Edmonton might be known for its long winters, but when the snow melts, the city transforms into a sprawling playground of green spaces, river valleys, and urban adventures. As the capital of Alberta, it offers a surprising mix of prairie landscapes and metropolitan amenities. Whether you are a local looking to rediscover your city or a visitor planning a summer itinerary, the options for getting outside are nearly endless.
The city boasts one of the largest contiguous urban park systems in North America. This means you do not have to drive far to escape the hustle of traffic and find a quiet trail. From the banks of the North Saskatchewan River to the heights of the surrounding hills, the geography provides a natural backdrop for physical activity and relaxation.
Edmonton’s festival spirit extends to its outdoor culture. You will find people biking to work, paddling down the river, and dining on patios well into the late evening sun. The long daylight hours in the summer allow for extended adventures that start after dinner and end under a colorful prairie sky.
This guide focuses on the best ways to enjoy the fresh air and natural beauty of the region. We have prioritized activities that are accessible, affordable, and suitable for a range of fitness levels. You do not need to be an extreme athlete to enjoy what this city has to offer.
From serene walks through botanical gardens to the adrenaline rush of downhill cycling, there is something for every personality. Families, couples, solo explorers, and groups of friends will all find an activity that suits their pace. The key is to know where to look and how to prepare for the variable Alberta weather.
Below, we have curated a list of fifteen specific outdoor experiences that define the Edmonton lifestyle. Use this as your checklist for making the most of the city’s warmer months.
Fort Edmonton Park
| Address | 7000 143 St NW, Edmonton, AB T6H 4P3, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: Closed Friday: Closed Saturday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM |
| Phone | (780) 496-7381 |
I toured this place with my wife and 2 good friends. We were truly impressed with the place. It is very well kept, clean, with all in the family able to tour. I hope this place will continue to be family oriented and taken care of as when we were there. I also learnt a lot about Canada's indigenous history along with how people lived and the tools that were used. The attendants were wonderful to deal with starting with the lady selling the entrance tickets. I rate this place 100% and a must for families with children to visit.
Had a wonderful experience at Fort Edmonton Park! The park is beautiful, well maintained, and full of fun and educational experiences. The historical exhibits and interactive activities made the visit enjoyable and memorable. Staff were welcoming and created a great atmosphere for visitors of all ages. It’s a perfect place to spend quality time with family and friends while learning about local history. Highly recommend visiting — definitely a place worth coming back to!
Fort Edmonton Park is an absolutely incredible destination where every single generation will undoubtedly find something special for themselves! It perfectly balances fun and education in a beautifully immersive environment. There are wonderful vintage amusement rides that keep the kids fully entertained, while adults can enjoy a profound and fascinating touch of history as they stroll through the beautifully recreated streets. The entire atmosphere is incredibly interesting, deeply authentic, and highly educational. It is absolutely worth visiting to dive headfirst into the different historical eras and see how people used to live. One of the absolute highlights of the experience is getting to ride around the massive park on an authentic steam train or a vintage streetcar — it truly transports you back in time and adds so much charm to the visit. I highly recommend that you must visit this place and check out this amazing experience for yourself!
Great place to spend the day. Taking the train(s) was great, recommend starting from the Indigenous Peoples Experience, I think it was the highlight. Also the kids enjoyed the games, it was fun.
What a great historical park of Edmonton. We took the train from the entrance to the 1846 Fort and what an amazing experience that was. They have workers with a lot of knowledge about the entire park. They even have a farm with chickens, pigs and horses which is more animals than when we visited the edmonton zoo. There are different eras from 1885 to 1920’s and every building is filled with historical artifacts and workers dressed up in those eras to make it feel like your living in the past. I recommend it to anyone visiting. They have rides and refreshments for the kids and trolleys to take you to different areas of the park. They have pony rides and wagon rides as well.
The Backyard
| Address | 10004 103a Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 3T9, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
Love this place when it gets going. Came for the outdoor rave. Good music good drinks. Unfortunately I came during a storm last year but they came out with canopies and the party raged on. The outdoor bathrooms are designed bathrooms and not blue rocket toilets like some places😹 waiting for the next rave as they seem to be infrequent.
Went for the first time to a concert at this venue. Absolutely loved it! The staff and owner was spectacular! Drinks and snacks amazing, and the concert was unforgettable!
I loved that it had a more personal feel with the artists as you are close and cozy with them while they perform.
