ways to travel to edmonton

16 BEST Stops On the Drive From Calgary to Edmonton (Direct Route)

Many Albertans find themselves having to make the drive between Edmonton and Calgary at least once, maybe even a few times a year! While it’s far from the most eventful drive, there are some stops that are well worth your time.

Edmonton is approximately 300 kilometers (186 miles) from Calgary, making it roughly a three-hour drive. The shortest route takes you through Highway 2, also known as Queen Elizabeth II Highway, and includes a stop in Red Deer at the midway point. While there are other scenic stops that add a bit more time, we’re going to focus on the quickest and most direct route between Calgary and Edmonton, starting in Calgary !

Buses Connecting Calgary to Edmonton

Several affordable bus services connect Edmonton and Calgary, providing good options for travelers.

Rider Express : They offer budget-friendly prices starting at $47 per person, Rider Express operates almost daily with two trips between the cities, with stop in Red Deer. Though this option is best if you are not coming or going to YYC or YEG as the pick up and drop off points are located in the city areas.
Red Arrow : Renowned as one of the most popular bus services linking the cities, Red Arrow provides multiple pick-up locations in both Edmonton and Calgary, as well as at each airport. The average one-way ticket costs approximately $74.57 per person, inclusive of taxes and takes just under four hours.
Ebus : Ebus offers a convenient bus service between Edmonton and Calgary (and vice versa) for $75. With two scheduled routes almost daily, it also caters to shoppers by including a stop at the popular CrossIron Mills Shopping Center north of Calgary. They also offer free WiFi on board, reclining seats, and on board bathrooms.
Coldshot : For just $35, Coldshot provides up to two daily trips between the cities, one in the early morning and another in the early evening.
The Canada Bus : A new service connecting Calgary, Red Deer, and Edmonton. The one-way ticket from Calgary to Edmonton is $49, and purchasing a 6-ticket pack (valid for 180 days) comes with a 15% discount.

The Best Stops From Calgary to Edmonton

Crossiron mills.

As you leave Calgary on your quintessential Alberta road trip from Calgary to Edmonton, your first stop should be at CrossIron Mills. Whether you require road-trip supplies, are hungry, or simply want to do a bit of window shopping, this enormous mall won’t disappoint. With over 200 stores, it is Alberta’s largest one-level shopping mall featuring a massive food court, and the biggest Toys ‘R’ Us in the province; bound to make you feel like a kid again!

Where On Earth – Antique Mall & Vintage Market

A little way north of Calgary on the road to Edmonton, you will drive past the quaint town of Airdrie where you will find the unique Where On Earth Antique Mall And Vintage Market. Featuring over 60 vendors and spanning over 15,000 sq. feet, this place is worth exploring. The family-owned mall is stacked full of wonderful antiques, trinkets, and memorabilia and you are bound to find something that you will love!

Olds College, Botanic Gardens & Constructed Wetlands

After your fill of shopping, it is time to hit the road again! Your next stop is just off the Queen Elizabeth Highway to the west in the college town of Olds.

The botanic garden and constructed wetlands at the Olds College of Agriculture & Technology are worth the stop to not only stretch your legs, as you walk along the garden path but also to learn about the importance of sustainable environments.

Exploring the 15-acre wetlands that have a total of 19 ponds and an abundance of flora and fauna is a great way to connect with nature. The gardens and wetlands are open to the public free of charge.

Discovery Wildlife Park & Campground

As you approach the halfway mark of your road trip journey you will arrive at the historic town of Innisfail, which has long been a stopping place to rest on the journey to Edmonton. Apart from being a historic town, this place is also home to the Discovery Wildlife Park & Campground which is open during the summer months.

The zoo is home to plenty of orphaned animals, some of which you can interact with, and even has cabins and a campground making it as good a spot as any to spend the night if you so please!

Heritage Ranch

From Innisfail, it is a short drive to Red Deer which has several attractions of its own. Your first stop can be at Heritage Ranch where you can experience first-hand life as a rancher!

The vast and beautiful property is a great spot for photography and horseback rides. Equestrians will love this place as the horses at this ranch are some of the most magnificent specimens in all of Alberta.

There are also several walking trails to explore and a pond where you can indulge in a spot of fishing. I would also recommend dining at The Westlake Grill at the ranch, which offers a 5-course exquisite dinner prepared from fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

Bower Ponds

Your next stop in Red Deer should be at Bower Ponds where you can enjoy paddleboarding in the summer and ice skating in the winter. This is a great stop to stretch your legs and get some exercise by exploring the trails and looking out for wildlife.

The park is pet-friendly and even has a children’s playground which makes it a fun stop for the entire family. After you had your fun, enjoy ice cream and snacks at the cafe and then it’s time to get back on the road!

Kerry Wood Nature Centre

To get to Kerry Wood Nature Centre you will have to drive a bit further into Red Deer but the short drive from the highway is worth it as this is one of Alberta’s most incredible migratory bird sanctuaries.

The nature centre lies adjacent to Gaetz Lakes on the south bank of Red Deer River and offers picturesque views, diverse landscapes, and an abundance of wildlife including migratory birds, beavers, porcupines, and ducks. It is the ideal spot to connect with nature and it is also the starting point of the Red Deer’s Waskasoo Park Trail System.

Sylvan Lake Park

It is now time to head west towards Sylvan Lake, one of the best lakes in Alberta . This is a beautiful suburban lake-side town that is the perfect stop to enjoy outdoor activities, watersports, and photo shoots.

It is a 20-minute drive from Red Deer to Sylvan Lake Park and the drive is worth it for the scenic views, playgrounds, and community trails.

The town also has a rich history and a vibrant culture making it a charming place to grab lunch, sightsee, and maybe even spend the night.

Aspen Beach Provincial Park

If you do decide to spend the night at Sylvan Lake, then you can drive north from Sylvan to Gull Lake without needing to head back to the main highway.

Gull Lake is home to Aspen Beach Provincial Park where you can enjoy lounging on sandy beaches or taking to the waters using the park’s boat launch. You can also fish in the lake waters and there are also plenty of hiking trails to explore.

The park also features two campgrounds that offer parking sites for whatever camping unit you bring.

Kraay Family Farm – Home of the Lacombe Corn Maze

A short drive from Aspen Beach Provincial Park, due east, or back towards the highway you will come across the Kraay Family Farm. This place is one of those hidden gems in Alberta that you simply have to experience in the summer!

You can easily spend half a day enjoying the many attractions here, including one of Alberta’s largest corn mazes, zip lines, tube slides, a petting zoo, an adventure course, and so much more! With over 40+ attractions and activities Kraay Family Farm promises fun and excitement for all road trippers!

Reynolds-Alberta Museum

This is the only meaningful detour that you will have to make on your drive to Edmonton, but is one that is worth it, especially if you love vintage cars and machines!

This award-winning museum celebrates the spirit of the machine. You will find exhibits here that include one-of-a-kind vintage cars and motorcycles, old aircraft, and an impressive array of pre-war farming equipment and industrial machinery.

The museum also offers various programs and experiences that enrich your experience and in my view is one of the coolest stops on this list.

You can either turn around and head back onto the highway to get to Leduc or take the backroad that passes through Millet on your way to Leduc. I would recommend taking the back road as while it may take a few minutes longer to get to the city the drive is a scenic one. Leduc is one of the furthest suburbs of Edmonton and lies about 30 km from the provincial capital.

You can either stop here to get a quick bite or watch a movie at the renowned Leduc Cinemas. The nearby, Telford Lake and William F. Lede Park are also worth stopping at to explore before you begin the final leg of your journey!

University of Alberta Botanic Garden

If you are still not ready to head to Edmonton’s city center, why not visit the University of Alberta Botanic Garden which lies just outside the city’s western edge and a few miles from the suburb of Devon?

The Olds College Botanical Gardens & Wetlands that you stopped at earlier on your trip will pale in comparison to the scale and grandeur of the University’s 240-acre garden complex. The botanic gardens feature exotic plants from all over the world as well as a patio cafe where you can enjoy hot beverages and light snacks.

Edmonton Corn Maze

Just a short drive from the University of Alberta Botanic Gardens is the iconic Edmonton Corn Maze which is a popular tourist destination from mid-August to the end of October!

Each year the maze features a new design, and the site also has other activities such as pedal cars and the popular Corn Cob Express which makes the whole experience that much more memorable.

There is even a farmer’s market here where you can stock up on wholesome wares and high-quality produce sourced from Alberta’s finest artisans and crafters.

Alberta’s capital city is a far north haven of heritage. A sprawling metropolis with a strong industrial history and cultural identity within Canada, there are so many fun things to do in Edmonton.Many mistake Calgary as Alberta’s capital, and are usually shocked to find out that Edmonton actually holds the title.

Some of the best things to do in Edmonton are:

Muttart Conservatory: Settled on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River are four greenhouses in stunning pyramid configurations. Seeing them, especially lit up at night, is one of the best things to do in Edmonton. Each structure at Muttart Conservatory represents a different earthly biome, and inside, you will find a plethora of rare and exotic plants from that distinct climate and terrain.
High Level Bridge Streetcar: Streetcars were first introduced to Edmonton in 1908 and were an integral part of the city’s heritage. It became known for its scenic streetcar ride over the iconic Saskatchewan River, as it was once one of the highest crossings in the world.You can visit the small streetcar museum , which displays photographs and artifacts from its heyday.
Edmonton Ice Castles: If visiting in the winter visiting the ice castles are an absolute must. These fantastical frosty creations are an “Insta-worthy” wonderland. Set inside Hawrelak Park during the colder season, it’s an awe-inspiring Alberta attraction of must-see masterpieces.

Edmonton Mall

It is finally time to head to downtown Edmonton and one of the city’s top attractions – Edmonton Mall. While the provincial capital offers plenty of things to do, Edmonton Mall is one destination you simply won’t want to miss!

Being North America’s largest shopping mall, you are simply awe-struck by the scale of this massive mall that contains hundreds of branded outlets, two luxury hotels, several restaurants, and the largest indoor wave pool waterpark in the world – World Waterpark.

That’s not all, the mall also contains the Galaxyland amusement park, the Ice Palace, and the incredible Marine Life underground aquarium that houses over a hundred different species of marine life. I don’t think there is a better way to end a fun-filled Calgary to Edmonton road trip!

Elk Island National Park

Elk Island National Park is the largest fully enclosed park in the whole country. It’s an expansive and protected conservation preserve of 75 square miles. You will find a diverse array of habitats and ecosystems within this lush landscape. Grasslands, wetlands, prairies, and forests are a haven for many species of wildlife here.

Keep your eyes peeled for both large creatures like native bison and tiny inhabitants like the pygmy shrew. Hike the nature trails to take in the beautiful bounty of local wilderness.

About Natasha

Natasha calls Canmore, Alberta home. After traveling across seven continents and 90 countries with Cameron, she settled down in the stunning Canadian Rockies. She loves to help others travel and make their planning easier. She is a winter enthusiast and loves to snowboard, ice skate, and snowshoe and enjoy all the fantastic summer opportunities in Banff like hiking, scrambling, and biking. You can find her in the mountains or enjoying a coffee by the river. Learn more on the about us page! If you have found the content on this site helpful to your trip planning please consider supporting The Banff Blog. You can say thanks directly by buying us a coffee . All support is much appreciated!

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Find cheap flights to Edmonton from $106

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight to edmonton departing on 5/10. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to edmonton.

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Cheap flight deals to Edmonton

Flights to edmonton - travel insights & trends, get data-powered insights and trends for flights to edmonton to help you find the cheapest flights, the best time to fly and much more., what is the cheapest flight to edmonton.

In the last 3 days, the lowest price for a flight to Edmonton was $106 for a one-way ticket from Minneapolis and $201 for a round-trip. The most popular route searched for by our users was for flights from San Francisco to Edmonton and the best round-trip deal found in the last 3 days was $231.

How much is a flight to Edmonton?

On average, a flight to edmonton costs $335. the cheapest price found on kayak in the last 2 weeks cost $90 and departed from phoenix sky harbor intl airport. the most popular routes on kayak are minneapolis to edmonton which costs $337 on average, and san francisco to edmonton, which costs $382 on average., see prices from:, what is the cheapest day to fly to edmonton, based on kayak data, the cheapest day to fly to edmonton is wednesday where tickets can be as cheap as $457. on the other hand, the most expensive day to fly is sunday, where prices are $576 on average., what is the cheapest month to fly to edmonton, the cheapest month for flights to edmonton is august, where tickets cost $463 on average for one-way flights. on the other hand, the most expensive months are october and february, where the average cost of tickets from the united states is $1,089 and $989 respectively. for return trips, the best month to travel is june with an average price of $415., what is a good deal for flights to edmonton, if you’re looking for cheap airfare to edmonton, 25% of our users found tickets to edmonton for the following prices or less: from minneapolis $128 one-way - $262 round-trip, from los angeles $157 one-way - $363 round-trip, from phoenix sky harbor intl airport $179 one-way - $284 round-trip., how far in advance should i book a flight to edmonton, to get a below average price, you should book around 1 week before departure. for the absolute cheapest price, our data suggests you should book 81 days before departure., which airlines fly to edmonton, if you’re traveling from united states, you might fly to edmonton with westjet, alaska airlines, or united airlines as they are the most frequent flyers. see the amount of flights per week for popular airlines flying to edmonton., which airline offers the most flights to edmonton, of the 7 airlines that fly to edmonton, westjet offers the most flights, with around 314 per week, followed by air canada with 235 flights per week., how long is the flight to edmonton, the duration of your flight to edmonton depends on your departure and arrival airports. obviously any flights that include a layover will also be longer. the most popular routes to edmonton on kayak are from san francisco , which takes 2h 49m, los angeles , which takes 3h 14m, new york , which takes 7h 43m, and miami , which takes 8h 34m., how many direct flights to edmonton are there each day, there are around 16 direct flights from within united states to edmonton every day. most flights depart in the morning, with 10:00 am the most common departure time and 40% of flights departing in the morning., how many direct flights to edmonton are there each week, each week there are around 110 direct flights from within united states to edmonton. the most common day for departures is sunday, with 18% of flights taking off on this day., how many long-haul flights are there to edmonton each week, each week there are around 6 long-haul flights (6-12 hour flight duration), 253 medium-haul (3-6 hour flight duration) and 591 short-haul (up to 3 hour flight duration) flights to edmonton. the most long-haul flights depart from amsterdam., how many cities have direct flights to edmonton, from the united states, there are direct flights to edmonton from 13 cities. the city with the most direct flights is las vegas, with 18 direct flights each week., good to know, when to book flights to edmonton, faqs - booking edmonton flights, which are the most convenient means of transport for passengers exploring edmonton.

The most convenient means of transportation for passengers exploring Edmonton is renting a car at the airport. At the airport, there are various car rentals providers such as Thrifty, Alamo, National, Avis, Hertz, Budget, Enterprise, and Dollar. These rental providers have desks on the Ground Level of the Parkade.

How can a person with limited mobility travel from Edmonton Airport to the city center?

When arriving at Edmonton Airport, people with limited mobility can make advance arrangements with Skyshuttle for accessible transportation. For the convenience of our visitors, our on-site shuttle buses are designed to hold non-folding or non-collapsible mobility devices. The shuttles have an accessible pickup area between Doors 2 and 3 on the Arrivals level.

When flying from the United States to Edmonton, which flight options do I have?

There are a few direct flights from the United States to Edmonton. Those flying from Chicago (ORD) will find a direct Edmonton Flight deal using Linear AirTaxi. For flights with layover stops, you can consider flying with airlines such as WestJet Airlines, Air Canada, Austrian Airlines, and Iberia Airlines. When traveling from Chicago, these carriers have stopovers in major cities such as Calgary and Minneapolis. For flights from New York (JFK), they have a layover stop in Toronto.

Where can you spend the night at Edmonton Airport?

If you arrive late at Edmonton Airport, consider spending the night at the hotel located at the airport. Renaissance Edmonton Airport Hotel is a walking distance from the terminal. Other nearby hotels include Fairfield by Marriott Edmonton International Airport, Days Inn Suites Edmonton Airport, Ramada Edmonton International Airport, and Super 8 Edmonton International Airport. These hotels offer complimentary shuttles from the airport.

Are there on-site hotels at Edmonton Airport?

No hotels are on-site at the airport, but Holiday Inn Express is located just outside of the departures area. The hotel offers a complimentary shuttle from Edmonton Airport every 15min. You can also access the hotel by exiting the terminal, crossing to your right, and following the hotel signage.

What are the available transport options from Edmonton Airport to the city?

The airport has designated areas with taxis available on demand 24 hours a day. Taxis are located outside the terminal building or inside at Baggage Claim for departures only. Shuttles can also take you to your desired destination at any time, and are usually cheaper than taking a cab. The trip to downtown Edmonton will take about 35min via taxi or shuttle in normal traffic.

Are there car rental companies at Edmonton Airport?

Yes, several car rental companies are on-site at the airport, including Thrifty, Avis, and Enterprise. They are located in the arrivals/departures area of the terminal, and offer a range of vehicles from compact cars to SUVs.

What parking options are available at Edmonton Airport?

Multiple parking lots are available at and around the airport, including Airport Parkade, located on Airport Road and accessible by exiting from Highway 50 (34th Street); Economy Parking Lot, located opposite of Baggage Claim off 34th Street next to the Terminal Building; Long-Term Economy Parking for monthly parkers, located on 34th Street, Long-Term Economy Parking for yearly parkers, adjacent to the Long Term Lot off Airport Road; and Short-Term Economy Parking, located opposite of Baggage Claim next to the Terminal Building. The Parkade is occupied 24 hours a day, with gates closing at midnight. The other lots are open from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm.

How far is Edmonton from central Edmonton?

You’ll need to travel 17 miles to reach the Edmonton city center from Edmonton.

What is the name of Edmonton’s airport?

There is only 1 airport in Edmonton, called Edmonton (YEG). It can also be referred to as Edmonton or Edmonton Intl.

On average, a flight to Edmonton costs $335. The cheapest price found on KAYAK in the last 2 weeks cost $90 and departed from Phoenix Sky Harbor Intl Airport.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights to Edmonton?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights to Edmonton.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket to Edmonton?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Edmonton is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights to Edmonton?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to Edmonton with an airline and back with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight to Edmonton?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Edmonton up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Edmonton

Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Edmonton flight deals.
Business travelers arriving at Edmonton Airport (YEG) can make use of the business workstations. You will find a computer terminal at the information desk on the Arrivals Level. The computer kiosk is free for a maximum of 10 minutes for each user.
If you are a United States citizen flying into Edmonton, Canada you must have a valid passport with one blank page. Additionally, you will not need a visa for tourist visits of less than 180 days.
There are many restaurants within Edmonton Airport, offering everything from quick snacks to full meals. The best place for coffee is Tim Hortons, located on level one of the main passenger terminal building, in addition to Starbucks.
When flying into Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, you will land at Edmonton International Airport (YEG). The airport is located 14 miles away from the city center of Edmonton. The closest international airports to Edmonton are Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and Calgary International Airport (YYC).
If you are traveling with children, you’ll be happy to know that Edmonton offers one of the best airports for kids. A children’s play area is located on-site, with toys and screens for kids. This family-friendly airport also offers special kids’ menus at restaurants and changing tables in restrooms.
If you need luggage storage, Edmonton Airport offers a 24-hour secure storage facility with daily, monthly and annual rates.
If you are travelling with your pet, keep in mind that Edmonton Airport has a designated pet relief area, and the airport terminal also offers kennels for pets. To access the pet area, go through the airport security scanners, and then take a right.
For families with kids needing to freshen up after a long flight, Edmonton airport has a family restroom located in the main terminal.

Prefer to fly non-stop to Edmonton?

Find which airlines fly direct to Edmonton, which days they fly and book direct flights.

Nonstop departures

United States to Edmonton

ANA, Aeromexico, Air Canada, +38 more

ANA, Aeromexico, +39 more

ANA, Aeromexico, Air Canada, +40 more

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ANA, Aeromexico, Air Canada, +39 more

ANA, Aeromexico, +40 more

ANA, Aeromexico, Air Canada, +37 more

ANA, Aeromexico, +38 more

Nonstop returns

Edmonton to United States

Top 5 airlines flying to edmonton.

Seats in first class on the E175 recline too far back. I was in 2A, and the man in 1A fully reclined almost the entire flight. It took 6-7 inches of space away from me and made it very difficult to work on my laptop.

