Brian JonesGarneau is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Edmonton and is known for its historical pride. If you want to immerse yourself in the city’s artsy and cultural vibe, this neighborhood deserves a spot on your must-visit list.
Here, in our Garneau travel guide, we made everything easy! We cover everything you need to know, from the apps you should download for your trip to the neighborhoods you should try to visit.
Time Zone
Mountain Daylight Time (GMT -6)
Best Time to Go
You can definitely enjoy your visit to Garneau any time of the year. Still, if you prefer to bask under the sun and explore a variety of outdoor attractions and recreation in Garneau, we recommend visiting around June, July, or August.
Meanwhile, it’s best to visit around November to March if you enjoy thrilling winter sports and activities. Apart from that, you can also attend various winter festivals such as Luminaria, Byzantine Winter Festival, and Silver Skate Festival.
Things to Know
Currency: Canadian Dollar
(Check the current exchange rate)
Language: English
Calling Code: 780
How to Get Around
- Buses (ETS): There are several bus routes in Garneau, so ETS is the most convenient transportation thus far. You can get around the neighborhood and other parts of the city via bus lines 4, 8, 9, 404, 414, 723, and 726. In Garneau, you can also access a street-level rail that has access to stations in Downtown Edmonton, Strathcona, Bonnie Doon, and the University of Alberta.
- Taxis: Getting a taxi service is the fastest way to get to Garneau if you’re coming from Edmonton International Airport. Currently, the basic taxi tariff is $4.10, and the cost per kilometer price is $1.85
- Car rentals: If you’re on a business trip to Garneau, it might be best to get a car rental. Through this, you won’t need to wait for public transport or spend on pricey taxi services. Plus, it’s also convenient to rent a car if you want to go on spontaneous road trips.
- Rideshare: If you don’t mind sharing a ride with other people, it’s cheaper to get an Uber or Lyft than hail a taxi.
Where to Stay in Garneau
Campus Tower Suite Hotel
Address: 11145 87 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 0Y1, Canada
Phone: 800-709-1824
Pricing: $$
Campus Tower Suite Hotel is an all-suite accommodation that’s close to many cafes and restaurants, not just in Garneau but also on Whyte Avenue. This makes it convenient for tourists who wish to get a taste of the city’s gastronomic scene.
We also like that the Campus Tower Suite offers pet-friendly rooms. For an additional cost, you no longer need to leave your furry buddies when traveling in Garneau.
Fairmont Hotel MacDonald
Address: 10065 100 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 0N6, Canada
Phone: 780-424-5181
Pricing: $$
For more than a century, Fairmont Hotel MacDonald has been a classic pick for accommodation in Edmonton. Well-decorated rooms with balconies offer a scenic view of the North Saskatchewan River, while the others feature an unobstructed view of the 100 Street Funicular.
Aside from comfortable and fancy rooms, the hotel also offers grand venues for big celebrations, including weddings, anniversaries, and birthdays. If you want to celebrate your “I do” in Fairmont, we recommend you check out the hotel’s Empire Ballroom, Wedgwood Room, The Gazebo, and other venues.
Hyatt Place Edmonton – West
Address: 18004 100 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5S 2T6, Canada
Phone: 780-244-4900
Pricing: $$
The Hyatt Place Edmonton – West is a modern and business-friendly accommodation that’s great for people who want to stay near Garneau and Downtown Edmonton. It’s quite affordable to stay here since breakfast, parking, and internet access are totally free.
Another perk we like about Hyatt Place Edmonton – West is its proximity to West Edmonton Mall. Besides that, it’s close to major highways and public transit, so you can conveniently travel to other parts of the city if you stay here.
West Edmonton Mall Inn
Address: 17504 90 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5T 6L6, Canada
Phone: 800-737-3783
Pricing: $
West Edmonton Mall Inn is literally just steps away from the renowned shopping complex – West Edmonton Mall. That’s why we highly recommend it for those who want to explore the attractions and shops inside the mall.
That way, you can skip the hassle of commuting after a day of walking around the mega shopping center. Moreover, for an extra charge, you can also try West Edmonton Mall Inn’s onsite and offsite activities like mini golf and bowling.
Meanwhile, some of the nearby attractions you can visit are Whitemud Park, Telus World of Science, and Whitemud Equestrian Centre.
Radisson Hotel & Convention Center Edmonton
Address: 4520 76 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6B 0A5, Canada
Phone: 780-468-5400
Pricing: $
This modern conference hotel is a great pick if you’re looking for an affordable place to stay, whether you’re on a getaway with the fam or a business trip with your colleagues.
You see, if you stay here, you can easily access famous attractions nearby, such as the Muttart Conservatory, Fort Edmonton Park, and Sir Winston Churchill Square. Apart from that, it’s fifteen minutes away from Edmonton’s central business district – Downtown.
Where to Eat in Garneau
Sugarbowl
Address: 10922 88 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 0Z1, Canada
Phone: 780-433-8369
Pricing: $$
Sugarbowl is a rustic and notable full-service bistro bar in Garneau that has stood the test of time. You see, this cozy restaurant has been serving delectable breakfast-to-dinner meals since 1943, so it’s certainly a go-to spot you shouldn’t miss.
Plus, it’s the first-ever pub to offer an extensive selection of craft and Belgian beers, so if you’re craving a pint or two of these flavorful and distinct blends, just drop by!
Rooster Kitchen & Bar
Address: 10732 82 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 6P4, Canada
Phone: 780-413-8045
Pricing: $$
Rooster Kitchen & Bar is a charming counter cafe and full-service resto that uses locally sourced ingredients and produce for their yummy breakfast and lunch meals. Their homemade dishes, such as the baked dialysis and bagels, cheesecake stuffed french toast, and brisket burger, are definite must-tries!
What’s more, they also offer early bird specials, which means that you get to taste the featured dish for the day at a discounted price. Just visit during the weekdays around 9 AM to 10 AM to score this great deal!
High Level Diner
Address: 10912 88 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 0Z1, Canada
Phone: 780-433-0993
Pricing: $$
Have you ever been to a restaurant that features local art? Well, if not, it’s about time you visit High Level Dinner.
This snug and quaint resto features exquisite stained glass decors and unique artwork that elevates the overall ambiance of the establishment.
It’s also the best place to be if you want to satisfy your craving for home-cooked meals. For first-timers, you can’t go wrong with their best sellers – Tourtière, Guinness Cottage Pie, and Cinnamon Buns.
Rosso Pizzeria
Address: 8738 109 St NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 1E9, Canada
Phone: 780-433-5382
Pricing: $$
Craving some classic wood-fired pizza? Go to Rosso Pizzeria and get a taste of authentic Italian pizzas like Margherita, Funghi dal Basco, Canadese, and Calabrese.
Aside from that, they also serve a variety of Italian dishes from breakfast to dinner.
Plus, their drink menu is fantastic too, so if you decide to take your special someone on a date here, it might be better to order a nice bottle of wine and get a reservation!
Friends & Neighbors Cafe
Address: 10834 82 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 2B3, Canada
Phone: 780-433-6506
Pricing: $$
You can definitely bring your friends or neighbors (of course, only if you’re close enough) to this cute cafe for a hearty breakfast or brunch. Friends & Neighbor Cafe has been thriving in this business since 1981.
This cafe serves a range of breakfast, brunch, and comfort food throughout the day.
Just a reminder, though, all the dishes they offer are cooked to order, so it might take quite some time before it’s served, especially during peak hours and weekends.
What to Do in Garneau
Watch cult classics at Garneau Theatre
Address: 8712 109 St NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 1E9, Canada
Phone: 780-425-9212
The historic Garneau Theatre has been entertaining Edmontonians since the 1940s. Film aficionados will surely enjoy visiting this place because it offers a nostalgic and timeless cinema experience.
Now, Metro Cinema, an independent community-based cinema, is also operating in Garneau Theatre, so you can expect to see more films and media arts.
Wander around the gardens of Muttart Conservatory
Address: 9626 96a St NW, Edmonton, AB T6C 4L8, Canada
Phone: 780-496-8755
Visiting the Muttart Conservatory feels like stepping into a world full of blooms and greenery. Inside this botanical paradise, you’ll find four majestic pyramids filled with 700 plant species.
Each of the pyramids holds different themed gardens that represent varying world biomes and species. This means that, for every pyramid you visit, you get to see diverse plant species, such as the corpse flower, banana trees, bird of paradise, and an array of hibiscus.
And guess what? You can even buy yourself flowers here!
Discover history in Fort Edmonton Park
Address: 7000 143 St NW, Edmonton, AB T6H 4P3, Canada
Phone: 780-496-7381
Get ready to step into Edmonton’s deep and vibrant culture and history as you go on a tour inside the iconic Fort Edmonton Park.
Here you can spend your whole day exploring the 158 acres of wooded parkland that feature a bunch of attractions, including interactive virtual tours, exhibitions, and theaters. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can also try riding a wagon or the famous 1919 Baldwin Steam engine.
Explore John Walter Museum
Address: 9180 Walterdale Hill NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 2V3, Canada
Phone: 780-442-5311
Strolling around John Walter Museum is like stepping back in time to take a glimpse of the city’s history. Here’s the scoop: this historic landmark depicts the life of John Walter, one of Edmonton’s pioneer entrepreneurs.
Of course, it’s not just about him. It also features snippets of the Strathcona community of Walterdale from 1870 to 1942.
Another thing we like about this museum is that it’s connected to many recreational facilities, such as Kinsmen Sports Centre, Queen Elizabeth outdoor pool, and various multi-use trails. Through this, you can quickly access other attractions without the hassle of traveling far.
Trek the trails of Mill Creek Ravine
Address: 76 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6B 2L8, Canada
Phone: 780-944-5555
Without a doubt, you should include Mill Creek Ravine if you’re into nature trips and outdoor activities. This natural oasis is easily accessible and offers plenty of options for outdoor fun and adventure, so it’s perfect for those who want to take a breather from the noise and bustle of the streets.
Don’t forget to put on your walking shoes, so you can hike off-the-beaten trails and leisurely stroll around the wooden bridges over the picturesque creek.
Where to Shop in Garneau
Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market
Address: 10310 83 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 5C3, Canada
Phone: 780-439-1844
Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market is certainly our go-to spot if we’re looking for anything fresh, like fruits, veggies, meat, bread, you name it!
And guess what? It’s the largest indoor farmers’ market in the city, and it features 185 stalls with a roster of nearly 300 vendors. It’s basically a rendezvous point for various local produce and handmade craft!
Plus, you can score great deals and discounts too from time to time, so you can save more.
Village Goods
Address: 10432 82 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 2A2, Canada
Phone: 780-439-8349
We love Village Goods because they are one of the few retailers in town that sell fair-trade clothing, jewelry, housewares, and other crafts. Some of the items they offer are sourced from Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and Asia.
Visit this non-profit shop if you’re looking for unique and affordable gift ideas for your family and friends. Aside from getting them a nice gift, you’ll also be helping artisans and craftspeople, so they can continue doing what they love.
Safeway Garneau
Address: 10930 82 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 0S8, Canada
Phone: 780-433-6390
Need to go on a quick grocery run when in Garneau? Safeway Garneau is the nearest retail store you can access.
Well, aside from groceries, it’s also a great spot to find premium deli meats, cheeses, and even meals. Apart from that, Safeway also has a bakeshop where you can get artisan bread, danishes, cookies, and custom cakes.
Bamboo Ballroom
Address: 8206 104 St NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 2A2, Canada
Phone: 780-439-1363
We always have a fun time shopping in Bamboo Ballroom because this chic boutique highlights trendy and fashion-forward pieces. Here, you can find a nicely curated selection of women’s accessories and clothing.
Feel free to explore various small-label and local brands inside. And if you’re feeling extra fancy, you can also browse through some internationally known brands, including Mink Pink and House of Harlow.
From Another Edmonton
Address: 10544 82 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 2A4, Canada
Wanna shop for something vintage? From Another Edmonton is unquestionably a store you shouldn’t miss.
And yes, we’re not just talking about vintage shirts. You see, this buy, sell, trade business offers tons of vintage items like streetwear, sneakers, outerwear, reworks, and more.
Get this; everything they sell is guaranteed authentic. That’s why we recommend them to collectors looking for a certain piece to add to their collection and also to those who want to bag a good deal.
Which Neighborhoods to Visit near Garneau
Downtown Edmonton
Downtown Edmonton is the business and commercial center of the city. It’s a great place to explore, especially if you want to visit the popular attractions and experience the vibrant festivals in Edmonton.
Strathcona
We recommend visiting the bustling neighborhood of Strathcona in the evening. It’s when the shopping and entertainment district comes to life, so you can discover a plethora of shops, restaurants, pubs, and bars.
McKernan
Just like Garneau, McKernan is also a historic neighborhood, so it pretty much has the same vibes. The only difference is that you can find more natural attractions near this neighborhood, so we suggest you visit here if you wish to go on a picnic or camp under the skies.
Parkallen
Parkallen is a quaint and walkable neighborhood nestled in the southern part of Edmonton. It offers easy access to the University of Alberta and the Neil Crawford Centre.
Plus, it’s also a few blocks away from both the Southgate Center and Old Strathcona.
Ritchie
Ritchie is another neighborhood that’s full of character because it offers a hub of entertainment, attraction, and food scene. Moreover, it’s just steps away from famous attractions like North Saskatchewan River Valley and Mil Creek Ravine.
What to Expect from Garneau Weather
- Spring: Spring in Garneau is not always ideal for outdoor recreation since, from March to May, the chances for precipitation are quite high. Fortunately, there are numerous indoor activities and attractions you can explore in Edmonton.
- Summer: Summer (June to August) is the prime time to visit Garneau. It’s when the weather is perfect for outdoor adventure and fun. However, the heat waves can still be overwhelming for some since the temperature can reach up to 35°C.
- Fall: Fall in Garneau is a great time to connect with nature because the weather starts to cold down. The average daily temperature is also just around 20°C, so you can take a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood and go hiking without suffering from sunburn.
- Winter: The advantage of visiting Garneau in winter is the adrenaline-rushing winter sports and activities you can try. Just grab your thickest coat and jacket and enjoy a day filled with skiing, snowboarding, watching NHL games, and attending winter festivals.
Apps to Download for a Trip to Downtown
Uber: Ridesharing, ridehailing, food delivery, etc.
ETS Live To Go: Real-time info about bus routes
Transit App: Live ETS schedule, step-by-step navigation
MyEPark Edmonton Parking: Account for parking payment
