Melanie MoralesEdmonton runs on two settings: winter and a collective race to soak up the sun before winter again. Last June, I hit the Legislature Ground “just to chill” and ended up knee-deep in the fountains, shoes abandoned, laughing like a kid. Honestly? Worth it.
That spontaneous afternoon reminded me there’s actually a lot to do here for free—especially when the weather finally warms up. It’s wild how we overlook this city when we’re glued to screens or avoiding traffic.
If you’ve ever stared at your bank balance and thought, “So…It’s instant noodles and Netflix, I guess,” this list has your back. Here are free things to do in Edmonton that prove you can have fun even without a fat wallet.
- Hang out with friends at Churchill Square
- Discover Alberta’s political history at the Legislature Building
- Soak up the vibes at the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market
- Stargaze at the University of Alberta Observatory
- Get creative at the Art Gallery of Alberta
- Capture scenic views at Mactaggart Sanctuary
- Enjoy the retro vibes at the Neon Sign Museum
- Stroll down Whyte Avenue
- Ride the 100 Street Funicular
- Join the November Project in Edmonton
Hang out with friends at Churchill Square
Media from kurz_chris
Location: 1 Sir Winston Churchill Square
Contact: 311 (within Edmonton)
Operating hours:
- The square itself is an open public space accessible at all times, but the amenities and information services operate during the following hours:
City Hall Building:
- Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Holidays: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Visitor Information Desk:
- Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: Closed
- Holidays: Closed
If you can’t think of anywhere to hang out with your friends during summer aside from the beach, Churchill Square is a great option. My friend and I usually grab a coffee nearby and chill by the City Hall fountain, dipping our feet or just relaxing by the water.
There’s often live music, outdoor movies, or street performers around, which we’ve come across a few times and always enjoy.
When nothing’s happening, it’s still a good place to sit and people-watch or check out the art installations around the square. It’s just a laid-back place to unwind.
Pro tip:
Arrive early for events to score a good spot and avoid the crowds while you explore the area
Discover Alberta’s political history at the Legislature Building
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Location: 10800 97 Avenue NW
Contact: 780.427.7362
Operating hours:
Fall & Winter Hours (Sept 3, 2024 – May 16, 2025)
Legislature Building Tours:
- Wednesday to Friday: 3:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM
Visitor Centre: Wednesday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Capital Gifts (Gift Shop):
- Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Summer Hours (May 17 – Sept 1, 2025)
Legislature Building Tours:
- Wednesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 3:00 PM
Visitor Centre: Wednesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Capital Gifts: Open daily: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Pedway Hours:
- Weekdays: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Weekends: 10:55 AM – 2:55 PM
- Statutory holidays: Closed
Anyone interested in Alberta’s political past will appreciate a visit to the Legislature Grounds. The striking architecture and thoughtful monuments give you plenty to explore and learn.
I once went there with my cousin, who’s into history, and we strolled through the grounds. We learned about Alberta’s first premier, Alexander Rutherford, and it was cool to see how the artwork highlighted such an important historical figure.
We also walked around the gardens and relaxed by the fountains to rest our feet. It’s a serene spot to linger, and the wading pools are just right for cooling off during the summer.
Pro tip:
Join the free guided tour to catch cool facts and access spots you’d miss on your own.
Soak up the vibes at the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market
Media from strathconamarket
Location: 10310 83 Ave NW
Contact: +1 780-439-1844
Operating hours:
- Saturday from 8 am to 3 pm
The Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market is one of my favorite weekend spots to just window shop and heal my inner spending spirit.
Me and my friends like wandering through the stalls, checking out handmade goods and local produce. There’s usually live music from buskers, which adds a nice vibe as you walk around.
I once went with a friend’s kid, and they had a blast at the free coloring table while we sipped coffee and wandered. It’s a fun place to soak in the local feel without needing to spend anything.
Pro tip:
Swing by close to closing time — some vendors offer free samples to clear stock!
Stargaze at the University of Alberta Observatory
Media from uofaobservatory
Location: Centennial Center for Interdisciplinary Science, Edmonton
Contact: +1 780-492-3111
Operating hours:
- Thursday from midday to 1 pm and from 7 pm to 8 pm
If you’re ever looking for something different to do, I recommend visiting the University of Alberta Observatory. I went there once with a friend who’s really into astronomy. We dropped in for the solar observing session during the day, and it was super chill.
The best part? You can simply walk in. There’s no need for tickets or reservations.
They also offer night sky viewings, depending on the season. It’s a fun and free way to learn a bit more about the stars and planets without any pressure.
Pro tip:
Check their schedule for free public viewings — you’ll get a chance to stargaze through their powerful telescopes!