On 2 different flights the wifi was horrible and there was no drink or snack service.

Wifi wasn’t working well so we couldn't view any media.

Flight was late. Club was full. Experience is exactly what I expected.

Carly the flight attendant was extremely helpful and very accommodating to passengers on the flight from what I noticed. Couldn't be more satisfied with the service and assistance from Delta's flight attendant, Thanks again Carly!!

I didn’t not like that I could not select my seat and ended up with the worse seat.

I didn’t like that I could not select my seat and was assigned a seat when I checked in at LAX

Delta did an awful job w logistics at DTW. Missed connection. We were there an hour early. SUCKED

Inflight entertainment stopped working as we taxi to runway and never worked again until landing and taxi to gate. Grrrr

Had to run to make it only to have the flight delayed to wait for all the late connectors Second drink service skipped up

For some reason there was a change in the cockpit which delayed us by an hour

flight changed by airline. then could not check imto mew flight because kiwi had messed up the reservation. still waiting to depart…

Good. Really crowded and busy. Going to Winnipeg plane was crowded and seats very narrow Now I remember why I dislike flying 😈

Having a lot of delayed flights on West Jet, however things always work out. So no complaints.

Check in was seamless , crew very polite , arrived on time!

Nothing special. Unacceptable wait for baggage on arriving in Calgary

Seats can use more cushioning, it felt very hard. The snack option could be better

Over all good. I had some issues with trying to buy my seat. The Westjet system kept trying to charge my credit card, without getting the seat. In the end after 5 times being charged, I got my seat.

I did not have a meal or entertainment, but flight was comfortable, beverage service was quick, crew was very helpful and pleasant. And a very smooth flight overall.

The flight itself was good, the departure process was a little chaotic but once on the plane it was fine. The carry on luggage amounts is ridiculous. My husband’s suitcase was left behind in Kelowna. We could see it sitting there with our airtag. It was put on the next plane 6 hrs later but it was not delivered until the next afternoon. Unfortunately we had a business meeting Friday morning so he had no change of clothing for that.

It got me where I needed it to; not much more. It had no competition so that was why I chose it.

I liked everything about the flight. The service was excellent!

The customer service was excellent! Check-in, baggage check-in, boarding, the flight went very smooth.

The flight was delayed instead of leaving at 11 it left at 12.20

United WiFi is consistently unusable (it can take 10 mins to load a single web page). If you need Wifi to do work, be prepared to lose half a day of productivity.

We waited to takeoff for about 1 hour delay for a 20 min flight.

Good dinner and nice plane.Smootz flight. Breakfast had no sweet option. Seats hardly reclined.

Positive: Entertainment via phone on the short was great and my first time. Good food and wine and head phones for free. Negative: Seat hardly reclined on the long flight. Breakfast was an egg with a bun. No egg choices and rather have something sweet like bun/jam and Youghurt.

Awful. I got stuck next to a person carrying a dog and behind someone with a dog. People need to board these dogs downstairs. The cabin is crowded enough with your pets

The flight was canceled. Got rebooked to Chicago and when we arrived our luggage where to there. They were going to our original destination the day after. They would not deliver them to our house. We had to go pick them up.

Lost my bag. My first ever flight with them that they forced me to gate check my bag on, due to them having a 30 year old plane with small carry on bins, and they lost my bag. Never again.

The flight got canceled multiple times and we had to drive their to reach midnight for our next morning interview. Poor and unriable experience. Now have to ask for a refund since we didn't need their rescheduled flight three days later.

Short flight, crew members were very nice, so much so I'll take the return flight next weekend

The trip was fine and uneventful. The seat in business class was very uncomfortable which was disappointing given the extra cost. It was spacious but it felt like I was sitting on metal bars. The food in business class wasn't very good. The flight was ahead of time, the staff was professional and courteous and our luggage arrived safely.

Again we were late leaving Austin , there was no tv screen for the 3.5 hr flight, the pizza I bought was kinda bland

Glad to see the staff of Air Canada take preference in protecting their customers from unruly passengers before they board. Well done

This website did not advise the prices were in $USD, when the flyer (me) was flying within Canada only and only a Canadian resident, and booking this flight in Canada. Furthermore, the area to board the plane was unusually hot and sweaty.

Flights on time. Friendly/pleasant ground and in-flight staff. Better snacks and films with captions,

Affordable & comfortable. Not sure why a party of two I booked at the same time got seated separately.

The flight was delayed with zero compensation only hours before the flight. The pick up driver had a very long drive so he was already on the road when the flight was delayed so he also had to sit and wait there for a long time. again zero compensation for anything. not even a voucher for food or drink.

Of all the countries I've flown to and airlines from around the world, I have never had such a dismissive an arrogant employee during boarding. After waiting in line for 20 minutes to board, I was sent to a second line for Passport verification. Natalie from Flair, repeatedly tried to scan my passport which didn't work for some reason but was too lazy to input my information manually. Bar code scanners aren't 100% reliable as we all know. She asked me my birthdate 3 times, made me wait to be the last person aboard and then smugly threatened me that my only bag could be charged for (same backpack I used as on my arrival as carry on). Natalie working in Ft. Lauderdale and the was the epitome of lobotomized tiktok brain with the charm of junk mail.

Food selection is very poor and sears are very uncomfortable.

Flight was 3 hrs late and another 2 hrs wait for baggage to arrive on carousel and a $7.00 food voucher that arrived as we were boarding our flight.

Seat rows so close together no one dares to put their seats back. Knees pressed against the seat in front, had to find a position putting my legs under the seat in front. But for 6 hours keeping that one position was ridiculous. All savings on the purchase price are taken back through charge backs for luggage $200 each way, Seat selection $44 per seat or you are seated by a computer randomly. Wife sat 5 rows away. Would avoid Flair in the future

The flight was safe (priority). Everything else is low-cost: too hard, delays, mediocre boarding, cost for carry-on and checked luggage.

Flair flight was 4 hours late due to not having a crew and the plane was filthy. Just water service Terrible experience flight 1513

Flair did not notify you when they changed gate number!

Can't be happy with a 5 hour delay. Only given $10 voucher for food and still EVERYTHING was an upcharge during the flight.

TThe first time I have ever flown with flare and both ways sucked

There was no entertainment There was no food or beverage service , not even a glass of water The plane door could not be opened upon arrival

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This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight to edmonton departing on 17/4. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to edmonton.

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Cheap flight deals to Edmonton

Flights to edmonton - travel insights & trends, get data-powered insights and trends into flights to edmonton to help you find the cheapest flights, the best time to fly and much more., what is the cheapest flight to edmonton.

In the last 3 days, the lowest price for a flight to Edmonton was C$ 80 for a one-way ticket from Vancouver and C$ 125 for a round-trip. The most popular route searched for by our users was for flights from Toronto to Edmonton and the best round-trip deal found in the last 3 days was C$ 223.

How much is a flight to Edmonton?

On average, a flight to edmonton costs c$ 316. the cheapest price found on kayak in the last 2 weeks cost c$ 36 and departed from abbotsford. the most popular routes on kayak are abbotsford to edmonton which costs c$ 229 on average, and vancouver to edmonton, which costs c$ 344 on average., see prices from:, what is the cheapest day to fly to edmonton, based on kayak data, the cheapest day to fly to edmonton is friday where tickets can be as cheap as c$ 290. on the other hand, the most expensive day to fly is sunday, where prices are c$ 353 on average., what is the cheapest month to fly to edmonton, the cheapest month for flights to edmonton is september, where tickets cost c$ 179 on average for one-way flights. on the other hand, the most expensive months are december and april, where the average cost of tickets from canada is c$ 610 and c$ 368 respectively. for return trips, the best month to travel is november with an average price of c$ 183., what is a good deal for flights to edmonton, if you’re looking for cheap airfare to edmonton, 25% of our users found tickets to edmonton for the following prices or less: from kelowna c$ 122 one-way - c$ 216 round-trip, from victoria c$ 131 one-way - c$ 226 round-trip, from winnipeg c$ 141 one-way - c$ 326 round-trip., how far in advance should i book a flight to edmonton, to get a below average price, you should book around 2 weeks before departure. for the absolute cheapest price, our data suggests you should book 57 days before departure., which airlines fly to edmonton, if you’re traveling from canada, you might fly to edmonton with westjet, air canada, or flair airlines as they are the most frequent flyers. see the amount of flights per week for popular airlines flying to edmonton., which airline offers the most flights to edmonton, of the 7 airlines that fly to edmonton, westjet offers the most flights, with around 314 per week, followed by air canada with 235 flights per week., how long is the flight to edmonton, the duration of your flight to edmonton depends on your departure and arrival airports. obviously any flights that include a layover will also be longer. the most popular routes to edmonton on kayak are from calgary , which takes 0h 53m, vancouver , which takes 1h 28m, montreal , which takes 4h 25m, and toronto , which takes 5h 12m., how many direct flights to edmonton are there each day, there are around 100 direct flights from within canada to edmonton every day. most flights depart in the morning, with 12:00 p.m. the most common departure time and 43% of flights departing in the morning., how many direct flights to edmonton are there each week, each week there are around 694 direct flights from within canada to edmonton. the most common day for departures is sunday, with 16% of flights taking off on this day., how many long-haul flights are there to edmonton each week, each week there are around 6 long-haul flights (6-12 hour flight duration), 253 medium-haul (3-6 hour flight duration) and 591 short-haul (up to 3 hour flight duration) flights to edmonton. the most long-haul flights depart from amsterdam., how many cities have direct flights to edmonton, from canada, there are direct flights to edmonton from 18 cities. the city with the most direct flights is vancouver intl airport, with 210 direct flights each week., good to know, when to book flights to edmonton, faqs - booking edmonton flights, how convenient is it to fly to edmonton with your kids.

Airlines flying to Edmonton offer a variety of kid-friendly amenities at their lounges as well as on board. For instance, if you book Flair Airlines, your kids will enjoy free snacks on board in addition to enhanced comfort offered by the spacious seats with extra legroom. Upon landing at Edmonton International Airport (YEG), your kids can expand their energies at the indoor playground located near Gate 16.

Which airline has the highest frequency of daily flights to Edmonton?

