6 Reasons To Visit Edmonton Right Now

Shopping fanatic, festival-goer or just a lover of delicious locally produced food? Whoever you are and whatever you want from a city, Edmonton’s got something for you.

History – DISCOVER EDMONTON’S PAST

Those craving history on their holiday will be kept busy in Edmonton. Check out Fort Edmonton Park – a living museum that divides the city’s history into four fascinating, defining eras, including the Fur Trading Era of the 1840s, and Metropolitan Era of the 1920s. Elsewhere, you can journey the highest streetcar crossing in the world with a ride on the 100-year-old High Level Bridge Streetcar, or visit the grand Alberta Legislature grounds and building.

Festival City – THERE’S A FESTIVAL FOR YOU

Forget wellies, mud and damp tents – Edmonton’s festival scene is far more diverse than a weekend in the rain. It’s here that you’ll find entire festivals dedicated to celebrating food like July’s Taste of Edmonton, a gathering of over 60 locally-owned restaurants, and the Servus Heritage Festival celebrating (and sampling!) over 80 cultures from around the world. August brings the world-renowned Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival, an 11 – day event with local and international artists performing in unique venues such as pubs and bookshops. Music lovers won’t want to miss the Blues Festival 19-21 August, Sonic Boom on 3-4 September for indie rock and pop, and the Folk Music Festival 4-7 August.

Head Outdoors – CITY STREETS WITH BONUS PARKS

Those looking to combine a cool city vibe with adventurous outdoor activities will find themselves in the right place. In Edmonton you’ll discover the largest expanse of urban parkland in North America. So get ready for mountain biking, hiking and running. For something less strenuous, try renting a canoe and paddling along the North Saskatchewan River. Visiting in winter? Try snowshoeing or skiing right there in the city’s river valley. Find out more on page 78.

Food & Drink – EAT AND DRINK IN THE CITY

Whether you’re looking for fine dining and top-notch wine bars or food trucks and cosy craft breweries, Edmonton has it all. The city’s growing foodie scene is putting the region on the map for grub-searching travellers. Grab a coffee at Little Brick, a century-old brick house turned cafe and general store. Duchess Bake Shop for decadent French pastries and snacks, and El Cortez Mexican Kitchen + Tequila Bar, for gourmet tacos and contemporary twists on classic cocktails. We’ll drink to that.

The Ice District – IT’S ABOUT TO GET BIGGER AND BETTER

New for 2016 is the Edmonton Ice District, a 25-acre entertainment space that’s crammed with some of the most exciting activities in the city. Taking shape in the heart of downtown Edmonton, the space will include Rogers Place, the most advanced sports and entertainment venue in North America, where you’ll be able to catch a concert or take-in an NHL ice-hockey match (an absolute must for any trip to Canada). The Ice District will also be home to a luxurious new JW Marriott hotel, a bustling public plaza, and Winter Garden complete with ice rink and casino.

Go Shopping – A CITY OF GREAT BOUTIQUES

Edmonton’s pocked with a range of shopping districts, ranging from boutiques to big complexes – and they don’t come bigger or better than West Edmonton Mall, which spans the equivalent of 48 city blocks. Whyte Avenue in Old Strathcona has been named one of the country’s best shopping areas -it’s a laid-back bohemian paradise with quirky boutiques, galleries and specialist shops. Elsewhere, 124 Street is home to vintage stores, indie coffee shops and cool eateries.