Whether you’re just visiting or are an Edmontonian through and through, we’ve got you covered with the best day trips possible. Before you leave the city, be sure to check out West Edmonton Mall. The biggest mall in North America, it’s 5.3 million square feet, contains over 800 stores, two hotels and the world’s largest indoor waterpark, World Waterpark.
Starting at the North Central Co-op in Edmonton’s Millwoods neighbourhood, gas up, check your fluid levels, grab snacks and get right to exploring Alberta’s wilderness!
Sylvan Lake
Tour the town of Sylvan Lake with the entire family, meander around quaint stores and craft breweries. Sylvan Lake is also home to the winner of Best Caesar in Alberta, made by Kjeryn Dakin, owner of Bukwildz Restaurant and Bar. After you’ve tried Dakin’s caesar be sure to compare it our personal favourite recipe and let us know what you think on Facebook or Instagram! Be sure to check out the lighthouse and marina before heading down to the beach for an afternoon in the sun.
North Saskatchewan River
If you’re in the mood for something more physical, take a canoe trip down the North Saskatchewan River starting in Devon and ending up back in Edmonton. Canoeing the North Saskatchewan River can be a five- to six-hour day trip, but if you’re not familiar with the area, we would suggest hiring a guide, paddling with a group or taking a tour.
University of Alberta Botanic Garden
Formerly named the Devonian Botanical Gardens, this stunning botanical garden stretches across 240 acres. Highlights of the University of Alberta Botanic Garden include a Japanese garden, a tropical plant and butterfly showhouse, an Indigenous garden and the Aga Khan Garden, which was a gift from the Aga Khan himself. It’s an impressive 4.8-hectare Mughal-inspired garden equipped with secret forest paths, fruit orchards, granite and limestone terraces, pools, ponds, waterfalls and streams.
Jurassic Forest
Do you know what an Archaeopteryx is? You will after visiting the Jurassic Forest. Jurassic Forest takes you on a trip back to prehistoric times. You will come face-to-face with dinosaurs, can play dinosaur mini-golf and (depending on your age) are welcome to ride a giant dinosaur!
Jurassic Forest isn’t the only place with giant dinosaurs, though. Drumheller, Alta., boasts the World’s Largest Dinosaur standing four and a half times the size of Tyrannosaurus rex. Drumheller is close to three-and-a-half hours from Edmonton, so a multi-day trip might be in your best interest. If you’re in Calgary, however, it’s an easy one-day trip.
St. Albert
St. Albert, located just north of Edmonton, is home to the largest outdoor farmers’ market in Western Canada. The market attracts crowds up to 20,000 people on Saturdays during the summer and early fall and features 270 vendors.
Elk Island National Park
Be bison aware in Elk Island National Park. The park played a vital role in conserving North America’s bison population. Family-friendly activities include hiking, kayaking, canoeing, wildlife-watching and golfing.
Discovery Wildlife Park
If you didn’t get your wildlife fill at Elk Island, head over to Discovery Wildlife Park. Discovery Wildlife Park isn’t your average zoo — they provide homes for animals in need. The animals at the park are orphans who can’t be rehabilitated, ex-zoo animals or exotic pets who were kept illegally. They have shows with the animals and trainers, camping facilities and tours to let you get up close and personal.
