it’s all here!
enter to win a
Sizzling Summer Experience
2013 summer getaway guide
it’swelcome here, , to edmonton
Contents 100 cool things to see and do around edmonton . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 reliving history . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 fun in the sun . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 thriving festivals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 outdoor adventure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 art scene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 bring your shopping list . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 sporting scene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 get a rush . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 dining . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 after dark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 gateway to the north and canadian rockies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 calendar of events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 websites and resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Whatever you’re looking for, it’s here in Edmonton. Edmonton is home to over 30 major annual festivals, a vibrant arts and culture scene, premier shopping, outdoor adventures and a culinary scene that will have you coming back for seconds. Edmonton’s summer sizzles with its internationally renowned Folk, Fringe and Street Performers festivals. If you’re looking for the spotlight, Northlands brings a world of entertainment to Edmonton with the hottest bands, sporting events and the biggest summer celebration, K-Days! From the magnificent green ribbon of the river valley to North America’s largest indoor shopping experience, Edmonton is a magical destination. The fun starts with Edmonton’s crown jewel, its river valley park system, an area 22 times larger than New York’s Central Park, beckoning with trails and sights to explore! Experience Edmonton’s rich history with the award-winning, open air museum, the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. Or stop by Fort Edmonton Park, displaying four different eras in time including a historical reproduction of a 1920s midway and exhibition. Maximize your fun in the city with the Edmonton Attractions Pass, the essential sightseeing pass for 16 of Edmonton’s most visited places. This includes the popular and educational TELUS World of Science. This spring and summer, the centre welcomes BODY WORLDS and The Cycle of Life, an exploration of the finely tuned human body. Named one of Canada’s top five shopping districts, Old Strathcona—the city’s historical hub dating back to 1891— is a revitalized neighbourhood with unique shops, heritage buildings, a thriving entertainment scene and a year-round farmers’ market. West Edmonton Mall, North America’s largest shopping and entertainment centre, comes with more than 800 stores, 100-plus dining options and 10 attractions.
1
2013 summer getaway guide
it’s all here! Edmonton is the perfect grandstand to watch all your favourite sports. This August, the city welcomes the best players from the LPGA tour at the 2013 CN Canadian Women’s Open. The city plays host to the kickoff of the Tour of Alberta, an 850-kilometre cycling race that takes place over six days and marks Canada’s first major international professional stage race. Edmonton is proud of its professional sports heritage with the Edmonton Oilers, the Edmonton Eskimos, Edmonton Rush lacrosse team as well as the Edmonton Oil Kings junior hockey team. Want to get in on the action? There are more than 84 golf courses within an hour of downtown Edmonton—including Northern Bear, a Jack Nicklaus Signature course. Head to the Downtown Arts District in the city’s core where Edmonton’s cultural centre bustles with world-class venues such as the Francis Winspear Centre for Music, the Citadel Theatre and the breathtaking Art Gallery of Alberta. As Alberta’s capital city, the Alberta Legislature Building is an architectural treasure. Built from 1907 to 1912, the province’s foremost historic structure is set amidst beautiful gardens and fountains.
IN THE PICTURE The first of its kind in North America, the International Street Performers Festival has excited over four million visitors in its history!
You can stroll down tree-lined boulevards in one of Edmonton’s most distinctive neighbourhoods, 124th Street, which offers an eclectic blend of one-of-a-kind shops, art galleries and fine restaurants plus the Gallery Walk—the first of its kind in Canada, with over nine galleries within a 12-block radius.
Partners
Hungry? Greater Edmonton offers more than 3,500 eating establishments serving every type of international flavour imaginable and featuring regional cuisine. The city is home to two of Canada’s top 50 restaurants, Tres Carnales and Corso 32, and with so many choices your taste buds will be thanking you. While you’re here, track down one of Edmonton’s delicious food trucks and find out why 2012 was the year of the food truck in Edmonton.
Edmonton Attractions . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-866-714-5903 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmontonattractions.com
Take a scenic drive just outside the city limits where there are many exciting and informative attractions such as Elk Island National Park, Kalyna Country (Canada’s largest eco-museum), Devonian Botanic Garden, Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village and the Canadian Petroleum Interpretive Centre. Just a few hours’ drive from Edmonton are the majestic Canadian Rockies. Jasper offers shimmering glaciers, abundant wildlife, crystal clear lakes, thundering waterfalls, deep canyons and evergreen forests surrounded by towering, rugged mountain peaks! Be sure to visit Maligne Lake, along with the pristine natural beauty of Spirit Island, which is not only the oldest attraction in Jasper National Park but also the largest lake in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Edmontonians are encouraged to invite family and friends to visit Edmonton for a chance to win a $500 West Edmonton Mall shopping spree . . . visit www.edmonton.com/sendacard. Choose an e-postcard and invite family and friends to the region. You have the chance to win a $500 West Edmonton Mall shopping spree and so does your family or friend! Plus, if you’re a resident who has hosted out-of-town friends or relatives please enter our Thank You Edmonton contest for monthly prizes—www.edmonton.com/itshere.
Art Gallery of Alberta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-422-6223 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.youraga.ca
Edmonton Festival City . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-426-4715 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmonton.com/festivalcity Edmonton International Street Performers Festival . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-425-5162 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmontonstreetfest.com Legislative Assembly of Alberta . . . . . . . . .780-427-7362 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.assembly.ab.ca Northlands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .780-471-7210 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.northlands.com TELUS World of Science – Edmonton . . . . . .780-452-9100 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmontonscience.com Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village . . . . . . . 780-662-3640 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.ukrainianvillage.ca West Edmonton Mall . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-661-8890 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.wem.ca For a complete listing of our Destination Marketing Hotels, please refer to websites and resources on pages 47 - 50. The Edmonton. It’s All Here! Summer Getaway Guide is 100% funded by advertisers and partners. The participation of these fine companies allows us to provide this comprehensive guide free of charge. To ensure the continued success of this guide please support our advertisers. Thank you.
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/itshere
2
Photo courtesy of Government of Alberta
100 coolto see things g and do
1. Get in the swing of things with the CN Canadian Women’s Open, which was last hosted by Edmonton in 2007, August 19 - 25. 2. Kick off the summer with the Edmonton Eskimos as they begin their Grey Cup quest on June 29. 3. Witness everything from musicians to jugglers, acrobats to unicyclists, the Edmonton International Street Performers Festival features over 1500 outdoor performances by an international cast of amazing street artists, July 5 - 14. 4. Take a free guided tour of Alberta’s premier architectural attraction, the Alberta Legislature. 5. Learn how finely tuned the human body truly is when BODY WORLDS returns to TELUS World of Science on May 18 with The Cycle of Life. 6. Shop till you drop at West Edmonton Mall, North America’s largest shopping and entertainment centre. 7. Prepare yourself for romance, tragedy and comedy with the 25th anniversary of the Freewill Shakespeare Festival in Hawrelak Park from June 25 - July 21. 8. Immerse yourself in everything theatre with the Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival, one of the hottest tickets in Edmonton, August 15 - 25. 9. Take a stroll down 124th Street and take an unguided tour through the many shops and galleries on the Gallery Walk. 10. C hange your perspective with the Art Gallery of Alberta, the oldest cultural institution in the province. 11. D on’t miss the Dreamspeakers Film Festival which offers a unique exploration into Aboriginal culture, May 29 - June 1. 12. R ock out at K-days, Edmonton’s largest summer festival, where you’ll find rides, concerts, fireworks and much more from July 19 - 28.
3
around edmonton
www.edmonton.com/top100 13. Experience pioneer life at the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village and learn about Central Alberta’s agricultural and rural history or celebrate Ukrainian Day on August 11. 14. Take aim with the essential sightseeing pass for 16 of Edmonton’s best attractions with the Edmonton Attractions Pass. 15. Witness the start of the Tour of Alberta, a six-stage cycling race traveling across the province from September 3 - 8. 16. Sit back and relax with some smooth jazz beats from June 21 - 30 at the International Jazz Festival. 17. Celebrate Canada’s 146th birthday by taking in some of the fun family events and fireworks on Canada Day, July 1. 18. Watch your favourite band perform live at Northlands. Upcoming world-class shows include Bruno Mars, Kiss and Taylor Swift. 19. Satisfy your hunger with A Taste of Edmonton, July 18 - 27. 20. Roll out the red carpet at the big screen for Movies on the Square in Churchill Square, August 2 - 3. 21. Revel in Canadian dancing talent at Feats – Festival of Dance, with a special focus on the Alberta dance community, July 1 - 14. 22. Take your dog for a walk in one of Edmonton’s 40 off-leash parks. 23. Head out to Prairie Gardens and Adventure Farm for the Fairy-Berry Festival and grand opening of the corn mazes, August 3 - 5.
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/itshere
it’s all here! 24. J ump out of a perfectly good airplane! Visit the Edmonton Skydive Centre and begin your adventure. 25. C heck out one of the amazing packages offered by Edmonton Destination Hotels for your next stay in Edmonton. 26. D uke it out with your friends or family at one of Edmonton’s outdoor paintball fields.
47. Check out the oversized sausages and eggs, massive mallards, UFO landing pads, and enjoy the pioneer history in Kalyna Country— Canada’s largest eco-museum. 48. Dance, sing or act your way to Nextfest with 500 artists and more than 50 events, June 7 - 17. 49. Get hooked on a fishing tour with ‘Get Hooked Fishing Adventures’.
27. G et ready for Everest by testing out your climbing skills at one of our rock climbing gyms.
50. Gaze up at the night sky and look for Northern Lights. Use the Aurora Watch website to increase your chances of a sighting.
28. F ree your mind with the 18th annual Whyte Avenue Art Walk from July 12 - 14.
51. Explore the Alberta Legislature’s 23 hectares of parkland and monuments.
29. M usical mavericks, outlaws and rogues entertain at the Interstellar Rodeo set in beautiful Hawrelak Park from July 26 - 28.
52. Pedal a bike on 160km of scenic bike trails in the Edmonton river valley.
30. S top by Western Canada’s largest bluegrass festival, the Blueberry Bluegrass and Country Music Festival, August 2 - 4.
53. Romance your sweetie at a revolving restaurant with an unmatched view of Edmonton.
31. Grab a latte and walk down trendy Whyte Avenue in Old Strathcona— voted one of Canada’s top 10 coolest neighbourhoods.
54. See exhibits of vintage vehicles and agricultural equipment at the Reynolds-Alberta Museum.
32. I nteract and engage with performance artists at Visualeyez Performance Art Festival from September 10 - 16.
55. Flex your muscles with the Dragon Boat Festival, and paddle your way to victory, from August 16 - 18.
33. G et ready to laugh and sing along at the Jubilations Dinner Theatre or the Mayfield Dinner Theatre.
56. Visit Fort Edmonton Park, where you can go back in time and relive history in the fully restored Capitol Theatre, a historically authentic adaptation of the one from 1929.
34. R ev up your engines at Castrol Raceway. 35. V isit the 124th Street Grand Market, as it follows up on a highly successful inaugural season. 36. W atch artists collide in an environment of creative exploration and performances with the Kaleido Family Arts Festival, September 7 - 9. 37. W het your appetite with the Servus Heritage Festival which showcases Canada’s vibrant multicultural heritage with 60 pavilions, August 3 - 5.
57. Take in a concert at Edmonton’s Winspear Centre, where the Davis Concert Organ, the largest concert organ in Canada, calls home. 58. Join the celebration for Edmonton’s Pride Festival, complete with artists, performers and a parade, June 7 - 16. 59. Experience Broadway magic at the Northern Jubilee Auditorium. 60. Take an adventure into the wild at the Valley Zoo. 61. Study some art at the Stony Plain and Legal murals.
38. T ry the fast-growing sport of disc golf, where you take aim with a Frisbee instead of a golf ball.
62. Satisfy your hunger with one of several food trucks roaming Edmonton streets.
39. F ire up the BBQ in Hawrelak Park and roast some hot dogs or marshmallows.
63. Wing it at the Alberta Aviation Museum.
40. S ing along at the Edmonton Folk Music Festival which boasts the best folk music from across the globe, August 8 - 11.
64. Witness a wide variety of emerging and professional talent from numerous genres at the Works Art and Design Festival, June 20 - July 2.
41. E xplore, experience and discover one of the 22 municipalities in Edmonton’s countryside.
65. Hunt for treasures at local antique shops.
42. S ink into a chair and enjoy alternative film at the Garneau theatre, which is an official historic landmark.
66. Stay at the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald overlooking the beautiful North Saskatchewan River Valley.
43. E xperience an IMAX® film at TELUS World of Science – Edmonton.
67. Be a kid at the International Children’s Festival in St. Albert, May 28 - June 1.
44. Take in Cariwest, the Caribbean Arts Festival, August 9 - 11, complete with spectacular costumes, music, street theatre and regional cuisine.
68. Listen to the biggest names in country music from August 1 - 4 at Big Valley Jamboree.
45. Enjoy the opera at Vocal Arts Festival, May 24 - June 29. Canada’s only summer opera festival.
69. See the herds of free roaming plains bison, wood bison, moose, deer, and elk at Elk Island National Park, which has the second-highest density of hoofed mammals per square kilometre in the world.
46. Get crafty at Western Canada’s largest outdoor farmers’ market. The St. Albert Farmers’ Market features over 250 vendors and a variety of home baked, home grown and handmade products.
70. Watch a great play at the beautifully appointed Citadel Theatre. continued on page 5
2013 summer getaway guide
4
it’s all here! 100 cool things continued 71. S wing for the fences with the Canadian National Oldtimers Baseball Federation National Championships from August 1 - 5.
76. Celebrate the 20th anniversary of Animethon from August 9 - 11, with gaming, costume contests, improvisation groups and much more.
72. Experience history like never before at the Royal Alberta Museum.
77. Take your picture with Wayne Gretzky (the statue).
73. Hike the Blackfoot and Cooking Lake Recreation Areas, which includes 170km of trails.
78. Eat at one of Maclean’s magazine top 50 best restaurants in Canada, Tres Carnales and Corso 32.
74. Kick off some soccer chants at a FC Edmonton match.
79. Volunteer your time at one of the city’s many summer festivals, and experience firsthand why Edmonton is Canada’s Festival City.
