Best things to do in Edmonton

Experience fun for the whole family at TELUS World of Science - Edmonton. The center was established in 1984 and today attracts more than half a million visitors every year. Explore educational and interactive exhibits suitable for all ages, as well as the largest planetarium dome in Canada. Discover a broad range of themed exhibits, from environmental and space displays, to a fun human body exhibit, that includes a “Gallery of the Gross”. Take the children to the kids’ gallery, visit the spacious IMAX theater, or watch a range of captivating scientific demonstrations.

Slip and slide the day away at World Waterpark, the second largest indoor water park in the world, and a great day out for the whole family. Try one of the 11 water slides, each ranging in intensity from "beginner" to "extreme," the latter of which includes a "loop de loop." Try your hand at the park's surf simulator, where you can take lessons and learn to ride the waves indoors. Expect to pay an entrance fee even if you’re just watching your kids, and bear in mind that the park can get very busy, so consider a midweek visit.

A shopping experience of monumental proportions, West Edmonton Mall is the 10th largest mall in the world and “the most comprehensive retail, hospitality and entertainment complex on Earth”. Sprawling across 492,000 sq m (5,300,000 sq ft), the mall is packed full of entertainment attractions, alongside 800 shopping outlets offering days worth of retail therapy for even the most avid shopper. Skate your way across the impressive snowy white indoor ice rink, or explore a cavernous underground aquarium, home to over 100 species of fish, sharks, sea turtles, reptiles and penguins. For the next adventure, head to the world’s largest indoor wave pool at the “World Waterpark” or find yourself discombobulated in the “Crystal Labyrinth” hall of mirrors. You still haven’t scratched the surface of what’s on offer at this city-sized mega mall.

If you fancy a spot of shopping, and like a busy atmosphere, then head to Whyte Avenue. The bustling strip is packed with many boutique shops that cater to all tastes, and is great for souvenir hunting. This bohemian area also harbors a variety of restaurants, and once night falls, a rambunctious bar and night club scene awakens. If you're visiting over the weekend, consider checking out the farmer's market on Saturdays for some unique items.

Opened in 1959, Edmonton Valley Zoo houses 350 exotic and native animals across its many indoor and outdoor exhibits. Situated along the North Saskatchewan River, the zoo is small, making for a more intimate visit. The zoo has replicated an arctic shoreline and showcases appropriate animals for this habitat.

Defining the city skyline with prominent glass pyramids, Muttart Conservatory is renowned for plant science in western Canada. The botanical garden consists of three greenhouses and four glass pyramids displaying plant species found across three biomes. See plant species from temperate, arid, and tropical climates in three of the pyramids and observe ever-changing seasonal displays in the fourth. The conservatory aims to reserve and grow its botanical collections and share knowledge with visitors. The site also offers a gift shop and on-site café.

Step back in time at Fort Edmonton Park, Canada's largest living history museum. Founded in 1974, the park contains numerous original and replica buildings, as well as reconstructed street scenes depicting events from the fur trading days and the pioneer era. Interact with costumed actors, ride a vintage steam train, and visit the period buildings to experience the evolution of Edmonton through its early history.

Explore the natural setting of Elk Island National Park, home to the densest population of hoofed animals in Canada. Observe imposing wild bison roaming the fields among herds of elk, white-tailed deer, and moose. Many other types of animals inhabit the parkland including beavers, coyotes, shrews and more than 250 bird species. Spread out a blanket and have a picnic next to Astotin Lake, or camp overnight. Seek out the bison handling facility to learn how the creatures were stopped from extinction and how they are protected today.

Browse the historical district of Old Strathcona and discover local boutiques, interesting buildings, art galleries, and an abundance of bars and restaurants. Hop from shop to shop, stopping in some of the area's trendy cafes on your way, and peruse the work displayed on the streets by local artists. The bustling neighborhood packs its calendar full of events, festivals, live music, and workshops.

All ages can find entertainment at Galaxyland, a gigantic indoor amusement park located in a mall. Home of plenty of record-breaking rides, it boasts a dizzingly high roller coaster and tower drop, and scores of other ways to get your adrenaline pumping. Plenty of attractions cater to young visitors, from the gentle carousel to the family-friendly cosmic spinner. The park also features a large playground for children, ziplines, bumper cars, and a 7D movie theater.

At Royal Alberta Museum discover a vibrant collection of local history and anthropology that outlines the story of Alberta. Originally opened 1967 and re-opening at a new location in 2018, the museum is committed to building a space that creates an interwoven narrative between nature and man. Soon to be the largest museum in western Canada, the site allows you to immerse yourself in the history of the many collections, from human history rooms to the bug room. Younger members of the family will like the specially designed children’s gallery. The museum also offers a gift shop and cafe with outdoor patio.

Visit William Hawrelak Park for a tranquil retreat to nature. Sitting in a river valley, the green fields stretch out over 68 hectares (168 acres), providing a sense of peaceful seclusion even in the city's most popular park. Meander your way around the lake trail and pick a leafy spot to relax at one of the many picnic sites. Bring your own food to barbecue alongside excellent views; then, depending on the season, you can rent a paddleboat or ice skates to get onto the lake for some fun. The park's amphitheater attracts many festivals and shows throughout the year. Onsite facilities include indoor restrooms and food concessions in the main pavilion.

Appreciate the impressive, engrossing collection of airplane memorabilia at Alberta Aviation Museum. You'll discover the rich history of aviation in Edmonton inside one of the last RCAF World War II hangars. Enthusiasts will enjoy viewing some of the most famed fighter planes ever, including a World War II Mosquito, an A104 Star Fighter, and an F86. The engaging museum features many audio-visual displays and interactive exhibits, including a number of flight simulators to try out.