Melanie MoralesThe Big E is a beautiful and vibrant city brimming with culture. There are things to do for every kind of person, whether you’re a foodie, or an adventure-seeker.
This variety of activity options is just another of the reasons we love Edmonton. If you want to get our recommendations on the top things to do here for grown-ups, read on!
Where to See Art and Exhibits in Edmonton
If you love learning and appreciating arts and culture, you’ll be happy here in Edmonton. Here are some museums you can enjoy exploring here:
1. Royal Alberta Museum
Website: https://royalalbertamuseum.ca/
Address: 9810 103a Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 0G2, Canada
Contact: +1 825-468-6000
Operating hours: Wednesday-Sunday (10 AM-4 PM)
Price:
- Adult – $21 (18-64 y.o.)
- Senior- $14 (65+)
- Youth- $10 (7-17 y.o.)
- Family- $50
The Royal Alberta Museum or RAM is the museum of human and natural history in downtown Edmonton. It’s the largest in Western Canada and hosts exhibits besides their permanent collection.
Make sure to visit the Human History Hall, Natural History Hall, Bug Gallery, Children’s Gallery (if you’re bringing kids with you), Manitou Asinîy Gallery, and Museum Zone – if you have the time, try to check them all out. If there’s a section adults must visit there, we’d have to say it’s the Human History Hall.
Learning about who we are as a people and where we come from is so inspiring. The stories of Alberta’s people really resonated with us, and we’re sure you’ll enjoy looking at the collection too!
Pro Tip: If you’re in Edmonton for a while and want to savor the sights at the museum, you can buy an Adult Mammoth Pass – good for one-year unlimited express entry for $35.
2. Alberta Aviation Museum
Website: https://albertaaviationmuseum.com/
Address: 11410 Kingsway NW, Edmonton, AB T5G 0X4, Canada
Contact: +1 780-451-1175
Operating hours: Tuesday-Friday (10 AM-4 PM); Saturday (10 AM-5 PM)
Price:
- Adults – $15
- Students & Seniors (60+) – $12
- Youth (13-17 y.o.) – $10.50
- Children- $9.50
- Family pass- $37.50
- Children 5 under – Free
If you’re curious about Edmonton’s aviation history, you shouldn’t miss out on this museum. You’ll see more than 30 aircraft on display, a restoration area, a gift shop, some cool simulators, and even a large events facility – so much to explore!
We love that they have many events and programs like Museum Sensory Nights, Open Cockpit Day, and Women of Aviation Celebration. Make sure to check their website for updates on the programs they hold.
Pro Tip: Any history buffs out there? They have a museum lecture series you shouldn’t miss. Catch some of it online here.
3. Art Gallery of Alberta
Website: https://www.youraga.ca/
Address: 2 Sir Winston Churchill Sq, Edmonton, AB T5J 2C1, Canada
Contact: +1 780-422-6223
Operating hours: Wednesday; Friday-Sunday (11 AM-5 PM); Thursday (11 AM-7 PM)
Price:
- Adults – $14
- Seniors (65+)- $10
- Alberta students – Free
- Out-of-province students – $10
- Minors – Free
The Art Gallery of Alberta’s building alone is a masterpiece. Once you get inside, you’ll be amazed by the various exhibitions and collections they have (they have over 6000 works of art!)
We absolutely love their Canadian abstract painting and sculpture pieces. They also have collections of contemporary and historical photography, a collection of prints by British printmaker Thomas Bewick, and historical Canadian paintings from the 1800s to 1950s.
Pro Tip: If you’re bringing a car, there are metered-on street parking stalls right outside of the building (south side). You can also park in the City Hall Parkade that you can see at 99 street.
Where to Have a Food Trip in Edmonton
For the foodies out there looking for a culinary adventure, you won’t be disappointed.
We’ve already written about our top picks for various cuisines before, of course. Just check those out if you know what you want, whether it’s Asian food, burgers, seafood, chicken, or Italian food.
But for this article, check out some of our current faves below.
1. Tzin Wine & Tapas
Website: https://tzin.ca/
Address: 10115 104 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 0Z9, Canada
Contact: +1 780-428-8946
Operating hours: Tuesday-Thursday (11 AM-7 PM); Friday-Saturday (4 PM-12 AM)
Tzin has been voted as Edmonton’s best tapas restaurant for 11 years (from 2009 to 2019) – which is an amazing feat! Tapas are basically small plates of food and known as appetizers or snacks in Spanish cuisine.
