Located in central Alberta, Edmonton is a bustling, underrated Canadian destination that’s sure to satisfy your craving for a mix of city life and the great outdoors.
With historic buildings, frequent festivals, outdoor activities, and the arts, Edmonton has a lot to see and do.
In this article, you’ll get an inside look at the best things to do in Edmonton, from the arts scene and culinary destinations to outdoor excursions and more.
Whether you’re there for the first time or the tenth time, Edmonton has something for everyone. Its mix of urbanity and nature will provide lasting memories.
Iconic Attractions
1. West Edmonton Mall
West Edmonton Mall is not your usual mall; it is a giant, exciting complex offering something for everyone.
Picture a place where you can visit hundreds of shops, experience a water park, go ice skating, and even check out an indoor amusement park—all inside one facility.
Facilities: You’ll find all sorts of entertainment inside, from indoor mini-golf to two indoor wave pools.
Precautions: To get the most out of your visit, wear comfortable shoes, and plan to take at least a full day to explore. Just make sure you keep your belongings safe, as the mall can become very congested—especially on holidays.
2. Alberta Legislature Grounds
Experience living history on the Alberta Legislature Grounds.
This stately structure is anything but a bore; it’s stunning and actually locals cherish it.
Facilities: The gardens and lawns are meticulously kept and there are gardens, fountains, and outdoor sculptures to enjoy.
Precautions: While the estate is open all year, call in advance to see if tours are operating.
3. Royal Alberta Museum
Experience Alberta’s history at the Royal Alberta Museum. From history to Indigenous cultures to the natural world, this museum has everything.
Facilities: The aquarium boasts interactive hands-on displays, a large children’s area, and a cafe where you can unwind before continuing your visit.
Precautions: It’s a good-sized museum, so allow for a couple of hours. Also, watch out for temporary exhibits as they can change.
4. TELUS World of Science
At TELUS World of Science you can spend the day playing around with science.
There are all sorts of experiments and neat exhibits here as well as an IMAX theater. You can have fun and learn at the same time.
Facilities: The center also includes interactive areas, a planetarium, and a space gallery. And don’t miss the IMAX theater for some immersive, larger-than-life movies.
Precautions: Always check the website for any special events or film screenings.
Festivals & Events
5. Edmonton International Fringe Festival
Head to the Edmonton International Fringe Festival for some theater and a lot of surprises.
It’s the biggest and oldest fringe theater festival in North America, featuring hundreds of performances of everything from comedy to improv to serious plays to musicals.
Best Time to Visit: The festival lasts for 10 days in August and the weekends are the most popular. If you don’t mind smaller crowds, attend on a weekday evening to take in a performance.
Precautions: Dress warmly as many of the shows and activities play out in the elements and book tickets in advance for the most popular performances.
6. Heritage Festival
The Heritage Festival is a celebration of the city’s diversity, with a three-day event of food, dancing, and music in Hawrelak Park.
Eat your way around the world as you explore almost 100 different pavilions
Best Time to Visit: The Eeyou Istchee Baie-James Pow Wow takes place during the long August weekend, and it’s recommended to arrive early to enjoy the festival before it starts to get too busy.
Precautions: Just wear comfy clothing and maybe pack some sunscreen.
7. Silver Skate Festival
For an authentic winter adventure, check out the Silver Skate Festival.
The festival is held over ten days in February at Hawrelak Park and includes winter sports, snow sculptures, and fire shows that really light up the night.
It is Edmonton’s oldest winter festival and truly embodies the city’s winter-loving culture.
Best Time to Visit: At night, there are fire shows and light spectaculars, and during the day there are more family-friendly activities.
Precautions: Pack layers, because it can get very chilly. Be sure to look at the weather and the festival program in advance to see which activities are weather-dependent.
Outdoor Activities
8. River Valley Parks
Edmonton’s River Valley Parks is the biggest urban park in all of Canada.
They go on for miles and miles and offer a nice escape within the city. Picture many trails that are ideal for walking, biking, or taking a leisurely stroll in the woods.
It’s a wonderful place to relax and breathe in some fresh air for a little bit, irrespective of the time of year.
Best Time to Attend: Spring and summer make for pleasant greenery and flowers, while fall offers gorgeous foliage. Winter turns the parks into a white powder-covered landscape that is perfect for cross-country skiing.
Safety Precautions: Bring water, wear good sneakers, and be alert around animals. In the winter, dress warmly and be mindful of icy conditions on the trails.
9. Elk Island National Park
Just a little ways from Edmonton is Elk Island National Park, a must-visit for any nature lover.
It’s the perfect place to watch bison in their natural environment or spot other animals such as elk or beavers.
