Top 22 Things to Do in Edmonton, Canada: Ultimate Guide

Experience true wilderness at Elk Island National Park, a wildlife lover's paradise. Here you can observe free-roaming bison - a spectacular sight. The park is also a haven for a variety of birds, making it a birdwatcher's paradise. Adventure seekers will enjoy the challenging hiking trails, while stargazers can enjoy the park's breathtaking sky views. The park is not far from Fort Saskatchewan and features historic sites such as the 1875 North West Mounted Police Fort.

West Edmonton Mall is more than just a shopping center - it's an adventure! It's the largest mall in North America, and it's a blast with an amusement park, a water park, an ice skating rink, and even a huge covered beach. Marvel at the tropical fish in the lagoon or catch a show at the dinner theater. For a quieter pace, visit the nearby John Janzen Nature Centre, a hidden gem where you can learn about Edmonton's natural beauty.

Visit the University of Alberta Botanical Gardens and be enchanted. Famous for its extensive plant collections and research programs, you can let your green thumb run wild here. Stroll through the manicured landscapes, which include an authentic Japanese garden and a unique tropical butterfly exhibit room. Don't forget to look for the bronze "moose fountain," which makes for an exceptional photo op! Near the garden is also the Clifford E. Lee Nature Sanctuary, another nature reserve that you must visit.

Fort Edmonton Park is a must-see in Edmonton and takes you back in time with its interactive history. Walk through the 1846 Hudson's Bay Company trading fort or stroll down 1885, 1905 or 1920 Street to meet costumed performers and experience historical reenactments. Experience an exciting steam train ride or a horse-drawn wagon ride! Just a short trip away is the John Walter Museum, another gem where you can discover Edmonton's fascinating history.

Unleash your curiosity at the Royal Alberta Museum, Edmonton! Marvel at a world-class collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase Alberta's history from prehistoric times to the present. Expect glimpses of Native culture, dinosaur exhibits and the unique Bug Gallery. Don't miss the serene beauty of the garden and don't forget to deepen your interests with the high-quality interactive exhibits. Nearby are Edmonton City Hall and Sir Winston Churchill Square, home to a variety of cultural and social events.

Unleash your inner botanist at Edmonton's Muttart Conservatory, a must-see attraction featuring four remarkable pyramid-shaped greenhouses. Each pyramid features a unique biotope that ranges from arid to tropical and contains rare species not seen anywhere else in Edmonton! Expert tip: Check out the special pyramid that changes exhibits several times a year. Just a short walk away, you can enjoy Edmonton's breathtaking river valley at nearby Louise McKinney Riverfront Park. Experience nature in the heart of the city!

Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of wildlife at Edmonton Valley Zoo. The zoo is home to over 350 animals and offers an unforgettable opportunity to see arctic foxes, red pandas and even Lucy - the magnanimous elephant! Perfect for families, kids can explore the "Kitamba Cafe," pet pygmy goats at the "Urban Farm," and learn about conservation at Nature's Wild Backyard. Just a stone's throw away is the fascinating "William Hawrelak Park", a perfect place to continue your outdoor adventure.

Visit Terwillegar Park in Edmonton for your outdoor adventures! This 186-acre park is one of the largest dog run parks in the city and a dog lover's paradise. There are breathtaking views from the large footbridge over the North Saskatchewan River. Don't forget to check out the fantastic trail system, which is great for biking, running or a leisurely stroll. Just a short drive away is the Windermere Golf and Country Club, a perfect place for golf lovers.

A visit to Louise McKinney Riverfront Park in Edmonton is a must if you appreciate both culture and nature. Not just another urban oasis, the park offers breathtaking views of the downtown skyline and the North Saskatchewan River Valley. Enjoy the cool breeze on the boardwalk, a wonderful place to walk, jog, bike or picnic. A little-known gem, the Chinese Garden, with its traditional Tang Dynasty-style architecture, is just waiting to surprise you. Nearby, the Alberta Legislature Building with its majestic beauty is waiting for you to admire!

Experience the exhilarating aura of Commonwealth Stadium, Edmonton's largest outdoor stadium! Attend a soccer game and cheer with thousands of fans, or experience a rousing concert under the stars. The $12.5 million renovated HD scoreboard ensures you won't miss a thing.

Discover Alberta's turbulent history at the Alberta Aviation Museum! Marvel at over 30 aircraft that bear witness to the dynamic role of aviation. Marvel at rare model aircraft and interesting exhibits. Get information from volunteer staff, many of whom have a personal connection to the stories they tell! Don't miss the captivating 1941 school building that showcases the history of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan. After your visit, take a quick trip to the nearby Kingsway Mall to shop or grab a bite to eat!

