Edmonton in 5 Days: Culture, Wildlife, and Fun!

Experience the beauty of Edmonton – a city that will capture your heart!

22 April 2023

Edmonton, located in the province of Alberta in Canada, is a vibrant city that offers visitors a plethora of attractions. Tourists can visit the West Edmonton Mall, which is the largest mall in North America, or explore the Royal Alberta Museum to learn about Alberta's history and cultural heritage. Finally, tourists can take in the beauty of the city's river valley, a park system that includes more than 160 kilometers of trails, parks, and natural areas.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Edmonton

  • Check-in at Matrix Hotel, a chic and modern boutique hotel in the heart of downtown.
  • Go for a stroll in the beautiful River Valley Park, the largest urban park in North America.
  • Visit the Art Gallery of Alberta and explore its impressive collection of contemporary art.
  • Have dinner at Tres Carnales, a local favorite known for its authentic Mexican street food.
  • End the day with a drink at The Common, a trendy spot with a lively atmosphere and creative cocktails.
Day 2

Cultural Encounters

  • Start the day with a trip to the Royal Alberta Museum, where you can learn about the province's history and diverse cultures.
  • Take in a show at the Citadel Theatre, founded in 1965 and now the largest regional theatre in Canada.
  • Enjoy a gourmet lunch at RGE RD, a farm-to-table restaurant that showcases local ingredients.
  • Visit the Muttart Conservatory, a glass pyramid with four themed gardens that reflect different global biomes.
  • Have dinner at Baijiu, a hip Asian-inspired eatery that features unique cocktails and small plates.
Day 3

Edmonton's Wild Side

  • Head to the Edmonton Valley Zoo, home to over 350 animals, including endangered species like the red panda and Amur tiger.
  • Visit the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, a living history museum that showcases the early settlement of Ukrainian immigrants in the region.
  • Have lunch at Journeyman, a cozy cafe with a seasonal menu that focuses on sustainable and locally sourced ingredients.
  • Explore North America's largest shopping and entertainment complex, West Edmonton Mall, featuring over 800 stores, an amusement park, water park and much more.
  • Have dinner at Hardware Grill, a fine-dining spot known for its inventive cuisine and extensive wine list.
Day 4

Beyond the City Limits

  • Take a day trip to Elk Island National Park, a wildlife haven with bison, elk, moose and more, just a 30-minute drive east of Edmonton.
  • Rent a canoe or kayak and explore Astotin Lake, the park's largest body of water.
  • Have a picnic lunch or BBQ at one of the park's many picnic areas.
  • Take a hike along one of the park's many trails to take in spectacular views and get closer to nature.
  • Return to Edmonton for dinner at Corso 32, a cozy Italian eatery that's often said to serve some of the best pasta in the city.
Day 5

Farewell to Edmonton

  • Have brunch at Cafe Linnea, a Scandinavian-inspired spot with a focus on fresh ingredients and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Visit the Alberta Legislature Building, an iconic provincial landmark with beautiful architecture and fascinating history.
  • Take a guided tour of the Rogers Place Arena, home of the NHL's Edmonton Oilers.
  • Have a beer or two at Situation Brewing, a local brewery with a rotating selection of unique and tasty beers on tap.
  • End your trip on a sweet note with a treat from Duchess Bake Shop, a charming patisserie that serves some of the best French-style pastries in the city.

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

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.

A Fun 2-Day Weekend Trip to Edmonton, Canada

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.

Edmonton's Family-Friendly Extravaganza: A Day of Adventure

Edmonton, Canada offers a perfect blend of family friendly activities, making it an ideal destination for a memorable trip. Explore the awe-inspiring West Edmonton Mall, boasting water parks, amusement rides, and an indoor ice-skating rink for everyone to enjoy. Stroll through the lush parks, visit the interactive Telus World of Science, and immerse yourselves in the rich cultural heritage by visiting the city's museums and art galleries.