Edmonton is the capital of Alberta. It’s a city where nature and culture meet. You’ll find wide green spaces, vibrant festivals, and a growing arts scene.
The city sits along the North Saskatchewan River. It has the largest urban parkland in North America. Locals and visitors enjoy year-round outdoor activities.
Edmonton is also known as Festival City. It hosts more than 50 major festivals each year. These range from live theatre and folk music to food fairs and winter carnivals.
There’s more to explore.
Edmonton has world-class museums, local markets, and a diverse food scene. It’s also home to one of the world’s largest shopping malls.
Whether you’re here for a weekend or longer, there’s no shortage of things to do. This guide covers the top attractions in the city. From parks and museums to events and food, Edmonton has something for everyone.
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1. Spend the day at West Edmonton Mall
You can’t visit Edmonton without exploring West Edmonton Mall- a destination in itself. It’s one of the largest malls in the world, with more than 800 shops and multiple indoor attractions. The mall receives approximately 30.8 million visitors annually, making it Alberta’s number-one tourist destination.
Kids love Galaxyland, an indoor amusement park packed with roller coasters and games. For water fun, head to World Waterpark, which features slides, wave pools, and private cabanas. Other attractions include The Ice Palace, mini-golf, an aquarium, and even a casino.
With themed areas like Europa Boulevard and Chinatown, and a wide range of dining options, it’s easy to spend an entire day here.
2. Explore Elk Island National Park
Just 40 minutes from downtown, Elk Island National Park is a conservation area known for its plains bison, elk, moose, and over 250 bird species. Between 2011 and 2021, visitation grew by 149%, peaking at 531,055 visitors in 2018.
Hike trails like Amisk Wuche, paddle across Astotin Lake, or stay after dark to stargaze in part of a certified Dark Sky Preserve. The park is a haven for nature lovers and a perfect spot for photography, picnics, and peaceful wildlife viewing.
3. Walk the North Saskatchewan River Valley
Edmonton’s North Saskatchewan River Valley is the largest urban parkland in North America- 22 times the size of New York’s Central Park. It stretches over 160 kilometers and links more than 20 parks throughout the city.
Locals and visitors use it year-round for walking, and trails are maintained for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Access points like Hawrelak Park and Kinsmen Park offer great views and amenities.
4. Step Back in Time at Fort Edmonton Park
Fort Edmonton Park is Canada’s largest living history museum. It features four immersive areas: 1846 (fur trade), 1885 (settlement). 1905 (municipal growth) and 1920 (urban expansion).
Visitors can stroll through recreated streets, ride vintage streetcars, and explore the indigenous Peoples’ Experiences, which was developed in partnership with local Indigenous communities. The park provides an engaging experience for families and history buffs.
5. Visit the Muttart Conservatory
With its four iconic glass pyramids, the Muttart Conservatory is one of Edmonton’s most recognizable landmarks. Each pyramid houses a unique climate zone: arid, temperate, tropical, and a rotating Feature Pyramid.
The conservatory showcases hundreds of plant species and offers seasonal exhibits throughout the year. It’s a popular spot for photographers, nature lovers, and families looking for an indoor escape.
6. Discover Alberta’s Story at the Royal Alberta Museum
The Royal Alberta Museum (RAM) is the largest in Western Canada. It explores natural history, Indigenous culture, and Alberta’s human past through interactive displays.
Must-see exhibits include dinosaur fossils, the Bug Gallery, and the hands-on Children’s Gallery. Located downtown, RAM is easily accessible and offers rotating exhibits that appeal to all ages.
7. Appreciate Art at the Art Gallery of Alberta
The Art Gallery of Alberta, with over 6,000 works, features Canadian and international art in a stunning architectural space. Exhibits rotate frequently and include painting, sculpture, multimedia, and photography.
Visitors can also attend workshops, film screenings, and public talks. The gallery is a cornerstone of Edmonton’s arts and culture scene.
8. Celebrate at Edmonton’s Signature Festivals
Nicknamed Festival City, Edmonton hosts more than 50 festivals annually. Highlights include:
- Fringe Theatre Festival – The largest of its kind in North America, with over 1,600 shows.
- Heritage Festival – Celebrates cultures from around the world through food, music, and performance.
- Folk Music Festivals – Held at Gallagher Park with performances from global artists.
- Ice on Whyte – A winter celebration featuring ice carvings, skating, and hot drinks.
Edmonton’s festivals run year-round, but summer is the peak season for outdoor events.
9. Explore Old Strathcona and Whyte Avenue
Old Strathcona, centered around Whyte Avenue, is known for its historic charm and vibrant energy. It’s full of local shops, cafes, bookshops, and indie fashion boutiques
Enjoy Brunch, browse vintage stores, or catch a show at one of the neighborhood’s theaters. Every Saturday, the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market offers local goods, crafts, and treats
10. Eat at Edmonton’s Local Restaurants
Edmonton’s culinary scene is creative and diverse. Many restaurants use locally sourced ingredients and offer unique takes on Canadian cuisine
Top picks:
- RGE RD – Known for wild game and rustic farm-to-table dishes.
- Duchess Bake Shop – A Parisian-style bakery famous for macarons and croissants.
- Tres Carnales – A lively taqueria offering authentic Mexican flavors
- Biera – Offers seasonal plates and on-site craft beer.
The city also has strong options for vegan, Ethiopian, Korean, and Vietnamese cuisine
11. Catch a Game or Concert at Rogers Place
Rogers Place is the heart of the Ice District and home to the NHL’s Edmonton Oilers. It’s also a top venue for concerts and events.
The Ice District includes high-end dining, bars, and entertainment spaces. Whether you’re there for hockey or music, it’s a lively and modern part of the city.
Conclusion
Edmonton combines nature, culture, and entertainment into one dynamic destination. Whether you’re hiking the river valley, exploring bison habitats, catching a live show, or sampling local dishes, there’s no shortage of things to do. It’s a city that offers more the deeper you go-and always rewards curiosity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is the best time to visit Edmonton?
Visit between June and September for the best weather and festival season.
Can I see the Northern Lights in Edmonton?
Yes, but rarely from within the city. Drive to Elk Island National Park or nearby dark-sky locations for better chances.
Is Edmonton walkable?
Yes, especially in downtown and Old Strathcona. Public transit and ride-sharing are widely available.
Are there free things to do in Edmonton?
Yes. Walk the river valley, attend free festivals, explore markets, or enjoy public art.
What’s unique about Edmonton?
Its urban river valley, strong Indigenous heritage, world-class mall, and reputation as a festival capital set it apart.
Why should I hire a local Edmonton mover?
Local movers like Asr Moving know Edmonton’s neighborhoods inside out—so your antiques and fragile items never get rattled in rush‑hour traffic. We offer fully insured, licensed service and free in‑home estimates within city limits.