I also loved that there were backyard games available to play and food trucks. BUT what I also loved was that you can uber in food!!
The stage area was decorated beautifully and the bathroom was super clean and not stinky!!
I totally would come back and purchase concert tickets and bring my friends to hangout for a fun filled evening!
We had the best time at Last Call Before Fall!
I am so unbelievably thankful for The Backyard making this an all ages show so we were able to share in something we love as a family.
The owners of this establishment are amazing, the drinks and snacks are to die for, and the concept of The Backyard is exactly what Edmonton needs for summer. We are looking forward to seeing what they have in store next!
Guest DJ was billed to play for 5 hour. We came hot with vibes and expectations. We only got less than 1 hour and now I am mentioning them too...what a loss-loss for the party-goers and a win-win for organizers 🤭
This fully outdoor venue is a true gem in the city, offering an ambiance that is both vibrant and relaxing.
From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with top-notch service. The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, making sure that every guest felt welcome and well taken care of. Their professionalism and warmth truly set the tone for the evening.
The music at The Backyard is simply phenomenal. With a lineup of talented DJs, the atmosphere was electric. The beats were perfectly curated to keep the energy high and the dance floor packed. Whether you're a fan of house, techno, or any other genre, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the standout features of this venue is its outdoor setting. The open-air environment adds a unique charm, allowing guests to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful surroundings while dancing the night away. It's the perfect spot for those who love to socialize and enjoy great music under the stars.
Overall, The Backyard exceeded all my expectations. The combination of excellent service, fantastic music, and a stunning outdoor venue makes it a must-visit destination.
River Valley Adventure Co
| Address | 9731 Grierson Hill NW, Edmonton, AB T5H 0B5, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
We went on Friday August 21st 2026 at 2pm and our tour guide was Chet I think his name was. Very professional and very good experience Chet was a great guide and very fun. Was 6 of us in the group and he stopped to get us pictures and explained everything well. I highly recommend this to be on anyone’s to do list if in or around Edmonton. Chet was very safety orientated and great teacher, speaker, and entertainer. 10/10
A delightfully Edmonton kind of outing where adventure and patio time meet — with bike rentals, guided Segway tours, raft and paddleboard options, friendly staff, café treats, drinks, and beautiful river valley views right in the heart of downtown.
For a fuller picture —
River Valley Adventure Co., Edmonton, Downtown / Louise McKinney Park offers the kind of experience that feels active, scenic, and easy to enjoy all at once. Their Edmonton location in Louise McKinney Riverfront Park makes it a natural launch point for enjoying the river valley while still feeling very connected to downtown.
What makes this place feel especially memorable is the range. River Valley Adventure Co. offers guided Segway tours, cycling adventures, bike rentals, raft rentals, paddleboard rentals, snowshoe options, and other sports rentals, so the experience can be as relaxed or as adventurous as you want it to be. With more than 150 km of trails to explore from the area, it feels like such a good fit for both visitors and locals wanting to enjoy the city from a different angle.
The café side adds so much charm too. Urban Green Café is tucked right into their headquarters along the North Saskatchewan River and offers coffee, espresso, organic teas, hot chocolate, ice cream, baked treats, soups, stews, snacks, and a selection of local Alberta craft beer, wine, hard seltzers, and seasonal drinks. The south-facing riverside patio and river views help turn a simple stop into the sort of outing you want to stretch a little longer.
On this visit, what stood out most was how nice it felt to relax at the café, have a bite to eat and a drink, and enjoy the setting as part of a river valley outing. Even when not every activity is fully in season yet, the café and patio already make this a very enjoyable stop in their own right. There is something especially lovely about being able to pause by the river, take in the views, and enjoy a friendly, easygoing atmosphere right in the middle of downtown.
There is also something welcoming about how the whole setup feels. Many of the experiences are beginner-friendly, Segway tours include training, and the overall atmosphere makes it easy to come for the activity, stay for the patio, and leave feeling like you enjoyed a very distinctly local slice of Edmonton.
A fun bonus in the same area is the nearby climbing wall, which adds even more adventure energy for anyone wanting to make more of an outing in this part of the river valley.
At a glance:
Bike rentals, rafting, paddleboards, Segway tours, and seasonal adventures
Riverside café with coffee, snacks, sweets, and alcoholic drinks
Beautiful downtown river valley views
Friendly, welcoming energy
Climbing wall nearby for even more activity in the area
Parking / access:
Paid parking lot nearby. Free and paid street parking depending on the hour. Paid parking at Canada Place and other walking-distance lots can also work well. LRT or bus plus a short walk is another good option.
