the winter of 1792 – 93 at Fort Fork before continuing on his famed journey to the Pacific Ocean.  Fort Fork was named for its close proximity to the convergence of the Smoky and Peace Rivers.  The fort provided shelter for Mackenzie and several years later the explorer – geographer David Thompson.  The fort was also the main North West Company post in the Peace Country until 1806 when its operations were moved to Fort Dunvegan.  Stones from an original chimney in the fort have been preserved and fashioned into a fireplace for the public to view at the Peace River Museum, Archives and Mackenzie Centre.   

Mackenzie Cairn, a National Historic site since 1929, was built to commemorate Fort Fork and marks the spot where visitors can look across the river to the approximate area of Fort Fork which has long since been erased by the ravages of time and river erosion.  Mackenzie Cairn is found a short distance from the Town of Peace River, along the Shaftsbury Trail.  

The Peace River Museum & Archives is located in the beautiful Peace River Valley. The museum cares for many objects, photographs and archival records that celebrate Peace River’s stories and history. The museum is a fun and a entertaining place of learning through objects in the museum’s collection as an entry-point to inquiry, discussion and exploration about the region. The archives offers an extensive archives and library for family and regional history research. Drop by for personal research or call for an appointment for more in-depth research.

The museum showcases temporary galleries throughout the year that enables a deeper look into many of the region’s more interesting and thought-provoking stories, individuals and objects.

Looking for a special gift?

The museum has a wonderful gift shop full of hand-crafted gifts to choose from. You will find 12 Foot Davis magnets by a local glassworks artist, art cards by local photographers, fiber arts, jewelry, history books by local authors and much more!

Hours of Operation:

Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm

Closed only on December 24, 25, 26 and January 1.

Exhibits:

Sir Alexander Mackenzie Gallery

This room tells the story of Sir Alexander Mackenzie and his journeys through the west.  Artifacts include archeological finds from Fort Fork, the 18^th century compound where Sir Alexander Mackenzie wintered while on his way to the Pacific coast.  The display also talks about the fur trade in western Canada, with examples of the types of furs trapped in the area, replica of a fur trader’s canoe and an authentic fur press.

Main Gallery

This gallery is home to our temporary exhibits.  These include local history as well as travelling exhibits from other museums.   New and topical displays are planned out each year to fill this space.

Peace River Gallery

The Town of Peace River has a wonderfully diverse past, and we showcase parts of this past in the Peace River Gallery. From prehistoric history and local Indigenous people into the present day, we examine the Town and the people, both past and present, who call it home.

Admission: By Donation

Beat the heat and enjoy the summer weather at the Town of Peace River’s Spray Park. Cool off in the parks  unexpected water spouts, cannon streams, flower showers, and more. Pack a picnic because the kiddos are not going to want to leave the park.

The Peace River Motocross Track is described as one of the more pro style tracks on the Peace Motocross Association circuit, it keeps riders on their A-game with big jumps and technical features. The track, which opened in August 2015, has been enjoyed by local and regional enthusiasts. For more information, see the Peace River Motocross Club’s Facebook group. This motocross track is located approximately 26km northwest of Peace River. For information call 780-836-3348.

The historic Peace River NAR Station, last of its kind in northern Alberta.

The NAR Station was built in 1916, a Class C Station, it is the last of its kind in Northern Alberta. The station was restored in 1988, and declared a Provincial Historic Resource Site on April 29, 1988. It now serves as the Town of Peace River’s Visitor Information Centre. The ground floor has been furnished to the 1920s-1930s era, and upstairs features local art. Events are held at the station throughout the summer and autumn.

This is the place to make all of your Mighty Peace plans. Offering free information for sightseeing, attractions, accommodations, museums, tours and restaurants. The have a complete collection of current information on the Mighty Peace. 

The Visitor Information Centre is your one-stop shop for planning your time in the Mighty Peace. The professional, highly-trained staff can help you make the most of your Mighty Peace experience and plan your journeys into Mighty Peace and beyond. 

Hours of operation:

Open May long weekend until September long weekend. Friday to Monday 9am – 4:30pm.

