Things To Do
in Edmonton

Edmonton, the capital city of Alberta, Canada, is known for its vibrant arts scene and cultural diversity. It boasts the largest mall in North America, West Edmonton Mall, and is home to numerous festivals throughout the year, including the famous Edmonton Folk Music Festival. The city is situated on the North Saskatchewan River and is surrounded by beautiful river valley parks.

With a rich history, friendly locals, and a growing culinary scene, Edmonton is an exciting destination for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Downtown and the River Valley
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Art Gallery of Alberta, which features a stunning collection of Canadian and international art. Enjoy breakfast at a local café nearby.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the Edmonton River Valley, the largest urban park in North America, and take in the natural beauty. Visit the Royal Alberta Museum to learn about the province's history and culture.

evening
:

Dine at a trendy restaurant in Old Strathcona and then catch a live performance at the Winspear Centre for Music.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and History
morning
:

Begin your day at Fort Edmonton Park, a historical park that recreates Edmonton's past. Enjoy breakfast at the Fort's café.

afternoon
:

Head to the Alberta Legislature Building for a guided tour and then visit the nearby Churchill Square, where you can explore local shops.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with dinner at a local brewery and enjoy the nightlife in the bustling Whyte Avenue area.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🚍Public transport ticket$3
🏨Hotel night stay$120
🍻Domestic beer$6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Diverse cultural experiences and festivals.
  • Rich history and beautiful natural landscapes.
  • Vibrant food scene with local specialties.
  • Harsh winters can be challenging for some.
  • Public transport may not reach all areas conveniently.
  • Traffic congestion can occur during peak hours.

Places to Visit in Edmonton

Visit one of these nice places.

Edmonton River Valley

The expansive river valley offers breathtaking views and scenic trails perfect for nature photography.

Alberta Legislature Building

An architectural marvel, especially beautiful when lit up at night.

Muttart Conservatory

A unique botanical garden with striking glass pyramids, ideal for capturing vibrant plant life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Edmonton

Edmonton's culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional comfort foods and innovative dining experiences, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Edmonton Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bison Burger

A local specialty made with lean bison meat, served with various toppings.

Must-Try!

BeaverTails

A popular sweet treat, these are fried dough pastries topped with sugar and various toppings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Old Strathcona Farmers' Market

A vibrant market featuring local produce, artisanal foods, and street food vendors.

Edmonton Food Truck Festival

An annual festival showcasing a variety of food trucks offering diverse cuisines.

Climate Guide

Weather

Edmonton experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers can be warm, with temperatures averaging around 20-25°C (68-77°F), while winters are cold, often dropping below -15°C (5°F). Spring and fall are transitional seasons with mild weather and occasional rain. The city receives a fair amount of sunshine throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Canadians are known for being polite; saying 'please' and 'thank you' is essential.

Personal Space

Respect personal space; Canadians value their privacy.

Punctuality

Being on time is considered important in both social and business settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Edmonton is generally safe for visitors, but it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Use common sense and avoid poorly lit areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 911. It's also wise to keep your belongings secure and be cautious in crowded places.

Tipping in Edmonton

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It's customary to tip around 15-20% at restaurants and for services.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit/debit cards, and some may also accept mobile payments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm temperatures attract festivals and events; the city is lively with outdoor markets.

Fall

Cooler temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage make it a great time for photography.

Winter

Cold weather and snow create a winter wonderland; be prepared for winter sports and festivals.

Nightlife Guide

Edmonton at Night

Edmonton's nightlife is vibrant, with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The Whyte Avenue area is particularly popular, featuring everything from laid-back pubs to bustling nightclubs. Local breweries and distilleries also offer unique tasting experiences. Many venues host live music, showcasing local talent and international acts.

Hiking in Edmonton

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Whitemud Park

Offers several trails through scenic landscapes, great for hiking and enjoying nature.

Kinsmen Park

Features trails that meander along the river, providing beautiful views and opportunities for outdoor activities.

Airports

How to reach Edmonton by plane.

Edmonton International Airport (YEG)

Located about 30 minutes south of downtown Edmonton, this airport offers numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Edmonton's downtown area is quite walkable, with many attractions, shops, and restaurants within walking distance. The River Valley offers scenic trails for pedestrians. However, some suburban areas may require a vehicle to access amenities.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Peoples

Indigenous communities form a significant part of Edmonton's cultural fabric, with rich traditions and contributions.

Immigrant Communities

A diverse mix of immigrant groups has settled in Edmonton, enriching the city with various cultural influences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

Edmonton is home to the NHL team, the Edmonton Oilers, and ice hockey is a cherished sport in the region.

Canadian Football

The Edmonton Elks, a CFL team, play at Commonwealth Stadium and have a passionate fan base.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Edmonton can vary; rush hour can lead to congestion, especially on major highways. The public transportation system includes buses and the LRT (Light Rail Transit), providing an alternative to driving, though some areas may still be less accessible.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Edmonton.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, especially in trendy neighborhoods.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several eateries cater to gluten-free diets, so it's advisable to check menus beforehand.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Edmonton is accessible, with numerous hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. Emergency services are prompt, and urgent care clinics are also present. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide