Recently moved to Edmonton with kids, or planning on taking a family vacation to the prairies? Below are five activities to do in the city that are fun for the whole family:

1. Visit the Royal Alberta Museum or Telus World of Science

With a focus on natural history, the Royal Alberta Museum is located nearby City Hall and features rotating exhibits on earth and life sciences, conservation and cultural studies. There’s also a full schedule of programming for kids and families, which includes live animal encounters, makerspace crafts, storytimes and presentations. When you enter the 4 hectare museum, you’ll be greeted by a full Albertasaurus skeleton in the lobby! Daily admission for adults is between 10 and 21 dollars, and youth 17 and under can enter for free. 

For an even more interactive museum experience, consider Telus World of Science (formerly Edmonton Space Science Centre). With exhibits related to space, the environment, technology and engineering, this place is catered to kids but fun for everyone. They have a large IMAX theatre, a stage for science demonstrations, a planetarium dome and a rooftop observatory. Whether your kiddos are interested in the minutiae of plant biology or the grandiosity of the universe, there’s an exhibit at Telus World of Science to answer their burning questions. Ticket rates for admission and experiences are available here.

2. Swim and picnic by the Legislature Building in Summer, or go skating at Rundle Park in Winter

The grounds surrounding the Alberta Legislature Building are great areas to hang out with kids during the summer. People go for a dip in the large fountains, and take advantage of the great views on the promontory for picnics, short hikes and play dates. It’s just a great spot to hang out with other locals on a nice day.

Located on the northeast side of the River Valley, Rundle Park has sports fields, walking trails, shaded picnic areas and a golf course, as well as sledding hills and an IceWay for skating in the winter time. Bring the family out to skate the paths in the park to create memories you won’t forget.

3. Explore Fort Edmonton Park

Fort Edmonton Park is like Disneyland for Edmonton’s history. Made up of three main areas (The Fur Trading Era, Indigenous Peoples Experience and The Settlement Era), the park features historic buildings, a steam engine train and interpreters dressed in period costumes, who educate and answer questions while in character. The Settlement Era has a large midway with rides, games, a theatre and horse-drawn carriages riding through it. The park is typically only open from May to September each year, due to weather conditions. For more information and to purchase tickets, check out their website. 

4. Visit the Edmonton Valley Zoo or John Janzen Nature Centre

Over 250 animals live at the Edmonton Valley Zoo, situated within the River Valley. Committed to conservation, the zoo raises animals in species survival projects and contributes money to protection efforts around the world. Come for the sense of wonder, the animal talks, or even the Christmas light show: Zoominescense. 

By contrast, John Janzen Nature Centre is a place for viewing and learning about local plant and animal species. School kids come here for trail exploration and the indoor nature centre, which builds awareness about species native to the River Valley and their habitats. It sometimes experiences closures due to river flooding, so be sure to check the city’s website before planning your trip.

5. Ride the High Level Bridge Streetcar

Experience the city from a new vantage point by taking the High Level Bridge Streetcar from Whyte Avenue to the Downtown Jasper Avenue Terminus. The historic streetcar runs along former Canadian Pacific Railway trackage with stops in Old Strathcona, 107 Street, Garneau, and Government Centre. You’ll cross the River Valley on this scenic route, and experience its lush beauty in a way you’ve never seen before. Be advised: fares can only be paid in cash to the conductor, and are not reservable ahead of time. The streetcar schedule and more information about what your fare includes are visible on the Edmonton Streetcars’ website.

We hope you enjoyed these recommendations for things to do with kids in Edmonton!

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