A Fun 2-Day Weekend Trip to Edmonton, Canada

Discover the urban wilderness of Edmonton, Canada.

03 May 2023

Edmonton, the capital city of Alberta, Canada, offers a range of attractions for tourists. Experience the excitement of the West Edmonton Mall, the largest shopping mall in North America, with over 800 stores and an indoor theme park. Discover the city's cultural diversity at Old Strathcona, a historical district that features unique shops, restaurants, and live music venues. Take in the natural splendor of the city at Elk Island National Park, where you can hike, camp, and observe wildlife.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Indulge in Edmonton's Food Scene

  • Check-in at The Westin Edmonton, located in the heart of downtown and boasting stunning city views.
  • Start your day with brunch at Cafe Linnea, where you can enjoy French-inspired cuisine made with locally-sourced ingredients.
  • Walk off your meal with a stroll through the gorgeous University of Alberta Botanic Garden.
  • Grab a mid-afternoon snack at Duchess Bake Shop, known for their exquisite pastries and macarons.
  • For dinner, head to RGE RD for a farm-to-table experience featuring seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients.
  • End the night with drinks at the cute and quirky Little Brick Cafe & General Store.
Day 2

Explore Edmonton's Art and Culture Scene

  • Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at Tres Carnales Taqueria, serving up authentic Mexican street food.
  • Visit the stunning Art Gallery of Alberta to marvel at contemporary and historic exhibits.
  • Take a stroll through the historic Old Strathcona district, known for its unique shops and antique stores.
  • Stop for lunch at the iconic Highlevel Diner, serving up homestyle cooking since 1982.
  • Check out the Muttart Conservatory, featuring four botanical pyramids showcasing different climates.
  • For dinner, head to Clementine, a trendy restaurant specializing in small plates made with seasonal ingredients.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Edmonton, Canada by plane is to fly into the Edmonton International Airport, which is located approximately 30 minutes south of the city center. Major airlines such as Air Canada, WestJet and Delta offer direct flights from various North American cities and international destinations.

Car

Driving to Edmonton is a popular option, with major highways such as the Trans-Canada Highway and Queen Elizabeth II Highway providing easy access to the city. Parking options are available throughout the city, including at the Edmonton International Airport.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to Edmonton. The closest railway station is in Jasper, Alberta, which is approximately 4 hours west of Edmonton by car or bus.

Boat

As Edmonton is located in land, there is no way to arrive by boat. However, visitors can take a scenic boat tour of the nearby North Saskatchewan River, which offers stunning views of the city and surrounding wilderness.

Bus

Taking the bus is a convenient way to get to Edmonton. Greyhound Canada operates regular services from various Canadian cities and towns, with the Edmonton Bus Depot located in the city center.

More travel plans

Downtown Delight: A One-Day Edmonton Adventure

A trip to Edmonton, Canada as a tourist offers a unique blend of beautiful natural landscapes and vibrant city life. Explore the stunning view of the North Saskatchewan River Valley or visit the iconic West Edmonton Mall, the largest mall in North America. Indulge in local cuisines, attend festivals and immerse yourself in the friendly culture of this Canadian gem.

Edmonton Expedition: 5 Days of Family Fun & Adventure

A family friendly trip to Edmonton, Canada offers an array of activities for all ages. Explore the world's largest indoor amusement park, Galaxyland, located in West Edmonton Mall, where kids can enjoy thrilling rides and attractions. Additionally, Edmonton boasts beautiful parks and gardens, like Fort Edmonton Park and the Edmonton Valley Zoo, making it an ideal destination to create cherished family memories.

Experience Edmonton's 3 Day Adventure

As a tourist in Edmonton, Canada, you can explore the magnificent views of the North Saskatchewan River Valley, which consists of parks, trails, and recreation areas. You can also explore the city's famous attractions like West Edmonton Mall, Fort Edmonton Park, and the Royal Alberta Museum. Don't forget to indulge in the diverse food culture and explore the local farmers' market.

Edmonton on a Budget: A Day of Culture & Nature

A budget-friendly trip to Edmonton, Canada can be an enjoyable experience for all. With free admission to several popular attractions, such as the Alberta Legislature Building and the Art Gallery of Alberta, visitors can take in the local culture without breaking the bank. Additionally, budget lodging options, such as hostels and Airbnb rentals, provide affordable accommodations for budget-conscious travelers.