Why Go to Edmonton
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Edmonton calls itself Canada's Festival City, and it hosts big celebrations in every season, from summer's famous Fringe Festival to winter events that embrace the snow. Alberta's capital sits along the winding North Saskatchewan River, and its river valley holds the largest stretch of connected urban parkland in North America, with trails for walking, biking and cross-country skiing right in the heart of the city.
There's plenty to explore. West Edmonton Mall is one of the biggest shopping and entertainment centers on the continent, with an indoor water park, amusement park and skating rink under one roof. Old Strathcona is the city's historic, artsy district, full of street performers, shops and cafes. The striking glass pyramids of the Muttart Conservatory hold gardens from around the world, and the Royal Alberta Museum tells the province's story.
Nonstop flights connect Edmonton with U.S. cities like Denver, Seattle and Minneapolis. It's also a gateway to Jasper National Park, about four hours west. I'll plan your stay and pair Edmonton with the Canadian Rockies.
BEST FOR
Families, festival-goers, shoppers, hockey fans and outdoor lovers
BEST MONTHS
June to August
EXPLORE
- Downtown: The Ice District, museums and hotels.
- Old Strathcona: Whyte Avenue's shops and nightlife.
- West Edmonton: The mall and family attractions.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Edmonton
North America › Prairies › Canada › Alberta
North America's largest urban parkland, a mega mall and Canada's Festival City.
Shopping
Mall
River
Parks
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Visit in August for festival season, when the Fringe, Folk Music Festival and Heritage Festival fill the city.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Plan a full day.
West Edmonton Mall
One of the world's largest malls, with a water park, amusement park and ice rink.
Visit at dusk for bison viewing.
Elk Island National Park
A park with bison herds and dark skies.
Ride the steam train.
Fort Edmonton Park
A living history park with historic buildings.
Allow a half day.
Royal Alberta Museum
Western Canada's largest museum.
Visit on a cold winter day.
Muttart Conservatory
Glass pyramids filled with plants from around the world.
A historic château-style hotel overlooking the river valley.
Fairmont Hotel Macdonald
Downtown
Hotel Tags
A modern luxury hotel next to Rogers Place.
JW Marriott Edmonton ICE District
Ice District
Hotel Tags
A hotel with themed rooms inside the mall.
Fantasyland Hotel
West Edmonton Mall
Hotel Tags
A stylish boutique hotel.
Matrix Hotel
Downtown
Hotel Tags
A boutique hotel in a historic bank building.
Union Bank Inn
Downtown
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Edmonton
High 34°F · Low 15°F · Rain 0.7 in
Winter arrives with the first snowfall and cozy indoor attractions.
The best time to visit Edmonton is June through August, when days are long and festivals fill the city. Winters are very cold but offer winter festivals and skating.
Best Times to Visit Edmonton
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
Edmonton's dining scene ranges from Alberta beef to global cuisine.
- Alberta beef: Try a steak at a local steakhouse.
- Ukrainian heritage: Enjoy perogies and other Ukrainian dishes.
- Must-try: Alberta beef, perogies, green onion cakes and local craft beer.
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Walking
Downtown and Old Strathcona are walkable.
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Driving
A car is useful for exploring the region.
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Taxis & Rideshares
Taxis and rideshare apps are available.
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Buses
City buses cover the metro area.
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LRT
Edmonton's light rail system connects key areas.
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Flying In
Edmonton International Airport (YEG) is about 30 to 40 minutes from downtown.
Most travelers fly into Edmonton International. Once you're here, the LRT, buses and rideshares make it easy to get around.
Getting Around Edmonton