It’s hard to believe that we’re more than halfway through the summer. Where does the time go, anyway? We can’t answer that, but we do know where the time will go. We’ve created a list of some things you need to do around Edmonton before the summer is over. Now, it’s up to you to get out there and do them!
Here are 15 things to do around Edmonton before the summer ends.
FORT EDMONTON PARK
Fort Edmonton Park reopened earlier this summer after over a year of renovations and upgrades. Now, you can expect a new midway for fun, an Indigenous Peoples Experience for education, and a brand new visitor centre to greet you! It’s a $165M makeover, and you need to check it out.
When: Open throughout the summer
Where: 7000 143 Street NW
Tickets: $26.20 for GA
EDMONTON CORN MAZE
The Corn Maze features around 5km of twists and turns to get lost in. And, while some of the savvier folks out there can do it in 30 minutes or less, the recommended time is more like an hour. Us? Well, if we can escape by nightfall then we’re happy.
When: Open throughout the summer
Where: 26171 Garden Valley Road, Spruce Grove
Cost: $13.50+ for GA
TOGETHER AGAIN CONCERT SERIES
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Ready to get a little music back in your life? This is a great option. The Together Again series hosts socially-distant concerts thanks to a table booking system. In addition to regular concerts, there’s also a Comedy Fest and the return of Edmonton Rockfest to look forward
When: Concerts weekly until September 5th
Where: Edmonton Exhibition Lands
Cost: $59+, tickets on sale Friday, June 11th
AL FRESCO ON 4TH
We can’t forget this beloved market, which also has extended patios and food trucks to enjoy during your visit. Our advice? Swing by a local spot for some brunch, then hit up the market for your dinner supplies that evening!
When: Saturdays throughout the summer
Where: 104th Street Promenade
ALBERTA INTERNATIONAL AIRSHOW
If you have your head in the clouds this summer, then this option is for you. The Alberta International Airshow returns for one weekend only this summer. See everything from historic bombers to state-of-the-art fighter jets up close and personal.
When: August 21st and August 22nd
Where: Villeneuve Airport
Cost: $25+
TOGETHER WE FRINGE
For a more local flare, you should definitely check out Together We Fringe, put on by the Edmonton Fringe Theatre. This 10-day long event features a mix of both in-person and virtual events, ranging from magic shows to 1-person plays and even some dramatic shows.
When: August 12th to August 22nd
Where: Venues around Edmonton and online
Cost: Varies per event
IMAGINE VAN GOGH
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After a number of delays, the long-awaited immersive exhibit that took Vancouver by storm is finally in Edmonton! Originally from Europe, this exhibition showcases the artist’s best works on a larger-than-life scale, using high-quality projectors and audio for a more immersive experience.
When: Open throughout the summer
Where: 7515 118 Avenue NW
Cost: $41.61 and up for GA
ELK ISLAND NATIONAL PARK
It’s no secret that Elk Island is a fantastic way to spend a day outside. Walk the trails, swing by a lake, and try to find a few bison roaming around! It’s the trifecta for an outdoorsy day this summer, and a must-do part of our list every year.
When: Open throughout the summer
Where: 54401 Range Road 203, Fort Saskatchewan
Cost: $7.90 for admissions
SNOW VALLEY AERIAL PARK
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For a more thrilling option, the Snow Valley Aerial Park awaits! Not only is there the aerial park to check out, but new for this summer there’s also a target-style driving range and a little sluice mining experience for children. Let’s be honest though- we’re going to try and convince a friend who’s scared of heights to go.
When: Open throughout the summer
Where: 13204 Rainbow Valley Road NW
Cost: Tickets on sale Monday, May 31st
EDMONTON VALLEY ZOO
There ain’t much better to do than a trip to the zoo! The zoo is home to some 350 animals, ranging from tigers to snowy owls to red pandas. Of course, we’d advise that you try and go during the week, and avoid all the young families going on the weekend.
When: Open throughout the summer
Where: 13315 Buena Vista Road
Cost: $14.95
ALBERTA BEACHES
Ready to cool it on the beach? You’re in luck, because we’ve rounded up some of our absolute favourites around the province. Whether you’re sticking close for a day trip or working it into a weekend getaway, Alberta has got some truly spectacular beaches for you to take a dip in!
Where: Click the link above for our picks
HAVE A WEEKEND IN JASPER
Jasper is undoubtedly a Canadian national treasure (heck, it just got named one of TIME’s World’s Greatest Places for this year). If you’re looking for some options for while you’re there, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite activities, from classic hikes to exploring the Athabasca Glacier.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
ROSSDALE POWER PLANT TOUR
That’s right folks, tours of the Rossdale Power Plant are back! This is your chance to check out a historic landmark in the city, while learning about its history at the same time! And, we have to admit, it’s stuff like this that we like to see on Instagram, if only for the unique factor.
When: Tours every Friday, Saturday and Sunday throughout the summer
Where: 10155 96 Avenue NW
Cost: $27.30
GO FOR ICE CREAM
It’s a simple pick, but an essential one. Edmonton is home to some delicious spots for ice cream, and even has more than a few vegan options mixed in there! Time your trip with a hot summer day, and bask in the glory of a frozen treat to cool off.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
VISIT A PATIO
And of course, where’s summer without at least one trip to a local patio? Click the link above for some of our favourite picks, or just use this as an excuse to head back to your favourite neighbourhood haunt. We’re sure they’d be happy to see you again.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Alright folks, those are our picks for the things to do in Edmonton before summer ends! Now, get out there and try to cross things as many off this list as you can!