The park makes for a stunning stargazing setting, with the absence of light pollution.
Best Time to Attend: In summer hike and paddle two of Canada’s most iconic national parks, and in fall marvel at the crazy elk mating season.
Safety Precautions: Please, don’t feed the animals and maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
10. Muttart Conservatory
Edmonton’s very own architectural wonder, the Muttart Conservatory features four striking glass pyramids.
Inside each pyramid is a different climate and a collection of plant species from across the globe.
It’s a lively break from the outside world.
Best Time to Attend: Any day is a good day to visit. This is especially true if the weather is bad since everything is inside. There are frequently events here at night.
Safety Precautions: Book in advance, especially on event days. And once you’re inside, try not to touch the plants.
11. Fort Edmonton Park
Fort Edmonton Park is a fun trip back in time.
The country’s largest living history museum doesn’t just display history behind glass, it brings it to life.
It has a couple of different themed areas and original historical structures.
Best Time to Attend: Summer is the park’s busiest period, when all attractions are open, including historic rides and hands-on exhibits.
Safety Precautions: Stick to the walkways at historical sites. Be sure to consult the weather forecast when preparing your wardrobe; the park is primarily outside.
Arts, Culture & Museums
12. Art Gallery of Alberta
Take a trip to the Art Gallery of Alberta to have your creativity sparked.
The eclectic assembly of paintings, statues, and hands-on works of art will entertain and amuse all who enter.
Wander through the stylish, contemporary structure and be surprised at every turn. The rotating exhibits allow you to experience art in a whole new way with each visit.
Highlights: There are exhibits here by Canadian and international artists. The gallery holds art workshops and programs too.
Precautions: Always verify if an exhibit will be changed during a scheduled visit if you’re keen on a specific one.
13. Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village
Step back in time at the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village.
It’s an open-air museum that shows you what life was like for Ukrainian immigrants in Alberta.
You can explore more than 40 period buildings, see demonstrations by costumed staff, and interact with history interpreters dressed in traditional garb.
It’s a fascinating way to learn about the past and how it shaped the present.
Highlights: Even more than 30 period buildings. Visit farmhouses, churches, and more for a glimpse at pioneer life.
Precautions: Some events are seasonal, so look at the calendar and schedule your trip appropriately.
14. Neon Sign Museum
One of the coolest things to do in Edmonton is the Neon Sign Museum. It’s an outdoor museum that really comes alive at night.
It’s on a quaint little street and is home to all these old neon signs that have been restored.
Each one has a story so it’s a great place to go for a walk on a warm summer night.
It’s a walk down memory lane as you learn about the city’s past.
Highlights: Step back in time on a street that’s otherwise very modern, and snap some cool photos on this street filled with now-retro signs.
Precautions: As it’s an outdoor museum, depending on the weather can be worthwhile and bring a camera to document the neon flashes.
Food & Drink Experiences
15. Downtown Dining Scene
Downtown Edmonton is one of the best places to eat out in the city. It’s home to all kinds of restaurants, from gourmet to hole-in-the-wall.
Whatever your taste, from Canadian contemporary to global flare, you can find it here.
As this area boasts a variety of unique restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients to whip up creative dishes.
Additionally, lots of businesses have outdoor patios, so you can even dine al fresco while you watch the world pass by.
Activities: There are pop-ups and food festivals nearly every weekend. The restaurants here regularly offer amazing tasting menus and chef’s tables too.
Precautions: Be sure to book your accommodation well ahead, as places book up quickly, namely on the weekends.
16. Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market
For a vibrant start to Saturday, visit the Old Strathcona Farmers Market, brimming with street food and arts and crafts, as well as all the local goods you can imagine.
From its vendors who staff, to the homemade goods, everything is local.
Even if you’re not interested in buying, the goods are all worth exploring – cheese, craft beer, wine, and a huge range of new items to discover.
You can’t help but sense the community vibe and atmosphere.
Activities: Try some of the fresh snacks available from the many food vendors and listen to the local musicians who play acoustic guitar.
Arrive early to get the most out of the markets and to avoid the crowds. Carry cash and reusable bags, not all vendors take credit cards.
17. Edmonton Craft Beer Scene
If you love craft beer, you’ll be happy to know that Edmonton’s scene is growing with lots of creative and tasty.
The city is now home to multiple microbreweries, each creating unique craft beer that embodies the creative spirit of Edmonton.
No matter what your favorite beer is, you can be sure to find one that suits your palate.
Most of the breweries also offer tours to learn more about the brewing process and what it takes to create such delicious beer.
Activities: Take a brewery tour to learn how your favorite ales and lagers are made. Try their seasonal and limited-edition beers that you can only get in the brewery.