Edmonton International Airport serves as the hub for Flair Airlines. Among the airlines offering flights to Edmonton, Flair Airlines has the highest. Therefore, whether you are flying to Edmonton from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) or Abbotsford International Airport (YXX), you can reliably get a flight any time of the day if you consider Flair Airlines.

What are some good hotels near Edmonton International Airport?

The Renaissance Edmonton Airport Hotel is a stylish 4-star choice that is directly connected to Edmonton International Airport and is located less than 10 kilometres away from the popular Castrol Raceway. The Ramada by Wyndham is a budget-friendly option that is a 5-minute drive from the airport and less than a 15-minute drive from Telford Lake.

What dining options does Edmonton International Airport have?

Hoping to grab a bite to eat after your flight to Edmonton has landed? Caffè Sorrentino is a casual restaurant that serves Italian-style meals, while Edmonton Eskimos Sports Bar offers a large variety of appetizers and drinks. Chili's Express and Boston Pizza are both convenient options for travellers short on time that would like to purchase to-go items.

What shopping options are there in Edmonton International Airport?

If you would like to purchase some gifts or souvenirs, browse through the different stores located at Edmonton International Airport. There are several Duty-Free shops that sell liquor, cosmetics, food products, and electronics, as well as smaller stores that contain a selection of local items.

Does Edmonton International Airport have a prayer room?

There is an interfaith chapel located in the south end of the Arrivals terminal of Edmonton International Airport. It is open 24 hours per day, contains a private washroom, and provides guests with complimentary prayer mats. There is also a separate sitting area with comfortable chairs and art in order to give travellers a quiet place to sit and reflect.

How far is Edmonton from central Edmonton?

There are 27 km between Edmonton downtown and Edmonton.

What is the name of Edmonton’s airport?

Edmonton is served by Edmonton, also commonly referred to as Edmonton or Edmonton Intl. The airport code is YEG.

On average, a flight to Edmonton costs C$ 316. The cheapest price found on KAYAK in the last 2 weeks cost C$ 36 and departed from Abbotsford Airport.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights to Edmonton?

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket to Edmonton?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Edmonton is likely to change within 7 days, so travellers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights to Edmonton?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to Edmonton with an airline and back with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight to Edmonton?

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Edmonton

Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Edmonton flight deals.
Edmonton International Airport (YEG) is the main arrival airport for flights to Edmonton. The buses that travel from the airport to the Century Park Transit Centre without making any stops along the route are the most convenient and affordable means of transport from YEG to the city centre. However, taxis offer the fastest means of transport from the airport to the city centre, with a ride taking about 25 minutes.
Flights to Edmonton also have Red Deer Regional Airport (YQF) as the arrival airport other than YEG. The advantage of landing at YQF, which is a less popular arrival airport, is that you have higher chances of getting cheaper flight deals. Additionally, you will enjoy greater convenience upon landing, thanks to the shorter queues at the security checkpoints in the airport.
Edmonton International Airport also severs a number of other nearby cities in addition to Edmonton. Saint Albert, Sherwood Park, and Beaumont are some of the nearby cities that are conveniently accessible from YEG. Beaumont, Sherwood Park, and Saint Albert are 16 km, 41 km, and 53 km from Edmonton International Airport, respectively. You can conveniently connect to these cities from YEG using car rentals.
If you book flights to Edmonton often, consider signing up for the Edmonton International Airport Rewards Program. This program provides travellers with a variety of perks including discounts at the airport’s stores, parking deals, and the opportunity to earn points to spend on different amenities or products.
For travellers that are art enthusiasts, make sure to stop by the permanent art collection in the main terminal of Edmonton International Airport. This exhibit contains work from both local and international artists, and it is an easy way to stretch your legs and unwind after your flight to Edmonton.
Planning on flying with the kids? Visit one of the children’s playrooms that are located throughout the Departures terminal of Edmonton International Airport. Filled with activities, toys, and games, these playrooms allow children to blow off some steam either before or after a long day of travelling.
To help yourself de-stress after your flight lands, keep your eyes open for the Pet Therapy Society volunteers wearing blue t-shirts in Edmonton International Airport. These volunteers lead groups of trained dogs throughout the airport in order to say hi to travellers and calm down individuals that may not like flying.
If you will be flying within 24 hours of your flight to Edmonton, consider storing some of your luggage or personal items at the Baggage Storage Center at the Ground Transportation Office of Edmonton International Airport. Storage is priced per day and varies depending on the size of the item that you would like to keep there.

Prefer to fly non-stop to Edmonton?

Find which airlines fly direct to Edmonton, which days they fly and book direct flights.

Nonstop departures

Canada to Edmonton

ANA,Aeromexico,Air Canada, +38 more

ANA,Aeromexico, +39 more

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ANA,Aeromexico, +41 more

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ANA,Aeromexico,Air Canada, +37 more

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Edmonton to Canada

Top 5 airlines flying to edmonton.

For some reason there was a change in the cockpit which delayed us by an hour

flight changed by airline. then could not check imto mew flight because kiwi had messed up the reservation. still waiting to depart…

Good. Really crowded and busy. Going to Winnipeg plane was crowded and seats very narrow Now I remember why I dislike flying 😈

Having a lot of delayed flights on West Jet, however things always work out. So no complaints.

Check in was seamless , crew very polite , arrived on time!

Nothing special. Unacceptable wait for baggage on arriving in Calgary

Westjet cancelled the flight and I had to show up at the airport to rebook it, losing 2 days of my vacation, and no compensation, a crappy itinerary with no extra legroom which we paid for, no ability to use the lounge passes we paid for - basically a crappy experience. Not a reliable airline if you have a big trip planned.

My flight was delayed 10 Hours with no vouchers or any info about the delay

No major issues with WestJet. Unfortunately, on the segment YYC to IAH the entertainment system was down.

Crew is ok. They offered food n drinks. Had difficulty connecting to wifi on board.

Tight transfer in Montreal. (15 min) However, we made it, as did my luggage.

Great. Porter is very efficient, welcoming, and organized. I fly Porter often.

Flight was smooth and comfortable. The crew were exceptional. Amanda, Nichole and Hershel were attentive to our every need. So friendly. My daughter and I were surprised at quality of service. Loved the double row seating. Snacks were delicious. We would definitely fly with Porter again. Flight PD 670 SFO to YYZ Thank you so much for the best flight experience we have had

The E195-E2 is a great aircraft! Leather seats, lots of legroom and SO quiet! The flight crew is terrific!

Check in was slow because of passenger ahead in Reserve line. Seats were somewhat uncomfortable.

Delayed by 2.5 hours. This happened previously on my flight from YOW to YVR on Dec. 26.2023. This is a terrible airline. The reason was there was lack of ground crew. This is a known event. AVOID PORTER AIRLINES IF YOU CAN. There is a reason half the plane was empty.

Flight delayed 6 hr. Looking for compensation and will claim for it.allow US people to fix to avoid huge delay having a canadian tech to fix it.

I didn’t make my flight due to poor weather and I had an accident driving there. I tried to get my money back or even credit and nothing. I have an entire flight both to Florida and back that I paid for and no one will give me any money back. I know this isn’t just Porter and it’s 3rd party- however airlines should allow these companies to take money for things they don’t get. I’m so upset. Who can afford a full flight they never take?

Flight Ottawa to Toronto canceled and no crew was available to direct me on what to do. I opened a file and I wait to be compensated.

I didn’t fly I had to cancel as I booked the flight incorrectly, as in reverse order. I hope I wasn’t charged as I cancelled immediately.

All but one of four were on time. One was delayed for an hour

Got the email to check in but when I tried to check in it said "cannot connect to server", so checked in at the desk.

For me was not enough water. + 200 ml would be perfect… Generally it was good.

Lovely staff for a short flight! Complimentary wine too made me happy.

Seating is comfortable, boarding is well organized. Toilets are very small. Even though I’m petite, still find no room to move around. Toilet paper holder hanging loosely, eventually they fell on the floor. The small sink is too shallow that causes water splashing on the floor. It doesn’t look pleasant. I didn’t purchase food or watch the entertainment, so no comments.

Glad to see the staff of Air Canada take preference in protecting their customers from unruly passengers before they board. Well done

Flights on time. Friendly/pleasant ground and in-flight staff. Better snacks and films with captions,

Affordable & comfortable. Not sure why a party of two I booked at the same time got seated separately.

Food selection is very poor and sears are very uncomfortable.

Flight was 3 hrs late and another 2 hrs wait for baggage to arrive on carousel and a $7.00 food voucher that arrived as we were boarding our flight.

The flight was safe (priority). Everything else is low-cost: too hard, delays, mediocre boarding, cost for carry-on and checked luggage.

Flair flight was 4 hours late due to not having a crew and the plane was filthy. Just water service Terrible experience flight 1513

Flair did not notify you when they changed gate number!

Can't be happy with a 5 hour delay. Only given $10 voucher for food and still EVERYTHING was an upcharge during the flight.

TThe first time I have ever flown with flare and both ways sucked

There was no entertainment There was no food or beverage service , not even a glass of water The plane door could not be opened upon arrival

The flight was canceled. We only found out at the airport. We had to book another flight which cost us more then the whole trip booked through Kayak. Lynx took our email and was supposed to write us with an alternate flight. We never received an email. They talked about reimbursement which was to be explained in the email (which we never received).

The online system for Lynx air to pay for additional baggage is not satisfactory. I was charged 100+$ for my suitcase when I tried to explain that the online payment was not functional using the app and showed screenshots of the same. In the end I gave up and paid and went ahead.

No snacks, just water.... could have been better. The actual flight was good.

Flight delayed by 4 hours but no communication. With passengers until after the posted departure time became apparent the flight was not going to board even close to on time.

Flight was sent canceled. The absolute most useless staff I have ever witnessed. Utterly careless - literally could not care less. 100% never using this airline again.

Poor communication at the check in counter and boarding gates.

Other then the screaming baby the flight was fine, nothing special

Check in experience was smooth, and the flight attendants were courteous and friendly. Very positive experience overall, thank you all!

Flight arrived late but other than that everything else okay

Great price for a new plane. Only offered water which we knew.

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Tips & Guides , Travel

Taking the drive from calgary to edmonton: canada road trip.

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I love the feeling of freedom you get on a road trip – The open road, a good road trip playlist, you can’t beat it. And experiencing all this on my drive from Calgary to Edmonton was exceptional.