Vegetarian options:
Typical café-style vegetarian choices may be available, such as baked goods, snack items, soups, or lighter menu selections, though offerings can vary by season and daily preparation.
Dietary restrictions:
Guests with strict dietary needs or food allergies should check with staff before ordering, as ingredients, menu items, and preparation methods may vary, and cross-contact may be possible.
Kid-friendly:
A fun choice for families, especially those wanting an outdoor Edmonton outing with scenic views, activity options, and a relaxed place to stop for a treat or drink.
Wheelchair accessibility:
It is best to call ahead for the latest details, as accessibility may vary depending on the activity booked, patio conditions, and riverfront pathways.
$6.50 for tasty nonalcoholic beer, the patio is disorganized, and the workers had no idea about their product that they were selling.
very vapid
We had a wonderful, no we had an awesome time touring Edmonton River trails using their rocky mountain trail bikes. There was 4 adults, 3 teens, 2 kids. The snacks and drinks at the end of our tour was fantastic at their river front store was great. Thanks for the highlight of our trip!
The bike I rented (I did not go on a tour) was probably not sufficiently prepared for my all day rental. The chain kept on slipping in the middle gears on 4-5% slopes so I was forced to resort to either a too high gear or a too low gear to continue my ride. It was definitely due to the chain being stretched and/or cassette ware. It was quite frustrating because we rode 48K for the day with the chain slipping. We mentioned it to the employee when we returned the bike hoping that maybe they would offer a discount or some kind of compensation since the bike was not performing as it should, but nothing was offered. I just hope they change the chain and cassette for the next customer. Good bike otherwise
William Hawrelak Park
| Address | 9330 Groat Rd NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 2T5, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (780) 442-5311 |
Such a peaceful and relaxing spot! 🦆🌿 One of my favorite places to enjoy nature in Edmonton.
There’s lots of wildlife around the lake, especially ducks and birds. The walking trails are great for a leisurely stroll, and now you can also bring a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard out on the water! 🛶
On a nice summer day, there’s honestly nothing better than being out on the lake with a gentle breeze, watching the ducks swim by. Even if you don’t go on the water, just walking along the lake or sitting by the shore is incredibly relaxing.
Such a lovely little escape from the city without actually having to leave the city. Definitely worth visiting in the summer! 💚
William Hawrelak Park is one of Edmonton’s most beautiful parks and has become even better after the recent renovations. The revitalized amenities, walking paths, landscaping, and event spaces make it a fantastic destination for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk around the lake, a family picnic, paddling on the water, or attending one of the many festivals and concerts, there’s something here for every season. We were even lucky enough to spot a deer during our visit, which made the experience even more memorable.
The park is clean, well-maintained, and offers plenty of space to relax while still feeling close to the city. The new public art installations and updated facilities add a fresh, modern feel while preserving everything that has made Hawrelak Park a favourite for generations.
A true Edmonton landmark that’s absolutely worth visiting—whether it’s your first time or your hundredth. Highly recommended! 🌳🦌🌊
Beautifully redone no doubt. Looking forward to having a proper restaurant by the waterfront. Love the new benches and fireplaces. The playground is just stunning!
Two big missed opportunities though:
1) Why not have the pathway actually be waterfront the whole way around? More than half the path goes behind the trees and by the road. Would've been lovely if they made the path right by the water vs pedestrians have to walk by a road and the parking...
2) speaking of the path - why is it not marked with a centre line? Why also couldn't they have divided it so that a section is for pedestrians, and another is for bikers? Could've widened the path and easily done this, which is a shame because come summer time that path is going to be chaos. Please look to Montreal for ideas on how to do this properly.
It’s nice to be able to check out this park now that it’s reopened after the upgrades. It’s a great spot to spend an afternoon, with lots of picnic areas throughout the park. The trail around the water is nice, and the trail along the river is worth exploring too. Nice playground area for the kids too.
Huge park with best playground in Edmonton! We loved the huge slide and tall walkway. Accessible washrooms too.
