Downtown Delight: A One-Day Edmonton Adventure

Experience the northern charm of Edmonton, Canada.

22 April 2023

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.

Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring Edmonton's Downtown

  • Start with a steaming cup of coffee and a decadent pastry at Duchess Bake Shop.
  • Venture to the iconic Alberta Legislature Building for a free guided tour and learn about the province's history.
  • Make your way to the Art Gallery of Alberta to peruse its impressive collection of contemporary and modern art.
  • Grab lunch at Tres Carnales Taqueria and indulge in some tacos al pastor, homemade guacamole, and a refreshing agua fresca.
  • Head to the trendy 104th Street Promenade for some window shopping and people-watching. Don't miss out on checking out the City Market Downtown.
  • Conclude the day with dinner and drinks at Woodwork, where you can enjoy craft cocktails and elevated wood-fired cuisine.
  • Extra tip: If you're visiting in the summer, take a stroll through the beautiful and expansive river valley park system, which spans over 160 km and offers scenic views of the North Saskatchewan River.

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

Edmonton on a Budget: 2 Days of Culture and Fun!

Visiting Edmonton, Canada on a limited budget won't be a problem as there are plenty of free activities to enjoy such as exploring the river valley parks or visiting the art galleries. One can also indulge in affordable yet delicious local food such as poutine or visit the famous West Edmonton Mall. Budget-friendly accommodation options such as hostels or Airbnb are available for a comfortable stay.

Edmonton on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun!

Edmonton offers plenty of budget-friendly activities, such as exploring the city's attractive public parks, attending free outdoor concerts and festivals, and learning about local history at museums like the Royal Alberta Museum. Visitors can save money on food by visiting popular local markets like the Old Strathcona Farmers' Market or the Downtown Farmers' Market. Finally, budget-conscious travelers can opt for affordable accommodations like guesthouses or hostels located outside of the city center.

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.

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.