I’ll always try to travel overland on big trips, often travelling in to one airport and out of another, driving the gap in between, sometimes crossing borders, sometimes provinces or states.

In this case, I just didn’t stray outside of the province of Alberta, I drove from Edmonton to Calgary, for skiing, ice climbing, fat bike riding, hiking and general exploring, all around the province.

In this guide, I’ll take you with me on this Edmonton road trip, discussing all the details you need to know, the itinerary I did, and much more.

Drive from Calgary to Edmonton – Itinerary

You can do this road trip both ways, Edmonton to Calgary or Calgary to Edmonton. Either way, if you can, spend a few days to explore the cities as well as the countryside.

This is the itinerary I personally took:

Johnston Canyon

Lake louise.

Lake Abraham

Icefield Parkway and Waterfalls

This trip is focused on winter , the list of things to do would be totally different in summer or spring. So for summer inspiration take a look at 10 things you must do in Alberta and The Alberta National Park Showdown .

Drive from Calgary to Edmonton

Now that you know my itinerary, let’s focus on each stop of the itinerary, from Calgary all the way to Edmonton, passing by Johnston Canyon, Banff, and many more spots!

I’ll also go through the accommodation options on the way for all budgets, so you know the best places to sleep.

Starting the trip in the heart of Alberta, Calgary isn’t just a starting point; it’s a vibrant city bursting with life, promising adventure and unforgettable memories even before you hit the road to Edmonton.

For some reason, I’ve never spent much time in Calgary, as I love Banff just a little too much!

But there is plenty to offer, including a luge (in summer), an ice-skating oval, a zoo and a number of museums including the Canadian sports Hall of Fame!

I recommend spending at least one day here, to make the most of your time and enjoy a few attractions.

Pay a visit to the Calgary Tower, offering panoramic views of the city and beyond, and stepping onto the glass floor observation deck if you’re feeling brave.

For those who crave a touch of culture, Calgary doesn’t disappoint. The Glenbow Museum is a treasure trove of art, history, and pop culture, with exhibits that are as diverse as they are fascinating.

And of course, don’t forget to try the famous Poutine, an amazing dish that will fill you up for a while, especially in the winter!

Where to Stay in Calgary

Before making your way to the first stop on this road trip, here are some great accommodation options in Calgary to make the most of your time in town.

Luxury: Hyatt Regency Calgary

Hyatt Regency Calgary stands out with the largest guestrooms in Calgary, complemented by an indoor pool, spa center, and central location.

It offers on-site dining at Thomsons Kitchen + Bar and Baker’s Coffee Shop, both with dine-in and takeaway options.

Rooms feature Smart TVs with Chromecast, seating areas, work desks, Keurig coffee machines, and free toiletries. Additional amenities include free WiFi, a fitness center, and 24-hour front desk service.

Mid-Range: Homewood Suites by Hilton

Homewood Suites by Hilton Calgary Downtown is conveniently located near Stampede Park and Scotiabank Saddledome, offering studio to suite accommodations with kitchenettes. The property features a fitness center, business center, free WiFi, and complimentary breakfast.

Rooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs, iPod docking stations, work desks, seating areas, and free toiletries.

You also benefit from a 24-hour front desk and on-site private parking, enhancing convenience and comfort during their stay.

Budget: Econo Lodge Inn & Suites University

Econo Lodge Inn & Suites University is located 1.2 miles from the University of Calgary, offering an indoor pool, free WiFi, and continental breakfast.

The rooms include microwaves, refrigerators, coffee makers, and cable TV. The hotel provides a hot tub, gym, copy services, and laundry facilities. Breakfast features a variety of breads, cereals, pancakes, and beverages. This hotel combines convenience and comfort, and you’ll love staying here on a budget.

All year round, the Johnston Canyon is beautiful, but in winter it looked (in my opinion) even more spectacular! I was lucky enough to get fresh, fluffy snowfall during the entirety of the walk.

However, most important part first, in winter please PLEASE hire ice cleats or go on a guided walk which will have them included.

I could not believe how many people didn’t have them, not only was this dangerous but it was far quicker with them (how smug did I feel marching passed people slipping and sliding on their butts?!).

The walk is split into two sections, the lower fall and the upper falls, with a viewpoint on route. The lower is by far the more impressive of the two, but the walk to the upper falls is beautiful.

Words don’t do this place justice so take a look at my video from Instagram , taken on my phone for an edited Instagram Story.

I recommend spending the night in Banff, our next stop, given that it’s only about 30 minutes’ drive away and you have more properties to choose from.

There’s a common misconception that Banff is too touristy! Now don’t get me wrong, it has a lot of visitors, and your typical tourist shops.

But this is such a beautiful small town in the mountains! It’s still very small, at the weekends it’s busy, standard, so what? Most of the tourists are Canadian, many visiting from nearby Calgary.

That’s still pretty authentic to me. I really want people to realise that this is a great place to visit, and the surrounding area has SO MUCH to explore. However, most of us do just pass through, that’s the nature of travelling or holidays.

Therefore getting something like the Alive Pass will save you money and give you some ideas. It includes park entries, rentals and a few of my tops recommendations such as the Banff Upper Hot Springs , the Banff Gondola and Cave & Basin National Historical Site .

Finally one of the best things about Banff, there a 3 ski resorts (know as the Big 3 ) all within an easy drive, I’ve reviewed them here Skiing and Snowboarding in Alberta .

Where to Stay in Banff

Here below, you’ll find the best properties to sleep in Banff for one night or more. It’s worth noting that hotels in Banff sell out quickly, and I recommend booking now.

Luxury: Buffalo Mountain Lodge

Buffalo Mountain Lodge is a short walk out of town (but with an amazing log fire in the room, and shared hot tub!).

It also features rooms with wood fireplaces and private bathrooms, along with amenities such as cable TV, coffee makers, and ironing facilities.

You can enjoy a workout in the gym, relax in the lounge by the fireplace, or utilize the on-site meeting rooms. How convenient!

Mid-Range: Douglas Fir Resort & Chalets

Douglas Fir Resort and Chalets, set amidst the scenic beauty of Tunnel Mountain and close to Banff town centre, is a family-friendly resort offering home-like comforts in a memorable setting.

The resort boasts two indoor waterslides, a children’s pool, an indoor play area, saunas, and a modern fitness centre.

Located just moments from leisure activities like skiing and hiking, and near the town centre’s shops, galleries, and restaurants, the resort promises a fun stay!

Budget: HI Banff Alpine Centre

HI-Banff Alpine Center, offering views of the Rocky Mountains, features a café, bar, free WiFi, and self-catering kitchens. Located 4 minutes’ drive from Banff town center, it provides both private and dorm-style rooms, some with private bathrooms.

The on-site Cougar Pete’s restaurant serves a varied menu, while The Storm Cellar bar offers free darts, billiards, and foosball.

You receive a free bus pass for local transport and can avail of discounted ski packages, bike rental vouchers, and rafting tickets, making it an ideal choice for adventure enthusiasts.

Lake Louise is beautiful, it can be a little touristy yes, but still worth the visit. The lake itself has a totally different look in every season, and in the winter is often completely frozen over.

Check if it’s safe to walk on as whilst I was there a woman fell in, guess what she was doing? Taking a selfie !

I didn’t have much time to explore anything other than the Lake Louise Ski resort, but look for some of the snowshoeing hikes in the area on a clear day.

I stayed at the Mountaineer Lodge , which was good but family orientated and a little quiet. So it might be worth considering staying in Banff or at the Lake Louise Fairmont .

Abraham Lake

I first found out about Lake Abraham when I saw some stunning photos of frozen methane bubbles, which attracted me to visit, I wanted that epic shot for myself.

Unfortunately, you need very low temperatures for this to happen, and that wasn’t the case on my visit.

Nonetheless, it’s still a beautiful spot, just outside of Banff National Park. It’s around a 40 minute detour off of the main route, but just the drive there is enough to make it worthwhile.

Lake Abraham is actually a manmade lake, and the bubbles are formed from frozen methane.

Where to Stay Near Abraham Lake

After leaving Banff and exploring Lakes Louise, I recommend spending the night near Abraham Lake to be ready for the following stops on the drive from Calgary to Edmonton.

Luxury: Glacier View Lodge

Glacier View Lodge is situated along the Icefield Parkway, an hour’s drive from Jasper, Alberta, offering stunning views of Athabasca Glacier and the Canadian Rockies.

Each room features a comfortable living area with satellite TV, sofa bed, mountain or glacier views, a telephone, and a clock radio.

As part of the Columbia Icefield Center, you have access to a gift and photo shop, dining options including an all-day dining room and a cafeteria serving salads and hamburgers.

Mid-Range: David Thompson Resort

David Thompson Resort, near Saskatchewan River Crossing, provides accommodation with amenities including an ATM, a restaurant, and the option for private parking at an extra charge.

Rooms are equipped with a desk, flat-screen TV, private bathroom, and a wardrobe.

You can enjoy a choice of à la carte or American breakfast, ensuring a comfortable stay in a scenic location with convenient dining options.

Budget: HI Rampart Creek – Hostel

HI Rampart Creek Hostel, located 56 miles north of Lake Louise in a wilderness setting, offers a rustic experience with no electricity, emphasizing a back-to-basics approach.

The hostel features dormitory rooms with wooden furnishings and natural daylight, shared bathroom facilities, and linen. You can use snowshoes, relax in the shared lounge or by the outdoor fire pit, and explore ice climbing opportunities.

This wilderness hostel, a 2-hour drive from Jasper and 91 miles from Banff, focuses on experiencing the Rockies authentically, without showers or flush toilets.

The waterfalls fall between Jasper and the Icefield Parkway and are amazing for a stop. Please note, in extreme conditions they may be closed.

You come across Athabasca Falls first, around 20 miles from Jasper, it’s not known for it’s height, but its view and backdrop, especially on a clear day.

Next is the Sunwapta Falls , officially now in the Icefields Parkway. Here you’ll find a pair of falls, and some of the iconic shots you will have already seen in Jasper National Park. Please just be very careful on your feet in winter, a pair of Ice Cleats is a very good investment.

The final fall on route is the Tangle Creek Falls , where I went Ice-Climbing with Rockaboo Mountain Adventures. At Tangle Creek Falls you can Ice-Climb on an actual waterfall, climbing the frozen ice right beside a fresh mountain waterfall!