Directions:

Please note the 98 Street exit to Downtown is presently CLOSED.

From Highway 2 (Edmonton or Fairview/Grimshaw):

Exit the highway at 100 Street (Hwy 744), and head south under the railway trestle. At the traffic circle, take the first exit (the first right); the street that leads between the Sawridge Hotel and the KFC. Follow this street until you see the NAR Station, which is a two-storey red wooden building. There is adequate parking on site.

From Highway 744 (north from Girouxville):

When you’ve made it to the bottom of Judah hill at the junction of 104^th Avenue and 101 Street turn right. Follow this street (101 Street) north until you reach the T junction (the Fire Hall with a tower will be facing you). Turn left, and at the set of lights turn right. Follow this street to the traffic circle. Enter the traffic circle and take the third exit; the street that leads between the Sawridge Hotel and the KFC. Follow this street until you see the NAR Station, which is a two-storey red wooden building. There is adequate parking on site.

Accessibility:

The NAR Station does have a ramp onto the station platform, however we do not have accessible washrooms. Because we are an historic building, our doorways may be too narrow for some wheel chairs.

Facilities:

• washrooms (not wheelchair accessible)
• picnic tables
• visitor information
• exhibits
• brochures and maps for the region

The legendary 12 Foot Davis statue!

Henry Fuller Davis struck it rich in the mid-1800s on a 12 Foot gold claim in northern British Columbia, earning him around $12,000 as well as the “12 Foot Davis” nickname. Spending much of his life as a fur trader on the Peace River, he left his mark on many places in the region and was known for his good business sense and friendliness.

A wooden statue of 12 Foot Davis stands proudly in Riverfront Park,  located along the bank of the Peace River, downtown Peace River. The park is complimented by a children’s playground, gazebo, and a beautiful view of the Peace River. A paved walking trail connects the park to the Peace River Museum, Archives and Mackenzie Centre.

Big Ears, Big Fun, Big Memories!

Looking to add a unique twist to your event? Let The Tipsy Burro bring the charm, laughter, and unforgettable moments to your special occasion!

Their lovable donkeys are pros at spreading joy, mingling with guests, and posing for pictures. Whether your event is indoors or outdoors, they come fully prepared with donkey-doo diapers and squishy boots to ensure your venue stays pristine—no floor scratches, no worries.

From weddings and kids’ parties to golf tournaments, company picnics, tradeshows, birthdays, or any celebration you can dream up, The Tipsy Burro is ready to make it unforgettable.

Wrangle your crowd, and The Tipsy Burro will wrangle the drinks—book The Tipsy Burro for your next big bash.

Peace River Brewing was opened in March 2018 by a local couple that began the business as a hobby. It has now expanded into a family friendly taproom, serving craft beer, light snacks and house made kombucha. Sit in for a pint, fill growlers, purchase cans to go or check out their swag wall filled with PRB merch! A chill atmosphere and laid back vibe makes this brewery a locals hang out and visitor destination.

Barrel Wine ‘n’ Spirits – A Unique Liquor Shopping Experience in The Town of Peace River

Discover a world of exceptional flavors at Barrel Wine ‘n’ Spirits! They pride themselves on offering a carefully curated selection of liquor and beer that you won’t find anywhere else in the region. From rare finds and premium spirits to craft brews and unique wines, their collection is designed to delight every palate.

Conveniently located right beside Board ‘n’ Barrel, you can enjoy a delicious dinner next door before stopping in to grab the perfect drinks for your evening. Whether you are planning a night in or hosting friends, Barrel Wine ‘n’ Spirits has everything you need to make it special.

Board ‘n’ Barrel Restaurant & Patio located on the picturesque Peace River is a foodie destination hot spot. Concentrating on a flavour forward locally sourced menu with in-house made foods that rival the “big city” dining options. We specialize in shareable charcuterie boards and small plate items plus menu items like house made flatbreads, Superfood salads,  fresh made pastas, duck breast, spring lamb, AAA Alberta steaks and burgers that will amaze your tastebuds. We specialize in Gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options and can meet almost all dietary requirements or preferences, while creating a fabulous dining experience for all.