75. Escape to the pyramids at the Muttart Conservatory.
80. Fly high with the Space Shot in Galaxyland, the world’s largest indoor tower ride. 81. Explore the 104th Street Promenade, and stop by Mercer Tavern located in one of Edmonton’s oldest buildings. 82. Plant yourself at the Devonian Botanic Garden. 83. Experience the past; see historical trains at the Alberta Railway Museum. 84. Take in the 22nd season of Die-Nasty: The Live Improvised Soap Opera at Old Strathcona’s Varscona Theatre. 85. Giddy-up with the St. Albert Kinsmen Rainmaker Rodeo and Exhibition, May 24 - 26. 86. Rock out with the Boonstock Music and Arts Festival with over 40 bands and 65,000 fans, June 27 - 30. IN THE PICTURE Celebrate pumpkin harvest at the pumpkin patch at Prairie Gardens & Adventure Farm. Huge Halloween family fun featuring the infamous pumpkin cannon.
87. Get engaged with the Creative Age Festival, celebrating arts and aging from June 7 - 13. 88. Relive the days of the dinosaurs as they roar to life in Jurassic Forest, a 40-acre prehistoric preserve minutes from Edmonton. 89. Horse around at the Northlands Park racetrack. 90. Trek through the river valley on a Segway. 91. Join the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra for great music in the great outdoors at Symphony Under the Sky, August 30 - September 2. 92. Tee off at one of 84-plus regional golf courses. 93. Walk along the North Saskatchewan River on one of our numerous parks trails, and take in nature at its finest. 94. Work on your stand-up routine at Improvaganza, which hosts upwards of 30 improvisers, sketch comedians, stand-ups and musicians from across Canada, North America and beyond. J une 19 - 29. 95. Lay back and stargaze with the Royal Astronomical Society. 96. Dubbed “Western Canada’s premiere blues event”, the Edmonton Blues Festival will have you tapping your foot from August 16 - 18. 97. Dream the dream with the musical phenomenon, Les Misérables at the Jubilee, on July 9 - 14. 98. Ride the High Level Streetcar and enjoy a trip from the top deck of the world’s highest streetcar bridge. 99. Have a Sunday brunch with your family. 100. I nvite your friends and relatives to visit us in Edmonton, and maybe even win a prize! www.edmonton.com/sendacard
Photo courtesy of Travel Alberta
IN THE PICTURE The High Level Bridge Streetcar makes a brief stop before continuing on its scenic trip.
5
2013 summer getaway guide
relivingg historyy Major Stops You’ll want to spend half a day or more at these significant sites, where interpreters take you on a journey back in time. • Alberta Legislature Building. Alberta’s architectural treasure, this beautiful building was completed in 1912 on one of the original Fort Edmonton sites. The Legislative Assembly Interpretive Centre highlights the building’s history and the political process. Daily guided tours are available. 10800 - 97 Ave. 780-427-2826, www.assembly.ab.ca • Fort Edmonton Park. Join the costumed historical players and live life as it was at the 1846 Hudson’s Bay fur trade fort and on the streets of 1885, 1905 and 1920. Take a ride on the 1919 steam train or ride the streetcar to the 1920s midway. There are lots of hands-on activities— the adventure changes daily. Fox Dr. & Whitemud Dr. 780-442-5311, www.fortedmontonpark.ca • The Royal Alberta Museum. One of Canada’s premier museums! The museum’s galleries include the internationally acclaimed Syncrude Gallery of Aboriginal Culture, Wild Alberta, Natural History and Fossils. 12845 - 102 Ave. 780-453-9100, www.royalalbertamuseum.ca • Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. Head east on the Yellowhead Hwy and back to the early 1900s, when east central Alberta was home to the largest settlement of Ukrainian pioneers in Canada. Have some fun and interact with the costumed interpreters, they’re ‘real’ characters! 780-662-3640, www.ukrainianvillage.ca
I have a huge crush on Edmonton’s history. We are, in fact, the most amazing place in the world. Egypt may have its pyramids, China may have its walls, but we have 6000 years of aboriginal history and some of the coolest people, ever. - Barry. To read this full story go to www.edmontonstories.ca
History Speaks There is so much to learn and explore with a variety of museums and local attractions. • Alberta Prairie Railway Excursions. Offering excursions by a vintage steam powered locomotive train. Tours vary from 5 - 6 hours and include entertainment and dinner. Stettler. 403-742-2811, www.absteamtrain.com • Edmonton Public Schools Archives and Museum. Explore this interesting chapter of our city’s school history, located at 10425 - 99 Ave. 780-422-1970, archives.epsb.net • Fort Saskatchewan Museum and Historic Site. Learn about the city’s history and heritage through eight buildings and a collection focusing on the North West Mounted Police and the settlement area. 10006 - 100 Ave., Fort Saskatchewan. 780-998-1783, www.fortsask.ca continued on page 7
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/itshere
6
reliving history continued
IN THE PICTURE Rediscover history with Fort Edmonton Park.
• High Level Bridge Streetcar. Ride a refurbished 1921 streetcar across the river. 780-437-7721, www.edmonton-radial-railway.ab.ca/highlevelbridge • John Walter Museum. Three houses on the bank of the North Saskatchewan River depict stages in the life of John Walter, who arrived in 1870 to build York boats for the Hudson’s Bay Company and became one of Edmonton’s early millionaires. Free, old-fashioned fun. Open every Sunday, 1pm to 5pm. 780-442-5311, www.edmonton.ca/johnwalter • The Loyal Edmonton Regiment Military Museum. A large collection specific to the history of the Regiment but also important to the military history of Alberta and Canada spans the years from the late-nineteenth century to the present and includes extensive artifact and archival holdings. 10440 - 108 Ave Edmonton. 780-421-9943, www.lermuseum.org • Musee Heritage Museum. Artifacts tell the story of St. Albert in this museum. 5 St. Anne St., St. Albert. 780-459-1528, www.artsheritage.ca/museum • Old Strathcona. Look for plaques identifying landmark buildings from South Edmonton’s 1891 beginnings, including the CP Rail Station, Edmonton House Hotel (now Strathcona Hotel) and the Fire Hall (now Walterdale Theatre). Ask about group tours. 780-437-4182, www.oldstrathcona.ca
IN THE PICTURE An Edwardian mansion, stop by the home Alberta’s first Premier, Alexander Cameron Rutherford.
Industry Recalled Take some time to discover some of the great industries that have contributed to Alberta’s growth as a province. • Alberta Aviation Museum. Visit vintage planes dating from the 1920s, restored aircraft and the aviation gift shop. 11410 Kingsway Ave. 780-451-1175, www.albertaaviationmuseum.com • The Alberta Railway Museum. Ride the rails at this unique, industrial, iron horse venue located on the northeast edge of Edmonton. This collection focuses on railway equipment from the Canadian National Railway and Northern Alberta Railways. Journey back in time on ‘Locomotive 1392’. 24215 - 34 St. 780-472-6229, www.albertarailwaymuseum.com • Andrew Elevator. Picture the heritage of the community of Andrew through its grain. While there, explore the CP Station/Museum. 780-365-2237 • Canadian Petroleum Discovery Centre. Explore Leduc #1, the oil well whose 1947 strike forever changed Alberta. Features include interactive displays, games, oil patch veterans as guides, a working drilling rig and an RV campground. South beyond Devon. 1-866-987-4323, www.leducnumber1.com
• Reynolds-Alberta Museum. Check out the history and mechanics of the aviation/automotive world through perfectly preserved and restored models. Wetaskiwin. 780-361-1351, www.reynoldsalbertamuseum.com
• St. Albert Grain Elevator Park. Home to two of Alberta’s provincially designated Grain Elevators. Built in 1906 and 1929, they are a reminder of the city’s agricultural past and symbols of our heritage. 780-459-1528, www.stalbert.ca
• Rutherford House. Freshly baked scones and costumed interpreters beckon you into this restored Edwardian mansion, home of Alberta’s first Premier Alexander Cameron Rutherford. 11153 Saskatchewan Dr. 780-422-2697, www.rutherfordhouse.ca
• Telephone Historical Centre. Boasts an extensive collection of antique telephones and telecommunications technology. Prince of Wales Armouries Heritage Centre, 10440 - 108 Ave. NW. 780-433-1010, www.telephonehistoricalcentre.com
• Strathcona County Museum and Archives. View new exhibits portraying the county’s natural, first nations and pioneer history. Walk Sherwood Parks Heritage Mile to view monuments depicting the early 20th century. 913 Ash St., Sherwood Park. 780-467-8189, www.strathconacountymuseum.ca
7
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/itshere
it’s all here! Mural Wanders Sprouting in various communities, historic murals are deeply rooted here. • Legal. Head north on Hwy 2 to see over 28 murals that welcome visitors to this bilingual town. 1-780-961-4133, www.town.legal.ab.ca • Old Strathcona. Over 40 murals on electric boxes. The murals were painted as a 2004 centennial project to celebrate this historical community. 780-437-4182, www.oldstrathcona.ca • Stony Plain. Drive west on Hwy 16A to see over 27 life-size outdoor murals. Ask for a mural guide at the Multicultural Heritage Centre. 780-963-2777, or view a virtual tour at www.stonyplain.com
Kalyna Country Three dozen traditional and open air museums preserve the rich heritage of a vast region just north east of Edmonton. Rather than displaying artifacts in one central location, this eco-museum invites visitors to experience history and nature in their original settings while enjoying the communities created today. 1-888-452-5962, www.kalynacountry.com • Iron Horse Trail. Almost 300km of multi-use trails in a historic recreational corridor. Along the trail you can experience views of the North Saskatchewan River, boreal forest, parkland wetlands and historical attractions. www.ironhorsetrail.ca
Photo courtesy of Travel Alberta
IN THE PICTURE A bison grazes in Elk Island National Park, home to the second highest density of hoofed mammals per square km in the world.
• Victoria Trail. Drive through picturesque farmland, catch panoramic vistas of the North Saskatchewan River and finish up at the Victoria Settlement Provincial Historical Site on this self-guided tour. www.kalynacountry.com/Victoria-Trail
The Alberta Legislature O P E N
F O R
Y O U
• Wild Rose Trail. Open by appointment year round. Follow the trail to visit local artists, antique shops, restaurants and more. 780-847-2294, www.kalynacountry.com/Wild-Rose-Trail
FREE guided building tours 362 days/year
Religious Sites
Gift Shop and Interpretive Centre
T O
D I S C O V E R
Special events year-round Wading pools and gardens
From onion-domed Byzantine style churches to Catholic missions, you’ll find signs of early settlers’ devout faith throughout the region. • Basilian Fathers Museum and Monastery. This museum showcases over 100 years of the Basilian Fathers’ mission through an extensive collection of photographs and artifacts, plus a nearby Grotto is still used to celebrate Divine Liturgies. 5419 Sawchuk St., Mundare. 780-764-3887, www.basilianmuseum.org • Historic Mission Hill. Visit St. Albert’s 1861 Father Lacombe Chapel, Alberta’s oldest standing log structure. Don’t miss the Father Lacombe Statue, as well as a crypt, historic grotto and cemetery. Open through September. St. Vital Ave., St. Albert. 780-459-7663 • Lamont County. Emerging as the church capital of North America with 47 sites, Lamont County offers a self-guided church tour booklet. 780-895-2233, www.lamontcounty.ca • Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto (Skaro Shrine). Built in 1919 by local parishioners, this replica of the grotto of Lourdes in France attracts up to 3,000 pilgrims each August. Lamont County, Junction of SH 831 & Hwy 45.
2013 summer getaway guide
VISITOR SERVICES 10820 - 98 Ave Edmonton, AB
.a www
sse
.ab y l b m
visitorinfo@assembly.ab.ca
780.427.7362
8
.c a
fun in the sun In Edmonton, the young (and young at heart) find fun around every corner. There are so many exciting things to do that choosing can be tough. So here’s the plan, kids: circle the things you really want to do, and chances are the whole family will thank you for it. Oh—and be sure to include a few wild and crazy outings for the entire family to enjoy .
Make a Splash Choose from a delightful variety of indoor/outdoor waterslides, and fun wave pools. 780-496-SWIM • Commonwealth Community Recreation Centre. The city’s newest recreation facility features leisure pool with spray features, waterslide and aquatic climbing wall. 11000 Stadium Rd. 780-442-5311, www.edmonton.ca • Kinsmen Leisure Centre. Features family waterslide, kid’s pool, spiral fountains and a seasonal outdoor water park. Sherwood Park. 2001 Oak St. 780-464-2112, www.strathcona.ca • Servus Credit Union Place. Water Play Centre has over 25 spray and water features, including a river ride and two giant waterslides. St. Albert. 400 Campbell Rd. 780-418-6088, www.servusplace.ca
9
• Mill Woods Recreation Centre. This centre features a large wave pool, fitness centre and outdoor activity opportunities. 7207 - 28 Ave. 780-442-5311, www.edmonton.ca • Millenium Place. There is something for all ages and abilities including a wave pool, lap pool, and water playground. Sherwood Park. 2000 Premier Way, just off Broadmoor Blvd. 780-416-3300, www.strathcona.ca • World Waterpark, West Edmonton Mall. This tropical paradise boasts the world’s largest indoor wave pool and tallest indoor permanent bungee tower, as well as more than 17 unique waterslides, ranging from beginner and intermediate to advanced and extreme, and play features. 780-444-5313, www.wem.ca
Outdoor Pools • Borden Park. Adjacent to Northlands Park, Borden Park also features picnic sites, walking paths, a playground, tennis courts, a ball diamond and a bandshell. 11200 - 74 St. • Fred Broadstock. A children’s teach pool with spray features, and a six-lane 25m with 1m and 3m diving. 15720 - 105 Ave.
• Terwillegar Community Recreation Centre. Includes a wave pool with spray features, tot pool, and a variety of indoor fitness opportunities. 2051 Leger Road. 780-442-5311, www.edmonton.ca
• Mill Creek. Just off Whyte Ave in Mill Creek Ravine. Home of the Swim Run Race Series, a 750m swim, followed by a 5km run through the ravine. 9555 - 84 Ave.
