Melanie MoralesYes, the Royal Alberta Museum (RAM) has impressive dinosaurs. But there’s much more to discover beyond those prehistoric giants. RAM is the largest museum in Western Canada, home to a vast collection of over 5 million objects.
That means there are countless stories waiting to be explored, from Alberta’s natural wonders to the human experiences that have shaped this province.
While dinosaurs may be the stars of the show for some, let’s not overlook the hidden gems that await us in RAM’s vast galleries. Join us as we embark on a journey through time and space, uncovering the diverse treasures that make the Royal Alberta Museum a unique destination.
- Where is the Royal Alberta Museum?
- Things to know
- How to get to the Royal Alberta Museum?
- What to Do and See at the Royal Alberta Museum
- Where to eat and drink in & near the Royal Alberta Museum
- Where to Shop in & near the Royal Alberta Museum
- Where to Stay near the Royal Alberta Museum
- Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Royal Alberta Museum?
The Royal Alberta Museum (RAM) is located at 9810 103a Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 0G2, Canada.
Things to know
Contact: +1 825-468-6000
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Admission rates:
- Adult (18 to 64) – $19
- Senior (65+) – $10
- Youth (7 to 17) – $10
- Child (6 and under) – Free
How to get to the Royal Alberta Museum?
The easiest way to get to the Royal Alberta Museum in Edmonton is to hop on the LRT (Light Rail Transit) and head towards Churchill Station. Once there, take a short walk west along 99 Street, and you’ll find yourself at the museum’s entrance in just a few minutes.
What to Do and See at the Royal Alberta Museum
Explore the Fossil Gallery
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The Royal Alberta Museum’s Fossil Gallery is like a time machine, sparking curiosity in both kids and paleontology enthusiasts alike. With over 2.5 million objects, it dives deep into Alberta’s natural history, telling the tales behind each fossil and the science that unearthed it.
Imagine getting your hands dirty in the discovery areas or having Dr. Chris Jass, the museum’s very own Ice Age expert, guide you through the chilly wonders of prehistoric Alberta. This gallery isn’t just about showing off fossils; it’s about revealing the ongoing adventure of scientific exploration.
Marvel at the Bug Gallery
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This engaging exhibit celebrates the beauty, diversity, and importance of insects, spiders, and other invertebrates from around the globe. It’s designed for visitors of all ages since it offers both educational and entertaining experiences.
Live displays allow you to observe creatures you might only have encountered in nature documentaries, from the vibrant inhabitants of coral reefs to masters of disguise blending seamlessly into their surroundings.
Make sure not to miss the “Bug Encounter” sessions on Saturdays. These sessions will allow you to interact with some resident bugs under the guidance of the museum staff.
Admire the artifacts in the Syncrude Gallery
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This gallery is a journey through over 11,000 years of history, showcasing a rich collection of artifacts that speak to the ingenuity, artistry, and resilience of Indigenous peoples in Alberta.
It offers a comprehensive look at cultural treasures, including tools, ceremonial items, and everyday objects. Each piece tells a story about the diverse Indigenous groups in the region, their traditions, lifestyles, and deep connection to the land.
Plus, the gallery’s use of multimedia and interactive elements further enhances the experience. Detailed dioramas, oral histories, and video presentations enrich the learning journey for visitors of all ages.
Experience the Children’s Gallery
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The Children’s Gallery is a wonderland of fun and learning for curious kids. They can channel their inner paleontologist in the “Dig Pit,” excavating dinosaur bones like a pro. “Alberta Naturally” lets them create windstorms, paint with light, and uncover the secrets of nature.
Then there’s “The Big Machine,” a giant, wacky contraption that teaches kids about teamwork and physics as they work together to move those pesky plastic pellets.
For budding actors and storytellers, the “Chautauqua Theatre” is the perfect place to let their imaginations run wild with puppets and costumes.
Where to eat and drink in & near the Royal Alberta Museum
Café at Royal Alberta Museum
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Location: 9810 103a Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 0G2, Canada
Contact: +1 825-468-6010
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Wednesday & Friday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
- Thursday – 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Pricing: $$
Good to know: Best spot for a refreshing break
The Café at the Royal Alberta Museum is your one-stop shop for refueling after a mind-blowing journey through the exhibits. From fresh, healthy bites to hearty lunchtime favorites, they’ve got something to satisfy every rumbling tummy.
The Curators Lunch is a real crowd-pleaser. But if you’re feeling adventurous, why not recreate the flavors of the dinosaurs with a Roast Beef and Cheddar sandwich?
And to top it all off, their coffee creations are practically works of art. A Mocha Latte or Caramel Macchiato might just inspire your own masterpiece!
The Common
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Location: 9910 109 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5K 1H5, Canada
Contact: +1 780-452-7333
Operating hours:
- Tuesday – 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Wednesday – 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Thursday – 11:30 AM to 11:30 PM
- Friday – 11:30 AM to 2:00 AM
- Saturday – 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Pricing: $$
Good to know: Best for eclectic dishes and drinks
After wandering through the museum’s endless wonders, why not let your taste buds take the lead to The Common?
This lively spot is the perfect place to unwind, dishing up an eclectic menu that’s sure to surprise and delight. Start your adventure with a “Common Sour,” a signature cocktail that’s as cheeky as it is delicious.
Or, if you’re more of a beer enthusiast, choose from their extensive list of locally brewed craft beers. For pure indulgence, don’t miss their fried chicken and waffles – a match made in heaven since it offers a perfect balance of savory and sweet.