I must admit I wasn’t expecting such a spectacular setting for this, and man is it tough!

Reaching the top was amazing, and you can see more of this experience in the video below (skip to 1:18 for only the Ice Climbing).

I recommend continuing the road trip, sleeping in Jasper, and spending the day in town the day after.

What can I say about Jasper? I just love it here. It was the winner of The Alberta National Park Showdown, and each time I go back I discover something new.

The drive from Edmonton is around 4 hours, and it’s the last hour or so where the views get spectacular, so allow some time to stop for photos.

One thing I love about Jasper, there’s plenty of opportunity to spot wildlife, even in the winter. Staying in Jasper gives you a chance to feel like a real local, as there’s definitely far less of a touristy feel to it than other towns in Alberta.

During winter this is a popular base for skiing at the Marmot Basin , and I couldn’t recommend it enough if you’re into it.

Just outside of Jasper (around 7 miles), I’d also recommend a tour of the Maligne Canyon and Lake . It’s transformed in winter, and there are spectacular views along the river bed and gorge.

Where to eat? Dinner and craft beer at Jasper Brewing, Breakfast or lunch at Coco’s Café, or try the new Jasper Food Tours which will take you on a whirlwind of Jasper’s most delicious spots.

This is the Best Tour in Jasper

Want to make the most of your time in Dalaman? Check out the Dalyan Mud Bath tour .

It includes the mud bath, a river cruise, lunch, transportation, and they have amazing reviews!

Where to Stay in Jasper

Here below, you’ll find the best properties to sleep in Jasper for one night or more. Just like Banff, properties in Jasper sell out quickly, and I recommend securing your room now.

Luxury: Jasper East Cabins

Jasper East Cabins offers a serene mountain experience just a 14-minute walk from the Athabasca River, featuring chalets with kitchenettes, free WiFi, fireplaces, and seating areas.

Each chalet has a patio terrace with views of the gardens and mountains, along with a private bathroom equipped with a shower and free toiletries.

Jasper and Hinton town centers are within a short driving distance, as is William A. Switzer Provincial Park, which is awesome.

Mid-Range: The Crimson Jasper

The Crimson Jasper, located a 10-minute walk from Jasper Railway Station, offers spacious guest rooms with free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, Keurig coffee machines, microwaves, refrigerators, and private bathrooms.

This hotel is conveniently situated a 5-minute walk from downtown Jasper, close to the Jasper Park Information Center and local restaurants, making it an ideal base for exploring the town.

Budget: Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge

Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge provides a rustic escape with rooms featuring fridges, satellite TV, seating areas, and tea and coffee making facilities.

The on-site restaurant and bar serve regionally inspired cuisine, and the resort’s tour desk can arrange whitewater rafting and other adventures.

The lodge is close to the Glacier Sky Walk at Columbia Icefields, offering a comfortable and adventurous stay in the Rockies.

We finally get to the last stop on this drive from Calgary to Edmonton. The capital of Alberta is a city that embraces winter and has plenty to do when temperatures fall below freezing.

One of the first places you should explore is the expansive North Saskatchewan River Valley, a network of parks and trails that offers a natural playground for biking, walking, or simply basking in the beauty of nature.

Also, I went Fat Tire Mountain Biking with River Valley Adventure Company , who also run winter Segway tours. Did you know Edmonton has an Iceway at Victoria Park that offers one of the first ‘skate to work’ schemes?

Then to top it off, there’s the West Edmonton Mall, which hosts a water park, theme park and ice rink all in one place.

If you have more time in town and are interested in history and science, the Royal Alberta Museum is a must-visit.

This modern museum offers a deep dive into Alberta’s natural history and indigenous cultures, with engaging exhibits that are both educational and fascinating.

Shopping enthusiasts will find their paradise on Whyte Avenue, located in the heart of Edmonton’s Old Strathcona district. This bustling street is lined with independent boutiques, antique shops, and cozy cafes.

All in all, you definitely won’t get bored in Edmonton and I recommend staying for a few days if your schedule allows!

Where to eat : The food (and craft beer) at Situation Brewing was incredible! You can also find 3 of the top 10 new restaurants in Canada in Edmonton, take a look.

Here below, you’ll find the best properties to sleep in Jasper for one night or more. Just like Banff, hotels in Jasper sell out quickly, and I recommend securing your room now.

Luxury: Metterra Hotel on Whyte

Metterra Hotel on Whyte in Edmonton presents a contemporary style with uniquely themed rooms (fire, earth, air, water) featuring fireplaces and spa baths.

Located just a 5-minute drive from the University of Alberta, it offers amenities such as a refrigerator, cable TV, free Wi-Fi, access to a 24-hour business center and gym, laundry facilities, and parking.

All in all, everything you need after a drive from Calgary to Edmonton.

Mid-Range: Days Inn by Wyndham Edmonton

Days Inn by Wyndham Edmonton Downtown is set in the heart of Edmonton’s ice district, a block from the Corona Light Rail Station and three blocks from Rogers Place.

It features rooms with free WiFi, flat-screen TVs with cable, seating areas, desks, coffee makers, and hairdryers. The hotel provides a business center, meeting facilities, and a 24-hour front desk for your convenience.

Budget: Argyll Plaza Hotel

Argyll Plaza Hotel, adjacent to the Argyll Plaza Arena and Union Hall concert venue, offers free WiFi and on-site parking, with Edmonton city center just a 10-minute drive away.

The hotel provides air-conditioned rooms with cable TV, microwaves, and coffee makers. Amenities like a fitness center, laundry facilities, and room service make your stay as comfy as it gets.

Getting Here

KLM UK flies to Alberta, to Edmonton or Calgary using Amsterdam as a hub. You can fly into one and out of the other, travelling over land via Jasper and Banff at your leisure. Going via Amsterdam allows you to fly from 17 UK based airports, rather than only travelling from Manchester or London. The changeover is smooth, KLM will inform you which gate (sometimes from the plane), and you won’t need to collect and check in your luggage again.

And then it comes to the seat … Business, Economy or Economy Comfort? Not everyone can afford business, so I’d suggest looking into Economy Comfort for the extra leg room, which makes a big difference on any flight over 3 hours.

Find out more about this route & other options with KLM

I flew to Alberta in partnership with KLM UK and Travel Alberta. My flights to Edmonton were complementary, but return flights from the UK start at £460, including taxes. All of the content, opinions and photography are my own. Please take time to visit KLM UK and Travel Alberta ‘s websites to support me on more adventures like this one!

And there you have it, around 550 miles later (885km), and you’ve driven one of the greatest road trips in the world.

The next Canadian road trip challenge, on to Vancouver! (Watch this space). I hope you’ve enjoyed these tips, of course I haven’t covered everything, so please let me know in the comments below if you have anything else to suggest on this amazing Alberta road trip.

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Founder & Editor of Intrepid Escape, a huge lover of adventure, adrenaline, sport & fitness. After travelling extensively for the last 12 years, Scott started to document his travels before fulfilling an important lifelong goal by starting Intrepid Escape. He has since become a full-time Travel Writer, Videographer, Presenter and Producer.

2 thoughts on “ Taking the Drive from Calgary to Edmonton: Canada Road Trip ”

When in the winter season did you go? I am planning to go in February for hockey games and need to drive from Calgary to Edmonton but I’m not sure if it’s safe or reasonable to do so in the middle of the winter.

Pingback: Jasper vs Banff: The Alberta National Park Showdown!

Categories > Guides and Tips

The 8 Best Ways to Travel to Canada

Guided tours, rv or motorhome.

When you think of Canada, images of gorgeous mountain lakes, vast forests, impressive city skylines, and maybe a bear or two might come to mind (Don’t worry, they’re mostly shy!).

But what’s more great is that Canada can also be an adventurer’s playground with its assortment of travel options!

Whether you’re a fan of hopping on a plane, setting off on a road trip, or even cruising through on a bicycle, there is a perfect method of travel for you in The Great White North.

So, we’ve put together a snazzy list of the best ways to travel to Canada, because there really is a smorgasbord of options to help you soak up all of its beauty. Read on!

Travelling to Canada by air is, without a doubt, one of the fastest and most convenient options.

With airports like Toronto Pearson , Montreal Trudeau , or Vancouver International providing a direct gateway to Canadian cities, you’ll be landing amidst Canadian charm in no time.

Canada’s airports serve flights from around the world, connecting you to its stunning urban landscapes and rugged wilderness within a matter of hours. Plus, with inflight services adding a dash of comfort and entertainment to your journey, time literally flies.

Local tip: Explore beyond the biggest cities. Check out flights to smaller airports like those in Victoria, Halifax, or Kelowna for a unique Canadian experience.

There’s just something oh-so nostalgic about a train journey, isn’t there? If you’re intrigued by a cross-country expedition filled with epic panoramas and a touch of vintage charm, train travel might just be your cup of tea.

Services like VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer offer transformative journeys across Canada. It’s essentially a rolling luxury hotel with stunning views.

Train travel really allows you to experience the diverse landscapes that Canada has to offer, from dense, poetic forests to majestic mountain ranges. And hey, who knows?

You might even make friends with some fellow travellers!

Local tip: Splurge a little for a cabin if you’re going on a long trip—it includes meals and more privacy, making your travel super comfy.

If you’re after affordability and flexibility, then hopping on a bus to Canada is a terrific option. Operators like Greyhound and Megabus run extensive routes across the country, connecting you with both popular and offbeat destinations.

Now, I know what you might be thinking: “ Bus travel? Really?” But hey, with modern buses equipped with comfy seats, Wi-Fi, and even power outlets, they are far from the rickety old rides you might be picturing.

And the best part? You can catch some Z’s, read, or binge-watch your favourite show while the driver takes care of navigating the road.

Local tip: Avoid the rush and grab a seat at the back—more leg space and fewer people to bump into! Plus, it gives you the best view out of the windows.

Ready to set sail on an exciting journey? Then travelling to Canada by ferry might just float your boat (pun absolutely intended!).

With a coastline that’s longer than any other country in the world, Canada offers numerous marine routes that make your journey much more exciting. Ferry services in Canada are more than just a means of transportation; they’re an experience in and of themselves.

Suggestions? The British Columbia ferry service from Vancouver to Victoria is a real crown jewel, and there’s the Newfoundland ferry too, which takes you on a spectacular ride across the Atlantic Ocean.

