Melanie MoralesYou remember those Saturdays when you’ve got absolutely nothing on the books, no plans, and the weather’s making its best “stay inside” effort? That’s just what happened to me and how I ended up at the Alberta Aviation Museum—and honestly, no apologies.
What I had expected to be a cursory visit turned into a full-on, wildly entertaining experience. The museum is enormous and filled with Edmonton’s incredible aviation history.
Fun fact: Edmonton was a key stop for pilots flying into the Arctic. Badass, right?
If you’re now curious about what makes the Alberta Aviation Museum so special, this guide’s got everything you need to know about must-see exhibits and history.
Where is the Alberta Aviation Museum?
The Alberta Aviation Museum is in Edmonton, Alberta. It’s located at 11410 Kingsway NW, right next to the Edmonton Municipal Airport grounds, and near the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology and Kingsway Mall.
How to get to the Alberta Aviation Museum?
- Closest subway stop: To get to the Alberta Aviation Museum, take the Metro Line MRT to NAIT station, then walk west for about 10 minutes.
- Closest bus stops: Several ETS bus routes, like #12 and #125, also stop nearby along Kingsway.
If you’re driving, head north on 109 Street, turn left onto Kingsway, and you’ll see the museum just past NAIT.
Taxis and rideshares are another easy option, especially if you’re coming from central Edmonton—it’s about a 10-minute ride.
Things to know
Contact: +1 780-451-1175
Operating hours:
- Winter (September – May):
Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday, Sunday & Holidays: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Mondays, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day: Closed
- Summer (June – August):
Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Holidays: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission rates
- Adults (18–60): $15.00
- Seniors (61+): $12.00
- Youth (13–17): $10.50
- Children (6–12): $9.50
- Children (5 & under): Free
- Students: $12.00
- Family Pass: $37.50 (includes 2 adults and up to 4 children under 17)
- Military Individual: $7.50 (with valid military ID)
- Military Family: $18.75 (with valid military ID)
Parking
- The museum offers free parking on-site
What to Do and See at the Alberta Aviation Museum
Explore over 30 historic aircraft
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Walking into the hangar feels like stepping back in time. There are over 30 planes lined up, and seeing them up close is way more intense than I expected. Some are polished and gleaming—others look like they’ve been through it all.
You can peek inside cockpits, check out old bomber planes, and even spot a few rare models you won’t see anywhere else.
I kept getting drawn back to the old bush planes. You can almost picture them flying into rough landings way up north.
Experience flight simulators
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If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to sit in the cockpit of a plane, the flight simulators at the Alberta Aviation Museum are your chance to try it out. I jumped into one expecting a quick demo, but it was way cooler than I imagined.
You get the full cockpit experience—controls, dials, the whole setup—and then you take off. It’s a little scary at first, but when you’re flying, it’s pretty amazing.
You can really feel the movement in the simulator. When you change altitude or turn, it’s not just a joystick shift; it’s like you’re physically in the plane, adjusting with every move.
Watch live aircraft restoration
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Here, you can watch the restoration process up close—old planes being worked on, parts being swapped out, and engines getting a tune-up. It’s amazing to see how much attention goes into getting each plane back to its best shape.
And the best part is that you can speak with the experts and ask about the methods they use. It’s as if you are right in the middle of a live DIY job but on a far greater, much more intricate scale.
Browse the gift shop
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The gift shop is not huge, but there’s a good mix of stuff—model planes, old-school posters, and a few books about local aviation stories.
I ended up buying a small metal keychain shaped like one of the bush planes I’d just seen. It’s simple, but it felt like the right thing to grab after walking through the museum.
Even if you’re not really into souvenirs, it’s worth poking around for a few minutes. They’ve got some nice little finds, and it’s an easy way to take home a bit of the experience.
Where to Eat near the Alberta Aviation Museum
Pho Hoan Pasteur
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Location: 11443 Kingsway Ave NW
Contact: (780) 761-1989
Operating hours:
- Tuesday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Monday: Closed
Pricing: $$
Good to know: Best for those who love Vietnamese pho and vermicelli
If you’re craving a solid bowl of Vietnamese comfort food, Pho Hoan Pasteur is one of those spots that just hit right. The menu’s got all the classics—beef noodle soups, vermicelli bowls, and rice plates. The highlight for many, though, is the pho.
My go-to pho is the rare beef with brisket. The broth is clear and super flavorful without being too salty, and the portion is generous without going overboard. Their spring rolls are also worth grabbing—crispy, hot, and come out fast.
Nothing fancy here, just a clean spot with fast and reliable service. Even when it’s packed, the food doesn’t take long.
Ricky’s All Day Grill
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Location: 11431 Kingsway Ave NW
Contact: +1 (780) 488-8238
Operating hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday – Saturday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Pricing: $$
Good to know: Best for all-day breakfast, family-friendly meals, and classic Canadian diner vibes
If you’re after a place where you can get breakfast or dinner anytime, Ricky’s All Day Grill has you covered. It’s a casual chain, but the menu is stacked with comfort food—think omelets, bennies, and big, dinner-style plates that leave you full for hours.
I usually hit it up for breakfast and stick with the classics like their Grand Slam, which has all the usual suspects—bacon, sausage, and pancakes. The portions are no joke, and the coffee keeps coming without you having to ask.
The booths are comfy, the staff are friendly, and you can roll in with a group or solo. It’s one of those spots that’s reliable when you don’t want to overthink where to eat.
