Independent Restaurants

Here, a small town welcome means we hope you brought your appetite! We’ve got Canadian cuisine featuring fresh, local ingredients, plus globally inspired dishes and plenty of sweet treats for…

Half Hitch and The Mash: serving up sustainable beer and pizza After a day of adventure, there’s nothing more satisfying than quality comfort food. Family-owned and operated Half Hitch Brewing…

You’re gazing out at the foothills of the Canadian Rockies with a fresh, micro-brewed beer in hand and your dog curled up at your feet. It may sound like heaven,…

Say hello to delicious food, local ingredients, and top-notch taste! We’ve got the scoop on where to eat in Cochrane. From casual gathering places to fine dining restaurants, Cochrane, Alberta,…

Sharing a weekend with someone special? We’ve got just the plan for you, full of opportunities for connection and romance. From romantic things to do in Alberta to special spots…

Celebrating love never goes out of style, but now you need a plan. What do you do on date night when it’s also Valentine’s Day? Let’s look at where to…

Daydreaming of snow-covered mountains and cozy weekends making memories with family and friends? There’s no better place to enjoy the magic of a holiday season than Cochrane, Alberta. We’ve got…

Winter brings out the explorer in all of us, no matter how old we are. Whether your adventure level means skis and snowshoes, or catching snowflakes on your tongue while…

You can always find something special when you shop local in Alberta. From incredible artisans to delicious small-batch brews and bites, Cochrane, Alberta shopping offers something for everyone on your…

Embrace the magic of fall with one of the best places to visit in October—Cochrane, Alberta! Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance while strolling the scenic trails, discovering local gems,…

Leaves are falling and autumn is calling! It’s the perfect time to explore fall activities and the captivating beauty of Cochrane, Alberta during the shoulder season. Un-be-leafable adventures await—from breathtaking…

Escape the ordinary and ignite your sense of adventure with the ultimate boys’ weekend getaway in Cochrane! Get ready for adrenaline-pumping activities, rugged outdoor excursions, and unforgettable bonding experiences. From…

Wondering what to do when it’s hot out? Pause and embrace a slow summer day. Spend time connecting with your family, from kids to grandparents. Whether it’s tasting the first…

Raise the bar on patio season! Summer is here, and it’s time to soak up the sun on Cochrane’s best patios. Get ready for a refreshing lineup of outdoor experiences…

Time to par-tee with a day on the golf course! Cochrane is a hole-in-1 when it comes to golfing—swing by any of our great courses for beautifully manicured greens and…

Thrill-seekers unite! Get your heart pumping with high-octane excitement in Cochrane. There’s something for everyone to push their limits and have the time of their lives. From outdoor paintball to…

Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of life? Experience nature and bond with your favourite people in Cochrane.  Spending time outside is crucial for our physical, mental and emotional…

Pack your schedule with all the must-do events of the season! Cochrane summers are full of family-friendly events, from fireworks and fairs to parades and markets. Support the best of…

Be swept away by the charm of Cochrane, Alberta with the perfect summer vacation itinerary. Pairing scenic beauty with summer fun ideas, you’ll find a range of family-friendly activities from…

Spend some quality time with your mom! Whether you’re looking for Mother’s Day ideas or just reconnecting, nurture your relationship with a weekend getaway full of amazing experiences you’ll both…

The sun is shining and the buds are in bloom—it’s springtime in Cochrane! Whether you’re looking to treat a special someone to a spring date, get outside for some family…

Greet the first day of the new season with the spring solstice on Monday, March 20, 2023. Also known as the vernal equinox, the day celebrates more hours of daylight…

Love is in the air—do you have your hearts and chocolate at the ready? We have the best local, Valentine’s Day date ideas to sweep your significant other off their…

To join in the fun for Dine-Out Cochrane, download the Explore Cochrane App and taste the best of what participating Cochrane restaurant and eateries have on the menu!  Between November…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Calling all foodies! Explore the best local bites and discover your new favourite eats. Taste of Cochrane is a culinary adventures that guides you through the best of Cochrane,…

Gather your beloved girlfriends, it’s time to reunite, reminisce, and make precious new memories together! You don’t have to break the bank for a girls’ day or girls’ getaway weekend—we…

Nothing makes a sunny day better than lounging on a patio with a cold and delicious drink in hand. From Cochrane’s best patios to grab-and-go Alberta beer, spirits, and non-alcoholic…

Got sunshine on your mind? Hosting an epic picnic is easy with a backdrop as beautiful as Cochrane.  Have a casual solo afternoon snacking on finger foods and delving into…

The sun is shining and it’s time to hit your favourite park with a basket full of goodies! For the month of July, try out expertly designed picnic eats from…

Rocky View Brewing Taproom wants to help you celebrate the Dads’ in our lives. All Dads will receive a complimentary tasting of our newly released Powderface Hazy Pale Ale and…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Local spirit is always in style! Quench your thirst with the finest concoctions from Alberta meaderies and distilleries, served up as classic sips or with a tempting twist. In…

The Explore Cochrane app got a facelift! The free app features new updates so you can discover the greatest of Cochrane, Alberta’s secret places and local top picks. You’ll find…

The sun is shining, the weather is warm, and you’re ready for unique and fun outdoor activities to fill your summer days. Cochrane is a hotspot for outdoor adventures, so…