We love that their menu is very varied – they have salads, falafels, and paella aside from tapas. They have lots of gluten-free options, which is always a good bonus.
Curious about their menu? Check it here.
Pro Tip: If you want to have the full tapas experience and taste all their good food, go with the ”Feed Me’ package. You’ll get a 750 ml bottle of wine.
2. RGE RD
Website: https://www.rgerd.ca/
Address: 10643‚ 123 Street, Edmonton, AB T5N 1P3, Canada
Contact: +1 780-447-4577
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday (5 PM-late)
If you’re looking for a rustic culinary experience, this is a good option. They love to cook with wood fire and are cevants at cooking a whole animal.
A possible con is that their menu is subject to availability since they are committed to sourcing seasonal ingredients locally. A workaround is to make sure to reserve ahead of time to know what’s available.
Pro Tip: You can also order their pick-up charcuterie boxes for up to 2 weeks in advance. Pair it with a local craft beer or cider to complete a set, or order one of their non-alcoholic drinks instead.
3. Yokozuna
Website: https://yokozunarestaurant.ca/
Address: 4121 – 106 Street, Edmonton, AB T6J 2S3, Canada
Contact: +1 780-431-1508
Operating hours: Lunch: Monday-Saturday (11:30 AM-1:45 PM); Dinner: Monday-Thursday (5 PM-8:30 PM); Friday-Saturday (5 PM-9 PM)
They say looks can be deceiving and this is true for this hole in the wall. Yokozuna doesn’t look like much on the outside, but they offer such authentic and fresh Japanese food, making them our go-to when our team is craving sushi.
With yummy food and fantastic service, it’s not hard to see why they’re a popular spot here in Edmonton. What’s great is that you can ask for gluten-free options for some of their food items for lunch and dinner.
Pro Tip: Although parking is available, make sure to book a table ahead of time as this restaurant is very popular and can get quite packed during dinner time.
Where to Go in Edmonton to Blow Off Steam
If what you’re looking for is a break from the everyday hustle and bustle, here are some great options in Edmonton:
1. Healing Waters Spa
Website: https://www.thehealingwaters.ca/
Address: 10740 82 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 6P4, Canada
Contact: +1 780-988-7873
Operating hours: Monday (10 AM-4 pm); Tuesday-Friday (10 AM-7 PM); Saturday (10 AM-5 PM).
Price:
- Facial – $115.00-$160.00
- Pedicure – $55.00-$95.00
- Manicure – $35.00-$60.00
- Waxing – $16.00-$120.00
- Tinting – $20.00-$50.00
There are days when all you need is a good facial. In that case, we like going to Healing Waters Spa – a place that’s truly *healing* to our souls.
You can also go here for manicures, pedicures, waxing, and registered massage therapy. They also house a Hammam which is a steam bath and private steam room – a must try, if you ask us.
Pro Tip: They have monthly specials that offer discounts on some of their products and services. Make sure to check their website every month.
2. Fairmont Edmonton Hotel MacDonald
Website: https://www.fairmont.com/macdonald-edmonton/
Address: 10065 100 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 0N6, Canada
Contact: +1 780-424-5181
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Fairmont Hotel Macdonald or “The Mac” is located on top of a picturesque river valley. They have Instagram-worthy views.
Plus if you ever dreamed of sleeping in a castle, this is the closest thing to that since it’s designed to look like one.
We also enjoy how each hotel room has its own individual climate-control air conditioning, a coffee/tea maker, and other nice amenities.
Pro Tip: Although every room has the best amenities a hotel has to offer, we highly recommend booking a river valley-facing room for the best view.
3. V5 Nails Salon and Spa
Website: https://www.v5nails.com/
Address: 3424 99 St NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 5X5, Canada
Contact: +1 780-988-8551
Operating hours: Monday-Saturday (10 AM-7 PM)
If you’re looking for a great place to get a French tip or artificial nails (whether UV gel or acrylic), we highly recommend V5 Nails Salon and Spa. We love how creative and excellent the technicians are here – plus, they’re very friendly too!
Aside from manicures and pedicures, they also offer waxing, tinting, and facials. They’re a great one-stop shop for all kinds of pampering services we all deserve on hard days.
Pro Tip: Need directions? This interactive map of the nail spa can help.
Where to Awaken Your Inner Child in Edmonton
Another way adults can enjoy Edmonton is to let their inner kids out to play. Our team has a handful of places we love when we want to enjoy some games!