• TransAlta Tri Leisure Centre. Includes a leisure pool with play structure and water features, an indoor waterslide and children’s area. Spruce Grove. 221 Jennifer Heil Way. 780-960-5080, www.trileisure.com
• Oliver. This centrally located outdoor pool includes a deep water slide, sundeck and picnic tables, concession, complimentary wallet lockers and a neighbouring playground. 10315 - 119 St.
2013 summer getaway guide
it’s all here! • Devonian Botanic Garden. Beautiful outdoor gardens and indoor display of succulents, tropical butterflies, and orchids. Children and family courses. Hwy 60, 5km north of Devon. 780-987-3054, www.devonian.ualberta.ca • John Janzen Nature Centre. The new Tegler Discovery Zone is an indoor play area that recreates local wildlife habitat. Crawling and climbing structures are designed for children up to age 10. Discover the natural wonders of Edmonton with interactive displays, interpretive programs and self-guided tours. 7000 - 143 Street. 780-442-5311, www.edmonton.ca/johnjanzen
IN THE PICTURE Set amongst 23 hectares of parkland and historical monuments, people gather around the Alberta Legislature and its fountains.
• Queen Elizabeth. Located in Kinsmen Park. Amenities include a 6-lane, 25m pool, a children’s spray park, sun deck, concession and universal change room. 9100 Walterdale Hill.
Get Sprayed Enjoy the sunshine and tons of laughs with the kids as you refresh yourself at any outdoor water spray park. Some of the best spots (popular with the locals) are FREE. www.edmonton.ca • Callingwood District Park. 69 Ave. and 175 St. • City Hall Wading Pool. 1 Sir Winston Churchill Square. • Four Seasons Park. Beaumont. 5417 - 43 Ave. 780-929-8782 • G. Edmund Kelly Spray Park. 15005 - 79 St. • Glengarry Spray Deck. 133 Ave. and 89 St. • Kinsmen Leisure Centre Splash Park. Sherwood Park. 2001 Oak St. 780-464-2112
• Jurassic Forest. 2km of wooded walkways with numerous robotic, life-size dinosaurs that move and make sounds. Located in 40 acres of natural, old growth forest, and small interpretive centre and displays. For families with children under 12. North of Edmonton near Gibbons. 780-470-2446, www.jurassicforest.com • Prairie Gardens Adventure Farm. Good old-fashioned family fun things to do. Magical themed festivals and events, u-pick strawberries and vegetables, petting zoo, and kids playing area. 780-921-2272, www.prairiegardens.org • TELUS World of Science – Edmonton. The new early childhood development gallery, Discoveryland, engage and excite visitors. With five themed interactive galleries, there’s so much to see, hear, touch, taste and do! Designed for children under 8 years of age. 11211 - 142 St. 780-451-3344, www.edmontonscience.com • Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. Costumed role players in historic buildings including one room schoolhouse, general store, churches, houses and wagon rides. Hwy 16 near Elk Island National Park. 780-662-3640, www.history.alberta.ca/ukrainianvillage • West Edmonton Mall. Play at Galaxyland Amusement Park, Galaxy Kids Playpark, World Waterpark and Caribbean Cove. There’s a play area for toddlers and parents to enjoy together. Visit Sea Lions’ Rock, home to three California sea lions, or go ice skating in the middle of summer. 8882 - 170 St. 780-444-5330, www.wem.ca
Edmonton Area Corn Mazes
• Kinsmen Park. 9100 Walterdale Hill.
Come share in this unique outdoor adventure.
• Legislature Grounds. Just north of the river at 109 St.
• Edmonton Corn Maze. 780-554-4540, www.edmontoncornmaze.ca
• Mill Woods Spray Park. 23 Ave - 66 St.
• Great Prairie Corn Maze at Prairie Gardens & Greenhouses. 780-921-2272, www.prairiegardens.org
• Woodlands Water Park. St. Albert. 165 Sturgeon Rd. 780-459-1553
• Amazing Corn Maze. 780-986-9034, www.amazingcornmaze.ca
Spots for Tots There are plenty of fun and educational things to do when travelling with tots. Here are a few ideas to help them enjoy the trip. • Art Gallery of Alberta. The World of Creativity is an interactive, hands-on space where children and their grown-ups can explore their creativity. Also check out Tours for Tots specifically designed for children ages 3 - 5. 2 Sir Winston Churchill Square. 780-422-6223, www.youraga.ca
Edmonton’s Countryside Enjoy country cuisine, a country soul stroll, or a countryside drive. To find family activities including the popular animal and farm experiences visit www.edmontonscountryside.com or ask a regional visitor information centre for the Visiting Edmonton’s Countryside brochure.
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/itshere
10
thrivingg festivals Edmonton Festival City thrives on outdoor live entertainment in the summer time and all year round. The fun spills into the parks and streets of the city and surrounding communities. Check out www.festivalcity.ca for a comprehensive listing of festivals in Greater Edmonton.
Visual and Mixed Arts
Theatre and Film
• The Works Art & Design Festival. June 20 - July 2. Art takes over downtown, with 50 exhibits and 200 events in foyers, parks and galleries. 780-426-2122, www.theworks.ab.ca
Art comes to life in festivals that take galleries to the people. • Nextfest: Epcor Next Generation Arts Festival. June 6 - 16. Inventive works by 500 emerging artists. Roxy Theatre, 10708 - 124 St. 780-453-2440, www.nextfest.ca
The festivals listed build synergy with local theatre companies that produce and import stellar work all year long. • International Children’s Festival. May 28 - June 1. Fabulous acts from around the world are presented in a festival of theatre, music, dance, storytelling and puppetry. St. Albert. 780-459-1542, www.childfest.com
• Feats Festival of Dance. July 1 - July 14. Produced by the Alberta Dance Alliance it is a multi-disciplinary dance festival which includes performances, special events and educational programming. 780-422-8107, www.abdancealliance.ab.ca
• Improvaganza. June 19 - 29. Rapid Fire Theatre hosts upwards of 30 improvisers, sketch comedians, stand-ups and musicians from across Canada, North America and beyond. 780-443-6044, www.rapidfiretheatre.com
• Whyte Avenue Art Walk. July 12 - 14. The Art Walk Festival and Marketplace is one of the largest street celebrations of the visual arts in Canada. Hundreds of artists paint, sculpt, exhibit and sell their work on the sidewalks of Old Strathcona. 780-432-0240, www.art-walk.ca
• Freewill Shakespeare Festival. June 25 - July 21. Enjoy Shakespeare under the sky at Hawrelak Park, in the gorgeous surroundings of Edmonton’s river valley. 780-425-8086, www.freewillshakespeare.com
• Visualeyez . . . A Festival of Performance Art. September 10 - 16. Explore the curatorial theme of vulnerability with the Visualeyez performance festival. www.latitude53.org/visualeyez
• Edmonton International Street Performers Festival. July 5 - 14. Laugh ’till you cry at pass-the-hat magicians, clowns, jugglers, mime artists, musicians and comics. Sir Winston Churchill Square. 780-425-5162, www.edmontonstreetfest.com
Music
• Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival. August 15 - 25. Equal parts indoor theatre, street performance and party, the continent’s largest fringe takes over Old Strathcona. 780-448-9000, www.fringetheatreadventures.ca • Edmonton International Film Festival. September 26 - October 5. Come enjoy this festival of fantastic, independent films from around the world. 780-423-0844, www.edmontonfilmfest.com
Choose your style and soak up the sounds. • Vocal Arts Festival. May 24 - June 30. Canada’s only summer opera festival. 780-487-4844, www.operanuova.ca/vaf What a blessing to live in a city where people can honour their culture and traditions, and where we can learn from each other. I will always remember the colour and movement of the lion dancers, the sound of the loud firecrackers being ignited, and the excitement in the air. - Paula. To read this full story go to www.edmontonstories.ca
continued on page 15
13
2013 summer getaway guide
it’s all here! thriving festivals continued • Edmonton International Jazz Festival. June 21 - 30. Features top jazz concerts, workshops, club dates and free outdoor events for the entire family. 780-990-0222, wwvw.edmontonjazz.com • Interstellar Rodeo. July 26 - 28. Musical mavericks, outlaws and rogues entertain at the Interstellar Rodeo set in beautiful Hawrelak Park. 1-855-465-2459, www.interstellarrodeo.com • Big Valley Jamboree. August 1 - 4. Performers include Luke Bryan, Alan Jackson, Tim McGraw and many more, plus street performers, family stage and fireworks. Camrose, South via Hwy 2. 1-888-404-1234, www.bigvalleyjamboree.com • Blueberry Bluegrass & Country Music Society Festival. August 3 - 5. Western Canada’s biggest bluegrass festival. Stony Plain, west on Hwy 16A. 1-888-915-4973, www.blueberrybluegrass.com • Edmonton Folk Music Festival. August 8 - 11. North America’s premier celebration of blues, Celtic, singer-songwriters, bluegrass, gospel and world music. Gallagher Park, with a downtown backdrop. 780-429-1899, www.edmontonfolkfest.org • Edmonton’s Blues Festival. August 16 - 18. Top blues acts, from funk to zydeco. Hawrelak Park. www.bluesinternationalltd.com
• Friends’ Ukrainian Music Fest. August 25. Showcase of Alberta’s finest Ukrainian folk musicians, plus traditional food and fun for children. Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, east on Hwy 16. 780-662-3640, www.ukrainianvillage.ca • Symphony Under the Sky. August 30 - September 2. Extravaganza of classical music and children’s entertainment. Edmonton Symphony Orchestra at Hawrelak Park. 780-428-1414, 1-800-563-5081, www.edmontonsymphony.com
Heritage Join us in celebrating Greater Edmonton’s multicultural roots. • Canada Day. July 1. Activities in Edmonton and several communities in the region. www.edmonton.com • Edmonton & Northern Alberta Historic Festival. July 2 - 7. www.historicedmonton.ca • Fête Au Village. July 27 - 28. Saluting the French culture of Legal’s pioneers. North via Hwy 2. 780-961-3773, www.town.legal.ab.ca • Servus Heritage Festival. August 3 - 5. Over 60 distinctive cultures showcase song and dance, arts and crafts, costumes and cuisine. Hawrelak Park. 780-488-3378, www.heritage-festival.com • Cariwest – Edmonton Caribbean Arts Festival. August 9 - 11. Gala parade, calypso competition and dance. 780-421-7800, www.cariwestfestival.com • Edmonton Dragon Boat Festival. August 16 - 18. Races in Louise McKinney Park, below the Shaw Conference Centre. 780-493-8158, www.edbfa.com
Fair & Fare • St. Albert Kinsmen Rainmaker Rodeo & Exhibition. May 24 - 26. Feel the thunder with three days of fun that includes exciting rodeo action, mud races, live entertainment and a midway in St. Albert. 1-888-459-1725, www.rainmaker.ab.ca • A Taste of Edmonton Festival. July 18 - 27. Ten days of delectable food sampling presented by some of Edmonton’s best restaurants. Sir Winston Churchill Square. 780-423-2822, www.eventsedmonton.ca • K-Days. July 19 - 28. Thrilling midway rides, international entertainment, exciting feature attractions, food from every part of the globe, colourful parades. 1-888-800-PARK, www.k-days.com • Farmfair International. November 3 - 10. Canada’s premier livestock showcase includes a wagonload of western fun. 1-888-800-PARK, www.farmfairinternational.com • Canadian Finals Rodeo. November 6 - 10. The country’s top professionals wrestle steers, barrel race, rope cattle, battle bucking broncos and bulls to become Canadian Champions. 1-888-800-PARK, www.canadianfinalsrodeo.ca
15
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/itshere
outdoor adventure Scenic parks and wilderness await you in the Edmonton region, made all the more dramatic by the prairie’s expansive clear blue sky.
• Heritage Trail. Retrace the steps of the pioneers beginning at the Alberta Legislature. This self-guided tour offers a beautiful view of the river valley. 780-427-7362
Parks for the Picking
• Strathcona Wilderness Centre. Explore 550 acres of parkland with 12km of interpretive trails, spruce bog boardwalk, camping and picnic sites plus enrichment programs at the Wilderness Centre. 20 minutes east of Sherwood Park on Township Road 530 and Range Road 212. Call 780-922-3939 or visit www.strathcona.ab.ca
No matter where you are in Greater Edmonton, a lush field of grass and a tree to relax beneath is not far away. Stop at a playground, skip a few stones, rest in the shade, roast a marshmallow, or take to the paths by foot, bicycle or rollerblades.
Prime Pickings • Edmonton River Valley Park. It is 22 times larger than New York’s Central Park, and eight times larger than Vancouver’s Stanley Park. It includes 150kms of multi-use trails, playgrounds, picnic sites, golf courses, off-leash areas and more. For a map call 311 in Edmonton or 780-442-5311 outside Edmonton or visit www.edmonton.ca • Edmonton Queen Riverboat. One of the most picturesque ways to view the scenic river valley is aboard the 315-passenger paddlewheeler, Edmonton Queen. Board at Rafters Landing, across the river from the downtown core. Inquiries: call 780-424-BOAT or visit www.edmontonqueen.com • Fort Edmonton Park. Enjoy Edmonton’s history at the 1846 fur trade fort or on the streets of 1885, 1905 and 1920 before settling in at one of the many picnic sites in the park. 780-442-5311, www.fortedmontonpark.ca
• Fort Saskatchewan. Check out the sheep ‘mowing’ municipal lawns around town Thursdays through Sundays. Across the street at the CN Station visit the farmers’ market on Thursday from 4:30 to 7:30pm. 780-992-6200, www.fortsask.ca • Spruce Grove’s Heritage Grove Park. Fifty acres of natural wooded area in the heart of Spruce Grove are linked by 30km of all-weather trails. Also, check out Central Park for skateboarding, water-play and more. 780-962-2611 • St. Albert Red Willow Trail System. 34km of multi-use, paved trails run along the Sturgeon River and beyond. Check out Woodlands WaterPlay Park for water-play, skateboarding and volleyball (780-459-1500). Or head north to Cardiff Regional Park (780-939-4321) and toss a line into one of the area’s many fishing holes. The kids can also enjoy nearby playgrounds. • Trails at Stony Plain. Over 14km of pathways link the entire community. Stop at Shikaoi Park to experience the Japanese-inspired friendship garden or relax at the Rotary Park pond and feed ducks and geese. 780-963-2151 For more information on campgrounds visit www.travelalberta.com. continued on page 19
2013 summer getaway guide
16
Histor y brought to L i fe
Come visit this outdoor living his tory museum telling the story of Ukrainian settlement in Alberta (1892-1930) History brought to life with aut hentic food and pioneer experiences at the Ukrainian Cu ltural Heritage Village.