Grizzly Bear Lodge Park
| Address | River Valley Walterdale, Edmonton, AB T6E 6T6, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:30 AM – 10:30 PM Tuesday: 5:30 AM – 10:30 PM Wednesday: 5:30 AM – 10:30 PM Thursday: 5:30 AM – 10:30 PM Friday: 5:30 AM – 10:30 PM Saturday: 6:30 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
This is one of the most amazing playgrounds! A huge area, clean and very green. Lots of trees, which create shade in the summer, making it very comfortable here. Different themed zones. Pure enjoyment and relaxation. Everyone had a great time. Plenty of benches.
There’s a restroom nearby, and it’s very clean.
Clean and newer playground structures with loose wood chips and sand as well. However, the challenge level (difficulty) for play structure are mostly toddler friendly (under 5). And most of the slides have big drop off at the end of slides for little ones. Wood chips are being refilled but still need tons more to bring up the ground level for kids to use slides.
Lots of shades and tables for bbq.
Spray park was closed for repair work as of Sept 11.
My kid 4yr had fun but if your kids is 6 or older, they would seek for more challenging structure.
Well maintained open field and clean washroom.
One of the best children's playgorund area that I have seen in Edmonton. Good to see lot of families with children here (and a lot of hot babes too 😉
Great park. Huge field to run around in, public bathrooms available, massive play area with multiple different types of equipment for children of any age to play on. Splash pad also here, although we didn't get to try it. We easily spent 2 hours here with 4 children (ages 2.5 to 5) and could have easily spent longer (especially if we had used the splash pad). Would definitely return!
Amazing park scenery with a view of the Edmonton famous bridge to die for
Edmonton Corn Maze
| Address | 51529 Range Rd 262, Spruce Grove, AB T7Y 1C1, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 1:00 – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (825) 535-3600 |
It was a fun experience! Dog friendly, good date spot or even a family event. We saw people celebrating their birthday here as well. Lots of activities to do. I would attend earlier in the afternoon than later as it gets quite busy, but there was enough parking which was good. There’s also a cute store with cotton candy and other goodies (cowboy hat key chains), pretty sweet overall! 🍁🍂
This place is easy to get to. Lots of parking. Either buy tickets online for a buck cheaper or at the gate (regular price). Once inside, there are lots of activities for everyone. Kids games, corn maze, sunflower field, picnic area, games for adults, goats and chickens areas. There's a store to buy local foods and handmade items. I'm probably missing a lot more things. You can easily spend a couple of hours here.
This place is absolutely beautiful and such a wonderful spot to enjoy with family, especially if you have young kids. The animals are well taken care of, and you can even feed them for just $0.25. Right now, you can also find sunflowers, which you can purchase if you’d like.
The corn maze is so much fun and great for all ages. There’s a wide variety of activities for children of all ages, from little ones to teenagers.
Parking is very spacious and easy—you’ll always find a spot.
Tickets can be purchased online or in person; I’ve done both and had great experiences each time.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks, and there’s also a small shop where you can find snacks and beverages.
Highly recommended! 🌻✨
It is a fun place to spend part of day. Besides maze, there are lots of other activities, especially for kids of all ages, like jumping pillow, mini golf, petting zoo, etc. Lots of sunflowers for taking good pictures. Highly recommend!
Had a great time at the Edmonton Corn Maze! Lots of fun options for kids and families. The popcorn was fresh and delicious. The maze had two trails to explore and solve this time, which kept everyone engaged. We visited in early October, and while the sunflowers weren’t blooming then, it was still a wonderful experience overall. Highly recommend for summer/fall outing!
Muttart Conservatory
| Address | 9626 96a St NW, Edmonton, AB T6C 4L8, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (780) 442-5311 |
The Muttart Conservatory is such a beautiful place to visit. We only stopped in to browse the gift shop, pick up some flowers, and grab a drink from the café before walking through to Gallagher Park, but it was a wonderful experience. The entry area is bright and welcoming, the flowers were fresh and beautiful, and the café was a great spot for a quick break. Even without touring the pyramids this time, the atmosphere was peaceful and inviting. It’s a lovely place to stop, whether you’re exploring the conservatory or just passing through on your way to Gallagher Park. We’ll definitely be back to spend more time exploring!
Super informative and beautiful place to visit AND it's not too far away from central Edmonton. Absolutely loveeeee the tropical pyramid as we recognized so many popular houseplants and their potential (they got so much bigger in their ideal environment). The calathea here were so much healthier and bigger than mine at home.
Employees were very friendly too. We visited on a weekday and there were still many other visitors as well as kids. We saw that Muttart also have adult-only night/day so that's an option for future visits!