Normand’s Restaurant
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Location: 11639 Jasper Ave, Edmonton, AB T5K 0M9, Canada
Contact: +1 780-482-2600
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Pricing: $$
Good to know: Best for wild game dishes and cozy ambiance
Normand’s Restaurant menu boasts an impressive selection of wild game dishes, featuring delicacies like tender venison, hearty bison, and even the exotic wild boar. Each dish is expertly prepared, highlighting the distinct flavors of these remarkable ingredients.
For those with more traditional tastes, this restaurant also offers classic dishes like succulent Alberta beef and a delightful array of fresh seafood options.
Moreover, the ambiance here complements its culinary excellence. The cozy, wood-paneled interior with warm lighting creates a welcoming and relaxed environment. It’s the kind of place where you can comfortably linger over a meal while enjoying the company of friends or family.
Where to Shop in & near the Royal Alberta Museum
Royal Alberta Museum Shop
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Location: 9810 103a Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 0G2, Canada
Contact: +1 825-468-6006
Operating hours:
- Tuesday – 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Wednesday to Sunday – 10:30 AM to 4:00 PM
Good to know: Best for unique local and Indigenous crafts
With items sourced from hundreds of local and Indigenous vendors, the Royal Alberta Museum Shop offers one-of-a-kind pieces that embody Alberta’s rich cultural heritage. From handcrafted jewelry to distinctive home decor, the shop’s selection is both diverse and exceptional.
Plus, each purchase you make at the RAM Shop directly supports the Royal Alberta Museum’s educational programs and essential services. By shopping here, you not only take home a piece of Alberta’s culture but also contribute to the preservation and celebration of its history.
Indigenous Artist Market Collective
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Location: 10305 97 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 0M1, Canada
Contact: +1 780-906-3906
Operating hours:
- Saturday – 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Good to know: Best for authentic Indigenous art and crafts
The IAM Collective is a community of over 70 talented First Nations, Métis, and Inuit artists known for their handcrafted items. Expect everything from traditional beadwork and moccasins to contemporary art and jewelry. There’s a wealth of culture and heritage to discover here.
The collective emphasizes authenticity, ensuring that all items are genuine and culturally respectful. This commitment to “Appreciation, Not Appropriation” guarantees that you’re supporting true Indigenous craftsmanship and heritage while celebrating their unique artistry.
Old Strathcona Antique Mall
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Location: 10323 78 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 1N8, Canada
Contact: +1 780-433-0398
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Wednesday & Friday – 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Thursday – 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Good to know: Best for antique and vintage treasures
A cornerstone of the Edmonton community since 1997, Old Strathcona Antique Mall is the place to be if you’re a history enthusiast. Its vast collection, spanning various eras, has even captured national attention, being featured on “The Amazing Race Canada.”
Boasting over 27,000 square feet of retail space across two floors, it proudly stands as Western Canada’s largest antique mall. With over 100 vendors showcasing their wares, you can explore an eclectic mix of vintage, mid-century modern, and primitive pieces.
Where to Stay near the Royal Alberta Museum
The Westin Edmonton
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Location: 10135 100 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 0N7, Canada
Contact: +1 780-426-3636
Pricing: $$$
Good to know: Best for luxurious downtown stays
Nestled in the heart of downtown Edmonton, The Westin is where comfort meets convenience. Sink into the cloud-like embrace of their famous Westin Heavenly Beds and wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the city.
Here, you can dive into a sparkling indoor pool, pump some iron in their state-of-the-art gym, or simply lounge in your spacious room, sipping coffee while catching up on your favorite shows.
And for those mixing business with pleasure, they’ve got you covered with all the work-friendly amenities you could ask for. Hungry? Their on-site restaurant and in-room dining options mean you don’t even have to leave your fluffy robe behind to fuel your adventures.
Sandman Signature Edmonton Downtown Hotel
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Location: 10235 101 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 3E9, Canada
Contact: +1 780-428-7111
Pricing: $$$
Good to know: Best for modern comfort and convenience
The Sandman Signature Edmonton Downtown Hotel is just a hop, skip, and jump away from the Royal Alberta Museum, making it the perfect crash pad for your cultural adventures.
You can ditch your museum fatigue in their comfy rooms and suites, decked out with all the modern goodies you could ask for. We’re talking flat-screen TVs, free WiFi (because who wants to pay for that?), and coffee makers for that morning pick-me-up.
When your stomach starts rumbling, head down to the Chop Steakhouse & Bar for a carnivore’s dream come true. Or, if you’re an early bird, their a la carte breakfast is ready to fuel your day from 7:00 AM sharp.
Best Western Plus City Centre Inn
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Location: 11310 109 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5G 2T7, Canada
Contact: +1 780-479-2042
Pricing: $$
Good to know: Best for family-friendly amenities and convenience
Looking for a place to crash that’s close to all the Edmonton action? Look no further than the Best Western Plus City Centre Inn. Not only is it a stone’s throw away from the Royal Alberta Museum, but it also has everything you need to make your stay comfy and convenient.
We’re talking squeaky-clean rooms with all the mod cons (hello, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs!), plus a restaurant that serves up tasty grub after a long day of exploring.
But the real showstopper? Their indoor pool has a 30-foot waterslide – perfect for channeling your inner child (or keeping the actual ones occupied).