Marvel at the regal Alberta Legislature Building, Edmonton's cornerstone of politics. In its grand Beaux-Arts architecture, the "Ledge" showcases key moments in Alberta's political history. A public tour gives you a unique opportunity to see politics in action. Don't miss the iconic light show after sunset. Just a stone's throw away is the beautiful Louise McKinney Riverfront Park, perfect for a leisurely stroll after your visit. Be ready for the ceremonial cannon firing at noon, a charming tradition that has been around since 1978.

Step back in time at the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village (UCHV) in Edmonton! A beacon of living history, the award-winning UCHV features more than 30 restored buildings where you can experience firsthand the lives of Ukrainian pioneers in Canada. Snapshots include traditional workshops, hearty Ukrainian cuisine and spirited folk performances. Discover the secrets of the iconic Orthodox Church with its onion dome. Just a 10-minute drive away is Cooking Lake, a recreational paradise for biking, sailing and ice fishing! The spirit of Ukraine in the heart of Canada.

Get involved in the great world of creativity, technology and exploration at TELUS World of Science in Edmonton. This fascinating facility delights with special exhibit galleries, a planetarium, and even an IMAX theater. The hands-on science experiments and live demonstrations make learning a fun and interactive experience. The institute is ideal for families and is located near Coronation Park, another local attraction where you can relax later. Don't miss the Science Garage, reminiscent of the golden days of tinkering in the garage.

The Edmonton Convention Centre is a must-see in Edmonton for its architectural splendor and lively events program. Its unique, terraced design is modeled after Alberta's landscape and offers sweeping views of the stunning North Saskatchewan River Valley. The viewpoint from the funicular to which it is connected is a must-see. The center hosts a number of interesting exhibits and events throughout the year. The award-winning culinary team will also delight your taste buds with sustainable and regionally sourced dishes.

A visit to the Edmonton Corn Maze is an exciting adventure waiting for you! Travel through a dizzying maze of corn that reaches to the sky and challenges your mind and sense of direction. Be sure to catch the "corn cob pedals" - a treat for kids and adults alike. After the maze, you can visit the adjacent "Prairie Gardens & Adventure Farm," where there's a petting zoo and a pick-your-own vegetable garden. The Edmonton Corn Maze encourages a love of nature and brings out the kid in you!

Visit Rainbow Valley Park, Edmonton's hidden gem for an adventurous getaway in the heart of the city. Open year-round, it's ideal for nature lovers who want to spend cozy nights under the stars. With its numerous hiking trails and rivers, it is also a paradise for outdoor activities. And don't miss the chance to cross the highest railroad bridge, Snow Valley Aerial Park! Afterwards, visit Fort Edmonton Park, just around the corner, and learn about the city's history.

Discover the serenity of Emily Murphy Park in Edmonton! Located on the North Saskatchewan River, it is the perfect place for a picnic, a bike ride or a quiet walk in nature. The park is a birdwatcher's paradise and is home to numerous bird species. It is also admired by locals for its breathtaking views of the river, especially at sunset. If you want a change of scenery, you can also take a short walk to the University of Alberta Botanical Gardens, where an exquisite floral spectacle awaits you. Indeed, a must-visit!

The Art Gallery of Alberta offers an exclusive look at Canada's contemporary and historic art, showcasing over 6,000 wonderful works. Be captivated by the free-flowing steel and glass architecture inspired by the North Saskatchewan River. The exhibit is located downtown, so you can grab a relaxing coffee just steps away at Three Bananas Cafe. And why not end your artistic adventure with a quiet stroll around the shimmering pool at nearby City Hall and its charming wading pools?

Unleash your spirit of adventure at Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park in Edmonton! This sprawling green space beckons with breathtaking river views and a wealth of recreational activities. The disc golf course is a hidden gem for enthusiasts, and if you like boating, you're in luck! The park is home to the Buena Vista Boathouse, where you can rent boats. After all the fun, satisfy your food cravings at the park's picnic areas. Nearby, you can visit the exciting Edmonton Valley Zoo or discover the special biodiversity at the John Janzen Nature Centre. Edmonton never disappoints!

Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Alberta Railway Museum. Admire the magnificent collection of vintage railroad equipment or hop aboard a real, running vintage train for a unique experience. Learn more about the great influence of railroads on the development of Alberta. On weekends, watch volunteers restore old railroad equipment. Just a 10-minute drive away, Fort Edmonton Park awaits to take you back in time with its historical replicas and cultural exhibits.

Keillor Point, also known as the "end of the world," has an irresistible charm that draws visitors for its breathtaking panoramic views of the North Saskatchewan River and city skyline. Here, you'll feel like you're on the edge of a cliff, suspended above a lush, natural park that offers the most beautiful sunsets. For thrill seekers, this place is a dream. Nearby is Whitemud Creek Ravine, which invites you to take a scenic walk amidst nature - the perfect day trip in Edmonton.