Cafe Amore Bistro
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Location: 10807 106 Ave NW
Contact: +1 (780) 477-7896
Operating hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Pricing: $$
Good to know: Best for hearty Italian pastas
If you’re after a comfy spot with satisfying Italian fare, Cafe Amore Bistro is a great choice. It’s a small, family-run place with a laid-back vibe—nothing too polished, but that’s part of the charm.
The pasta is definitely the main event here. Last time, I went for the seafood pasta, and it didn’t disappoint. It’s filled with shrimp, mussels, and clams—all tossed in a perfectly seasoned tomato sauce.
The portions are generous, and you can tell everything’s made fresh. Their garlic bread is worth ordering, too—it comes out hot and buttery, perfect for mopping up the sauce.
Where to Shop near the Alberta Aviation Museum
Edmonton Arts Council
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Location: 9930 102 Avenue NW
Contact:
- Phone: 780-420-1757
- Toll-Free: 1-877-888-1757
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Good to know: Best for those looking for art from local artists
If local art catches your interest, the Edmonton Arts Council is worth a look. They work hard to back local artists and bring new creative ideas to public spaces around town.
The shop carries a nice variety of local creations that highlight the city’s art and culture vibe. There’s everything from original artwork by local artists to handcrafted pottery and unique textiles that make perfect gifts or home decor.
The store isn’t merely a place to sell art; it’s also a community events hub. If you ever find yourself in the mood to explore further into Edmonton’s art scene, they’ve got plenty of programs and events to get you in touch with the artists themselves.
Shop Harrow
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Location: 12547 102 Ave NW
Contact: (780) 244 4995
Operating hours:
- Monday – Friday: 11:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Good to know: Best for minimalist fashion, and thoughtfully designed accessories
I popped into Shop Harrow not long ago just to browse and ended up grabbing a hoodie that’s now one of my favorites. It’s a solid spot if you’re into minimalist clothes.
Most of what they carry is neutral-toned stuff like tees, joggers and jackets. You could easily put a whole outfit together without overthinking it. I also appreciated that they work heavily with sustainable fabrics.
The staff were really relaxed when I was there. They allowed me to take my time but were prompt to assist when I had a query.
Bearclaw Gallery
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Location: 10403 124 Street NW
Contact:
- Phone: (780) 482-1204
- Fax: (780) 488-0928
Operating hours:
- Monday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday & Public Holidays: Closed
Good to know: Great unique handcrafted pieces and a diverse collection of cultural artwork
I stopped by Bearclaw Gallery recently after a friend recommended it, and I’m glad I did. The gallery highlights Indigenous art, so all the products inside are made by First Nations, Métis, and Inuit artists.
They sell paintings, beadwork, and prints. I spent a lot of time looking at some detailed carvings and ended up grabbing a small print to take home.
If you’re curious about Indigenous culture or just want to see something different from the usual art scene, Bearclaw Gallery is definitely worth a visit.
Where to Stay near the Alberta Aviation Museum
Best Western Plus City Centre Inn
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Location: 11310 109th Street NW
Contact: +1 (780) 479-2042
Operating Hours:
- Front Desk: Open 24 hours
- Check-In: 3:00 PM
- Check-Out: 11:00 AM
Pricing: $$$
Good to know: Best for travellers looking for easy access to Kingsway Mall
If you’re looking for a comfortable stay in central Edmonton, Best Western Plus City Centre Inn is a solid choice. The rooms are spacious and well-kept, with some offering views of the nearby racetrack.
The hotel has an indoor pool with a waterslide, a hot-tub, and a 24-hour fitness center—great for families or anyone wanting to stay active. There’s also a Tim Horton’s on-site for your coffee fix.
For dining, the Runway 29 Lounge offers a variety of options, and room service is available if you prefer to stay in. Guests can enjoy cooked-to-order breakfast, with vegan, gluten-free, and American options available.
The location is convenient, with Kingsway Mall just across the street and easy access to public transit.
Canterra Suites Hotel
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Location: 11010 Jasper Avenue NW
Contact:
- Phone: +1 (780) 421-1212
- Toll-Free: +1 (877) 421-1212
- Fax: +1 (780) 421-1211
Operating Hours:
- Front Desk: Open 24 hours daily
- Check-In: 4:00 PM
- Check-Out: 11:00 AM
Pricing: $$$
Good to know: Best for extended stays with residential atmosphere
Canterra Suites Hotel is an all-suite hotel with large rooms and full kitchens, making it ideal for extended stays or for anyone on a budget who prefers to cook.
Every suite is warm and inviting, with comfortable furnishings and ample room to move around. It’s ideal for business people or families because you can simply get settled and get the most out of your stay.
They offer complimentary breakfast, a well-equipped fitness center on-site, and a steam room if you want to relax after a long day. There are also added perks like underground parking and easy-to-use laundry facilities.
Coast Edmonton Plaza Hotel by APA
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Location: 10155 105 Street NW
Contact:
- Phone: +1 (780) 423-4811
- Reservations: 800.716.6199
- Sales Inquiries: 780.423.7529
Operating Hours:
- Front Desk: Open 24 hours daily
- Check-In: 3:00 PM
- Check-Out: 11:00 AM
Pricing: $$$
Good to know: Best for downtown convenience and easy access to Rogers Place and ICE District
Coast Edmonton Plaza Hotel is a downtown spot that’s great if you want to stay close to restaurants, shopping, and Roger’s Place. The rooms are clean and comfortable and come with some nice extras like TOTO washlets and 55-inch TVs.
There’s a fitness room if you’d like to fit in a workout and an indoor saltwater pool and hot tub if you feel like unwinding.
For meals, the on-site restaurant offers a good range of options.
The best part is there’s also a free shuttle service to help you navigate the downtown area with ease.
