Karsten SturmayWelcome to Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park
Named after Canada’s seventh Prime Minister, Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park is a sprawling 55-hectare wonderland nestled in Edmonton’s River Valley. Established way back in 1909, it’s a prime example of how much we, Edmontonians, love our green spaces.
Here, you can get lost (not literally; there are maps) on paths that twist and turn like a beaver’s tail through lush forests, sun-dappled meadows, and alongside the scenic North Saskatchewan River.
So, whether you’re a history buff looking for a prime ministerial stroll, a nature lover craving some forest bathing, or just someone who appreciates a good beaver sighting, Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park can be your jam.
- Welcome to Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park
- Where is Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park?
- Things to know
- How to get to Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park?
- What to do and see in Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park
- Where to eat and drink near Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park
- Where to shop near Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park
- Where to stay near Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park
- Frequently asked questions
Where is Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park?
Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park is located at 13221 Buena Vista Rd NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 2R7, Canada.
Things to know
Contact: +1 780-442-5311
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM
How to get to Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park?
The easiest way to get to Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park is by taking the metro or bus. The closest metro station is Laurier Station (Orange Line). You can also take bus routes 27, 47, or 55, which have stops near the park and are within a short walking distance of the main entrances and surrounding amenities.
What to do and see in Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park
Launch a boat from the Laurier Park Boat Launch
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Location: Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park Rd NW, Edmonton, AB T5R, Canada, Canada:
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Tucked away on the North Saskatchewan River, the Laurier Park Boat Launch is your gateway to a watery wonderland. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor with a motorboat or prefer to power your own adventure with a paddle, this launch has you covered.
And if you don’t have your own boat, don’t worry – plenty of rental options are nearby to get you on the water, like the Edmonton Canoe and Kayak Club or the River Valley Adventure Co.
Just remember to pack your gear and snacks beforehand so you can spend more time exploring and less time fumbling around. Who knows what kind of river adventures await?
Have a picnic at Picnic Site #1
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Location: Located at the far east end of Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park
Looking for a picnic spot that’s a little more than just a patch of grass? Picnic Site #1 in Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park is your answer. Imagine spreading out your feast under a shady canopy, with the North Saskatchewan River sparkling just a stone’s throw away.
This riverside haven isn’t just about pretty views, though. It’s got all the amenities you need for a memorable gathering: 12 tables for up to 96 people, a fire pit for roasting marshmallows or staying warm, and even the option for power access if you’re feeling extra fancy.
Whether you’re planning a family reunion or a romantic date night, this spot has you covered.
Fly a kite in open spaces
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With wide open spaces and stunning views of the North Saskatchewan River, Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park is a perfect spot to fly a kite.
You’ll have plenty of room for your kite to soar high without the risk of getting tangled in trees or other obstacles. As your kite dances in the sky, you’ll be treated to a beautiful natural backdrop, making the activity even more enjoyable.
While the park doesn’t have specific restrictions for kite flying, remember to be considerate of other park users and ensure your kite doesn’t interfere with other activities like picnics or sports.
Explore the John Janzen Nature Centre
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Location: 7000 143 St NW, Edmonton, AB T6H 4P3, Canada
Contact: +1 780-442-5311
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
The John Janzen Nature Centre is your go-to place for all things nature-related. With interactive exhibits and hands-on programs, it’s not just a museum – it’s a place to explore and learn.
Kids will love the Tegler Discovery Zone, an indoor playground where they can climb trees and pretend to be bees in a giant honeycomb. And if you’re looking for something for the whole family, the center also offers guided walks and workshops throughout the year.
Enjoy the natural playgrounds
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Forget those boring old playgrounds with plastic slides and metal swings – Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park is taking playtime to a whole new level. Their two natural playgrounds are like something out of a storybook, with towering timber structures, a giant howling coyote sculpture, and play areas that blend into the surrounding greenery.
Kiddos (or you, we won’t judge, promise!) can climb, swing, slide, and explore to their heart’s content, all while getting a healthy dose of nature. It’s the spot for letting imaginations run wild and creating outdoor memories that will last a lifetime.
Visit the Edmonton Valley Zoo
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Location: 13315 Buena Vista Road &, 87 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 2R7, Canada
Contact: +1 780-442-5311
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Located adjacent to Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park, the Edmonton Valley Zoo is home to a whole menagerie of furry, feathered, and scaly friends – over 350 of them, in fact! From the majestic snowy owl to the playful seals splashing around in the Polar Extremes exhibit, there’s always something new to discover.
And if you’re looking for more than just a glimpse, check out special events like the “Spilling the Beans: Polar Bear Talk” for a deeper dive into animal behavior and conservation.
The best part? It’s a fun and affordable outing for the whole family, with reasonable admission prices ranging from $11 for children to $16.50 for adults.
Where to eat and drink near Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park
Ampersand27
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Location: 10612 82 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 2A7, Canada
Contact: +1 780-757-2727
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 4:30 PM to 10:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 4:30 PM to 11:00 PM
- Sunday – 10:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Pricing: $$$
Good to know: Best for brunch on Sundays and dinner dates
If you’re looking for a dining experience that’s a little bit fancy but still feels warm and inviting, head over to Ampersand27 on Whyte Avenue. This trendy spot in Old Strathcona serves up a creative mix of Canadian and international flavors, all made with fresh, local ingredients.
Whether you’re a gin enthusiast or just looking for a delicious meal, Ampersand27 has got you covered. Their extensive drink menu (with one of the biggest gin selections in Edmonton!) and innovative dishes cater to all tastes.
Don’t miss their “Build-Your-Own Charcuterie” board, where you can create the perfect meat and cheese combo. For the main course, the Braised Alberta Bison Short Ribs meal is a real showstopper since it’s cooked to tender perfection and paired with seasonal vegetables.
Belgravia Hub
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Location: 7609 115 St NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 1N4, Canada
Contact: +1 780-756-3344
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Saturday – 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Sunday – 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Pricing: $$
Good to know: Great for casual dining with a focus on locally sourced ingredients
Tired of the same old boring brunch spots? Well, Belgravia Hub is here to shake things up. This gem serves up classic Canadian comfort food with a creative twist. They’ve got options for everyone, whether you’re a die-hard carnivore or a dedicated vegan.
But let’s talk about the real stars of the show: their famous Corn Fritters. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and served with house-made ketchup and jam that will make you want to lick your plate clean (just make sure no one’s looking!).
Sugar Bowl Coffee & Juice Bar
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Location: 10922 88 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 0Z1, Canada
Contact: +1 780-433-8369
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 9:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Sunday – 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Pricing: $$
Good to know: Ideal for beer lovers and those seeking a cozy atmosphere
Sugar Bowl Coffee & Juice Bar is a true Edmonton institution. Since 1943, this cozy bistro and neighborhood pub has been serving up delicious food and drinks in a vibrant atmosphere. From its humble beginnings as a burger joint, it has evolved into a beloved spot for any meal of the day.
The menu is as diverse as the crowd, with something to please every palate. But let’s talk about the must-try: their Pulled Pork Hash. This hearty dish is a masterpiece of flavor, combining tender pulled pork with perfectly cooked potatoes and topped with two sunny-side-up eggs.
But that’s not all. With its extensive beer selection, exposed brick walls, and hardwood floors, this spot exudes a charming hipster vibe, making it the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy good food and drinks.
Where to shop near Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park
West Edmonton Mall
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Location: 8882 170 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5T 4J2, Canada
Contact: +1 780-444-5321
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Sunday – 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
West Edmonton Mall is a full-blown adventure. With over 800 stores, you’ll find everything from high-end fashion to budget-friendly finds.
But the fun doesn’t stop there. This massive complex is home to Galaxyland, North America’s largest indoor amusement park, and World Waterpark, where you can catch a wave without ever leaving the building. There’s just something for everyone here, making it a must-visit destination, especially if you’re a shopaholic and thrill-seeker.
Southgate Centre
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Location: 5015 111 St NW, Edmonton, AB T6H 4M6, Canada
Contact: +1 780-435-3721
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Saturday – 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Sunday – 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Southgate Centre is your one-stop shop for everything you need (okay, maybe a few things you don’t). With over 165 stores, you’ll find everything from high-end fashion at Hudson’s Bay to everyday essentials at Safeway. It’s the perfect balance of luxury and practicality, so you can splurge on a new outfit and still pick up groceries for the week.
When you’re feeling peckish, we recommend going to their food court. You’ll find a wide variety of choices, from a quick Tim Hortons coffee (they open early for the morning crowd!) to a full-blown Italian feast at Old Spaghetti Factory.
Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market
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Location: 10310 83 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 5C3, Canada
Contact: +1 780-439-1844
Operating hours:
- Saturday – 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
For over four decades, the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market has been a beloved weekend tradition in Edmonton. Located just off Whyte Avenue, this bustling market is a treasure trove of locally-made goodies.
With over 130 vendors rotating through, you’re sure to find something unique and delicious, from fresh produce and baked goods to handcrafted jewelry and one-of-a-kind gifts.
The market’s motto, “We Make it! We Bake it! We Grow it! We Sell it!” guarantees that everything you buy is truly a taste of the local community.
Where to stay near Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park
Metterra Hotel on Whyte
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Location: 10454 82 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 4Z7, Canada
Contact: +1 780-465-8150
Pricing: $$
This stylish spot seamlessly blends comfort and sophistication. Each room boasts natural wood furnishings and unique global artifacts.
But what really sets this hotel apart is its “Sleepwell experience” package. With high-quality weighted blankets, aromatherapy shower melt, and a tranquil atmosphere, the package ensures a restful night’s sleep.
But the perks don’t stop there. You can fuel up with their complimentary hot breakfast buffet before exploring the city and stay connected with free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. If you’re in town for business, their 24-hour business center has everything you need to stay productive.
Campus Tower Suite Hotel
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Location: 11145 87 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 0Y1, Canada
Contact: +1 780-439-6060
Pricing: $$
Located right next to the University of Alberta campus, this all-suite hotel has it all: convenience, comfort, and a cozy vibe.
Each suite is designed to feel like home, featuring kitchenettes – some full, some limited – so you can whip up a quick meal or enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Expect triple-sheeted beds for a dreamy night’s sleep, ergonomic workspaces, and complimentary in-room coffee and tea.
Staying fit on the road? No problem. The hotel’s fitness center is open 24/7, so you can keep up with your workout routine anytime. Plus, with on-site coin laundries and dry cleaning services, you’ll always have fresh clothes ready for your next adventure.
Matrix Hotel
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Location: 10640 100 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 3N8, Canada
Contact: +1 780-429-2861
Pricing: $$
Tired of cookie-cutter hotel rooms? The Matrix Hotel in Edmonton is anything but ordinary. With its sleek, minimalist design and natural materials, it’s like a breath of fresh air.
Each room is a haven of comfort, with plush bedding practically begging you to sink in and large windows that flood the space with natural light.
But the Matrix Hotel isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s got substance too. Its in-house restaurant, Loft106, serves delicious breakfasts and dinners that’ll satisfy any craving. Plus, it offers complimentary breakfast and evening wine tastings, so you can truly relax and enjoy your stay.
