Happy Thursday, Edmonton! We’re looking at the forecast for this weekend and pretty much everywhere, it’s gonna be hot. So, ditch that jacket, put on some sunscreen, and enjoy an absolute scorcher of a weekend. How? Well, we’ve got a few ideas in mind for you.

Here are 10 things to do in Edmonton this weekend.

HIT THE BEACH

Nothing screams summer more than a trip to the beach for a day of splashing around. And luckily, Alberta is no stranger to them. From ice-cold lakes in the Rockies to some sun-loving options in the prairies, this province is filled with incredible options!

Where: Click the link above for our picks

VISIT A ROOFTOP PATIO

The newly renovated CRAFT Beer Market in Edmonton has officially reopened! And the shining star here? A gorgeous new rooftop patio to check out. After all, it’s hard to beat a cool beverage in the open air on a hot summer’s day, and we like new options.

Where: 10013 101A Ave

EXPLORE ELK ISLAND NATIONAL PARK

There are two animals Alberta should be known for- wild horses and bison. While the wild horses are kind of a crapshoot, Elk Island is pretty much the way to see bison in all of Canada. Pair that with a ton of other amenities like lakes and nature trails, and Elk Island is perfect for an outdoorsy day trip.

When: Open throughout the summer
Where: 54401 Range Road 203, Fort Saskatchewan
Cost: $7.90 for admissions

EXPLORE THE BADLANDS

Looking to get out of town this weekend? One option is taking the drive down to Drumheller and the Badlands area. Turns out, there’s a lot more than a giant T. Rex to check out while you’re there. Although, we won’t deny that it’s a must-visit top during the trip.

Where: Click the link above for our picks

U OF A BOTANIC GARDEN

There’s something special about visiting a garden during the summer. Especially when that garden features thousands of plants and beautiful areas a-plenty. Enjoy some incredible flowers in bloom then lounge under a tree for a picnic! It’s a great way to beat the heat.

When: Open throughout the summer
Where: Parkland County, Alberta
Cost: $18.75

ART GALLERY OF ALBERTA

Of course, a great indoor option this weekend is the Art Gallery of Alberta. Here, you’ll find some incredible pieces from both well-known and up-and-coming artists from around the world. If you feel like a little culture (and a break from the heat) is what you need, this is your spot.

When: Open throughout the weekend
Where: 2 Sir Winston Churchill Square
Cost: $14

AL FRESCO ON 4TH

Al Fresco on 4th is back for the summer! This fantastic outdoor experience rolls a market, food trucks and expanded patios into one convenient location. So, whether you’re looking for a beverage on a patio, the hustle and bustle of the market, or something fresh from a local food truck, this is the place to be.

When: Saturdays throughout the summer

GRAB A SCOOP OF ICE CREAM

What’s more summer than a quick trip to one of Edmonton’s best ice cream shops? From plant-based flavours to out-of-this-world ideas, Edmonton’s ice cream scene is nothing to shake a stick at. Try a waffle cone, instead!

Where: Click the link above for our picks

GO BE COOL IN THE POOL

Looking to splash around but trying to stay in the city? Don’t worry, because 4 different pools around Edmonton (including the Kinsmen Centre) have reopened. If you’re looking to splash around a little bit this summer, then these are some great options!

When: Now open
Where: All around Edmonton
Cost: Varies

RETURN TO THE MUTTART CONSERVATORY

After just under 2 years of waiting, the Muttart Conservatory has reopened to the public! The iconic Edmonton landmark originally closed for renovations and updates back in 2019, but the pandemic really threw a wrench in their reopening plan. But hey, they’re back just in time for summer, so we’re not complaining.

When: Now open!
Where: 9626 96a St NW
Tickets: $14.95 for GA

That’s our roundup for this weekend, Edmonton! Stay cool out there!