Rich in Heritage

in Edmonton Destination Planner

Edmonton’s signature attractions offer hands-on activities, events and experiential programs reflecting the belief that learning is key — and fun.

Suggested Months: Year-round

DAY 1
Begin the day with insight into the area’s heritage. The Muttart Conservatory — more than 700 species of plants in four spectacular glass pyramids in the central river valley — serves up a fun, interactive approach to its horticultural programs.
Travel back in time at Fort Edmonton Park, Canada’s largest living history park. Join costumed historical interpreters and live a day as a pioneer.
Learn the stories of immigration to Canada at the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, an award-winning provincial historic site just 45 minutes east of Edmonton. Meet costumed role players and explore more than 30 historic buildings.

DAY 2
Officially opened on Sept. 3, 1912, Alberta’s magnificent Legislature Building remains the province’s foremost historic site. This iconic landmark offers tours and insights on Alberta’s Provincial government.
Just west of downtown, the Royal Alberta Museum explores the human and natural history of Alberta. Book a tour, talk to a resident expert, or close your eyes and let a storyteller carry away your imagination. In the evening, explore Edmonton’s Old Strathcona Historic Area, beloved for its bohemian ambience and for the variety of shopping: antiques, gift shops, bookstores and a farmers’ market. Dine at one of the area’s many restaurants then take a guided Ghost Tour, reportedly in the presence of some of Edmonton’s significant ‘spirits’.

DAY 3
Drive just south of the city to skip back half a century to the discovery of oil near Leduc on February 13, 1947. This major find ushered in an era of prosperity and transformed Edmonton into the Oil Capital of Canada. The Leduc #1 Energy Discovery Centre features a replica of the original oil rig, real equipment, photos, scale models and hands-on displays. Continue south to the Reynolds-Alberta Museum, where you can marvel how their outstanding collection of rare and unusual cars, airplanes, tractors and industrial giants are collected and restored.

DAY 4
Many Edmonton attractions build curriculum-based programs for students and youth groups. Experience the wonders of amusement-park science at West Edmonton Mall’s Galaxyland (home of the Mindbender, the world’s largest indoor triple-loop rollercoaster) or get up close and personal with a new whiskered friend with marine life biology at Sea Lions’ Rock.

DAY 5
Forty-five minutes east of Edmonton you will find Elk Island National Park. Learn about this park’s historical importance, natural abundance and plan for preservation will add to your eco-savvy. Take a hike on the Shoreline Trail with a nature interpreter or customize a program at the park’s Living Waters Boardwalk. To truly enjoy these Edmonton highlights, allow at least two hours at each attraction.