Get creative at the Art Gallery of Alberta
Media from youraga
Location: 2 Sir Winston Churchill Sq, Edmonton
Contact:
Operating hours:
- Tuesday–Wednesday from 11 am to 8 pm
- Thursday–Friday from 11 am to 5 pm
- Saturday–Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm
- Monday: Closed
If you’re free on the last Thursday of the month, you can check out the Art Gallery of Alberta at no cost from 4 to 7 PM. It’s definitely worth scheduling on your calendars if you’re in art school and or just genuinely enjoy art.
You get to stroll through different exhibitions without any pressure, and the space itself is pretty impressive too.
They also have this Art Hive thing every Thursday where you can drop in and get creative for free. It’s a chill way to unwind and be surrounded by people who enjoy art. Definitely a great spot for a cultural outing!
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the gallery’s free family days, where you can enjoy special activities for all ages.
Capture scenic views at Mactaggart Sanctuary
Media from garbuttjennifer
Location: 820 119 St NW
Contact: 780-492-4216
Operating hours:
- Sanctuary Access: Open year-round during daylight hours.
- Guided Tours and Educational Programs: Available upon request
If you love taking photos of nature, Mactaggart Sanctuary is definitely worth checking out.
This tranquil spot is great for a relaxing walk, especially in the fall. Plus, it’s pet-friendly, so you can take your dog with you.
The 2.3 km loop trail takes you through quiet, forested areas, and it’s easy to navigate.
It’s the ideal place to breathe out the stress and soak in the natural surroundings. The photos you capture here will also definitely elevate your Instagram feed.
Pro tip:
The trails can be muddy or icy depending on the season, so sturdy footwear is a must.
Enjoy the retro vibes at the Neon Sign Museum
Media from jodymitoma
Location: 104 St NW
Contact: +1 780-496-5281
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
If you’re ever walking down 104th Street and want to check out something cool, the Neon Sign Museum is a great stop.
It’s a collection of old neon signs from around the city, all lit up and giving you a little peek into Edmonton’s past. I was surprised by how many signs I recognized, and it was fun to learn their backstories.
I usually stop by during a weekend walk, and it’s a perfect place for a quick photo or just to appreciate some retro vibes.
Pro tip:
Visit at dusk or after dark to see the Neon lights illuminated—they’re especially photogenic against the evening sky.
Stroll down Whyte Avenue
Media from ivanshchan
Location: 82 Ave NW
Contact: +1 780-437-4182
Operating hours:
- Accessible 24/7
If you’re in the mood for a relaxed area to hang out, Whyte Avenue is a place you have to go.
You can stroll through the area and check out the street art and all the interesting architecture along the way. There are more than 70 murals along the avenue, and they’re well worth a visit if you’re a photography buff or just enjoy good art.
It’s also fun to just people-watch, window shop, or chat with the vendors since they’re usually approachable and happy to share details about their products.
Pro tip:
Explore Whyte Avenue’s vibrant street art scene with the Old Strathcona Mural Map for an easy and flexible outing.
Ride the 100 Street Funicular
Media from exploreedmonton
Location: 10065 100 Street NW
Contact:
- 311 (within Edmonton)
- +1 780-442-5311 (outside Edmonton)
Operating hours:
- Funicular & Elevator: Daily, 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Promontory, Stairs, Promenade, Bridge & Frederick G. Todd Lookout: Daily, 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Washroom (Located in Louise McKinney Park): Daily, 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
If you’re hanging out downtown, the 100 Street Funicular is a cool little stop.
Me and my friends hopped on just for fun, and the ride down gave us a great view of the river. At the bottom, we spent some time on the lookout, just taking in the city and grabbing a few photos.
We also wandered around the trails for a bit, which was a nice way to stretch our legs. Taking the funicular backup was an easy ride and felt like a fun break from walking. It’s a simple but enjoyable thing to add to your day.
Pro tip:
Catch the funicular at sunrise for a peaceful ride with fewer crowds and stunning morning views over the river and city.
Join the November Project in Edmonton
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Location:
Workouts take place at various locations throughout Edmonton:
- Mondays: Locations vary weekly; details are posted on their social media channels the day before.
- Wednesdays: Commonwealth Stadium during warmer months; Royal Glenora Stairs in winter.
- Fridays: Walterdale Hill.
Contact: [email protected]
Operating hours:
Workouts are held year-round, three times a week:
- Monday: 6:00 AM – 6:45 AM
- Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 6:45 AM
- Friday: 6:00 AM – 6:45 AM
If you’re looking to get active but don’t want to commit to a pricey gym, the November Project in Edmonton is a great option.
It’s a free outdoor fitness group that meets three times a week. I’ve joined a few sessions, and it’s a super welcoming environment for all fitness levels.
The workouts mix running and bodyweight exercises, and they keep things fun with games like a high-energy version of duck-duck-goose. It’s a different vibe compared to other fitness groups, and you don’t need to register ahead of time.
Pro tip:
Stay consistent and attend a few sessions — it’s a great way to build relationships with fellow participants and see noticeable improvements in your fitness.