Special Events
2013 Summer Exhibit
Journey to Canada - Ukrainian Immigration Experiences 1891-1900
May 20 June 30 July 1 August 11 August 25 September 8 January 19, 2014
Celebration of Dance Vintage Day Canada Day Ukrainian Day Friends’ Ukrainian Music Fest Harvest of the Past Iordan – Feast of Jordan
780.662.3640 | 25 minutes east of Edmonton on Hwy. 16
ukrainianvillage.ca
Historic Sites and Museums, Alberta Culture
Government
Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village
History is brought to life at the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, an outdoor living history museum that invites visitors of all ages to step back in time and learn the fascinating story of Ukrainian settlement in east central Alberta, Canada’s oldest and largest settlement of Ukrainian pioneers. What is the best way to explore Alberta’s past at this hidden gem, located only 25 minutes east of Edmonton along Highway 16? As a time traveller, of course! Visitors can explore more than thirty historic structures restored to their original appearance and interact with costumed role-players portraying actual pioneers who once lived in the region. Step inside an actual burdei (sod house) to witness how the earliest pioneers lived more than 120 years ago. Help a farmer with a chore or two on a farm where horses did most of the heavy lifting. See Red Fife wheat growing in the fields as you tour around on a free horse-drawn wagon ride. Send the children to a one-room school house, or visit the blacksmith to learn how easy it was to shoe a horse. Let the agent show you around his grain elevator to earn your business at harvest. A variety of special events and activities for all the family pays tribute to Ukrainian culture and heritage today or tip a nod to Alberta’s agricultural past. Drop in tours provide a one hour introductory guide tour that is included in the general admission. Drop in tours are available daily, except on special event days and on Wednesdays in July and August. Tours depart at the top of the hour from 11am to 2pm. Open daily from 10am - 5pm from May 18 to September 3, the experience is complete with authentic, locally-produced Ukrainian food at the Kalyna Café and local gift products at the museum store. For more information: 780-662-3640, www.ukrainianvillage.ca
2013 summer getaway guide
outdoor adventure continued
• Watchable Wildlife Tours. Observe wildlife in its natural habitat including deer, moose, elk, bison, beaver, porcupine and a wide variety of bird species. 780-405-4880, www.birdsandbackcountry.com • Beaverhill Lake. Join the serious bird watchers who flock to this protected habitat. Watch over 270 species of birds, hike the Nature’s Marsh and learn at the interactive Nature Centre. Tofield. 780-662-3269, www.tofieldalberta.ca • Elk Island Retreat. Sleep in a teepee explore hiking trails, and learn about Aboriginal culture. 780-998-0708, www.elkislandretreat.com • Cooking Lake – Blackfoot Recreation Area. Hike, mountain bike, canoe or ride horseback through 97 sq. km. of backcountry which includes 170km of trails running over rolling hills and past ponds, bogs, small lakes and wildlife. Interpretive Centre and four staging areas with picnic facilities. 780-922-3293, www.dotheblackfoot.ca • Strathcona Wilderness Centre. Hike and picnic along 12km of trails. Enjoy views of Bennett Lake or explore a black spruce bog. Rent canoes, take a learn-to-canoe lesson, watch wildlife, and stay in a tent at a walk-in campsite. 780-922-3939, www.strathcona.ab.ca • Waskahegan Trail Association. Join a Sunday hike on the Waskahegan Trail looping through Kalyna Country. Walking schedules at www.waskahegantrail.ca.
IN THE PICTURE With several skateboard parks and endless paved trails, Edmonton is a skateboarder’s paradise.
Skateboard Parks
• Vegreville. Visit the world’s largest Ukrainian Easter Egg at the Elks Kinsmen Community Park in Vegreville, or take in some Ukrainian culture at the annual Pysanka Festival, July 5 - 7. www.vegreville.com
Visit Edmonton’s Countryside • Country Soul Stroll. The Country Soul Stroll U-Drive Tour is a self-guided driving adventure of summer surprises— farms, gardens, crafts, museums, greenhouses, historical sites and more. 780-986-0063, www.edmontonscountryside.com
• Callingwood Skatepark. 177 St. & 69 Ave. • Castle Downs Recreation Centre. 11520 - 153 Ave. • Clareview Recreation Centre. 3804 - 139 Ave. • Kaskitayo Youth Park. 111 St. & 19 Ave.
Stargazing
• Mill Woods Recreation Centre. 7207 - 28 Ave.
• TELUS World of Science – Edmonton. Get a free telescopic view of the magnificence above us—constellations, stars, sun spots and the northern lights can all be observed on the southeast grounds of TELUS World of Science – Edmonton, weather permitting. Call for times and details. 11211 - 142 St. 780-451-3344, www.edmontonscience.com
• Woodlands Park, St. Albert. 165 Sturgeon Road. For additional locations visit www.edmonton.ca.
Kalyna Country Three times the size of Prince Edward Island, the unique historic, cultural and natural area just east and north of Edmonton offers eco-fun for everyone. Home to more than 40 designated or informal natural areas, it’s sure to put rewarding views at the end of your binoculars or camera. (For more on Kalyna’s historic side, see page 8) 1-888-452-5962, www.kalynacountry.com • Elk Island National Park. Second only to Africa’s famed Serengeti for wildlife viewing opportunities, with hundreds of bison, elk, moose and deer. Hike, picnic, camp, bird watch, golf and more. 780-992-5790, www.pc.gc.ca
19
Garden Delights Amid the region’s many beautiful, serene sanctuaries, a few standouts deserve particular mention. • Alberta Legislature. Enjoy beautifully landscaped grounds and free guided tours of the majestic Legislature Building in downtown Edmonton. 97 Ave. & 107 St. 780-427-7362, www.assembly.ab.ca • Aqualine Aquatic Plants & Waterfeatures. Many beautiful water garden displays set in a natural setting, ranging in size from a large natural pond, to a small pondless waterfall. Sherwood Park. 780-467-3450, www.aqualinewaterfeatures.com
2013 summer getaway guide
it’s all here! • Devonian Botanic Garden. Whether you are a plant enthusiast, nature-lover, or someone seeking to spend a few hours in beautiful natural surroundings this garden is for you. It features 80 acres of display gardens, 110 additional acres of natural areas and ecological preserves, indoor show houses, a butterfly house, Kurimoto Japanese Garden and much more. Guided tram tours are available. Located north of Devon on Highway 60, call 780-987-3054 or visit www.devonian.ualberta.ca • The Enjoy Centre. Endless varieties of plants and colourful show gardens. Located in the Enjoy Centre at 101 Riel Dr. in St. Albert. 780-419-6800, www.holesonline.com • Fort Edmonton Park. Heritage Gardens include many traditional flowers and herbs. Fox Dr. & Whitemud Dr. Call 311 in Edmonton or 780-442-5311 outside Edmonton, www.fortedmontonpark.ca • Fairmont Hotel Macdonald. Enjoy the beautiful gardens overlooking the North Saskatchewan River while sipping tea on the patio. 780-424-5181, www.fairmont.com/macdonald • Multicultural Heritage Centre Gardens. Walk the grounds or enjoy a cup of tea on the patio while taking in the wonderful flowers, peaceful fountain and magnificent trees surrounding this historic building in Stony Plain. 780-963-2777, www.multicentre.org • Muttart Conservatory. Edmonton’s premier horticultural attraction, featuring four beautiful glass pyramids filled with rare and wonderful plants from all over the world, with educational programs for all ages as well as an easily accessible gift shop and cafeteria. 9626 - 96A St. Call 311 in Edmonton or 780-442-5311 outside Edmonton, www.muttartconservatory.ca
IN THE PICTURE Prairie Gardens and Adventure Farm is an award-winning 35-acre adventure farm, there are over 50 fun family activities including award-winning mindbender corn mazes.
• Prairie Gardens and Adventure Farm. Bring the kids for hours of fun with a great line-up of on-farm festivals, a corn maze, u-pick gardens, petting farm, and fabulous gardens. 56311 Lily Lake Rd, Bon Accord. 780-921-2272, www.prairiegardens.org • The Royal Alberta Museum. Wander through the gardens and sculpture park at the Museum and Government House. Stop by the Museum Café and pick up a picnic lunch. 12845 - 102 Ave. 780-453-9100, www.royalalbertamuseum.ca • Sherwood Park Greenhouses. Spend the afternoon viewing show gardens, plant displays and water fountains at Salisbury Greenhouse. 780-467-5743, www.salisburygreenhouse.com. Or stop by Greenland Garden Centre for a diverse selection of home and garden décor, and jewelry. 780-467-7557, www.greenlandgarden.com • Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. Tour the gardens and find out why the village received top honours in the “Communities in Bloom” program. Register for the historical garden tour program. 780-662-3640, ukrainianvillage.ca Other areas in the Edmonton region offer their own opportunities for outdoor adventure. Visit or call any visitor information centre for a “Visit Edmonton’s Countryside” brochure with all the details you need to travel informed. www.edmontonscountryside.com
IN THE PICTURE Beautifully landscaped gardens surround the majestic Alberta Legislature Building.
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/itshere
20
art scene Edmonton is known as Canada’s Festival City for its vibrant and diverse arts and cultural community which includes the downtown arts district, Old Strathcona theatre and gallery walk.
The Arts District • Art Gallery of Alberta. A centre of excellence for the visual arts in Western Canada, focused on the development and presentation of original exhibitions of contemporary and historical art from Alberta, Canada and around the world. The AGA also offers a full-range of art education and public programs. The gallery is located at 2 Sir Winston Churchill Square. 780-422-6223, www.youraga.ca • Citadel Theatre. Located in the central downtown arts district this five-theatre multi-purpose complex is the country’s largest and busiest regional theatre with a mix of live performances that are certain to entertain. 780-425-1820, www.citadeltheatre.com • City Hall. Listen for the 23-bell carillon, enjoy a meal at Kids in the Hall restaurant, and relax at the wading pool. For group tours call 780-944-7740, www.edmonton.ca • Francis Winspear Centre for Music. Warm acoustics and stylish architecture set the stage for a vast array of fine performances from around the world, including the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra with concerts ranging from great classical masterworks to pops and children’s concerts. Book tickets at 780-428-1414 or 1-800-563-5081, www.winspearcentre.com
21
•N orthern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. Originally built as a gift to the people of Alberta, the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium plays host to some of the world’s most exciting performers and performances. The Jubilee Auditorium is home to Canada’s third largest dance company, the Alberta Ballet. Book tickets at 780-427-2760. www.jubileeauditorium.com • Shaw Conference Centre. Cascading down the river valley is Edmonton’s unique Shaw Conference Centre. Check out this awardwinning venue for concerts, meetings, conventions and trade shows. Visit the pARTnership Gallery to view hundreds of pieces of local student art. The Shaw Conference Centre is located a few steps from central downtown, home to several shops and hotels. 9797 Jasper Ave. 780-421-9797, www.shawconferencecentre.com
Art Galleries Do you have an eye for good art? Stimulate and intrigue your visual senses at the Art Gallery of Alberta. This provincial gallery is a growing treasure and boasts an impressive collection of art. The Edmonton region is home to over 60 art galleries. Some galleries specialize in local art, Canadian artists, Native and Inuit art. For a more complete listing see the Arts and Culture section at www.edmonton.com. • 124 Street Area. Visit a variety of eclectic shops, galleries, fine restaurants and live theatre. The Gallery Walk, the first of its kind in Canada, was formed in 1981 to promote art and artists of merit, focusing especially on work by Canadian artists (Gallery Walk section below). www.124street.ca
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/itshere
it’s all here! • Alberta Craft Council. You’ll find distinctive works crafted by more than 200 members at 10186 - 106 St. 780-488-6611, www.albertacraft.ab.ca • The Dow Centennial Centre. Fort Saskatchewan is home to visual and performing arts and the Fort Saskatchewan Pottery Guild. This first-class, state-of-the-art facility includes the Sherritt Cultural Pavilion. 780-992-6400, www.fortsask.ca Also see www.culture.alberta.ca for a useful list that includes galleries in Edmonton, St. Albert, Sherwood Park, Spruce Grove and Stony Plain.
Gallery Walk The Gallery Walk is located in a 12-block area just west of the downtown core in the 124 Street area. Formal self-guided gallery walks are organized twice a year; however, visitors and residents can conduct their own gallery walk anytime. 780-488-4892, www.gallery-walk.com • Bugera Gallery Inc. 12310 Jasper Ave. 780-482-2854, www.agnesbugeragallery.com • Bearclaw Gallery. 10403 - 124 St. 780-482-1204, www.bearclawgallery.com • Daffodil Gallery. 10412 - 124 St. 780-760-1278, www.daffodilgallery.ca • Electrum Design Studio. 12419 Stony Plain Rd. 877-295-7464, www.waynemackenziegoldsmith.com/ • The Front Gallery. 12312 Jasper Ave. 780-488-2952, www.thefrontgallery.com • Peter Robertson Gallery. 12304 Jasper Ave. 780-455-7479, www.probertsongallery.com • Scott Gallery. 10411 - 124 St. 780-488-3619, www.scottgallery.com • SNAP (Society of Northern Alberta Print-Artists). 10123 - 121 St. 780-423-1492, www.snapartists.com
Photo courtesy of Government of Alberta
IN THE PICTURE The Art Gallery of Alberta, designed by Randall Stout, is a focal point of Edmonton’s Downtown Arts District.
