Well, Edmonton, here we are! The last few days of March, with April peeking its head out from around the corner. We’re sure you’re already looking forward to nicer weather, so we’re just adding a few things that will make next month that much sweeter!
Here are 20 socially-distant things to do in Edmonton this April.
Available Options
TRY SOME EASTER TREATS AND FEASTS
Easter’s right around the corner, folks! If you’re looking to celebrate with some delicious treats or a nice meal, look no further than our recent roundup.
Where: Click the link above for more info
CHECK OUT A DOME DINING EXPERIENCE
The latest dome dining experience in Edmonton has brought out the big guns in Edmonton’s culinary scene. We have to admit, the novelty of dome dining still hasn’t worn off for us, and we think it’d be a great dinner-out option due to the semi-private setting.
When: Weekends until April 11th
Where: Victoria Golf Course, 12130 River Valley Rd NW
Cost: $125 per person
TOUR SOME ROADSIDE ATTRACTIONS
Edmonton seriously might be the best city in Canada for access to roadside attractions. There are over a dozen amazing, small-town sights to see, from a giant Easter Egg to the world’s first official UFO Landing Pad. And, unlike those poor folks in Calgary, we can get to them in a day trip or less.
Where: Click the link above for more info
CONNECT WITH SOME INFLATABLE STATUES
The latest public art installation in Edmonton is a series of 6 inflatable statues. Inspired by a 1973 animated movie by the same name ‘Fantastic Planet’ features some curious giants up to 3 stories high. While we wait for museums to reopen, we think this is a great option.
When: On until April 12th
Where: Locations around downtown Edmonton
FIND YOUR SPARK DOWNTOWN
Turns out, ‘Fantastic Planet’ is the start of a trio of public art installations that came to Edmonton this spring. Over the next few weeks, some giant inflatable birds and illuminated rabbit sculptures will also be getting installed around the city.
When: On until April 30th
Where: Click the link above for more info
STREAM A MOVIE
While we’d classify the majority of them as ‘films’ (lifts pinky) instead of movies, the Metro Cinema has some great options that give you more to talk about than ‘Green guy go smash’. But hey, who are we to judge the psychological transformation of Dr. Banner?
When: Streaming throughout April
Where: Online
Cost: Varies
WATCH SOME HOCKEY
The Oilers continuously prove themselves as a top contender this season. And, with just over a month left in the regular season, we’re expecting some pretty fierce action. Add in nonstop regional rivalries, and we’re looking at an April filled with hockey excitement!
When: Games throughout April
ROYAL ALBERTA MUSEUM FROM HOME
While it waits to reopen, the Royal Alberta Museum offers a wide variety of educational options that you can access online. Explore the collections on virtual tours, learn to build a banjo (awesome), or take some custom-made quizzes to learn more about the museum.
When: On throughout April
Where: Online
Cost: Free
DO SOME STARGAZING
One great part about the spring? Amazing sunsets and wide-open skies. Make the most of it with a trip to Elk Island National Park- explore some of the trails in the afternoon, then head back to your car for stargazing in the evening. Add in some hot cocoa in a thermos and you’re cruising!
When: Throughout April
Where: 54401 Range Road 203, Fort Saskatchewan
Cost: $7.90 for admissions
GET A LIBRARY CARD
You know what they say- having fun isn’t hard when you’ve got a library card! Cozy up on the couch and treat yourself to a world of adventure. Plus, books have this weird effect where you feel productive afterwards, in a way that Netflix just can’t compare. Maybe that’s just us, though.
Where: Click the link above for more info
Cost: Free!
HIT UP THE FARMERS’ MARKETS
We love takeout and delivery as much as the next person. But, sometimes, it’s nice to just grab some fresh fruits and veggies, or some local baking, or a nice frozen meal. And, there’s no better place to do that than at Edmonton’s farmers’ markets!
When: Open throughout April
Where: Various locations
WATCH A PLAY
Missing watching live shows at the Citadel Theatre? While you wait for their return, you can still support them by streaming a show or two from their virtual options. That way, you’ll be that much more excited when they finally get the green light again.
When: Streaming throughout April
Where: Online
Cost: Varies
ZOOM AROUND ON SOME GO-KARTS
While you can’t trash some 12-year-olds, we think that a trip to the new DRIVE Go-Kart track in West Ed is a solid idea. You can book the entire thing for a heavily discounted price, but, the catch is that everyone needs to be from the same household. Good idea for families or those with multiple roommates.
When: Reservations daily
Where: Inside West Edmonton Mall
Cost: $249 for 2 private races
HIT THE DRIVING RANGE
We’re sure the golf enthusiasts are way ahead of us here, but driving ranges around the city are starting to open once more. We think Alberta is actually one of the best places in Canada to be a golfer, thanks to our serious mix of foothills and prairies. But for now, get a few warm-up buckets in while you wait.
When: Now open
Where: 13510 Ellerslie Road SW
Cost: Varies
HEAD TO THE ZOO
That’s right folks, the Edmonton Public Zoo has officially reopened! While the indoor exhibits are closed for the foreseeable future, you’ll still be able to enjoy all the outdoor ones. Watching red pandas zoom around? Yes please!
When: Open throughout April
Where: 13315 Buena Vista Road
Cost: $10.95 (reduced price)
TRY A TOP-RATED RESTAURANT
Yelp’s recent roundup of the top places to try in Edmonton this year is a far cry from ‘insider’ lists, but we think that’s a good thing. After all, you don’t have to spend a ton of money to get amazing food, you just have to know where to go. So, consider this like a cheat code to get you started.
Where: Click the link above for more info
SEE WHAT’S NEW FOR DISNEY+ AND NETFLIX
Disney+ and Netflix continue to create amazing shows and movies for our enjoyment. This month, we’ve got a new The Mighty Ducks series to see on Disney+ and the latest documentary series from David Attenborough on Netflix. At least, that’s what we’re looking forward to.
When: Throughout April
PLANNED OPTIONS
EXPLORE AN AMAZING VAN GOGH EXHIBIT
Imagine Van Gogh has been causing a stir all over the world, most recently delighting folks in Vancouver. They’re waiting on the go-ahead from the province, but have a tentative starting date of April 15th. Fingers crossed things will be safe enough by then!
When: Slated to open April 15th
Where: 7515 118 Ave NW
Tickets: $39.99 and up
TAKE A TRIP TO THE GARDEN
While we don’t have an exact date, the U of A Botanic Garden is currently gearing up to welcome visitors once more this spring. We personally think botanic gardens are underrated spots- try looking at pretty flowers and plants for a few hours and not being in a good mood after.
When: Opens this spring
Where: Parkland County, Alberta
Cost: $18.75
RETURN TO THE MUTTART CONSERVATORY
This is wishful thinking on our end, but we’re expecting museums, galleries and other indoor attractions to reopen before spring ends. And, the first thing on our ‘to-see’ list is the Muttart Conservatory, which has been undergoing extensive renovations for over a year!
When: Opening pending public health restrictions
Where: 9626 96A Street
That’s our list of things to do around Edmonton this April, folks! Now, get out there and have some springtime fun, whatever you’re in the mood for.
