Public tours
Government House is pleased to welcome visitors for public tours. Government House’s historic architectural details, numerous original artifacts and furnishings and an extensive historical art collection will all be available for viewing to the general public while on a guided tour.
Tours are offered on Sundays and holiday Mondays from February through to December each calendar year. There are no Canada Day events at Government House.
Guided tour information:
- tours are free of admission
- tour appointments are not necessary
- all tours are guided and run from 11 am to 4 pm
- tours generally begin at the top-of-the-hour, or bottom-of-the-hour, and last 30 to 45 minutes in duration
- entry into the building for guided tours is through the West Entrance only
Tour highlights
Visitors can view Government House’s historic architectural details, original artifacts and furnishings dating from its time as a vice-regal residence (1913 to 1938), and an extensive art collection showcasing historic and contemporary Canadian artists.
The main floor was restored to resemble its original décor as closely as possible, with a large combination reception and dining area, a music room and a library.
The second floor’s central reception area is surrounded by a small study and 4 small conference rooms, each named after one of the Lieutenant Governors who lived here.
The outstanding Alberta Room, on the third floor, was the result of extensive renovations in 1976 that made Government House a site for government meetings, conferences and state occasions.
New Year’s Day Levee
Wednesday, January 1, 2026
We look forward to hosting the 2026 Levee at Government House. Full event details and updates related to the Levee can be found on the Lieutenant Governor's website closer to the date.
Event background
Typically, each year, the Lieutenant Governor and spouse host the popular New Year’s Day Levee at Government House on January 1.
The levee is a tradition in Canada dating back to the 1600s. It’s based on an older tradition in Europe that saw loyal subjects visit the monarch to pay their respects and pledge allegiance. Today, the Levee at Government House is a chance for Albertans of all ages to meet the King’s representative in a relaxed social setting.
Levee guests can enjoy light refreshments, a tour of Government House, send a postcard to Canadian troops serving overseas, and join in celebrating the start of a new year.
Admission to the event is free of charge.
Teas making way for new events
From 1913 through 1938, Government House served as a vibrant center of social life in Alberta. Lieutenant Governors and their spouses were renowned for gracious hospitality, a tradition that continues today through public events.
Among the opportunities we offer Albertans to visit Government House and engage with the Lieutenant Governor have been annual special teas in spring and at Christmas. These gatherings have been wonderful chances for the public to experience the House’s elegant atmosphere, meet our Lieutenant Governor and celebrate important milestones such as:
- The Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II
- The Coronation of King Charles III
- The 100th Anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force
While the teas have been a treasured part of our programming, we are excited to explore new ways for people to experience Government House. Growing demand and the desire to offer more Albertans opportunities to participate means we are reimagining our approach for 2025 and beyond.
This transition presents a wonderful chance to continue offering events in new, inclusive and purposeful ways, making Government House even more accessible and welcoming. We look forward to offering a variety of events that invite people to experience the storied history and beauty of this remarkable place.
Stay tuned for more updates on upcoming events and new opportunities to connect with Government House. We can’t wait to welcome you!
Lieutenant Governor hosted events
From 1913 through 1938, Government House served as a vibrant center of social life in Alberta. The Lieutenant Governor and their spouse, the châtelaine of the house, were renowned for their gracious hospitality, a tradition that continues today with various public events hosted at Government House.
Each year, we offer a variety of opportunities for the public to visit Government House and engage with the Lieutenant Governor. These events are a wonderful chance to explore the grounds and participate in meaningful interactions.
We are currently in the process of planning our upcoming public events.