Local tip: Get yourself a good spot on the deck where you can gaze upon the vast waters and breathe in that fresh, salty air. Just remember to hold onto your hat!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Discover Canada Tours (@discovercanadatours)

If you’re the kind who says, “Well, I’d really rather follow along than lead,” then guided tours are your rescue boat in the vast sea of travel planning.

These tours are among the most convenient ways to explore Canada, offering a structured but engaging trip without the hassle of doing all the trip planning on your own.

Guided tours take care of the storyboard for your Canadian journey—arranging transportation, activities, accommodation, and, most importantly, filling you in on interesting local stories and facts that breathe life into the places you’ll explore.

You might even be surprised at the niche tours available! Fancy a wine tour in the Okanagan Valley, a historical walk through Old Quebec, or a snowshoeing adventure in the Rockies?

Some of the best tour companies in Canada are such follows:

• Intrepid Travels

Website: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/

Contact details: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/contact-us

• G Adventures

Website: https://www.gadventures.com/

Contact details: https://www.gadventures.com/contact-us/

• Moose Travel Network

Website: https://moosenetwork.com/

Contact details: https://moosenetwork. c om/contact-moose/

• Trafalgar

Website: https://www.trafalgar.com/

Contact details: https://www.trafalgar.com/contact-us

• Exodus Travels

Website: https://www.exodustravels.com/

C ontact details: https://www.exodustravels.com/contact-us

Local tip: Interact with your tour guide—they’re usually locals filled with offbeat information, stories, and tips about the places you’re visiting. Plus, they’re usually pretty cool people to hang out with!

Driving in Canada is one of the most flexible and free-spirited travel options; your itinerary can change as often as the songs on your playlist! The Trans-Canada Highway, one of the world’s longest national highways, offers fantastic cross-country routes.

Or consider exploring the phenomenal Sea-to-Sky Highway in British Columbia or the breathtaking Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia. The beauty of a road trip lies in the journey, not just the destination.

It’s about freedom and discovery, with each mile bringing its own unique tale. All it takes is a reliable car, good company (or peace and quiet if you’re solo), and a spirit for adventure.

Local tip: Keep a stash of snacks and drinks in the car for those long stretches without any services. And don’t forget a good playlist of jam tunes!

Canada’s diverse landscapes are incredibly rewarding when explored on a motorcycle. It makes you part of the scene, rather than watching it from a window.

So whether it’s a leisurely ride across the prairies of Manitoba or a journey through the twists and turns of BC’s mountain passes, a motorcycle voyage adds an edge to your travel experience.

Apart from the absolute joy of the ride, the motorcycle community also provides a unique travel experience. You’ll find solace in sharing stories with fellow riders at rest stops, diners, and campgrounds throughout your travels.

Local tip: Invest in a waterproof luggage bag; Canadian weather can be unpredictable, especially if you’re cruising cross-country! Wear layers, and don’t forget your rain gear.

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An RV gives you a home-on-wheels travel experience. It’s like having a mobile cabin that can park almost anywhere.

Not only does it offer a comfortable space to sleep, cook, and rest, but it also gives you the freedom to enjoy Canada’s beautiful natural settings up close.

Whether it’s camping in one of Canada’s parks, pulling up at a full-service RV park, or even boondocking off-the-beaten-track, travelling by RV or motorhome lets you truly live in the moment.

Local tip: Always have a backup plan for where you will sleep for the night, and check out campground reservations in advance during peak season. Canadian nights can get chilly, so pack lots of blankets!

A Comprehensive Hiker’s Travel Guide for Bear Hump Trail

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Edmonton, Canada: The Ultimate Travel Guide

Find out the top things to do in Edmonton, where to stay, where to eat and drink, and some insider information to help you plan your dream trip to this cool city in Alberta, Canada.

When it comes to popular destinations in Canada, the same few come up time and time again. Banff and Jasper National Parks for their scenery, Whistler for skiing, and Vancouver and Toronto for being super cool cities.

Recently I visited Edmonton in Alberta, and can see plenty of reasons why it’s worthy of being added to the hot list! It’s fun, quirky, creative, buzzy and has an AWESOME food scene .

If you’re heading to Alberta to explore the stunning Rockies in Jasper or Banff , checking out Athabasca Glacier or Lake Louise, then consider visiting Edmonton too. It’s a worthy addition to any Alberta itinerary.

So time to reveal why underrated Edmonton is a worthy addition to your Canadian bucket list!

Is Edmonton Worth Visiting?

Edmonton is one of Canada’s fastest growing cities, beating the likes of Vancouver and Toronto. It’s got plenty to see and do, diverse scenery and the most sunny days in the whole of the country. Yes, along with Calgary, Edmonton is the sunniest place in Canada – reason enough to visit in my opinion!

Edmonton city centre brings industry, culture, skyscrapers, plenty of shops and restaurants and the downtown buzz that city-lovers enjoy.

But nature is so close too. The peaceful Elk Island National Park is under 30 minutes drive from the city, and is home to so much wildlife. Oh and the North Saskatchewan River Valley give you that feeling of countryside, right in the city itself.

It’s the food scene that was the huge draw for me. Friends in other parts of Canada had mentioned it before my trip. Sure enough, every night I enjoyed a different cuisine in some of the city’s coolest, most creative restaurants and bars.

Weather In Edmonton

The weather plays a huge part in Canadian holidays, and that’s no different in Edmonton! Winter sees lows in the -30s (ouch!) accompanied by several feet of snow, and plenty of icy activities.

Meanwhile summer brings lovely long days, plenty of sunshine (well this is one of the sunniest places in Canada!) and tonnes of arts, music and food festivals. The Edmonton International Fringe Festival is the largest in North America with over 850,000 people attending last year! It’s comparable to ours in Edinburgh, showcasing the best in comedy, theatre and more.

Where Is Edmonton, Canada?

Edmonton isn’t the first place that comes to mind for a holiday in Alberta, with most heading to Banff, Jasper and Lake Louise to enjoy the stunning Rockies. But there are plenty of great things to do in Edmonton too. When I visited, I travelled with Icelandair from London Gatwick to Reykjavik (Iceland), and then on to Edmonton.

Meanwhile, WestJet has twice-weekly flights non-stop direct from London Gatwick to Edmonton .

Edmonton airport is around 25 minutes from the city centre. Taxis aren’t too pricey in the city, and there is a decent public transport network. If you want to venture outside of the city to explore the national parks, consider hiring a car.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Edmonton, Canada?

This is a tricky one! As mentioned above, this is a city that dramatically changes from winter to summer. I visited in summer and after hearing about the extreme cold (lows in the -30s) and many feet of snow, I just don’t know how I’d cope. However, I spotted the guys from Hand Luggage Only visited in winter and it looks absolutely stunning (you can see what they got up to here ).

I loved that in June it was light until around 11pm at night and the temperatures were comfortably warm. I guess the nice thing with a destination like this, is that you could return again at a different time of year and have a totally different experience. And with that, let’s find out what there is to do.

Edmonton, Canada: Things To Do

I was really impressed with how much there was to do in Edmonton in the summer. From exploring the food scene on a food tour, to riding the historic streetcar, to shopping in the super mall and exploring the nature in Elk Island National Park, you’re bound to find something you enjoy.

There are also tonnes of events and festivals held in the city each summer, including Edmonton Pride (June), Edmonton International Jazz Festival (June), Edmonton Folk Music Festival (August), The Edmonton International Fringe (August) and The Big Valley Jamboree (August).

Muttart Conservatory – I loved exploring these giant pyramid-shaped greenhouses. Not only is the architecture intriguing, but also inside are plants from across the globe. They run special events inside and theme one of the pyramids from time to time. When I visited it was as a Shakespearean theme.

Edmonton Food Tour – Wondering what to do in Edmonton if you’re a total foodie like me?! How about learning history of Edmonton by eating your way around it! With a huge influx of Ukrainians in the early 20 th century, we enjoyed a big brunch of eastern European delicacies before venturing out to explore the 104 th Street Market.

It was interesting to meet local producers and sample everything from gyozas and meat pies to indulgent salted caramels. It was refreshing to see actual Edmontonians on the tour too. They were just as keen as us to know more about where their food came from and pick up tips for places to visit in the city.

Click here to book an Edmonton Food Tour

River Valley Parks – Edmonton seems to beat the rest of the country in plenty of areas… and here’s another! The city is home to the largest urban park in Canada, with more than 160 km of paths! Impressive huh? No trip to Edmonton is complete without a walk through the forests along the North Saskatchewan River Valley. I loved it, especially with views like this to enjoy!

Hop On A Segway – And a Segway tour is a really fun way to explore not only the River Valley… but also the rest of Edmonton, without exhausting yourself!

Click here to book an Edmonton Segway Tour

Street Art – I always love snapping pics of street art and am fascinated by the different pieces I find as I travel the world. There were some great artworks in Edmonton, particularly in Old Strathcona around Whyte Avenue.

High Level Bridge Streetcar – Several streetcars transported Edmontonians around the city between 1908 and the 1950s. It’s a lovely experience to pay a few $ and take the trip over the North Saskatchewan River. The interior is just as it would have been, with vintage posters for brands like Heinz.

All aboard the streetcar in Edmonton, Canada

Shopping – On my Edmonton holiday I shopped my way along Whyte Avenue and loved the mix of cute boutiques, vintage stores and quirky gift shops. I was visiting with one of my fave blogger pals Emily and we were SO excited to discover Gummi Boutique – an incredible sweet store with floor-to-ceiling displays of different sugary treats!

Elk Island National Park – This is the closest national park to Edmonton, and a wonderful escape from city life. It’s flat, tranquil and home to bison, elk, beavers and more than 250 species of bird. In the summer you can kayak and stand up paddleboard on Astotin Lake.

Watching sunset over the lake was totally magical, and I’ve been told you can sometimes catch the northern lights there. Find out all about visiting in Emily’s blog here: Discover Elk Island National Park In Edmonton

Exploring Elk Island National Park, Canada

West Edmonton Mall – I couldn’t quite believe that North America’s largest mall is in Edmonton! Pretty random… but along with 800 stores you’ll find a waterpark, ice hockey stadium, cinema, shooting range, hotels and Mindbender – the world’s largest indoor triple-loop rollercoaster! I braved it, and can officially say it was AWESOME! I’d also say that if the weather is bad outside, the West Edmonton Mall is a great place to keep warm and dry!