• West End Gallery. 12308 Jasper Ave. 780-488-4892, www.westendgalleryltd.com
Theatre District Onstage and on film, there are plenty of options in a region that boasts dozens of theatre companies ranging from alternative, collective, community-based, improvisation and dinner theatre. Historical Old Strathcona is home to eight theatre companies and is also where you will find the Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival every August. Edmonton’s event is the largest and longest-running Fringe in North America. • Catalyst Theatre. 8529 Gateway Blvd. 780-431-1750, www.catalysttheatre.ca • Die Nasty. 10329 - 83 Ave. 780-433-3399, www.die-nasty.com • Fringe Theatre Adventures. 10330 - 84 Ave. 780-448-9000, www.fringetheatreadventures.ca IN THE PICTURE Take a stroll on the Whyte Ave Art Walk, an outdoor studio and gallery featuring hundreds of working artists.
continued on page 23
2013 summer getaway guide
22
it’s all here! art scene continued • Oh Susanna! 10329 - 83 Ave. 780-433-3399, www.varsconatheatre.com • Rapid Fire Theatre. 10329 - 83 Ave. 780-443-6044, www.rapidfiretheatre.com • Shadow Theatre. 10329 - 83 Ave. 780-434-5564, www.shadowtheatre.org • Teatro La Quindicina. 10329 - 83 Ave. 780-433-3399, www.teatroq.com • Theatre Network - Live at the Roxy. 10708 - 124 St. 780-439-2845, www.theatrenetwork.ca • Walterdale Playhouse. 10322 - 83 Ave. 780-439-2845, www.walterdaleplayhouse.com
Film Buffs While exploring the Glenora community, wander down the road to the Royal Alberta Museum (12845 - 102 Ave.), where the Edmonton Film Society presents classic movies on Monday nights (780-453-9100, www.royalalbertamuseum.ca). Or head to the Garneau, where Metro Cinema (780-425-9212) screens independent films (8712 - 109 St.). For more alternative films check out the Princess Theatre (780-433-0728). Prefer the giant screen? Take in an IMAX film at TELUS World of Science – Edmonton (11211 - 142 St., 780-451-3344, www.edmontonscience.com) or at West Edmonton Mall’s Scotiabank Theatre (780-444-2400).
IN THE PICTURE Old Strathcona features eight theatre companies performing out of four venues.
Independent Films Two neighbourhood theatres, the Princess (10337 - 82 Ave., 780-433-0728) and the Garneau (8712 - 109 St., 780-425-9212) screen art and first-run movies. For more information on theatres including the Citadel Theatre and dinner theatres, visit the Theatre and Performing Arts page in the Things to Do section of www.edmonton.com. • Metro Cinema. Come to the Metro for a cinematic experience. Enjoy year-round screenings of classic documentaries and an array of international independent films at the Garneau Theatre. 780-425-9212, www.metrocinema.org
Dinner Theatre Edmonton has several dinner theatres to choose from. Enjoy a scrumptious dinner while watching a play.
The Art Gallery of Alberta, a destination and a journey. See the feature exhibition Water Into Art: British Watercolours from the V&A, 1750-1950 July 20–November 24, 2013 Organized by the Victoria and Albert Museum, London
23
• Mayfield Dinner Theatre. 16615 - 109 Ave., 780-483-4051 Visit | Join | Shop | Dine
• Jubilations Dinner Theatre. West Edmonton Mall, 780-484-2424
youraga.ca Located on Sir Winston Churchill Square, Edmonton
2013 summer getaway guide
bring your shopping list
Photo courtesy of Government of Alberta
Edmonton offers so many choices for shopping. Whether you are strolling through a large shopping centre like West Edmonton Mall, checking out the eclectic shops on Whyte Avenue, or wandering through a farmers’ market, Edmonton is a great place to find that hidden gem.
The Streets of Edmonton Many neighbourhoods still offer unique shopping experiences with a variety of specialty stores, arts and crafts, and ethnic shops. Street shopping is a great way to experience Edmonton and our charming communities. • Old Strathcona. Whyte Avenue in Old Strathcona has been named one of Canada’s five best shopping neighbourhoods. Old Strathcona boasts over 600 businesses. Check out unique shops like the Bamboo Ballroom, The Avenue Clothing Company, and Etzio Craigmyle Clothing Co. Amid many historic buildings, the fare ranges from international to locally produced with a respect for arts and crafts, unique fashions and accessories, antiques, home accessories, books, gifts and collectables. www.oldstrathcona.ca • 4th Street Promenade. Stop by this sophisticated neighbourhood in downtown Edmonton that offers you an urban atmosphere to admire the arts, fine food and unique boutiques. Aspiring to be a distinguished destination to live, work and play, 4th Street Promenade is one of the most exciting areas of Edmonton. Be sure to check out specialty stores Evoolution and The Helm.
We often forget that we have a world famous landmark that is the envy of half the modern world. People in America dream about coming here the same way we dream about going there. We often take it for granted, or we assume that all malls are that amazing. We forget that we have something special. Something unique. -Jacqueline. To read this full story go to www.edmontonstories.ca
• Downtown. Jasper Avenue is the heart of Edmonton’s business district, and offers great shopping. The pedway system gives shoppers indoor access to Commerce Place, Manulife Place and Edmonton City Centre. • Chinatown and the Avenue of Nations. (North of downtown) A mix of ethnic shops reflects the cultures of China, Japan, Italy, Latin America, Poland, Ukraine and Vietnam. • High Street/124 Street. All within 12 blocks, 124 Street is an attractive residential area, a specialty shopping district and a centre for the arts. Stroll down tree-lined streets with cobbled sidewalks while shopping at more than 125 shops, including unique antique and specialty boutiques, sporting goods, home décor, books and designer furniture. Check out Cloud Nine, Notables Stationers Inc., Shades of Grey Boutique, and many other unique shops. Don’t miss the many art galleries in this area. www.124street.ca continued on page 25
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/itshere
24
it’s all here! bring your shopping list continued
IN THE PICTURE West Edmonton Mall features over 800 stores and services alongside 10 world-class attractions!
The Malls of Edmonton Edmonton is home to a variety of shopping venues from neighbourhood malls, large power centres, to one of the world’s largest malls. • West Edmonton Mall. North America’s largest entertainment and shopping centre which features over 800 stores and services. With more than 100 eating establishments and ten world-class attractions to enjoy while you shop. 170 St. & 87 - 90 Ave. 780-444-5200, www.wem.ca • Kingsway Garden Mall. Located conveniently in the centre of Edmonton at the intersection of two of Edmonton’s oldest streets, Princess Elizabeth Avenue & Kingsway Avenue. Kingsway features over 200 stores and services. 780-477-5756, www.kingswaymall.com • Edmonton City Centre Mall. In the heart of downtown, this four-storey mall is conveniently located near hotels and accessible through pedways. 780-426-8444, www.edmontoncitycentre.com • Southgate Centre. The dominant shopping centre in south Edmonton, it is a modern, friendly and convenient one-stop shopping and fashion destination with 165 exciting stores and services. 780-435-3721, www.southgatecentre.com • Mayfield Common. A full service, box-style shopping centre located in the west end of the city. • South Edmonton Common. Canada’s largest retail power centre continues to grow with major retail outlets, check out the 320,000-square-foot IKEA® store, and renowned restaurants like Moxie’s and The Keg Steakhouse, as well as a 16-screen Cineplex Odeon Cinema. www.southedmontoncommon.com • Londonderry Mall. Londonderry Mall is big on selection and you’ll discover great things to suit your image and the lifestyle you enjoy, whether it’s fashion, furnishings or sporting goods! The mall features over 150 stores and services. 780-475-9266, www.londonderrymall.com
25
IN THE PICTURE The communities surrounding Edmonton are filled with history, art and excitement. Don’t miss exploring them on your next trip to Edmonton.
The Communities of Greater Edmonton Looking for a shopping road trip with a difference? Edmonton’s region is rich with history and unique towns to visit. • Devon. Check out the unique shopping, adventure and attractions along the Devonian Way. 780-987-8306. • Fort Saskatchewan. Take in the history, trails and shopping. Watch the sheep graze in and around the city’s parks. 780-992-6200, www.fortsask.ca • Leduc. Enjoy farmers’ markets, numerous stores, restaurants and services. 780-986-5454, www.leduc-chamber.com • Mundare. This flower-bedecked community is home to the Basilian Fathers Museum, and Stawnichy Meat Processing Plant whose Ukrainian sausage is famous. If you’re a quilter, be sure to stop by The Chicken Coop. 780-764-3929, www.mundare.ca • St. Albert. St. Albert has one of the largest outdoor farmers’ markets in the area every Saturday. Enjoy the specialty shops downtown or visit attractions like the Musee Heritage Museum and Father Lacombe Chapel. 780-459-1631, www.visitstalbert.com • Spruce Grove. Check out the art galleries, shops and services. 780-962-2611, www.sprucegrove.org • Stony Plain. Stroll downtown and visit the many unique shops on historic Main Street. 780-963-2151, www.stonyplain.com • Strathcona County. You’ll find a full range of shops in Sherwood Park, the county’s urban centre. With eight rural hamlets in the county there are lots of local artists and urban shops to discover. 780-464-8216, www.strathcona.ca
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/itshere
sporting scene Edmonton offers a full spectrum of indoor and outdoor sports for all ages and abilities, from recreational to professional. This summer, Edmonton welcomes the CN Canadian Women’s Open at the elegant Royal Mayfair Golf Club. Watch some of the best compete, or go work on your own golf swing at one of 84 golf courses in the Greater Edmonton region. Edmonton will be the starting point in September for the Tour of Alberta, marking Canada’s first major international professional stage race.
Edmonton and area offers more courses per capita than any other Canadian city, and there’s summer sunshine that lasts as long as 17 hours. - Mike. To read this full story go to www.edmontonstories.ca
The Big Leagues It’s always a thrill to watch the city’s finest at play. • Edmonton Eskimos. CFL Football. Commonwealth Stadium. 86 St. & 111 Ave. 780-448-ESKS, www.esks.com • Edmonton Oilers. NHL Hockey. Rexall Place, 7427 - 118 Ave. 780-414-GOAL, www.edmontonoilers.com • Edmonton Oil Kings. WHL Hockey. Rexall Place, 7427 - 118 Ave. 780-414-GOAL, www.oilkings.ca • Edmonton Rush Lacrosse Club. National Lacrosse League. Rexall Place. 780-732-RUSH, www.edmontonrush.com • FC Edmonton. North American Soccer League. 780-439-7529, www.fcedmonton.com • Northlands Park. Enjoy live thoroughbred and harness racing as well as global simulcast racing, slot machines and gaming, and great dining at Northlands Spectrum. 780-471-7210, www.northlands.com continued on page 29
IN THE PICTURE Northlands Park lets you get right next to all the action as the horses go racing by!
2013 summer getaway guide
26
What is it that makes a memory special?
Your favourite song, playing live in front of thousands of screaming people; your favourite athlete, winning it all right when it counts; your favourite ride at the fair, spinning you until you’re giddy. It’s all here at Northlands, home of Rexall Place, K-Days, Northlands Park, the Canadian Finals Rodeo, Farmfair International and the Edmonton EXPO Centre. Visit northlands.com to learn how to turn your trip to Edmonton into an event you’ll always remember.
Creating tomorrow’s memories every day!
Edmonton EXPO Centre | Rexall Place | Northlands Park
Northlands
We’ve got an action packed summer ready for you at Northlands. From world-class concerts at Rexall Place, to the electric buzz of the K-Days midway and adrenaline pumping action of the horse races, Northlands is the summer entertainment destination in Edmonton. As the number one venue in the Pacific Northwest, Northlands hosts hundred of events each year. Creating memories is what we do and you can come create your own memories at one of our many sizzling summer events.
been the largest and most celebrated thoroughbred race day held in Western Canada. With some of the nation’s leading horses and riders taking part, it is the must-see, must-attend event of the season for horseracing fans—not to mention the social event of the summer in Edmonton!
Thoroughbred Horse Racing at Northlands Park
Northlands is proud to host Edmonton largest summer festival—K-Days. From July 19 - 28, Edmonton will come together to celebrate the best in music, rides, food and shopping for 10 days of adrenaline pumping fun. As the first year with a brand new name, this year’s K-Days will serve as a nod to the nostalgia of past fairs while keeping the thrill of new and exciting entertainment! We’ve got headliner concerts, thrilling midway rides, fabulous fair food and world-class entertainment that is sure to delight both the young and the young at heart!
The Thoroughbreds are back at the track for more adrenaline pumping action at Northlands Park. This year, there are many opportunities to watch, wager and win on your favourite ponies! Create memories with friends at Park After Dark every Friday night or frolic with the family on Family Fun Days on June 29, July 20 and August 10. The young at heart can reminisce as we salute the past on Retro Mondays while foodies enjoy food trucks and foals on select days throughout the summer. Both men and women will get their own dedicated day during Men’s Day, featuring ‘big boy toys’ and Ladies Day featuring fashion at its finest. As one of Edmonton’s largest patio parties, Park After Dark held every Friday evening will give the world’s greatest sport the soundtrack it deserves! Join us as the ‘racing meets nightlife’ experience takes over the track’s tarmac, bringing music and energy to Northlands Park— featuring a live DJ and the perfect summer refreshments! All of this leads up to the biggest day in horse racing, the Canadian Derby on August 17. For more than 50 years, the Canadian Derby has
2013 summer getaway guide
K-Days
For more information on any of our Northlands events, please visit www.northlands.com Tickets for the Canadian Derby and K-Days can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com
Join the conversation! Like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/entertainmentnorthlands Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/Northlands
it’s all here! sporting scene continued • Edmonton Leisure Centres. More than a dozen civic facilities offer pools, hot tubs, saunas, fitness equipment, tracks, children’s areas and more. 780-442-5311, www.edmonton.ca • Outdoor Pools. Edmonton pools offer fun in the sun: Borden Park, 11200 - 74 St.; Oliver, 10315 - 199 St.; Mill Creek, 9555 - 84 Ave. and Fred Broadstock 10515 158 St. Call 780-442-5311 for more information. In St. Albert, visit Grosvenor Park Outdoor Pool, 1 Grenfell Ave., 780-458-2002. • Dow Centennial Centre. This centre in Fort Saskatchewan includes a soccer pitch, ice arena, gymnasium and theatre. 8700 - 84 St., Fort Saskatchewan. 780-992-6400, www.fortsask.ca • Strathcona County Millennium Place. Large complex features indoor wave pool, competition pool, ice arenas, leisure ice rink with skate rental, playground zone, soccer fields, gymnasium, running track, fitness centre and outdoor skateboard park. 2000 Premier Way, Sherwood Park. 780-416-3300, www.strathcona.ab.ca • Terwillegar Community Recreation Centre. This new state-of-the-art facility contains an aquatics centre, fitness centre, children’s wing, arena, and commercial spaces. 2051 Leger Road, Edmonton. 780-442-5311, www.edmonton.ca IN THE PICTURE The Greater Edmonton region has 84 golf courses, including the oldest municipal course in Canada.