The Edmonton Muttart Conservatory is a hidden gem that offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Nestled in the heart of the city, it’s an ideal spot for anyone seeking a peaceful environment to sit and meditate.
One of the highlights of the conservatory is the **Temperate Zone Pyramid**, which I absolutely adore. It’s fascinating to witness how the flora evolves with the seasons. Each visit reveals a unique display of vibrant colors and textures, making it a refreshing experience every time. The dynamic nature of this space truly enhances the meditative atmosphere.
Equally captivating is the **Exhibition Pyramid**. This area is always buzzing with new themes, which keeps every visit exciting and fresh. I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing various exhibitions, from the enchanting **Mars** theme to the whimsical **Storybook** setup, and now the intriguing **Prehistoric** exhibit. The way the conservatory creatively integrates these themes with plant life is nothing short of impressive. It not only educates visitors about the plants but also sparks the imagination, inviting exploration and curiosity.
Overall, the Muttart Conservatory is a beautifully curated space that seamlessly combines nature, education, and art. Whether you’re looking to meditate in the serene Temperate Zone or explore the ever-changing themes of the Exhibition Pyramid, you’re sure to find something that resonates with you. I highly recommend a visit for anyone looking to connect with nature in a peaceful setting.
Great way to spend a rainy day, as you can still view nature while indoors (it was pouring rain when we went!). The different plant varieties and climate environments (tropics, arid, etc) were wonderful to experience and shows this place is run by people who care about plants. The plants in each section were well taken care of, and the design with the pyramids separating the different ecosystems was pretty unique. There’s also a koi pond here. It’ll probably take about an hour or less to walk through all the plant exhibits.
They also sell plants too in the gift shop area. They have a small cafe to rest, but the drink was okay.
Abaolutely love the Muttart Conservatory! It is disability friendly whether you are outside in the park, or indoors in the pyramids, or just in the plant shop at the front, there are wide halls, gently sloped floors and easy transitions. While it was crowded with school tours the day we went, it was still a lovely experience, but if you want adult only, they can offer that as well! All in all, this is a budget friendly, family friendly adventure you would be sad to miss when visiting Alberta's capital.
Borden Park
| Address | 7507 Borden Park Rd NW, Edmonton, AB T5B 4W8, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (780) 442-5311 |
Amazing park close to downtown. Lots of shaded and unshaded picnic spots. Easy access via piblic transit. Lots of parking. Washrooms are in the pavilion. Nice walking and running trail/track. Very unique art sculpture. 3 play structure for kids including slide, monkey bar, ropes etc. Free parking lot. Fenced Swimming pool not sure what are its operating time frame, during our visit it was closed. There is a stage/stadium. Wheelchair and stroller accessible. Over all great park must visit if you are in Edmonton. Check out videos and images follow me for more detailed reviews.
This park offers visitors a decent-sized area for walking and relaxation. This park also boasts several amenities that make it a favorable destination for those seeking outdoor activities. One of the standout features is the enclosed public bathroom housed in a heated building, providing visitors with convenience and comfort throughout their visit.
The park's layout allows for leisurely strolls, and the ample space ensures that visitors can enjoy their walks without feeling crowded. However, it is worth mentioning that the park could benefit from some attention when it comes to cleanliness. There have been instances of scattered garbage, which detracts from the overall ambiance. Proper maintenance and regular cleaning would greatly enhance the park's appeal.
While the natural beauty of the park is evident, it becomes apparent that with proper landscaping, Borden Park could truly flourish as an exquisite destination for exercise enthusiasts. If this park was introducing well-planned green spaces, floral displays, and perhaps even a variety of trees and shrubs, the park could transform into a picturesque haven, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature.
Mid sized urban park with a playground, pool and many picnic shelters to rent. The park was very clean when we visited and seemed many facilities were fairly recently renovated. Lots of trees all around! And parking was free which is a bonus.
This is an excellent park! We actually had our wedding pictures taken here 14 years ago. Since then there has been lots of changes to the park. All good ones. The park had so much to offer! Great place for picnics, our friend had her sons party there and it was the perfect location! If you've never been check it out!
I love this place! Walk, jog,bike, swim, or play soccer and have a picnic. This park is huge it's got lots of trees so even on a hot day you will be in a good shaded spot. There is plenty of space for anyone to enjoy.