Feel the cool air as you cast a line into the river or pedal hard over new terrain. Saunter through historic sites under an expansive blue sky, or indulge in…

Don’t let the pressures of Valentine’s Day get you down! Think outside the candy box and share an experience with your love that they’ll cherish forever. Our local businesses have…

In Cochrane we’re passionate about giving back to our community, bringing people together, and supporting causes that are near and dear to our hearts. The holidays are an important time…

Spend your vacation thinking about what to eat next! If you’re looking for great restaurants, Cochrane is home to culinary excellence that rivals any destination, serving up incredible eats and…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Plan the perfect romantic weekend getaways for you and your partner. Discover the artisans of historic downtown Cochrane, stroll arm in arm through one of the many local parks…

If you’re looking for fun, family-friendly things to do in Alberta this weekend, escape the hustle and bustle of the city and take in the hidden gems that Cochrane has…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]September brings the vibrant colors of fall along with some amazing adventures right here in your backyard!   Let’s remember to support our local businesses as we celebrate the following holidays:…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Throughout August, get out and Explore Cochrane!   Let’s remember to support our local businesses as we celebrate the following holidays: August 1 –  National Mountain Climbing Day featuring Alpine Air…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Throughout July, let’s celebrate Summer adventures in Cochrane!   Let’s remember to support our local businesses as we celebrate the following holidays: July 3 –  National Play Outside Day featuring Hunter…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]This week, let’s celebrate the gateway to summer during these last weeks of June.   Let’s remember to support our local businesses as we celebrate the following holidays: June 15  –…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]This week, here are some great ideas to help you get ready for the Long Weekend!! Let’s remember to support our local businesses as we celebrate the following holidays: May…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]This week, we know we are crossing the bridge between spring and summer with the arrival of the calypso orchid commonly know as the fairy slipper.   Let’s remember to support…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]This week, we are in the marvelous month of May!  As we start to see the purple and gold of the spring crocuses, let’s remember to support our local businesses…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]This week, the spring flowers have started to bloom.  Let’s support our local businesses as we celebrate the following holidays: April 22  –  Earth Day featuring Home Reno Heaven! Let’s celebrate…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]This week, we might have snow or sunshine and things may seem unsettled, but spring is in the air!  Let’s support our local businesses as we celebrate the following holidays:…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]This week, let’s celebrate the beginning of April as we wait for the blossoms to transform!  Let’s support our local businesses as we celebrate the following holidays: April 7 – …

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]This week, let’s start making new memories!   As the Mountain Bluebirds returns, it’s a great time to get out and celebrate this spring!  Let’s support our local businesses as we…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]This week, there is a celebration for everyone in the family!   We are celebrating the following holidays: Feb 23 – Canada’s Agriculture Day featuring Solstice Berry Farms!  You can order…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]This week, there is a celebration for everyone in the family!   We are celebrating the following holidays: Feb 15 – National Gumdrop Day featuring Horse Creek Heritage Candy & Gifts! …

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Tony Nicastro still remembers the beginning of his career as a restauranteur. “My Auntie looked at me at said ‘so you will start working this weekend?’ I was nine”. Tony’s…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Bursting onto Cochrane’s culinary scene in 2016, the Fence & Post on our main street continues to impress. In his commitment to support local producers, owner and chef, Chris Hartman…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Mackay’s Ice Cream Since 1948, MacKay’s Ice Cream has proudly served its locally made, premium ice cream to customers from around the world. As a part of Cochrane’s Historic…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Cochrane Historic Walking Tour What can I say? I’m a self-confessed local history buff who loves exploring the small towns and hidden gems around Alberta. There’s always a tale…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] ROCKYVIEW HOTEL   As I drive down the big hill on my way into the bustling town of Cochrane, the view of the Rocky Mountains spanning the western horizon never…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Fallentimber Meadery  Just north of Cremona the nice lady on my phone (Google Maps is a beautiful thing) instructed me to turn west on Township Road 301A and travel…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Cochrane Lions Club Rodeo With Cochrane a short jaunt from Calgary, it’s easy to step away from the concrete and into the bleachers to experience a truly western event…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Cochrane Fair The Cochrane Fair takes you on a journey back to the past offering an event from the good old days. The Cochrane & District Agricultural Society held…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] The Fence & Post When owner Chef Chris Hartman decided to open a restaurant, his vision included priorities like “seasonally driven”, “made from scratch”, “locally sourced”, and “approachable fine…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Anticipation is making me wait.   While standing in a long line-up stretching down the sidewalk in front of the iconic MacKay’s Ice Cream in historical downtown Cochrane, beads of sweat…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Boot Restaurant opened in 2016. It’s a cozy space with just 10 tables. The walls feature vintage posters with dreamy Italian locales like Milano, Capri, and Firenze. Bottles of…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Mountains. Prairies. Foothills. A historic main street. The town of Cochrane has it all and then some. If you see a lineup on the main street, you’re in the right…

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]There’s nothing like sitting down to a home cooked meal that has been lovingly prepared by hand, using family recipes passed down from generation to generation, each dish crafted…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Half Hitch Brewery It’s hard to miss the big barn-board building that looks like a saloon from back in the day-just off the main drag in Cochrane. The family…