• TransAlta Tri Leisure Centre. Large recreational complex featuring water slide, kids water park, ice skating, hockey, soccer fields, running track, fitness centre, playground zone. 221 Jennifer Heil Way, Spruce Grove. 780-960-5080, www.trileisure.com
Edmonton is Your Golf Destination
• Servus Credit Union Place. Water play centre, leisure ice, arenas, fitness/wellness centre, indoor track, training centre and more. 400 Campbell Rd., St. Albert. 780-418-6088, www.servusplace.ca
With mid-summer daylight lasting 17 hours, it’s no wonder the Edmonton region boasts more than 84 courses. Choose from riverside urban to rolling rural golf courses. Pick up a Visitors Guide for a list of golf courses or go online www.edmonton.com. • Golf Courses. RedTail Landing Golf Club, (780-890-7888) located north of the Edmonton International Airport. The Ranch Golf & Country Club located west of Edmonton (780-470-4700), Goose Hummock Golf Resort in Gibbons (780-921-2444), and the Northern Bear Golf Club a Jack Nicklaus signature course in Sherwood Park (780-922-2327). • Edmonton River Valley Golf Courses. Three public golf courses dot the river valley: the historic Victoria, the challenging Riverside and the relaxed Rundle. 780-496-4710, www.edmonton.ca/golf • Rundle Park Disc Golf. Save on green fees with a game at this free public nine-hole frisbee golf course. www.edmontondiscgolf.org
Do-It-Yourself Sports Venues offering sports and fitness with a shot of fun are so numerous we can’t list them all. Here are just a few. • Kinsmen Sports Centre. Two indoor tracks, badminton, squash, racquetball, wallyball, tennis (indoors and out), aquatic area, table tennis, basketball, weights, personal training, pitch and putt, large outdoor playground and fitness centre. 9100 Walterdale Hill. 780-442-5311, www.edmonton.ca/kinsmen
29
IN THE PICTURE Don’t be afraid to get wet, as Edmonton has multiple indoor and outdoor pools to splash around in!
2013 summer getaway guide
g a rush get Want to feel a surge of adrenaline? Experience new plateaus? Then you’re coming to the right place. Whether seeking terrain for a favoured pursuit or nose-diving into a grand adventure, you’ll find excellent options here.
Live on the Edge Whether you’re braving your first jump or an experienced performer, you will capture the rush in the sky. • Skydiving at Eden North. Half-hour west of the city. 780-489-9000, www.edennorth.com
Laser Tag Zap friends and foe with fun and safe brilliant laser beams. • Laser Quest. 11271 - 170 St. 780-424-211, www.laserquest.com
• Edmonton Skydive Centre. Northwest at Westlock Airport. 780-884-5867, www.edmontonskydive.com
• Gateway Entertainment Centre. 3414 Gateway Blvd. 780-435-1922, gecedmonton.com
• Centre of Gravity. West Edmonton Mall Waterpark. 780-489-4339, www.centerofgravitywem.com
Paintball Fun and competitive sport. Check out some of the many places to play: • Paintball Action Games. Range Road 234, 780-469-0882
Climb High Hit the wall and feel the reward of reaching the top on a number of Greater Edmonton area climbing walls.
• Young Guns Paintball. Stony Plain. 780-963-4006
• Vertically Inclined Rock Gym. 8523 Argyll Rd. 780-496-9390, www.verticallyinclined.com
Take Flight
• University of Alberta Climbing Wall. Urban Uprising, Butterdome. 780-492-2767, www.physedandrec.ualberta.ca
Catch a bird’s-eye view of beautiful Edmonton or watch outstanding pilots strut their stuff. • Hot Air Balloon Rides. Windship Aviation. 780-438-0111, www.windshipaviation.com • Edmonton Soaring Club. East toward Chipman for glider rides. 780-363-3860, www.edmontonsoaringclub.com
• Rock Jungle Fitness. 10247 - 184 Street. 780-454-ROCK, www.rockjunglefitness.com • Rock ‘n’ Wall. West Edmonton Mall Galaxyland. 780-444-5391, www.wem.ca • Ropes Quest. West Edmonton Mall. 780-444-5300, www.wem.ca
• E-Z Air Helicopter. 780-453-2085, www.e-zair.com continued on page 33
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/itshere
30
TELUS World of Science – Edmonton
Science Fun in the City TELUS World of Science – Edmonton awaits you with popular exhibitions and displays, a chance to engage in a variety of science demonstrations, to take a journey with an IMAX® film and to discover the thrill of science in our full-dome shows. Not to be missed, when the weather is nice, the opportunity to explore the night sky and the Sun. BODY WORLDS & The Cycle of Life. Your body is a symphony with millions of finely tuned instruments playing in perfect concert. As time goes by, age changes the instruments, both by design and in reaction to our own choices. The stunning new exhibition, BODY WORLDS & The Cycle of Life, is your opportunity to peer behind the curtain and see the concert inside yourself as you’ve never seen it before. Visitors will witness the body living through time—as it changes, grows, matures, and finally wanes. This new exhibition makes its Canadian debut in Edmonton for the summer. The IMAX Theatre features a great lineup of IMAX films that run hourly throughout the day: Rocky Mountain Express is an enchanting story about the building the nation’s first transcontinental railway. Filmed in Alberta and British Columbia, the film blends an epic story with spectacular scenery of the Canadian Rockies and transports you back in time to the age of steam. Also playing in IMAX are Flight of the Butterflies and Hubble. The Margaret Zeidler Star Theatre features full-dome shows which provide an immersive 360-degree experience and is included with general admission with hourly shows throughout the day. This summer enjoy one or all four of these full-dome shows: Experience the Aurora; Extreme Planets; Secret of the Cardboard Rocket and One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure. With hundreds of engaging interactive exhibits in 5 themed galleries and daily science demonstrations, TELUS World of Science will delight, inform and challenge you. Opened in fall 2012, the new Environment Gallery features interactive exhibits unique to our centre where
visitors learn about the changing environment around them. The centerpiece of the gallery is Science on a Sphere—an iconic 6-foot diameter projection system used by staff scientists to visually enhance presentations on environmental science. Discoveryland is a unique discovery gallery for children eight and under and is designed to spark the curious minds of children and allow them to create and to be inventive. Space Place continues to spark interest among all ages as it tackles complex questions, including: Is there life on other planets? Can we protect the Earth from asteroids? What would you look like as an alien? Stroll through the space station and join us to tackle problems and challenges that are truly out-of-thisworld. The Body Fantastic lets you experience how our bodies work, how our brains make sense of the world and everything weird about our bodies in the Gallery of Gross. Meet RoboThespian™, a lifesized humanoid, interactive robot which is controlled by you. Mystery Avenue challenges you to collect clues at the scene of a crime, just like a CSI. Then explore the world of forensic science and solve the crime. Our live science demonstrations bring science to life! The demonstrations and interpretive stations run daily during the summer and on weekends the rest of the year. These interactive stations help inspire, educate, and entertain our guests. Take your experience home with a souvenir from our Gift Shop. The Observatory is the perfect place for exploring the wonders of our Milky Way Galaxy and beyond with that special someone. Gaze at the Moon, catch a shooting star and take in the beauty of the Alberta’s night sky. Share the thrill of getting up close and personal with Venus, Jupiter, Saturn and other planets using our powerful telescopes. Our experienced and helpful staff are available to assist you in your stargazing and to answer any questions. Check our website for operating hours. Weather permitting. TELUS World of Science – Edmonton is open daily visit telusworldofscienceedmonton.com or call 780-451-3344 for hours, showtimes, upcoming events and admission rates.
2013 summer getaway guide
it’s all here! get a rush continued
Run and Cycle Explore North America’s largest urban green space, the river valley. Parks and more are available through extensive and interconnected trails. • Segway Edmonton. Experience Edmonton’s River Valley like never before. Go gliding through North America’s largest urban parkland on this one-of-a-kind tour. 780-995-7347, www.rivervalleyadventure.com
• Edmonton Trails. Pick up a trail map free at most bike stores, Edmonton Tourism or call the Alberta Bicycle Association to find a club or ride matching your ability. Ask about upcoming competitions, including provincial championships. 780-427-6352 or 1-877-646-BIKE, www.albertabicycle.ab.ca • Running Room. Edmonton, Sherwood Park and St. Albert. Running Room also provides a listing of local charity runs, marathons and running groups. 780-439-3099, www.runningroom.com
On Your Mark, Get Set . . . GO Choose your racing style and expect a spectacle. • Castrol Raceway. Two kms west of Hwy 19, off Hwy 2. 780-468-FAST, 1-877-331-RACE, www.castrolraceway.com • Edmonton International Raceway. South past Leduc. 780-467-9276, www.edmontonraceway.com • Speeders Indoor ProKart. Go-karts. 13145 - 149 St. 780-451-4377, www.speeders.ca • Stratotech Park International Raceway. Kart, formula and sport bike racing. Fort Saskatchewan. 780-998-9995, www.stratotech.ca • Whitemud Dr. Amusement Park. Go-karts. 780-462-1756, www.whitemudamusement.com
BMX Tracks • Edmonton. 780-485-BMX0, www.edmontonbmx.com • Stony Plain. 780-977-4BMX, www.stonyplainbmx.com • St. Albert. 780-460-1BMX, www.stalbertbmx.com IN THE PICTURE Edmonton’s River Valley is 22 times the size of New York’s Central Park!
Water Sports Catch daredevils in action—or challenge the waves yourself. • Waterski at Shalom Park. Alberta’s premier water ski site. 780-955-9428, www.shalompark.com • Klondike Jet Boats. 780-486-0896 • Black Gold River Tours. 780-987-0410, www.blackgoldrivertours.ca • Edmonton Canoe. 780-470-5352, www.edmontoncanoe.com • Canoe Heads. 780-481-6044, www.canoeheads.com • Get Hooked Fishing Adventures. Fishing thrills and challenges with experienced guides. Stony Plain. 780-963-4279, 1-866-963-1888, www.gethookedfishing.com • Reel Angling Adventures. 780-961-3726, 1-866-961-3425, www.reelangling.com • Go Sailing Edmonton. 780-499-4295, www.gosailing.info
IN THE PICTURE You can bike, walk or even Segway through 160km of trails in the river valley.
33
• Red Coat Landing Boat Launch. Fort Saskatchewan. Launch on the North Saskatchewan River. 780-992-6200, www.fortsask.ca
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/itshere
diningg Reflective of the region’s ethnic and cultural diversity, Edmonton offers a truly cosmopolitan variety of restaurants and fine cuisine. From traditional Canadian dishes to Ukrainian and Russian delicacies, French, Greek, Italian, or a full spectrum of Asian epicurean delights, you’ll find it here. And don’t forget Alberta’s worldwide renowned succulent beef! Try our regional cuisine from bison, locally raised lamb, wild boar, fresh picked vegetables and summer berries as local skilled chefs prepare an array of mouth-watering dishes. Dine Alberta celebrates the harvest from field to table. www.dinealberta.ca Living in the 124 Street area, I have come to appreciate the culture and the talent that Edmontonians have to offer. Amy. To read this full story go to www.edmontonstories.ca
• Downtown. You’ll find mouthwatering fine dining at such spots as Hardware Grill, The Marc, Corso 32, Wildflower Grill, MRKT, The Common, Tres Carnales, Urban Diner, Madison’s Grill, The Creperie and various other ethnic eateries. There is an abundance of aromatic coffee shops, as well as great spots for lunch. There’s also the rotating La Ronde revolving restaurant, take a front-row seat as the late-night summer sun sets over the river valley. www.edmontondowntown.com
• 124th Street. Stroll along tree lined streets and stop in for lunch or dinner at some great restaurants. 124th Street offers a wonderful variety in cuisine to choose from such as Café De Ville, The Canteen, Dahlia’s Mediterranean Bistro, Urban Diner, Glenora Bistro, Duchess Bake Shop, or Cosmo’s Greek Taverna to name just a few. www.124street.ca • Old Strathcona. If you can’t decide what type of food you would like for dinner then Old Strathcona is the place to visit. Restaurants in the area offer a huge ethnic mix such as Three Boars Eatery, Packrat Louie, Langano Skies or many other options including Italian, Thai, Japanese, Vietnamese, Cajun, Greek, Chinese, Continental European or Western fair; it’s all here. If you prefer pubs and clubs there are over 15 to choose from and lots of coffee houses to sit back and enjoy. Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market, open every Saturday, offers local and regional ingredients and some great shopping. For a full listing of eateries in the area visit www.oldstrathcona.ca • Strathcona County. Check out Katie’s Crossing, five railway cars straddling a short stretch of track or enjoy fine dining at Joeys. www.strathcona.ca • Stony Plain. Homesteader’s Kitchen in the Multicultural Heritage Centre is known for fresh bread, homemade soup, and many varieties of pies made daily. Or combine antiquing with lunch or breakfast at Julie Keys Antique Café. www.stonyplain.com continued on page 35
2013 summer getaway guide
34
it’s all here! dining continued
Food Trucks Looking for something delicious on the go? Edmonton has an assortment of food trucks that roam Edmonton streets preying on the hungry. Try the Drift’s braised pork belly sandwich, a mouth-watering take on a Vietnamese bánh mì sandwich. Nomad, Bully and The Act food trucks are just a sampling of some of the other great options that have Edmontonians and visitors alike heading outside for their next meal. • Drift Food Truck. Serving up globally inspired sandwiches and fresh cut fries, Drift shops locally to make their delicious finger food. • Nomad Mobile. Voted one of the best food trucks in Edmonton, Nomad’s house sausage was one of the top 100 things to eat in Edmonton. • Eva Sweet. Try something sweet with Eva Sweet and their delicious Belgian waffles. Coming in different flavours, make sure you try the matcha green tea or cinnamon flavoured waffles. Looking for the food truck nearest you? Use http://streetfoodapp.com/ edmonton for all the details.