Also great smooth surfaced side walks for little one's learning to ride their bikes or skate board. There is a outdoor public swimming pool which is the only non chlorine swimming pool in Edmonton.
Elk Island National Park
| Address | Improvement District No. 13, AB, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (780) 922-5790 |
One of the most underrated national parks! I had an incredible experience as the scenery here is incredible and you get to see plenty of wildlife while driving around! Make sure to visit during sunrise or sunset to see the bisons along the road or on the bison loop trail! Completely recommend visiting while in Edmonton!
We visited in mid September and were greeted to hundreds of bison minutes entering the park. We spotted them in the bison loop, it was genuinely really terrifying being surrounded by them, but also really amazing and I know we were super lucky to have this experience. We even saw a heard on the side of the Hwy outside of the park!
Elk Island National Park is a fantastic getaway just outside the city! The park offers beautiful lakes, perfect for canoeing and spotting wildlife. The trails are well-maintained and cater to all levels of hikers. We especially enjoyed the peaceful scenery around Astotin Lake, and the chance to see bison up close was amazing! Whether you're into bird watching, hiking, or simply relaxing by the water, this park has something for everyone. Highly recommend for a day trip or a weekend escape!
Elk Island National Park was high on my list of places to visit on a recent trip to Alberta as I was staying nearby. Although I didn't have a lot of time to spend at the park, it did not disappoint. Seeing bison on the loop drive as well as along the road as we drove through made it all worth it.
It is a lovely, scenic park and is really nice to drive through.
I stopped at Astorin Lake and did the Living Waters Boardwalk trail which was easy and very nice and I also did a small portion of the Beaver Pond trail which was very peaceful.
I would love to spend more time here and explore the park more.
A lovely day trip today. People out here today seem to be aware of social distancing. So that was nice to see. There's lots of scenic trails some were closed because of algae on the lake, but there was still lots of walking to do and some secluded areas. In the last two or three years they have updated this place and done a really good job.
As with any national park you need to pay to go in for the day. About $8 per adult so it's reasonable and they use the money to keep the place looking good.
100 Street Funicular
| Address | 10065 100 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 1J1, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
A family member living in the area suggested we check out this scenic spot during our recent trip to Edmonton. We were looking for something to do while waiting for dinner reservations. It turned out to be a lovely little place that caused absolutely nothing. It was quite interesting and worth a visit. There’s not much to do, just walk the trails and go through an elevator. It was cleaner than I expected, considering it’s public.
Unfortunately, when we visited, the forest areas were very high in mosquitoes. A week before, there had been a recent wave of dampness and flooding, which likely contributed to the mosquito population.
Despite the mosquitoes, you can definitely get some great photos and pictures in this area with its beautiful backgrounds.
Top of the McDougall Hill location for the Funicular and the stairs and seating areas to enjoy the view if you wish to walk down.
At this area at the top of the Funicular next to the Hotel Macdonald do not attempt to to jay walk and run across 100 st to continue with the Promenade walk along MacDonald Drive. There is a curve near the top of McDougall Hill and cars travel very quickly up and down the hill. To safely get to the other side walk north half a block to the intersection of Jasper Ave and 100 St and cross west to the Telus building and then follow the sidewalk south and around.
As a person with mobility issues, I was able to enjoy the spectacular views of the river valley
Can use the glass "elevator" for free. You get nice views of the area including nature, architectures, bridges, etc. There are look out spots that take you further so you can see different angles of the area. Takes about 40-45 seconds to ride the elevator in each direction.
We park at hotel parking area belo and going up to funicular using woodened stairs .
Edmonton Valley Zoo
| Address | 13315 Buena Vista Rd NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 2R7, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Phone | (780) 442-5311 |
We recently visited the Edmonton Valley Zoo and overall had a really nice experience. Although not all of the animals were out during our visit, we still enjoyed walking around and taking in the peaceful atmosphere. It made for a calm, relaxing outing.
My son especially loved seeing the red pandas and the elephant, which was definitely a highlight for him.
The zoo is well laid out with areas where you can sit, walk, and just enjoy your surroundings, which made the visit feel easy and enjoyable even without seeing every animal. Overall, it was a pleasant experience and a nice way to spend time outdoors with family.
A great way to spend a day in Edmonton. Huge, walkable park, featuring many different animals including an elephant (Lucy), exotic birds, monkeys, and otters.
Multiple spots around the park to eat and snack. Enjoyed the merry-go-round at the far left-hand side of the park which is a donation ride mostly cuz it was air conditioned, a great way to cool off after the long walk there.
