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Top things to do in Edmonton

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Edmonton: the city's best neighborhoods

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About Edmonton

Including tips for the best time to visit Edmonton

Edmonton, the capital of Alberta, Canada, is a true city. Although it often serves as a stopover between visits to nearby Jasper National Park, Edmonton's monumental shopping mall, top-notch arts and culture scene and rapid transit system offer more than enough reasons to stay awhile.

The temperature is so often cold in Edmonton that when summer hits, the city goes all out in celebration. Whyte Avenue, a trendy strip in the historic Old Strathcona district, buzzes as shoppers pop in and out of its independent boutiques, art galleries, restaurants and cafés. A wave of festivals also hit the streets. The Fringe Theatre Festival in August lures crowds from all over the world. Not to be outdone, the West Edmonton Mall entertains year-round with more than 800 stores and attractions including a water park, ice rink and mini-golf course.

Located on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River, Edmonton manages to merge its urban metropolis with surrounding nature. Roaming bison have been spotted in town, while a multitude of parks protect land from further development. In Fort Edmonton Park, you can experience local heritage at the reconstructed fur trading post or during a ride on a steam train. Of course, you'd be remiss to visit Edmonton and not spend at least a day exploring Jasper National Park. A four-hour's drive will deliver you to its vast landscapes shaped by glaciers, lakes and mountains home to moose, elk, bears and bighorn sheep.

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Most popular time to visit October-December
Cheapest time to visit January-March
Local currency CAD 10 = $7.23
Language French
Average weekend price $112 per night
Average weekday price $111 per night
Average stay 2 nights

Points of interest in Edmonton

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Edmonton reviews

What other travelers say about Edmonton

8.0

It is easy to get around Edmonton.

July 25, 2025

It is easy to get around Edmonton. I took a brief side trip to Edmonton mall. The mall itself is wearing out. It has lost it's appeal for anyone alone and looking for a shopping experience. It is lost in the eighties.

Donald
Donald Canada
8.0

Edmonton is very typical of a larger prairie city.

July 20, 2025

Edmonton is very typical of a larger prairie city. It is spread out, but easy to travel on the major roadways. It is lucky to have the North Saskatchewan River run through it which brings great parks and greenery to it.

Bob
Bob Canada
10

We went to Edmonton in February on a whim for a holiday.

February 12, 2025

We went to Edmonton in February on a whim for a holiday. Of course it was cold but as long as you are prepared for it, it is fine. We even enjoyed outdoor activities. The roads are quite confusing so GPS was a must for us. We enjoyed a hockey game, West Edmonton Mall, the Conservatory, the RAM, and the zoo. And Jasper National Park is only a 3 &1/2 hour drive away. Close enough for a day trip where we saw lots of wildlife.

Brenda
Brenda Canada
10

Everthing was very good.

December 31, 2024

Everthing was very good. All the staff we talked to were friendly, helpful. The rooms were cleaned always and towels changed when we left for the day. Great place to stay when here in Edmonton. Hotel has everything that is needed, rooms were clean and comfortable, staff was very helpful and friendly. The room service and food was very good.

Anonymous
10

Everything was great.

December 29, 2024

Everything was great. Only complaints are that I booked for 2 people and had to call and ask for more towels each day, and wanted more coffee, sugar and cream. Have to pay for the bottles of water in the room.

Tammy
Tammy
8.0

We visit the area often, but rarely stay in a hotel.

October 15, 2024

We visit the area often, but rarely stay in a hotel. This was an easy drive from YYC and very close proximity to the wedding venue: River's Edge Devon. A Yellow Taxi took us there and back for normal mileage (and a handsome tip both ways). They were prompt, courteous, and safe both ways. Of course the airport access can't be beat, and the shopping options and easy access to the Henday, Gateway, etc. are all convenient.

Susan
Susan Canada

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