Farmers’ Markets
IN THE PICTURE Sample some of Edmonton’s finest food trucks and their delicious, unique offerings.
Edmonton proudly hosts several farmers’ markets within the city, and many more surrounding the city, so you can enjoy home-grown food and handmade crafts throughout the year. With over 80 percent of all products made, baked or grown in Alberta, Edmonton-area farmers’ markets are a great way to support your local economy. Below is a sampling of some of the market options you have to pick from. • Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market. A popular Saturday tradition for residents and visitors alike, Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market is open year-round and resides in one of Canada’s top five coolest neighbourhoods. • St. Albert Farmer’s Market. Stop by the largest outdoor market in Western Canada, with over 250 vendors, nearly everything is fresh or homemade. Open from June 15 - October 5. • City Market Downtown. An integral part of the downtown core, Edmonton’s City Market is a year-round market with everything from ready to eat meals to one-of-a-kind clothing. Check it out on 104th Street during the summer or in City Hall in the winter months. • 124 Street’s Grand Market. After a highly successful inaugural season, the 124 Street Grand Market is back with even more to offer. With everything from food trucks to live entertainment, you can experience some local flavour every Thursday from May 23 to October 3. Looking for more info about vendors, hours, locations or anything else about farmers’ markets? Visit www.bigfamilymarket.ca for all the answers.
Photo courtesy of Travel Alberta
IN THE PICTURE The Greater Edmonton region offers several incredible farmers’ markets, including a few that are open year-round!
35
2013 summer getaway guide
after dark Dancing and entertainment are just a few of the reasons why excitement abounds in this region. Given Edmonton’s long hours of summer sun, you may wish to begin your getaway as soon as possible to take full advantage of some of the amazing things Edmonton has to offer. Check the nightlife section of www.edmonton.com where you’ll find information on clubbing, live music, concerts, theatre and casinos.
Nightclubs: • Blues on Whyte, 10329 - 82 Ave.
• Suite 69, 8232 Gateway Blvd.
• Cook County Saloon, 8010 Gateway Blvd.
• The Billiards Club, 10505 - 82 Ave.
• Filthy McNasty’s, 10511 - 82 Ave.
• The Old Strathcona Rack, 10544 - 82 Ave.
I found I wasn’t held back in becoming the person I wanted to be. That means a lot of different things. There are many things to do in Edmonton.
• Funky Buddha, 10341 - 82 Ave.
• The Pawn Shop, 10551 - 82 Ave.
• Funky Town, 10407 - 82 Ave.
- Brad. To read this full story go to www.edmontonstories.ca
• Mixx Dance Club, 10551 - 82 Ave.
• Twist Ultra Lounge, 10324 - 82 Ave.
Lounges & Pubs:
Nightlife
• The Black Dog, 10425 - 82 Ave.
Old Strathcona Located close to the University of Alberta is Old Strathcona’s most popular avenue, 82nd Avenue, or “Whyte” as it is commonly referred to. It is a favourite destination of many late night entertainment seekers. Whyte Avenue comes to life with more than 100 fine pubs and eateries offering a variety of great music for dancing or lounging. Dance the night away or catch some live Celtic music . . . perhaps you’ll need another night to check out the award-winning Cook County Saloon—one of the best country clubs in Canada. Blues on Whyte offers billiards and jazz music in the historic Commercial Hotel building where big names are born. No matter where you go on this people-friendly street, you are sure to have an exciting evening.
• Devlin’s Cocktail Lounge, 10507 - 82 Ave.
• Red Square Vodka House, 10351 - 82 Ave. • Squires, 10505 - 82 Ave.
• Elephant & Castle, 10314 - 82 Ave.
• The Empress, 9932 - 82 Ave.
• Hudsons Taphouse, 10307 - 82 Ave.
• Walkabout Pub, 10439 - 82 Ave.
• The Pint, 8032 - 104 St.
• MKT - 8101 Gateway Boulevard • O’Byrnes Irish Pub, 10616 - 82 Ave. Ghost Tours Take an eerie walk through Old Strathcona to hear true stories of ghosts, hauntings and the unknown. www.edmontonghosttours.com continued on page 37
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/itshere
36
it’s all here! after dark continued
Jasper Avenue Downtown’s busiest strip has an eclectic nightlife. Nightclubs bustle with young people dancing as the DJ spins the hottest tracks. Enjoy a martini and good conversation in a mellow and sophisticated setting. Several pubs offer delicious food, live music and great ambience with their doors open into the early morning hours. Nightclubs & Live Music: • Level 2 Lounge, 11607 Jasper Ave.
• The Starlight Room, 10030 - 102 St.
• Knoxville’s Tavern, 10736 Jasper Ave.
• The Bower, 10538 Jasper Ave.
Lounges & Pubs: • Central Social Hall, 10909 Jasper Ave.
• The Cavern, 10169 - 104 St.
• Fluid Lounge, 10888 Jasper Ave.
• The Druid, 11606 Jasper Ave.
• LIT Wine Bar, 10132 - 104 St.
• The Public House, 10765 Jasper Ave.
• The Common, 9910 - 109 St.
• Moriarty’s Bistro & Wine Bar, 10154 - 100 St. • Overtime, 10335 - 111 St. • Pub 1905, 10525 Jasper Ave. • Sherlock Holmes, 10012 - 101A Ave.
• The Rose and Crown, 10235 - 101 St. • TZiN Wine and Tapas, 10115 - 104 St.
• The Black Sheep, 11026 Jasper Ave.
Casinos • Apex Casino, 24 Boudreau Rd., St. Albert • Baccarat Casino, 10128 - 104 Ave. • Casino ABS, 7055 Argyll Road • Casino Yellowhead, 12464 - 153 St.
• Century Casino, 13103 Fort Rd. • Palace Casino, West Edmonton Mall
IN THE PICTURE Edmonton has an eclectic variety of bars, pubs and nightclubs once the sun sets.
• River Cree Resort & Casino, corner of Whitemud Dr. & Winterburn Rd.
West Edmonton Mall Known for its plethora of entertainment during regular store hours, West Edmonton Mall is home to ample nightlife as well. After dark, many flock to “Bourbon Street”, reminiscent of Mardi Gras. This strip offers pubs and restaurants that satisfy all tastes as well as a comedy club to have you rolling in a fit of laughter. Come and see why the doors never close. www.wem.ca
IN THE PICTURE Enjoy Edmonton’s thriving nightlife scenes on Jasper or Whyte Avenue.
37
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/itshere
edmonton gateway to the north
and the canadian rockies Jasper National Park Edmonton is the gateway to a land of majestic mountains, pristine lakes, historic rivers and northern adventures. Edmonton is located on the TransCanada Yellowhead Highway, a route that offers the easiest and most scenic drive across western Canada. The region is served by the Edmonton International Airport and VIA Rail’s “The Canadian”, one of the world’s most famous train rides. A scenic 3 ½ hour drive (366km) west of Edmonton via the TransCanada Yellowhead Highway, one of the easiest drives through the mountains, puts you at Jasper’s doorstep. Enjoy a scenic horseback ride, historic sites, white water rafting, hiking, wildlife viewing, a world-class golf course and much, much more. Take a cruise on Maligne Lake to world-famous Spirit Island, ride the tramway, or soak at Miette Hot Springs. Jasper National Park is Canada’s largest Rocky Mountain Park and is part of the Rocky Mountain World Heritage Site. Jasper has accommodation, dining and shopping for every taste and budget. www.pc.gc.ca
Alberta North Northern Alberta’s large lakes, mighty rivers, abundant wildlife and untapped wilderness are the place for the ultimate outdoor experience. Explore the beauty and wonder of Alberta by horseback, canoe/kayak, jet-boat, ATV or simply by foot. The long summer days are great for adventurers and golfers. You can also visit traditional small town museums, cities, historic sites or take an oilsands tour in Fort McMurray. With Edmonton’s convenient access to Alberta’s north and the Canadian Rockies, plan to start your tour here.
2013 summer getaway guide
38
All events are in Greater Edmonton unless otherwise indicated. For more information on events in and around Edmonton call 1-800-463-4667, or visit Edmonton Tourism’s website at www.edmonton.com. Events and dates subject to change. Call to confirm.
Year-round All Year Rapid Fire Theatre, Citadel Theatre. 789-425-1820 February 9 - June 9 Diana, A Celebration, West Edmonton Mall. 789-444-5321 April - October FC Edmonton Soccer, Clarke Stadium. 780-439-7529 May 3 - October 14 Live Thoroughbred Racing, Northlands Park. 780-471-7379 May 29 - June 16 Cirque du Soleil: Amaluna, Northlands. 1-800-450-1480 June - November Edmonton Eskimos, Commonwealth Stadium. 780-448-ESKS
39
calendar of events April 12 - June 16 My Big Fat Edmonton Wedding, Jubilations Dinner Theatre. 780-484-2424 May 23 - June 16 The RUBABOO Arts Festival, C103 & Timms Centre for the Arts. 780-913-3570 May 24 - June 29 Vocal Arts Festival. 780-487-4844 May 28 - June 1 International Children’s Festival, St. Albert. 780-459-1542 May 29 - June 1 Dreamspeakers International Aboriginal Film & Television Festival. 780-378-9609 June 1 Legacy Park Family Festival, Fort Saskatchewan. 780-992-6261 June 1 - 2 Heart of the City Music and Arts Festival, Giovanni Caboto Park. 780-667-3798 June 2 Japanese Spring Festival, Devonian Botanic Gardens. 780-987-3054
June
June 6 - 16 Nextfest: Next Generation Arts Festival, Roxy Theatre & various locations on 124 Street. 780-453-2440
April 16 - June 9 9 to 5, Mayfield Dinner Theatre. 1-877-529-7829
June 7 - 16 Edmonton Pride Festival. www.edmontonpride.ca
2013 summer getaway guide
it’s all here! June 8 - 9 Sprouts Festival, New Play Festival for Kids, Stanley A. Milner Library. 780-439-3905 June 8 - 9 History Road: The Ultimate Car Show, Reynolds-Alberta Museum, Wetaskiwin. 780-361-1351 June 13 - 16 Beaumont Town and Country Daze, Beaumont. 780-929-8782 June 14 - August 4 Driving Miss Daisy, Mayfield Dinner Theatre. 1-877-529-7829 June 19 - 29 Rapid Fire Improvaganza, Varscona Theatre. 780-443-6044 June 20 - July 2 The Works Art & Design Festival. 780-426-2122 June 21 - 23 Beaumont Blues Festival, Beaumont. 780-929-1364 June 21 - June 30 Edmonton International Jazz Festival, various venues. 780-990-0222 June 21 - August 25 Johnny B. Goode, Jubilations Dinner Theatre. 780-484-2424 June 22 - June 29 Edmonton International Athletics Festival. 789-427-8792 June 25 - July 21 Freewill Shakespeare Festival, Heritage Amphitheatre. 780-425-8086
July July 1 Canada Day at the Legislature. 780-427-7362 Canada Day Celebrations at the Garden, Devonian Botanic Garden. 780-987-3054 Canada Day at Ukrainian Village. 780-662-3640 Canada Day at the Canadian Petroleum Discovery Centre. 1-866-987-4323 Canada Day at Louise McKinney Riverfront Park. 780-442-5311 Silly Summer Parade, Old Strathcona. 780-437-4182 Dominion Day, Fort Edmonton Park. 780-442-5311 Canada Day, Muttart Conservatory. 780-496-8755 Canada Celebrations, Astotin Lake Area, Elk Island National Park. 780-922-5790 Canada Day, Leduc. 780-980-7177 Canada Day, Devon. 780-987-8300 Canada Day, Morinville. 780-939-4361 Canada Day at Broadmoor Lake Park, Sherwood Park. 780-464-8111 Canada Day, Spruce Grove. 780-962-2611
IN THE PICTURE Get vertical with a roller coaster at Edmonton’s summer spectacular, K-Days!
July 1 - July 14 Feats – Festival of Dance. 780-422-8107 July 2 - 7 Edmonton and District Historic Festival, various locations. 780-439-2797 July 3 - 13 Walterdale Playhouse presents Anything Goes. 780-439-2845 July 4 The Glenn Miller Orchestra, Winspear Centre. 1-800-563-5081 July 5 - 14 Edmonton International Street Performers Festival. 780-425-5162 July 5 - 7 Ukrainian Pysanka Festival, Vegreville. 780-632-2777 July 9 - July 14 Les Misérables, Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. 789-427-2760 July 12 - 14 Whyte Avenue ArtWalk, Old Strathcona. 780-432-0240 July 14 Sourdough Raft Race, Edmonton’s River Valley. 789-406-0235 Rose Day, Devonian Botanic Garden. 780-987-3054 July 20 Canada’s Parks Day, Elk Island National Park. 780-992-5790 July 18 K-Days Parade, Downtown Edmonton. 1-888-800-7275 July 18 - 27 A Taste of Edmonton Festival, Sir Winston Churchill Square. 780-423-2822 July 19 - 28 K-Days, Northlands. 780-471-7210 July 26 - 28 Interstellar Rodeo, Heritage Amphitheatre. 1-855-465-2459 July 27 - 28 Fete Au Village, Legal. 780-961-3773
continued on page 43
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/itshere
40
Edmonton Attractions Pass
Photo by Paul Swanson
See More and Save More!
Northlands K-Days
With one convenient pass, you’ll gain admission to Edmonton’s must-see attractions that offer a fun variety of history, culture, nature, science, art and events!
Every July, the biggest live community experience in Edmonton takes place at Northlands. Discover and celebrate entertainment, shopping, culture, family fun, and adrenaline-packed rides.
Alberta Aviation Museum
Prairie Gardens & Adventure Farm
Edmonton’s aviation history as The Gateway to The North comes alive with more than 30 aircraft, personal artifacts of famous pilots, an airplane restoration area, and more!
Set on a family farm just North of Edmonton in scenic Sturgeon County, Prairie Gardens and Adventure Farm offers good old-fashioned family fun for kids ages 2 - 92!
Art Gallery of Alberta
Royal Alberta Museum
This architectural wonder connects people, art, and ideas through its fascinating exhibitions of contemporary and historical art from Alberta, Canada, and around the world!
From pictographs to petroglyphs to prehistoric plant eaters, from grizzlies to bison and bugs, and from mountains to the windswept prairies, you’ll experience history like never before.
Castrol Raceway (NEW Attraction)
TELUS World of Science – Edmonton
Fun for the whole family! Castrol Raceway, Canada’s Premier Motorsports Complex, annually holds a variety of adrenaline fueled events ranging from Sprint Cars, Top Fuel Dragsters, Motocross events, and circuit racing.
This popular space and science centre features the largest planetarium dome in Canada and fascinating interactive exhibit galleries.
Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village
Devonian Botanic Garden
This award-winning outdoor living history museum tells the story of Ukrainian immigrants who settled east central Alberta, from 1892 - 1930.
The University of Alberta Devonian Botanic Garden, established in 1959, is a stunning 190-acre property made up of manicured gardens, mixed woodland, vegetation, and an extensive nature trail system.
Edmonton Valley Zoo
Fort Edmonton Park Take a journey back in time at the largest living history museum in Canada, which includes original and rebuilt historical buildings representing the past 150 years of the city’s history.
Leduc #1 Energy Discovery Centre Bringing the thrill of science and discovery together with the pioneering ingenuity of the early oil patch, this unique centre preserves and interprets the history of Alberta’s oil industry.
Muttart Conservatory Visit one of Edmonton’s most magnificent architectural icons, and escape to paradise in four spectacular glass pyramids showcasing a constantly changing display of nature’s beauty.
More than 350 animals, including snow leopards, monkeys, and red pandas, call the Edmonton Valley Zoo home, which also boasts new state-of-the-art research and education facilities.
West Edmonton Mall – Marine Life Explore marine life at Sea Life Caverns— an underground aquarium that is home to more than 100 species of fish, sharks, sea turtles, penguins, reptiles and amphibians.
BONUS Attractions: Alberta Legislature This stunning historical heritage building, surrounded by a beautiful park and reflecting pool, is a must-see for visitors to Alberta’s capital city. Old Strathcona In one of Canada’s Top Five shopping districts, you can dine at one of the many restaurants and cafes, enjoy live theatre, take in a movie, ride the streetcar, got to a festival, or listen to music at one of the pubs or clubs.
2013 summer getaway guide
it’s all here!
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/itshere
42
it’s all here! calendar of events continued
Photo by Paul Swanson
IN THE PICTURE Attracting over 600,000 visitors, the Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival is the first and largest of its kind in Canada!
August August 1 - 4 Big Valley Jamboree, Camrose. 780-672-0224 August 2 - 4 Blueberry Bluegrass & Country Music Festival, Stony Plain. 1-888-915-4973 August 2 - 3, 30 - 31 Movies on the Square, Sir Winston Churchill Square. 789-944-7740 August 3 - 5 Servus Heritage Festival. 780-488-3378 August 6 - 10 Rock’n August, St. Albert. 780-482-0334 August 8 - 11 Edmonton Folk Music Festival, Gallagher Park. 780-429-1999 August 9 - 10 Edmonton Rock Music Festival, Hawrelak Park, www.edrocks.ca/fr_home.cfm August 9 - 11 CariWest - Edmonton Caribbean Arts Festival. 780-421-7800 Animethon, Grant MacEwan City Centre. www.animethon.org August 10 - 11 Parade of Ponds Tour, various locations. 780-433-6671 August 11 Ukrainian Day, Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. 789-662-3640
IN THE PICTURE Set amidst cultivated gardens and beautiful showhouses, the Devonian Botanic Garden is a stunning 190-acre property just southwest of Edmonton.
August 15 - 25 Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival, Old Strathcona. 780-448-9000 August 16 - 18 Edmonton Blues Festival, Heritage Amphitheatre. 780-708-7230 Edmonton Dragon Boat Festival, Louise McKinney Park. 780-493-8158 August 17 - 25 Teatro at the Fringe, Teatro La Quindicina. 780-433-3399 August 18 Wild Mushroom Exposition, Devonian Botanic Garden. 780-987-3054 August 19 - 25 CN Canadian Women’s Open, Royal Mayfair Golf Club. 1-866-571-5742 August 25 Friends’ Ukrainian Music Fest, Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. 780-662-3640 August 30 - September 2 Symphony Under the Sky, Hawrelak Park. 780-428-1414 August 31 - September 2 Corn Fest, Prairie Gardens & Adventure Farm. 780-921-2272
September September 1-2 TALES Fort Edmonton Storytelling Festival, Fort Edmonton. 789-442-5311 September 5-8 Country Music Week CCMA Awards. 1-416-947-1331 continued on page 45
43
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/itshere
AWESOME
summer offers!
Vibrant nightlife, live theatre, music and diverse shopping all define South Edmonton.
August 15 - 25 Fringe Festival
Stay within reach of the best our city has to offer. Check our website and book your spectacular summer vacation now.
Check often for Special offers at STAYEDMONTONSOUTH.COM
1-877-665-9931 2013 summer getaway guide
44
it’s all here! calendar of events continued September 26 - October 5 Edmonton International Film Festival, Empire Theatres in Edmonton City Centre . 780-423-0844 September 27 - 29 Accordion Extravaganza. 780-929-8836 Alberta Culture Days. 789-415-0281 September 28 Red Green: How to do Everything Tour, Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. 1-855-985-5000
October October 1 - 30 (Weekends) Haunted Pumpkin Festival, Prairie Gardens & Adventure Farm. 780-921-2272 October 16 - 20 ATB Financial Edmonton Comedy Festival. 780-439-8809 October 17 - 27 Edmonton International LitFest. 780-498-2500
November November 1 - 10 River City Round Up. 789-471-7210 November 3 - 10 Farmfair International, Northlands. 1-888-800-7275 IN THE PICTURE Making Edmonton its home since 1974, the Canadian Finals Rodeo is a world-class rodeo event that will get your heart pounding.
November 15 - 17 The Pure Speculation Festival, Grant MacEwan University. www.purespec.org
September 8 Harvest of the Past & Taste of Heritage Food Festival, Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. 780-662-3640 Fall Family Festival at the Devonian Botanic Garden. 780-987-3054
November 23 Christmas in the Park, Devon. 780-987-8300
September 9 - 15 2013 Visualeyez . A Festival of Performance Art. 780-423-5353
November 28 - December 1 Festival of Trees. 780-407-2786
September 13 - 15 Kaleido Family Arts Festival, Alberta Avenue. 780-471-1580
December
September 17 - 22 War Horse Production. 780-427-2760
December 8 A Christmas Past, Rutherford House. 780-427-3995
September 21 - 22 Fall-O-Ween Harvest Festival, Prairie Gardens & Adventure Farm. 780-921-2272
December 13 - 22 (Weekends) A Prairie Christmas, Prairie Gardens & Adventure Farm. 780-921-2272
September 25 - September 29 Edmonton Chante – Edmonton Francophone Music Festival, Maurice Lavalee School. 780-469-4401
45
November 6 - 10 Canadian Finals Rodeo, Rexall Place. 1-888-800-7275
December 31 New Year’s Eve Downtown. 780-423-2822
2013 summer getaway guide
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/itshere
46
it’s all here!
websites and resources Downtown Hotels Alberta Place Suite Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-661-3982 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.albertaplace.com Coast Edmonton House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-716-6199 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.coasthotels.com Coast Edmonton Plaza Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-716-6199 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.coasthotels.com Courtyard by Marriott . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-866-441-7591 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.marriott.com/yegcy Crowne Plaza Chateau Lacombe . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-661-8801 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.chateaulacombe.com Delta Edmonton Centre Suite Hotel . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-888-890-3222 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.deltaedmontoncentre.ca Holiday Inn Express Downtown . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-877-423-4656 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.hiexdowntown.com
Matrix Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-866-465-8150 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.matrixedmonton.com Ramada Hotel & Conference Centre . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-877-473-7871 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.ramadaedmonton.com The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-257-7544 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.fairmont.com/macdonald The Sutton Place Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-866-378-8866 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmonton.suttonplace.com The Westin Edmonton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-WESTIN1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.westin.com/edmonton Union Bank Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-888-423-3601 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.unionbankinn.com
continued on page 49
47
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/itshere
websites and resources continued
South Edmonton Hotels
West Edmonton Hotels
Campus Tower Suite Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-877-221-3989 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.campustower.com Delta Edmonton South Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-888-890-3222 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.deltahotels.com Four Points by Sheraton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-368-7764 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.fourpoints.com/edmonton Four Points Sheraton Edmonton Gateway . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-368-7764 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.fourpoints.com/edmonton Holiday Inn Conference Centre Edmonton . . . . . . Tel: 1-877-660-8550 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.holidayinn.com Hampton Inn Edmonton South . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-560-7809 . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmontonsouth.hamptoninnbyhilton.com Metterra Hotel on Whyte . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-866-465-8150 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.metterra.com Radisson Hotel Edmonton South . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-967-9033 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.radisson.com/edmontonca Sandman Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-726-3626 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.sandmanhotels.ca Sawridge Inn-Edmonton South . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-888-729-7343 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.sawridgeedmonton.com Super 8 Hotel Edmonton South . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-866-468-8839 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.super8edmontonsouth.com Varscona Hotel on Whyte . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-866-465-8150 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.varscona.com
Continental Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-888-484-9660 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.continentalinn.ca Courtyard by Marriott Edmonton West . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-888-638-6070 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.marriott.com/yegew Edmonton Marriott at River Cree Resort . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-960-4913 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmontonmarriott.com Executive Royal Inn West Edmonton . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-888-388-EXEC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.executivehotels.net Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton West . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-560-7809 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.hamptoninn.com Hilton Garden Inn West Edmonton . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-888-344-5866 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.westedmonton.stayhgi.com Holiday Inn & Suites West Edmonton . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-560-7843 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.hiedmonton.com Mayfield Inn & Suites Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-661-9804 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.mayfieldinnedmonton.com Quality Inn West Harvest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-661-6993 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.westharvest.ca Sandman Hotel West Edmonton . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-SANDMAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.sandmanhotels.com Travelodge Hotel West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-525-4055 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.travelodgeedmontonwest.com/ Wingate Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-866-671-7666 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.wingateinnedmonton.com
Edmonton RV and Campground Sites Allan Beach Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.allanbeach.com Elk Island Retreat Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.elkislandretreat.com Glowing Embers RV Park . . . . . . . . www.glowingembersrvpark.com Kacikewin RV Campgrounds & Cabins . . . . . . . .www.kacikewin.com Longriders RV Park & Horseback Riding . . . . .www.albertahorses.com Rainbow Valley Campground . . . . . . . . . www.rainbow-valley.com Shakers Acres RV Campground . . . . . . www.shakersacresrvpark.com Spring Lake Resort & RV Park . . . . . . . . www.springlakeresort.com Whitemud Creek Golf & RV Resort . . . . . . www.whitemudcreek.com
IN THE PICTURE Go back in time and experience four different time periods at Fort Edmonton Park.
49
2013 summer getaway guide
it’s all here! General Edmonton and Area Information Bed & Breakfast Association of Greater Edmonton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.bbedmonton.com City of Edmonton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-442-5311 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmonton.ca Edmonton Daily Newspapers . . . . . . . . www.edmontonjournal.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmontonsun.com Edmonton Eskimo Football Club (CFL) . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-448-ESKS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.esks.com Edmonton Oilers Hockey Club . . . . . . . . . . . .Tel: 1-866-414-GOAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmontonoilers.com Edmonton Festivals . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmonton.com/festivalcity
Edmonton Visitor Guide www.infoedmonton.com Visit Edmonton’s Countryside www.edmontonscountryside.com Travel Alberta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-800-ALBERTA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.travelalberta.com Where Edmonton Magazine www.where.ca/edmonton Edmonton Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-496-8400 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Toll free: 1-800-463-4667 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.edmonton.com
Regional Visitor Information Centres Edmonton (Gateway Park) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-496-8400 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . or Toll Free: 1-800-463-4667 Edmonton (Downtown) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-401-7696 Beaumont . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-929-8782 Bruderheim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-796-3731 Calmar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-985-3604 Devon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-987-8300 Elk Island National Park of Canada . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-922-5790 Fort Saskatchewan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-992-6261 Kalyna Country . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 1-888-452-5962 La chambre économique de l’Alberta . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-424-6512 Lamont County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-895-2233 Leduc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-986-5454
Legal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-961-3773 Millet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-387-4554 Morinville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-939-4361 Parkland County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-968-8888 Sherwood Park/Strathcona County . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-464-0801 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . or Toll Free: 1-866-464-0801 Spruce Grove . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-962-2561 St. Albert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-959-1631 Stony Plain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-963-4545 Sturgeon County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tel: 780-939-4321
For information call 1-800-463-4667 or check out www.edmonton.com/itshere
50
enter to win a
Sizzling Summer Experience Sizzling Summer Experience Grand Prize for Two Approx. Value: $1,500 Prize draw June 30
Sizzling Summer Experience Grand Prize for Four Approx. Value: $2,000 Prize draw August 31
Enter at www.edmonton.com/itshere or fill out the entry form below. Enter to win one of two Sizzling Summer Experiences*! Entrants are required to answer the trivia question on Greater Edmonton—to the right. The answer can be found within the Edmonton. It’s All Here summer getaway guide or may be found online at www.edmonton.com/itshere.
Name: Address: City: Province: Postal Code: Phone: (
)
Email: Yes, I would like to be informed of any upcoming Edmonton Tourism contests and promotions. Please include me in your email updates. * Some restrictions apply. For full contest and prize details visit our website. No purchase necessary. We respect your privacy; information gathered is for internal Edmonton Tourism promotional purposes only.
When was the last year Edmonton hosted the CN Canadian Women’s Open?
2 012 2007 2001 1989 Enter online or complete your entry form and mail in a stamped envelope to: Edmonton. It’s All Here. c/o Edmonton Tourism, 9990 Jasper Avenue NW, Edmonton, Alberta T5J 1P7