Heritage Ranch Update

Heritage Ranch is entering its next chapter as a new operator officially takes the reins.

Since taking over operations, the new Heritage Ranch team has been busy moving in, making site improvements and preparing to reopen services in phases. Key updates include:

New Website:

Their new website is now live! This is the best place to book equestrian services and get updates on the restaurant and event services on site.

www.HeritageRanchRedDeer.ca

✓ Book equestrian services
✓ Submit event booking requests
✓ Get latest updates on restaurant timelines
✓ Make reservations for the restaurant: stockyardkitchen@merakiteam.ca 

New Social Media:

For the latest updates on Heritage Ranch's new restaurant and event team:

Say neigh to the horse operators at Heritage Ranch:


Previous Update (May 14)

The City of Red Deer has finalized a five-year operating agreement with Stock Yard Kitchen Ltd. for Heritage Ranch. The new operator officially took the reins May 7 and will begin reopening equestrian, restaurant and event services in phases over the next several months.

Stock Yard Kitchen Ltd. brings experience in both restaurant and equestrian services through the combination of two locally owned businesses. The Meraki Group, which has experience in the local restaurant industry, including State & Main, Original Joe’s and the Ponoka Golf Club’s eighteen91 restaurant, will lead restaurant, catering and event services. JR Adventures, based in the Caroline area, will provide equestrian services which are essential to Heritage Ranch’s identity and offerings.

Heritage Ranch visitors can expect the following:

  • A four-season restaurant focused on affordable, quality food and beverage service
  • Equestrian offerings, including trail and carriage rides
  • Year-round event hosting
  • Investment in and enhancement of Heritage Ranch’s rustic amenities

Visitors to Heritage Ranch will notice increased activity as the new operator conducts site preparation and transition work. However, indoor amenities, restaurant services and equestrian offerings will open in a phased approach over the next several months. Throughout this transition, the public will continue to have access to the outdoor park and public spaces of Heritage Ranch.

Early activation of the site will include reopening indoor washroom facilities and returning horses to Heritage Ranch, followed by an expansion of equestrian services, with full restaurant, catering and event-hosting services expected to return through summer and fall 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions - Heritage Ranch Transition

When will Heritage Ranch reopen?
  • All outdoor amenities, including trails and playgrounds, are open.
  • Trail and wagon ride options are available.
  • Indoor washroom facilities are available.
  • Full restaurant, catering and event-hosting services expected to return August 2026.
Are there horses?

Yes! Equestrian services are an important part of the Heritage Ranch experience. You can now book trail and wagon rides with the new service provider, JR Advenutres, at www.HeritageRanchRedDeer.ca 

What is the vision for Heritage Ranch?

The process for choosing a new operator focused on ensuring the long-term operation of Heritage Ranch in alignment with the needs and expectations of our community. This includes:

  1. Affordable, quality food services,
  2. Effective and innovative community programming,
  3. Utilization of public spaces for event hosting,
  4. Continued equestrian services, and
  5. Ongoing facility, building and parking lot maintenance.

The vision for Heritage Ranch is guided by the Waskasoo Park Special Gathering Places - Master Plan (pdf) and Heritage Ranch Concept Plan (pdf). 

Will Heritage Ranch still feel the same?

Maintaining the natural, rustic, community-focused character of Heritage Ranch is a priority. The City recognizes that residents value the trails, green spaces, ranch setting, family-friendly amenities and overall atmosphere of the site. We are working diligently with our new operator to ensure this is part of the foundation of their services.