Edmonton totally surprised me! Everyone told me it was just a big mall city, but Alberta’s capital turned out to be way more exciting than I expected. From watching the Northern Lights dance across the sky at Elk Island National Park to catching world-class festivals at Churchill Square, I discovered so many amazing things to do in Edmonton that completely changed my mind about this city.
Let me tell you, this place knows how to have fun. I spent my summer evenings food truck hopping through the Ice District and watching the sunset from the city’s epic River Valley (North America’s largest urban park!). If you’re wondering whether Edmonton is worth visiting, these are my favorite spots that proved this city deserves way more hype. Let’s dive into the good stuff!
Best Things to Do in Edmonton for Young Adults
Visiting Edmonton? Explore the scenic trails of Edmonton’s River Valley, catch a live performance at the Winspear Centre, or take in breathtaking views with a Hot Air Balloon ride. Enjoy outdoor activities at Victoria Park or step back in time at Fort Edmonton Park. Whether you’re into nature, arts, or adventure, Edmonton has plenty to offer!
1. Ride Through the Heart of Edmonton’s River Valley
Biking through Edmonton’s River Valley offers one of the best ways to explore the city while staying active. With over 160 kilometers of trails, this massive urban park system winds past scenic lookouts, dense forests, and riverside paths. I started my ride near Kinsmen Park and followed the trail toward Hawrelak Park, where I stopped to relax by the pond. The paved trails are well-maintained, and you’ll see joggers, skaters, and plenty of locals soaking in the views.
If you don’t have your own bike, River Valley Adventure Co. near Louise McKinney Riverfront Park offers rentals with gear included. They’ll also give you route suggestions depending on your time and stamina. Go early to avoid the heat and enjoy quieter paths. Whether you’re after a long ride or just want to coast through downtown green space, this is a highlight for outdoor lovers.
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2. Catch a Show at the Winspear Centre
For a night out that isn’t a bar or club, the Winspear Centre delivers an elevated experience. Located downtown near Churchill Square, this state-of-the-art concert hall is home to the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra and regularly hosts performances from touring acts and local talent. I attended a movie-themed concert here and was blown away by the acoustics—it felt like surround sound in every seat.
The architecture inside is sleek and modern, and the main performance hall has a ceiling that seems to lift with the music. It’s smart to book ahead, especially for big shows. You can check listings on the Winspear Centre website, and grab drinks from their bar before or during intermission. Whether you’re into classical music, indie bands, or guest speakers, this venue is a solid bet for a cultured evening in Edmonton.
3. Soar Above the City in a Hot Air Balloon
Seeing Edmonton from above in a hot air balloon is one of the most unique things you can do here. I booked a flight with Sundance Balloons, and we lifted off just after sunrise near the Edmonton River Valley. Floating over the city with 360-degree views, you get a real sense of the city’s layout—parks, skyline, and farmland stretching into the horizon.
The ride itself is smooth and peaceful, with just the occasional burst from the burner. Most tours include a brief safety overview, a 45–60 minute flight, and a champagne toast once you land. Sundance Balloons operates seasonally, typically May through September, and they offer group or private flights. If you’re looking for something special to do with friends or a partner, this checks all the boxes for adventure, photo ops, and bragging rights.
4. Skate Under the Stars at Victoria Park
Victoria Park IceWay offers one of the coolest ways to enjoy winter nights in Edmonton. This 2-kilometer skating trail winds through a snow-covered forest and lights up at night with colorful LED displays. I brought my skates one January evening, and gliding under the glowing canopy made the cold completely worth it. The vibe is relaxed, and the setting feels almost surreal.
The IceWay typically opens from early December through February, depending on the weather. Admission is free, and the trail is lit until 10 p.m. nightly. There’s a warming hut nearby and portable washrooms on site. If you don’t have your own skates, head to Rundle Park, which has skate rentals available during winter through the City of Edmonton’s on-site facilities. Dress in layers, bring a thermos, and plan to stay a while—this local tradition is a must during the colder months.
5. Dive into History at Fort Edmonton Park
You don’t need a classroom to learn local history—Fort Edmonton Park brings it to life across four immersive sections: the 1846 Fort, 1885 Street, 1905 Street, and 1920s Midway. I visited during their summer season and rode a vintage streetcar into the past. Staff in period clothing stay in character, adding unexpected fun to the whole experience.
Each section features restored buildings, reenactments, and interactive exhibits. You can buy old-fashioned candy, take a steam train ride, or pop into the Capitol Theatre for a black-and-white film. There’s even a spooky paranormal tour offered in the evenings.
The park spans over 150 acres, so wear comfortable shoes and give yourself a full day. Whether you’re into vintage photography, early settler life, or just love quirky museums, this is an essential Edmonton stop.
6. Uncover Artistic Wonders at the Art Gallery of Alberta
Right in the heart of downtown, the Art Gallery of Alberta stands out with its twisted metal exterior and modern design. Inside, the gallery showcases rotating exhibitions ranging from contemporary installations to Canadian landscape painting and Indigenous art. I stopped in on a quiet weekday and ended up spending hours moving between the thoughtfully curated rooms.
