Warm weather activities for those new to Edmonton
There are tons of to-do lists for tourist attractions in Edmonton, but not too many lists of things to do for new Edmontonians. If you’ve recently moved to the capital city, here are a few things to do to during the warmer months to acquaint yourself with your new city like a local. [Image credit: iStock.com/&@169 indykb]
Old Strathcona Farmers Market
10310 83 Ave NW, Edmonton AB T6E 5C3What better way to get to know the locals than to buy produce and food from local farmers, bakers and artisans? Open year-round on Saturdays, this indoor marketplace is packed with 130 vendors hawking everything from fresh hummus and homemade perogies to gluten-free treats and handmade jewellery. Buy some crispy green onion cakes and sip on organic coffee while you take a leisurely stroll around. Edmonton and surrounding area also has many other outdoor markets worth checking out, too.
William Hawrelak Park
9330, Groat Rd NW, Edmonton AB T6G 2A8This park is located in the heart of Edmonton’s river valley. With green space galore, walking and biking trails and a small lake with paddle boats, it’s the perfect place to relax. Pack a picnic, bring a Frisbee and your comfy walking shoes and enjoy our sunny, warm weather while it lasts. The park gets busy on weekends, so go on a weekday if you want to avoid crowds.
Princess Theatre
10337 82 Avenue NW, Edmonton AB T6E 1Z9The Princess Theatre on Whyte Avenue is the oldest standing movie theatre in town. Built in 1915, it comes with plenty of architectural charm, from the vaulted ceilings to the balcony seating. Focusing on independent movies and documentaries, the Princess offers something different than your mainstream theatre. After your movie, walk along Whyte Ave and take in the sights. Also, check out the Garneau Theatre for more indie movies.
Commonwealth Stadium
11000 Stadium Rd NW, Edmonton AB T5H 4E2When it’s not hockey season, go cheer on the Edmonton Eskimos, our community-owned CFL team. If you want to bring your whole family and avoid the rowdies, there’s a Family Huddle section that is general admission and alcohol-free. You can purchase single game tickets at Save-On Foods.
Rapid Fire Theatre Society
9828 101A Ave NW, Edmonton AB T5J 3C6Whether you’re a fan of improv theatre or not, you’ll have a good time at any of the Rapid Fire shows. The award-winning group is internationally-renowned for their wackiness, quick-wit and talent. RFT’s popularity means they have outgrown their former theatre at Varscona and are now headquartered at the Citadel Theatre. Check out their Improvaganza festival in June for a taste of comedy.
Mill Creek (Outdoor) Swimming Pool
8200 95a St, Edmonton ABA summer in Edmonton is not complete without at least one trip to an outdoor pool. Mill Creek Outdoor Pool has picnic tables, concession stands, a sun deck and a slide for the whole family to enjoy. Like a little oasis in the city, the pool is surrounded by trees. It gets pretty busy on weekends, so try to go on a weekday.
Fort McMurray-Lac La Biche Constituency Office
10110 Fraser Avenue, Suite 107, Fort McMurray AB T9H 5C2Everybody who lives in Edmonton has been at the ‘Leg’ at some point, whether for Canada Day celebrations, or just spending an afternoon on the grounds with a picnic. If you’re interested in brushing up on your political history knowledge, there are free tours of the pillared building 362 days a year. Afterwards, explore the vast grounds offering views of the North Saskatchewan River and dip your toes in the wading pools and fountains.
Fort Edmonton Park
7000 143rd Street, Edmonton AB T5J 2R7While some may consider Fort Edmonton to be touristy, it’s still a fun place to visit. Transport yourself back to Edmonton’s past, starting with the 1846 fur trading era and work your way chronologically through the park to end on the 1920s metropolitan era, complete with historic streetcars and a vintage midway with rides and games.
Art Gallery Of Alberta
2 Sir Winston Churchill Sq NW, Edmonton AB T5J 2C1With its shimmering glass and steel exterior, the AGA holds thousands of art pieces and is home to numerous workshops, tours, Zinc restaurant and even yoga classes. For the adults, there are Late Night Wednesdays complete with artsy cocktails; for kids there is the Tour for Tots. There’s also free admission night the last Thursday of every month from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Afterwards, cross the street to check out what’s happening in Churchill Square.
