Métis Crossing wins Attraction of the Year at Edmonton Tourism Awards

Métis Crossing was named Attraction of the Year at the 2026 Edmonton Tourism Awards, adding to a growing list of provincial and national recognition for the Alberta Indigenous tourism destination. The win underscores the rising profile of Indigenous-led cultural tourism in Edmonton and across Canada. Why it matters: - Métis Crossing’s win adds momentum to Indigenous-led tourism in Alberta and strengthens the destination’s visibility with visitors, industry partners and media. - The award also signals that tourism in the Edmonton region is being judged not just on scale, but on visitor experience, cultural value and economic impact. What happened: - Métis Crossing won Attraction of the Year at the 2026 Edmonton Tourism Awards. - Edmonton Destination Marketing Hotels presented the award on June 5 at the Edmonton EXPO Centre. - The ceremony recognized people, programs and organizations that support Edmonton’s tourism sector. - An independent panel judged the Attraction of the Year category. The details: - Métis Crossing is owned by the Otipemisiwak Métis Government and operated by Métis Crossing Ventures Ltd. - The destination is Canada’s first major Métis cultural destination. - Métis Crossing spans 688 acres of historic river lots along the North Saskatchewan River. - The site sits about 1.5 hours northeast of Edmonton. - Year-round offerings include the Cultural Gathering Centre, a 40-room boutique Lodge, the Visions, Hopes and Dreams at Métis Crossing Wildlife Park, Sky Watching Domes and Cabins. - The Attraction of the Year category recognizes venues that encourage visitor participation and satisfaction, showcase regional tourism experiences, and help grow tourism and economic activity for the City of Edmonton. - Juanita Marois, CEO of Métis Crossing, said the recognition means a great deal to the team and to the Nation. - Chris Yeung, executive director of Edmonton Destination Marketing Hotels, said Métis Crossing elevates Edmonton as a travel destination and reflects tourism excellence in the region. Between the lines: - The award extends a broader recognition run for the destination, not a one-off win. - Métis Crossing is building a profile that connects cultural tourism, accommodation, wildlife experiences and outdoor programming into one destination. - Partnerships with Explore Edmonton, Indigenous Tourism Alberta and Travel Alberta suggest the destination is positioned for broader regional and international promotion. What’s next: - Métis Crossing will likely use the award to reinforce its brand with travelers, tourism operators and media outlets. - The destination’s national and international visibility may continue to grow as it adds awards and partnership projects. - More information is available at the company’s website . The bottom line: - Métis Crossing’s latest award cements its place as a leading Indigenous tourism destination in Alberta and a growing draw for visitors to the Edmonton region.