Medicine Hat's Destination Marketing Organization says Sunshine Trolley tours are in such high demand that a third vintage vehicle is sought for the fleet.NEWS FILE PHOTO
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The city’s tourism provider is searching for another vintage trolley to add to its fleet and meet high demand for guided tours in all seasons, along with steady tours of the town each summer.
A pair of “Sunshine Trolleys” provided 266 trips in 2024 – up from 19 in the first year when only one was in the fleet – according to Destination Marketing Organization director Jace Anderson, who appeared at Monday’s council public services committee meeting.
With a second, winterized vehicle the profile of the program has increased, and demand as well, into the cold-weather months, he said.
“We’re actively looking to secure another one,” Anderson said during questions about the group’s annual report that will advance to city council for discussion.
He said that set-loop sightseeing trips were at 95 per cent capacity last year, and demand is growing for other rentals and specialized events, like a Halloween-themed excursion and rentals to view Christmas lights.
The service that includes a tour guide also provided 84 class trips sponsored by local Rotary Clubs, involving about 2,400 students last year, double the figure in 2022.
It also was used to tour delegates to an economic development conference and several other events.
“It’s on fire,” said committee chair Coun. Cassi Hider, noting the increase in ridership. “I love it.”
Committee member Coun. Ramona Robins said the community has welcomed the trolley and it has become a point of pride.
Anderson said the city has embraced themes that the group promotes, such as outdoor tourism and facilities such as the pump track near Gas City Campground, a new disc-golf course in Kin Coulee and Medicine Hat College, and expansion of the 190-kilometre trail system.
“The city continues to make strong intentional investments in tourism attraction,” said Anderson. “It allows us to come alongside and promote that.”
Other highlights include:
– 92 ticketed guided tours of downtown, partnering with more than 30 businesses;
– plans to establish a Highway 3 culinary event that builds on the previous “Ale Trail” effort
– Farm to fork restaurant event that promoted locally procured menu items;
– Medicine Hat’s hotel occupancy rate was 68 per cent in 2024, about nine points higher than the previous year;
– The visitor information centre recorded interactions with tourists from 44 U.S. states and 45 other countries among 16,375 visitors (up slightly from 2023, and 2,000 more than 2022).