1. Planet Lazer
Website: https://planetlazer.net/edmonton/
Address: 11271 170 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5M 0J1, Canada
Contact: +1 780-454-1888
Operating hours: Monday-Sunday (10:30 AM-10 PM)
Price:
- 1 Game-$11.00 per player
- 2 Games-$20.00 per player
- 3 Games-$24.00 per player
Ever wonder what a game of Call of Duty (sans the danger) in real life looks like? Then try Planet Lazer with your friends.
Planet Lazer requires everyone to make their own reservations. So that’s something you have to keep in mind.
If you’re a small group, walk-ins are allowed, though. Organizations can get a special rate – just contact their admin for more details.
Pro Tip: Make sure to take advantage of their weekly specials:
- $6.00 per game per player on Sundays after 6 PM
- $20.00 for 3 games per player on Tuesdays
- $11.00 buy one game, get one free per player on Wednesdays
- $11.00 per player and each game lasts for 30 minutes on Thursdays
2. K-J Bowl
Website: https://www.kjbowl.ca/
Address: 12143 54th St. NW, Edmonton, AB T5W 3N4, Canada
Contact: +1 780-454-1888
Operating hours: Wednesday-Thursday (1 PM-9 PM); Friday (9 AM-9 PM); Saturday (1-10 PM); Sunday (1-6 PM)
Price:
- Adults – $7.25 /game
- Youths – $6.75
- Kids (>5): $6.50/ game
A game or two of bowling will get your competitive side going while having loads of fun. If you and your friends enjoy this, then, K-J Bowl may be for you. It’s retro-themed which is so charming!
There are light snacks, refreshments, and some adult drinks to enjoy during the bowling session. Reservations are required though, so make sure to do so ahead of time to ensure your slot.
Pro Tip: If you want to score a good deal, go on Sundays since they only charge $6.75 including the shoe fee.
3. Beercade
Website: https://beercade.ca/
Address: 10544 82 Ave (Whyte Ave), Edmonton, Alberta T6E 2A4, Canada
Contact: +1 780-699-2383
Operating hours: Tuesday-Sunday (5 PM-2 AM)
Beer and an arcade? Sounds like a perfect combination to us.
They have pinball machines, and a roster of classics, modern games, shooters, and even air hockey. They also have a lot of cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks available.
Pro Tip: Beercade has weekly specials with discounts on food and alcohol. Sign up for their guest list so you can see announcements.
4. Monster Mini Golf Edmonton
Website: https://monsterminigolf.com/edmonton/
Address: 3414 Gateway Blvd NW, Edmonton, AB T6J 6R5, Canada
Contact: +1 780-756-5533
Operating hours: Monday-Thursday (12 PM-9 PM); Friday-Saturday (12 PM-10 PM); Sunday (12 PM-8 PM)
Price:
- Adults ($13.95)
- Kids ($11.00)
- Seniors ($9.50)
Mini golf is such an exciting activity for all ages and we’re not immune to its charm. Imagine 18-holes of glow-in-the-dark mini golf and a virtual canvas you can enjoy.
Aside from that, they have laser tag, bowling, an arcade, a ropes course, and other activities. You’ll surely find something you’ll enjoy here.
Pro Tip: You can book them for parties and events. They have various packages that can accommodate groups of 10 to 60.
Where to Get Top-Notch Entertainment in Edmonton
If you’re looking for a good show in Edmonton, we’ve got you covered. We’re theater fans and cinephiles ourselves, so if you’re the same, you might enjoy these spots.
1. Landmark Cinemas 9 Edmonton City Centre
Website: https://www.landmarkcinemas.com/showtimes/edmonton-city-centre/
Address: 10200 102 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 4B7, Canada
Contact: +1 780-421-7018/+1 780-421-7018
Operating hours: Depends on the movies available
Price:
- $13.50 (14-64 years old)
- $9.50 (3-13 years old)
- $9.99 (65+ years old)
Experience a hassle-free movie experience at a reasonable cost at Landmark Cinemas 9. The seats are very comfortable and the service is good from ticketing to concessions.
What’s great is that you can also order cocktails, wines, and other alcohol to enjoy with your movie. Assistive devices are also available for hard-of-hearing guests and the visually-impaired can sit in any seat in the theater.
Pro Tip: Make sure to grab the movie deals the cinema offers such as up to 40% off during mornings and during Tuesdays. Their movie deals are posted here.