Precautions: Before heading to the brewery’s do check the brewery hours. Also, please drink responsibly.
Distinctive Spots
18. Whyte Avenue (Old Strathcona)
It is vibrant and bursting with quirky shops, enticing restaurants, and a boisterous nightlife at a parallel to this edgy street is a lot of people-watching and theatergoing — something this city has lots of.
There are too many art galleries and theaters to count. Edmonton has a wonderfully vibrant art scene.
And make sure you stop to admire the historic buildings that line the street. They are storybook charming.
Best Time to Visit: The streets are always packed with people on Whyte Ave, but the spring and summer are the most pleasant times to be out.
Precautions: Please keep an eye on your belongings as it can get crowded, and if you’re driving bear in mind that there isn’t a huge amount of parking.
19. High Level Bridge Streetcar
Take a ride through history on the High Level Bridge Streetcar.
This vintage trolley lets you take in Edmonton from one of the highest perspectives.
Once you reach the other side of the bridge, you’ll have excellent panoramic views of the city and the North Saskatchewan River.
It’s a fun trip down memory lane and is ideal for history enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxing activity.
Best Time to Visit: The streetcar runs in the warmer months, so it’s recommended to come between May and October.
Precautions: Always check schedule ahead as times can change. Prepare for windy weather while walking.
20. Ice Castles
Visit the Ice Castles for a totally unique winter experience.
The artistic castles will transport you to a mystical land of ice and snow as you walk around the large, frozen structures and maybe even slide down a few ice slides.
They shimmer in blue and are a fun activity for all ages.
Best Time to Visit: The castles are open in the winter (from around late December until early March) as long as the weather is good.
Precautions: Wrap up warm and wear sturdy shoes. Remember to also check the weather and attraction status as it can be weather dependent.
21. Borden Park
Borden Park offers a quiet respite from the city.
With all of its lovely landscaping, sculptures, and public art, it’s an art lover’s paradise (but naturalists will love it as well).
The open lawns and gardens are ideal for unwinding or enjoying a family outing.
Best Time to Visit: The gardens are at their best in spring and summer.
Precautions: In summer, don’t forget sunscreen and bug spray. Stick to designated trails and help protect the park.
Travel Tips
Dress for the Season
Edmonton Weather can be quite the character, varying greatly by the season.
For the winter, dress in layers — long underwear, a thick winter jacket, and of course, a warm hat and gloves.
The summer is warm and sunny, so there’s no need to go heavy (just pack a pair of sunglasses).
Always check the weather before you go, because Edmonton can throw you a curveball.
Book in Advance
Edmonton is a bustling city known for its great attractions and events, which draw local residents and travelers alike.
And if you’re planning to take up a hotel stay for the festival season or want to see a particular exhibit, the sooner you book the better.
Not only will it help you avoid disappointment because you can’t get your first choice but it will also give you the best pick of the litter.
Use Public Transit to Get Around Key Areas
Getting around Edmonton is easy too, as it has a pretty efficient public transit system.
Several buses run throughout the city, and there’s also the Light Rail Transit (LRT) to take you to pretty much anywhere without having to worry about parking.
If you’re planning on moving from one area to another, purchasing a day pass can be more cost-effective.
Bring Bug Spray for River Valley Trails
If you’re going hiking on the gorgeous trails in the River Valley at all, bug spray is a must.
The green spaces are stunning but are also home to mosquitoes – and lots of them, depending on the time of year.
Just protect yourself before you head out so you don’t return home with a few extra bites.
It’s an easy precaution to take to enjoy the views bite-free.
FAQ
1. What is the best time to visit Edmonton?
The best time to visit Edmonton is in the summer from June to August when the weather is warm and sunny, ideal for outdoor activities and festival-going.
2. Is Edmonton family-friendly?
Yes, there’s a lot of family-friendly things to do in Edmonton, such as the TELUS World of Science, Fort Edmonton Park, and West Edmonton Mall.
3. Is Edmonton a good place for nightlife?
Yes, Edmonton does have a nightlife scene with bars, pubs, and live music clubs (especially around Whyte Avenue and Downtown.
Conclusion
Edmonton is a unique destination, where the joy of city life intersects with the tranquility of nature.
Vibrant festivals, world-class museums, and one of the largest urban Indigenous populations in North America make this city a must-visit for any traveler.
As well as sampling locally brewed beers or enjoying a leisurely stroll through one of its many green parks or breathing in the sharp winter chill, Edmonton has a little something for everyone.
As a gateway to the monumental Alberta province, it welcomes with open arms. So, explore the magic of Edmonton. It’s here for the taking!