Gift shop had many collectibles and toys for the kids, and adults too!
Staff were lovely. Weekday and the zoo wasn't too crowded. It has been years since our last visit. Much has changed. To us, it seemed that there were fewer animals. Also, of course, because it was hot, many animals were resting in the shade.
For us, we probably won't be back for a while.
Kids will definitely enjoy the Edmonton Valley Zoo. The layout is easy to walk through and family-friendly, making it a nice outing, especially with younger kids. However, there weren’t many animals during our visit. The white wolf, red panda, and seals were definitely our favorites, but we didn’t get to see the elephant. It might be worth checking ahead for animal availability or visiting during a busier season for a fuller experience.
We visited the zoo on a rainy day and were worried that we might miss Lucy. Zoo intepreters told us that noon is the most likely time to see her, since that is when she usually decides to go for a walk (if she goes for a walk at all). They were right!
I was impressed by the number of interpreters and zoo staff around to answer questions.
My son spent an hour watching the reptiles. The gibbons were very chatty and we watched one of the seals having a really fun interaction with their keeper.
They were busy renovating several exhibits so it seems to me like they are actively addressing concerns like many of those in other reviews.
The arctic/subarctic exhibits landscaping did a pretty good job of mimicking the tundra on a small scale.
Definitely worth the very reasonable price of admission.
Larch Sanctuary
| Address | May Link NW, Edmonton, AB T6R, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (780) 483-7578 |
Beautiful but trails can be a bit on the wild side. It seems you need All Trails to have a map of this place.
Cool place to enjoy nature without leaving city limits. Trail is easy for the active ones and moderate for the first-timers. Even the seniors can enjoy this trail and can choose to take breaks in between.
James smith bridge is a good starting point that offers enough parking space. I have enjoyed this trail in different weather but I still like going there!
Trails here are very rough and not marked. Easy to get off course. There are some dangerous sections with steep drops and a sketchy crossing across a log that spans a gorge. Wear sturdy boots and be ready for an adventure!
Beautiful. Hiking on a hot day is advisable as it is steep is some places. About an hour unless you wander off the trails a bit. Lots of ups and downs— gets the heart going! Not tremendously busy.
Aspen tree beauty.. one side range of trees and other side beautiful houses..
The woods are harmonizing. Its hard to believe you are in the city as well as near to sacred jungle.
Lansdowne Outdoor Stairs
| Address | Southwest Edmonton, Edmonton, AB T6H 4K8, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
Fantastic stairs for working out. They're long enough, easy parking to access, and at this time of year not covered in the trees so the mosquitoes weren't bad with the Sun out
Perfect place to increase your stamina plus an absolutely fantastic view of the Whitemud Creek Ravine and of course, the beautiful Snow Valley Ski Resort.
To shred the lbs and enjoy the beautiful whitemud drive and nature, go to Landsdowne stairs ❤️❤️
Pretty stairy stairs, I’ve never seen stairs before and these are the greatest invention mankind has created, whoever thought that we could move uphill so efficiently and precisely was a genius. Would definitely revisit again.
My preferred spot to do a stairs workout as it is fairly quiet and very few people. People who go to this location are also very nice.
Edmonton Riverboat
| Address | 9734 98 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6C 4P6, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (780) 424-2628 |
The Edmonton Riverboat was a fantastic and relaxing experience, making it a great option for families. After the meal, guests can head upstairs to enjoy the scenic views or relax downstairs near the bar.
The brunch offered a wide variety of food that was good, but the food itself not great. My primary critique relates to while coffee is provided with the meal, other non-alcoholic options, such as juice or soda, require a separate purchase at the bar. Including at least one complimentary non-alcoholic beverage with the meal would add significant value to the overall cost.
Overall, it was an enjoyable outing, but I return for a dinner cruise to see how it compares and update this review if needed.
Awesome experience on the river. I would recommend the buffet or ordering off their bar menu for additional options outside of typical buffet foods. Music was also great, and really helped set the mood.
The drinks are top notch and the view is spectacular, just a shame the ride is over fairly quickly at ~ 1 hr 30 min. I wish it lasted for hours 😄
Since we moved to Edmonton 12 years ago, it was our first time to visit the riverboat! It was so wonderful short trip and felt very relaxing. We booked the brunch buffet. We arrived the parking lot earlier because the limited space. Line up starting at 10am and get ready to on board. Then we can start to grab food before the boat gets moves. The weather was so nice to see the skyline, trees and building around both sides. The staffs were very friendly. It was nice to hung out with family and friends together.
