Located half an hour south of Edmonton along Highway 2A, the town of Millet has earned itself the title ‘The Prettiest Little Town in Alberta’ for its multiple award-winning gardens and beautification projects. Even when the gardens aren’t in bloom, you’ll find a tight-knit community that prides itself on its heritage and its natural beauty.
1) Step back in time at the Millet Museum & Archives
This museum is your one-stop shop for learning all about Millet’s history, which began with a little railroad station built at the end of the 19th century. The gallery space in the basement includes preserved rooms from eras across millet’s history, showing everything from a family kitchen to a local barbershop. The museum also serves as the town’s visitor information centre, where you can find a variety of resources to help you make the most of your trip. Stop by Red Wagon Gifts to find local gifts and specialty items, including a wide selection of books, homewares, and gourmet honey. Outside, enjoy the garden and the school bell kiosk, which contains the original bell from the first Millet schoolhouse.
2) Explore the town with a Walking Tour
If you have a few hours and want the full Millet experience, why not take part in a walking tour? Learn more about the rich history of the town’s most notable businesses and institutions, as well as the many stunning public gardens. Several buildings also feature colourful murals celebrating the town’s past. You can take a self-guided walking tour year-round; in the summer, join a guided tour offered by the museum to learn even more as you go.
3) Enjoy some unconventional fast food at Burger Barn
Take a break and grab a good old-fashioned burger and fries at this charming takeout joint. Their burger patties are homemade, right onsite, and their burger variety ranges from the classic to the more unconventional, like Hawaiian Pizza, Salisbury Steak, and Spicy Inferno. Their menu also includes fried chicken, hot dogs, and tasty yet unexpected appetizers like zucchini sticks, deep-fried pickles, dry ribs, and battered mushrooms. The restaurant is open for takeout, drive-through, and local delivery.
4) Stroll along Pipestone Creek
The picturesque Pipestone Creek winds its way through town, accompanied by multiway trails that make for a relaxing walk or bike ride. The trails take you through wooded groves and wildflower meadows, as well as many of Millet’s beautiful, award-winning gardens. Learn about the ecology and historical significance of local plant species at the native plants pavilion. Free walking trail maps are available at the Visitor Information Centre inside the museum.
5) Find the unexpected at Kilborn Antique
You’ll find a treasure trove of antiques at this local shop, which has been serving Millet and area since 1969. The shop specializes in antique furniture and homewares, but there’s no telling what treasures you’ll find. The owner, Al, has fascinating stories to share and offers expert advice and knowledge on his wares. Kilborn Antique is open Wednesday to Saturday, 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
