Drayton Valley, 130 km (80.8 mi.) southwest of Edmonton, grew from 75 to 2,000 people in 1953 due to the Pembina Oil Field boom. In recent years the population has passed the 6,000 person mark, again largely because of the oil fields and because Calgary Power proposes to build power plants nearby. In 2007, Drayton Valley celebrates its 50th year of being a town - special celebrations will be held on Canada Day and at the Fall Homecoming Banquet.

Local history may be seen at the Drayton Valley museum, near an RV campground. The town itself also offers excellent opportunities to see pump jacks, including a large one painted in the town's colors. The Omniplex community sports centre specializes in the ice-based sports of hockey, curling and ringette. Around 14.4 km (8.9 mi.) of paved walking trails lace their way through Drayton Valley, passing through residential neighborhoods, parks and open spaces. The countryside Rotary/Pembina Nordic Community Trails beckon beautifully to walkers, hikers, mountain bikers and cross country skiers. Nearby sites in Brazeau Country include Jacknife Springs, Osprey and Heron colonies, and the Discovery Well.

Visitors have a choice of hotels in Drayton Valley.