2. Citadel Theatre
Website: https://www.landmarkcinemas.com/showtimes/edmonton-city-centre/
Address: 9828 101A Ave, Edmonton, AB T5J 3C6, Canada
Contact: +1 780-425-1820
Price: Depends on the show
If you love theater shows, you should check out the programming of Citadel Theatre. We love how inclusive they are and how they feature a lot of new work, performance styles, and productions that experiment with dramatic form.
They feature works both from Canadian and international playwrights and have such a wide range of shows. If you’re a theater fan, don’t miss out on catching a show here!
Pro Tip: Want to get updated on new shows? Sign up here.
Where Best to Sweat It Out in Edmonton
If you’re the type who enjoys the most when you’re sweating it out, here are some places to get physically active here in the city:
1. Evolve Strength Downtown
Website: https://join.evolvestrength.ca/locations/downtown
Address: 12328 102 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5N 0L9, Canada
Contact: +1 780-784-2675
Operating Hours: Monday-Friday (5 AM-10 PM); Weekends (7 AM-8 PM)
If you’re staying in Edmonton for a while and looking for a good gym to go to, Evolve Strength Downtown is one of the best. We love that aside from the top of the line equipment and excellent personal trainers, they have a fantastic and inclusive community.
They have healthcare services as well with massage therapists and physiotherapists on board.
Pro Tip: They have a 7-day free trial! You can sign up here.
2. Boulders Climbing
Website: https://www.bouldersclimbing.ca/
Address: 10505 107 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5H 2Y5, Canada
Contact: +1 780-705-7110
Operating Hours: Monday-Friday (6 AM-11 PM); Weekend (8 AM-10 PM)
Price: Monthly membership starts at $82.95 for adults
For people up for a challenge, rock climbing is a safe bet. It requires you to test your limits on flexibility, grip strength, and endurance.
One of the best places to go for that is Boulders Climbing, one of the largest indoor bouldering facilities in the country with 6500 square feet of bouldering, lots of fitness training equipment, and a Kilter board.
We like going here because of the fun and friendly staff and wide range of options on bouldering. You won’t get bored – for sure.
Pro Tip: They have a cafe called the Dirtbag Cafe where you can buy coffee, smoothies, snacks, and craft beer.
3. Oxygen Yoga and Fitness
Website: https://oxygenyogaandfitness.com/
Address: 1020 Sherwood Dr #128, Sherwood Park, AB T8A 2G4, Canada
Contact: +1 780-718-4829
Operating Hours: Monday; Wednesday- (5:30 AM-9 PM); Tuesday-Thursday (9:15 AM-9 PM); Friday (5:30 AM-8 PM); Saturday (8:15 AM-1 PM); Sunday (9:15 AM-8:30 PM)
Whether you’re into yoga or want to try it for the first time, we highly suggest Oxygen Yoga and Fitness in Sherwood Park, which is a short drive from Edmonton. We love the community here because they’re so inclusive and warm.
They have over 16 different class styles including the traditional yoga styles, fitness fusion, and yoga and fitness blend. So you will never be bored here.
Pro Tip: Download their Oxygen app: https://uqr.to/yu60 for more details on booking
4. Studio 124 Pilates
Website: https://www.studio124pilates.ca/
Address: 10110 124 St, Edmonton, AB T5N 1P6, Canada
Contact: +1 780-909-3539
Price: Usually at $35/class
If you’re looking for a great pilates studio, Studio 124 Pilates is one of our top picks. We like them because they usually have small class sizes, so the instructors can attend to individual needs.
They offer a wide range of classes aside from mat and reformer pilates, from what we’ve seen. They also offer yoga, barre, and functional strength classes – overall, we love how accessible and inclusive the studio is.
Pro Tip: The studio doesn’t have designated change rooms but they have three restrooms on site to change if needed.
Where Best to Take Exciting Classses in Edmonton
Some people enjoy life the most when they’re learning something new. If that sounds like you, check out some of these facilities that offer classes we love!
1. Elite Dance Studio
Website: https://elitedancestudio.net/
Address: 11756 95 St, Edmonton, AB T5G 1L9, Canada
Contact: +1 780-953-0041
Operating Hours: Monday-Friday (4:30 PM-9:30 PM); Saturday (9 AM-2 PM)
Elite Dance Studio offers dance classes for both kids and adults with varying levels of skill. They are crowned with the Reader’s Choice Silver Winner Award for 2022-2023.