Very nice Mother's Day cruise. Huge delicious buffet style breakfast/brunch and a nice tour of the river and views of the city. We want to try again in a month or so when more of the foliage has bloomed.
(The wait is only because you should be there 1 hr before because of the lineup.)
I always enjoy my business meetings on the Edmonton Riverboat. The food is consistently delicious, the views are spectacular, and the overall experience is outstanding. Janine and her team provide exceptional service that truly sets them apart. It's a great place to visit for any occasion!
Terwillegar Park
| Address | 10 Rabbit Hill Rd NW, Edmonton, AB T6R 0R7, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (780) 442-5311 |
Beautiful park in the heart of Edmonton. Lots of well-maintained trails and off leash areas for the puppies. Great views of the rivers on both the trails and foot bridges. Great spot for the whole family.
This is one of the best park in Edmonton, I love visiting here, it's close to the place where I live. It's amazing place to come with your dogs if you have any, else you can still enjoy this place sitting by the river, fly a kite or get your bike and go on the trail, or simply just walk the trail. In the recent visit I saw a lot of bird in the river, mostly the gulls and terns, it was just beautiful to watch them. The footbridge is also closeby so you can also visit there if you have enough time. You can enjoy the time here on any day.
This is Edmonton's best all around park for the whole family. Great access to the River, an abundance of walking trails, bike trails and paths for human and canine alike. There is also a variety of edible berries June to September. A great place for saskatoons, chokecherries, buffalo berries, soap berries, and seabuck thorn berries and so many wildflowers!
This park is amazing, the dogs get to roam free, you have cyclists on their bike trails, walkers, swimmers, dogs also enjoying the water, art enthusiasts etc. I was enjoying the lake myself. It was a magical walk with me and my two friends. A huge plus was on this day, nobody was rude to me, or made any Indigenous or prejudice comments towards me. This was such a great day! If you were to walk in Mocs, I would give this place nine feathers out of ten 🪶🪶🪶🪶🪶🪶🪶🪶🪶being near water also brought a sense of serenity to the day.
We visited Terwillegar Park on a sunny day during the summer.
There were many kinds of small flowers in different colors along the trail. The atmosphere was so nice and peaceful.
Although there was a lot of grass, there were not many mosquitoes biting, which was quite amazing to me.
Tips for Enjoying Outdoor Activities in Edmonton
Before you head out the door, a little local knowledge can go a long way in ensuring a comfortable and safe experience. Edmonton’s weather can change quickly, and the river valley terrain can be more challenging than it looks. The following practical tips will help you navigate the outdoors like a seasoned local, ensuring you spend less time worrying and more time enjoying the scenery.
- Dress in Layers: Even on a hot summer day, the river valley can be significantly cooler and windier than the surrounding neighborhoods. A light jacket or windbreaker is essential, especially if you plan to be out near the water during the evening.
- Check the Air Quality: During the late summer, wildfire smoke from British Columbia or northern Alberta can drift into the city. Always check the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) before engaging in strenuous physical activity.
- Respect the River: The North Saskatchewan River has strong currents and shifting sandbars. Unless you are with a licensed guide or are an experienced paddler with proper safety gear, avoid swimming in the river. Stick to designated boat launches for kayaks and canoes.
- Utilize the River Valley Stairs: If you want a free and efficient workout, look for the various staircases connecting the top of the bank to the valley floor. They offer a great cardiovascular challenge and often provide stunning views as a reward.
- Plan for the Sun: Edmonton’s northern latitude means the sun can be intense during the summer months. Apply high-SPF sunscreen frequently, wear a hat, and carry more water than you think you need, as water fountains are not always available on the more remote trails.
Exploring Edmonton outdoors is about embracing the city’s natural rhythm. The river valley serves as the green heart of the region, connecting diverse neighborhoods through a network of trails and parks. Taking the time to walk, bike, or paddle through these spaces offers a perspective on the city that you simply cannot get from a car window.
Whether you are watching the leaves change color in the fall or enjoying the vibrant greenery of July, the outdoor spaces here offer a year-round invitation to explore. So lace up your shoes, grab your gear, and discover why Edmonton is consistently ranked as one of Canada’s most livable cities.