It’s not an overwhelming space, which makes it easy to digest even if you’re not a typical museumgoer. Exhibits change often, so there’s always something new, and guided tours or artist talks are scheduled throughout the year.
Admission is free on the last Thursday of each month, which makes it a smart pick for budget travelers. If you need a break, the in-house café serves solid coffee and pastries. For young adults looking to explore Edmonton’s creative scene, this place is a great start.
7. Leap into Adventure at LaunchPad Trampoline Park
Jumping around LaunchPad Trampoline Park is one of the most unexpectedly fun things I did in Edmonton. This massive indoor space is lined with wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, and dodgeball courts. It’s the kind of place where you can be a kid again—even if you’re sore the next day. I spent a Saturday afternoon flipping around and couldn’t stop laughing.
For young adults wanting an active break from city sightseeing, this spot offers a full-body workout in the form of pure fun. Whether you’re nailing flips or bouncing between trampoline zones, you’ll burn serious energy without realizing it.
They also host glow nights with music and lights if you want to turn up the vibe. Just wear comfy clothes and bring or rent grip socks—they’re required. LaunchPad makes for a solid indoor hangout when Edmonton’s weather gets unpredictable.
8. Discover the Magic of the Muttart Conservatory
If you’re looking for something chill but still eye-catching, head to the Muttart Conservatory. Each of its four glass pyramids houses a distinct ecosystem—from the steamy tropics to the dry desert. I went on a rainy day and ended up staying longer than expected, totally absorbed in the jungle-like pathways and vibrant floral displays.
It’s a great spot for plant lovers, casual wanderers, or anyone needing a photo backdrop. The feature pyramid rotates its displays throughout the year, so you never know what theme you’ll walk into.
Bonus: the Café Bloom inside is cozy and ideal for sipping coffee after exploring. Admission is reasonable, and it’s just across the North Saskatchewan River from downtown. The Muttart Conservatory offers a refreshing change of pace from Edmonton’s louder attractions—perfect for recharging without going far.
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9. Catch the Thrills at West Edmonton Mall
There’s no way to skip West Edmonton Mall—it’s basically its own city. I knew it was big, but I didn’t expect a full-size amusement park, a water park, a skating rink, and over 800 stores in one place. We spent nearly an entire day there and still didn’t cover everything.
If you’re the type who likes non-stop action, you’ll love Galaxyland for rides and World Waterpark for indoor waves and slides. When you need a break, swing by BRBN St., the mall’s dining and nightlife zone.
You’ll also find escape rooms, bowling, and even a pirate ship in the lagoon. It’s chaotic, but in a fun way. Wear comfortable shoes, bring swim gear if you plan on hitting the water, and don’t try to do it all in one go—West Edmonton Mall is a marathon, not a sprint.
10. Gaze at the Stars at the TELUS World of Science
The TELUS World of Science is where curiosity turns into wonder. I visited during an evening planetarium show and was blown away by how immersive it felt. From galaxies and nebulae to black holes and planetary orbits, it’s a mind-expanding experience even if you’re not a science geek.
During the day, the exhibits are highly interactive—think robots, optical illusions, and hands-on physics demos. There’s also an IMAX theatre, an observatory, and regular themed exhibitions.
If you’re lucky, you can catch one of their astronomy nights with telescope viewing, which are great for a clear-sky evening. It’s just north of downtown, and easily accessible via public transit. If you’re visiting with friends, carve out a few hours—you’ll want time to wander without rushing. This place proves that learning doesn’t stop after school, and science can actually be a ton of fun.
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11. Rock Out at the Rec Room
The Rec Room in South Edmonton Common is a go-to spot for games, food, and entertainment—all under one massive roof. With over 60,000 square feet of arcade games, virtual reality, and live entertainment, it’s hard to get bored. I spent a Friday evening there and lost track of time battling friends at racing games and trying out VR dodgeball.
The vibe is upbeat but relaxed, and there’s plenty of space whether you’re on a casual night out or planning a group hang. The restaurant serves decent pub-style meals—think burgers, loaded nachos, and seasonal cocktails.
Weekends can get busy, so it’s worth booking a table if you’re planning to stay a while. Keep an eye on their event calendar for comedy shows, trivia nights, and live music. For young adults looking to unwind without hitting a club, The Rec Room South is a solid alternative.
12. Hit the Slopes at Snow Valley Ski Club
Snow Valley Ski Club is a great spot to embrace winter without leaving the city. Just a short drive from downtown, this local hill is ideal for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. I dropped in with friends last December, and it turned out to be the perfect mix of chill vibes and adrenaline. Whether you’re taking your first lesson or testing your skills on the terrain park, the friendly atmosphere makes it easy to enjoy.
The hill operates from mid-November to mid-March, depending on snowfall, and features night skiing, rentals, and a cozy lodge café. If you’re new to winter sports, the instructors here are super helpful, especially during the beginner group sessions. Don’t forget to book your lift tickets online—they sometimes sell out on weekends. For an easy winter adventure close to the city, Snow Valley Ski Club delivers every time.
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