Plus they have instructors that are certified with the National Dance Council of Canada – so yes, they’re very much qualified.
Their state-of-the-art sound system is so conducive for you to feel the rhythm and dance your heart out. We love dancing here for sure.
Pro Tip: If you need your own studio space for your own projects, you can rent their studio at a very affordable price. Contact them for more information.
2. Palates Culinary Kitchen and Learning Center
Website: https://www.palates.ca/
Address: 5546 Calgary Trail NW, Edmonton, AB T6H 4K1, Canada
Contact: +1 780-297-0690
Operating Hours: Tuesday-Saturday (1 PM-5 PM)
Who says healthy can’t be fun? Here at Palates, they are committed to teaching people the skills required to cook healthy meals and have fun while doing so.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a complete beginner or a master chef, Palates offers unique culinary experience with dishes from all over the world for all skill levels.
Special note for the Potterheads: You can even make your own Harry Potter dishes, and yes, even butterbeer!
Pro Tip: If you have allergies or other special considerations regarding food, make sure to contact them ahead of time so that accommodations could be made. They require these to be in writing in order to prevent mistakes.
3. Viva Clayworks
Website: https://www.vivaclayworks.com/pottery-studio-canada-classes/
Address: 10125 81 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 1W9, Canada
Contact: +1 780-413-0118
Operating Hours: Monday-Friday (11 AM-9 PM); Saturday (9 AM-4 PM); Sunday (12-3 PM)
Price: Pottery Night Experience – $69.95
If you’re looking for a class where you’ll get creative, then this is an ideal activity. Viva Clayworks holds pottery night experience events almost every weekend.
You’ll get the chance to see a demonstration then go step by step along with the instructor on the wheel. After that, you do a bit of clean up and choose the glaze color you want to finish your piece in.
Pro Tip: If you need to cancel your pottery night session, you need to do so 7 days in advance if you want a full refund. Their staff is easy to talk to, so just approach them if you have questions.
Which Parks Best to Visit to Relax in Edmonton
If you’re searching for parks in the city where you can host picnics, take walks, and just get some vitamin D, here are some great ones to check out.
1. Louise McKinney Riverfront Park
Address: 9999 Grierson Hill NW, Edmonton, AB T5H 2A4, Canada
Operating Hours: Everyday (5 AM-11 PM)
Price: Free
If you find yourself in downtown Edmonton, this park is a beautiful place to visit. It is over 129000 square meters with a gorgeous unobstructed river view.
They have walking and biking trails you can follow. It’s nice if you’re looking for somewhere to chill with friends after meals.
Pro Tip: They have washrooms if needed.
2. Victoria Park
Address: 12030 River Valley Rd NW, Edmonton, AB T5K 1L4, Canada
Operating Hours: Everyday (5 AM-11 PM)
Price: Free
Here in Victoria Park, you can picnic with your family, play baseball, cricket, and even do some ice skating during winter. We love this place because it’s peaceful and quiet – the perfect place to grab a table, read a book, and watch the people walk by.
Some fun facts: the park is named after Queen Victoria and is located north of the North Saskatchewan River.
Pro Tip: If you want to take a tour of the park, you can go to Edmonton’s website and see the beauty of Victoria park at the comfort of your home.
3. Coronation Park
Address: 11425 142 Street, Edmonton, AB T5M 4A1, Canada
Operating Hours: Everyday (5 AM-11 PM)
Phone: +1 780-442-5311
Another great park is Coronation Park because you can do various activities here – you’ll be spoilt for choice. It has sports facilities (with a pool) near it, a science center, IMAX theater, and covered picnic sites.
Whether you enjoy swimming, running, relaxing in a sauna or steam room, or playing tennis, you’ll enjoy going to the Peter Hemingway Fitness and Leisure Centre near it. It’s also a great place to meet locals with the same interests – you might even make new friends.
Pro Tip: Need help finding Coronation park? Here’s the link to the map.
These are the activities we think adults can enjoy here in Edmonton based on our experience. We hope that our list gave you ideas on where to eat, what to do, and where to go based on your personality type and preferences.
We think that there’s something for everyone here in Edmonton. So we know you’ll enjoy a lot!
If you’ve been here, do you have some favorite spots that didn’t make the list? Let us know, we’d love to hear from you!
By the way, check out some of these other related articles about things to do in Edmonton depending on the season:
