By Cassandrea Gascoyne
Whether you are travelling to Edmonton for some shopping at West Edmonton Mall, taking part in one of the many great festivals, or you are camping at the nearby Elk Island National Park, you will find a way to escape within the vibrant capital city of Alberta. The buzzing food, music and art scenes will offer many opportunities to taste, hear and see what is new and up-and-coming. If you love the outdoors you can hike or bike the 160 kilometres worth of river valley trails or spend a night in Elk Island National Park; and if you prefer to stay in, West Edmonton Mall can provide you with a day at the beach in the World Water Park, a thrill ride in Galaxyland Amusement Park, or shop to your heart’s content with over 800 stores.
I have lived in or near Edmonton all of my life, and now I work downtown Edmonton so I get to experience and enjoy Alberta’s capital city daily. My two favourite things to do in Edmonton almost daily is to take advantage of part of the 160 kilometers of trails and relish in the food scene that seems to always be new, creative and exciting.
On a lunch break from my place of work downtown, I will enjoy the legislature grounds, walk along side the North Saskatchewan River, cross the river and enjoy the view from a bridge, walk the perimeter of the Victoria Golf Course, and still be back in time to grab a snack at one of the many food trucks downtown. And that is only 6 kilometeres of the 160 available trail system!
Edmonton’s food scene is constantly changing and evolving. There are new restaurants appearing monthly, and every summer the choice of food trucks seems to double. As a foodie myself, I try to experience as much of the food scene as possible. There are options available if you are looking for something quick and tasty (food trucks!), or if you are looking for something interesting (Three Boars Eatery) or low key (The Sugar Bowl). I truly could write all day about the amazing food in Edmonton, so I instead will leave you with some photos.
On top of the trails and food scene there is so much more that Edmonton has to offer. I have had the opportunity to take a trip back into memory lane with a visit to Fort Edmonton Park or visit the John Walter Museum for free admission. If I want to stay indoors I can visit West Edmonton Mall’s Water Park, Amusement Park or shopping at over 800 shops. The summer months in Edmonton also offer a variety of festivals for all likes and kinds; some I have taken part in and some are still on my bucket list. Also on my bucket list, I am planning to explore and hike Elk Island National Park; a park with bison and other wildlife and raw nature just minutes outside the city. Whatever the reason you are in the city, there is something here for everyone!
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