Mindbender rollercoaster in Edmonton, Canada

Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village – If, like me, wandering through stale museums with things in glass boxes bores the socks off you, then don’t worry! This living museum turns back the clock to the 1890s when there was a huge influx of Ukrainians to the region. By chatting to the character actors, eating traditional foods and exploring the unique village, you’ll develop a really good understanding of this big part of Edmonton’s history.

Edmonton, Canada: Where To Eat and Drink

This could take a while as Edmonton’s food scene is top notch, and constantly growing and evolving! I was amazed at how diverse it was. I had days that started with a photogenic brunch, followed by a noodle salad for lunch and then tacos or baos for dinner! I’ll summarise a few of my faves, but for the definitive guide on where to eat in Edmonton check out this post: Best Restaurants In Edmonton, Canada

El Cortez Mexican Kitchen and Tequila Bar – If you’re looking for the best tacos in the city, head to this gothic bar and restaurant! I loved the buzz here, and as the night goes on it’s all about cocktails and DJs.

Baijiu – Super stylish Asian restaurant serving tasty tempura, squidgy baos, spring rolls, grilled fish and more, in the trendy Mercer building. Don’t miss the delicious cocktails too!

Ampersand 27 – Super chic décor (not to mention pretty lights everywhere) and a truly international menu make this a spot well worth checking out.

L ittle Brick Cafe – The best brunch I had in Edmonton! This cute local spot has a chilled out vibe, great coffee and Instagram-worthy brunches.

MEAT – If you’re having a carnivorous day, this is the place for you! It’s man food through and through, serving big sharing platters of ribs, steaks, chicken and sides.

Pork baos at Baijiu Restaurant, Edmonton

Where To Stay In Edmonton, Canada

oTENTik – I’ve only camped a few times before and was extremely happy to stay in one of these glamping-style cabins in Elk Island National Park. With 3 large squishy beds (you could probably sleep 6), a gas BBQ and a big campfire area, it was a lovely place to round off our time in the national park.

If you’re looking for other cool places to stay, check out my guide to glamping in Alberta – it’s packed full of quirky cabins, unique lodges and treehouses!

Prepping a BBQ at our oTENTik in Elk Island National Park, Canada

If you’re still looking for accommodation in Edmonton, you can search here…

I hope you’ve enjoyed my Edmonton travel blog. A big thanks to Edmonton Tourism for inviting me to #ExploreEdmonton. As always, opinions are my own.

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Edmonton, Alberta, Canada - The Ultimate Travel Guide

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

7 thoughts on “Edmonton, Canada: The Ultimate Travel Guide”

Love this post, Chloe – so glad you had a lovely time. How did we miss Gummi Boutique… it looks so delicious!

Lloyd & Yaya xx

Ahh happy memories! Lovely seeing your wintry pics too. Such a city of contrasts! Thanks for reading and let’s go for gummy sweets soon! x

Edmonton is my home town, a great city, especially in the summer! Was lucky enough to move to the west coast when I was very young, but return to visit family often. Great post and travel inspiration to Edmonton, Alberta! 🙂

Thank you! So glad you enjoyed it. You’re very lucky to be from there!

Great post Chloe, awesome to see Edmonton get more of the attention it deserves!

Great city! It deserves it!

Edmonton is a great starting place for an Alberta road trip!

Best Ways to Get from Vancouver to Edmonton (for 2024)

Disclaimer: this page may contain affiliate links. please review our full terms and conditions for more information and our privacy policy. note that any pricing, operating hours, or other such information provided below may have changed since initial publication..

Compiled by the Road Trip Alberta team

Last updated on January 5, 2024

With the fastest route from Vancouver to Edmonton totalling over 1,200 kilometres in length, this is certainly a big trip. Even though you can find direct flights connecting the two cities, we will always suggest a road trip as there is SO much to see along the way.

Below you’ll find information on the many ways to travel between the two cities, and if you go by land, many of the fun things to do along the way.

About the Route

From a coastal city through the mountains and then arriving into Canada’s northernmost provincial capital, this drive – no matter which route you take – has a little bit of everything! While there are many options for different routes to take from Vancouver to Edmonton, we’ve outlined three below, each of which has its own benefits. And if you’re planning on doing a return round trip, we suggest taking a different route each way!

Fastest Route from Vancouver to Edmonton

Spanning 1,263 km, this route is the shortest of the three and will take approximately 14 hours. Starting on Highway 1 (known as the Trans-Canada Highway), you’ll follow this until you arrive in Hope, British Columbia. Once through Hope, you will then take Highway 3 east (the Crowsnest Highway). You’ll follow Highway 3 to Princeton, where you’ll then turn north onto Highway 5A to Merritt.

From Merritt, take Highway 5 north (Coquihalla Highway), passing through Kamloops. You will stay on Highway 5 until the small town of Tête Jaune Cache where you will then merge onto Highway 16 (Trans-Canada Highway), eventually crossing the Alberta, British Columbia border. The Trans-Canada will take you straight to Edmonton. However, we recommend to make a stop in Jasper National Park along the way and if you do a Parks Canada pass is required (*note that it is not required if you are just driving through).

Also important to know is that winter tires or chains are required on most routes in British Columbia from October 1 to April 30. Considering you will spend a lot of time driving in the mountains, the utmost care is required.

Alternate Route #1

If Banff is on your bucket list, then this is the route for you. This route will take around 15 hours and 30 minutes of drive time, with a total of 1,363 km.

The first part of your journey is the same as the primary route until you reach Kamloops; and it’s here where things start to change. In Kamloops, you will exit onto Highway 1 (the Trans-Canada Hwy), passing through Salmon Arm, Revelstoke, and the town of Golden.

You’ll follow Highway 1 into Alberta, eventually hitting Banff National Park. Similar to Jasper, you will need to purchase a Parks Canada pass if you plan to make any stops within the park.

It is then a quick drive from Banff to Calgary . Following Stoney Trail NW in Calgary, you’ll make your way around the outskirts of the city, where you’ll get onto Highway 2 north (the Queen Elizabeth II Highway, also known as the QEII) for the remaining 3 hours’ drive from Calgary to Edmonton .

Alternate Route #2

This final route is our recommendation if you want to switch things up and aren’t pressed for time. It is a long one – clocking in at 1,516 km, with a driving time of approximately 17 hours and 20 minutes. Believe us it’s worth it to take you through a lesser-visited (but highly scenic!) part of Alberta.

Starting on Highway 1 heading east from Vancouver, turn onto Highway 3 west, just past the city of Hope. Highway 3 is where the majority of your journey will take place (approximately 10 hours) until you’re well into Alberta’s Crowsnest Pass . Note that while on Highway 3, you’ll drive over two major mountain passes, the Blueberry-Paulson Summit and the Kootenay Pass (aka Salmo Creston Pass). While they both offer beautiful scenery, storms will often lead to pass closures during the winter, so be sure to plan accordingly.

From Highway 3, you’ll turn north onto Highway 22 (otherwise known as the Cowboy Trail). From there, you’ll turn onto the 533 at Chain Lakes Provincial Park, making your way toward Highway 2 for the remainder of your trip. (Alternatively, Cowboy Trail continues north for quite a bit longer if you find yourself with additional time to take the slow road.) Otherwise, it will be at least a four-lane highway for the last 3 hours of your journey, where you’ll see Alberta’s largest city before driving north from Calgary to Edmonton .

Ways to Get from Vancouver to Edmonton

If you’re travelling by car, we suggest leaving Vancouver in the early morning hours to make the most of your trip. If you don’t have your own vehicle and plan on renting a car there are many places in Vancouver to do so. We suggest booking via RentalCars.com , to select the cheapest rate or book with whichever company you prefer.

Remember that while Alberta’s (and BC’s) highways are in great shape and well-maintained, snowstorms can wreak havoc for days at a time, and construction can slow things down in summer. We suggest checking the current road reports (for both BC and Alberta ) before you leave. Also, take note that during the winter months some specific highways in BC require cars to be equipped with snow tires (it’s the law!).

Rider Express is the only company that offers bus service from Vancouver to Edmonton. It takes about 20 hours and a one-way ticket costs around $190.00. Tickets can be purchased in advance online.

The journey on the train from Vancouver to Edmonton is considered to be one of the most scenic train trips in all of Canada and possibly North America. The 26-hour approximate trip aboard Via Rail will take you through the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Tickets start at $200 for a one-way journey, and there are sleeper cabins available for 1 or 2 people which include meals for a higher ticket price.

By Private Transfer

There are no companies explicitly offerings private transfer from Vancouver to Edmonton at this time, but you can find some that do the Vancouver to Calgary route, which would be a big part of the trip. (And maybe you’ll be able to sweet-talk your way into having them make the extended trip for the right price?)

Urban Limousine offers top-class limousine transportation and provides service from downtown Vancouver to Calgary city centre. The price varies depending on the car type but ranges from $1,880-$4,000.
Quest Limos also offers a luxury transportation service, with a fleet of vehicles to choose from.

Both Vancouver (YVR) and Edmonton (YEG) are home to international airports and offer non-stop flights to and from via Air Canada, WestJet, and Flair Airlines. The flight takes roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes with airfare ranging between $200-$350 (at the time of writing, expect higher prices for last-minute flights). Flying is the fastest mode of transportation, but with so many road trip routes, the drive can be a fun one!

Other Options

Taxi and Uber are both possible options, but extremely expensive and potentially hard to find someone willing to drive that far.

While Vancouver to Edmonton is not typically a popular route on Poparide , if you’re not too picky on your departure date, joining a carpool driving this route may work out for you.

Fun Things to Do Along the Way

This is a historic landmark, and a short stop here can easily be made during the first 2 hours of your journey. Hope Slide is a great place to stretch your legs and learn the history behind Canada’s second-deadliest rockslide. While you’re there stop in at the Hope Cascades & Canyons Visitor Centre .

If you skipped stretching your legs in Hope, then we suggest a stop in the city of Kamloops, another 4 hours down the road. Find some good options to eat here, but if you also just want a quick chance to stretch your legs, try the Tower Trail for some good exercise and even better views. If you want also want to make your trip over two days, this is a good spot to spend the night.

Yellowhead Pass National Historic Site

Yellowhead Pass is a great place to stop for a nice view and a selfie to mark your trip. Stretch your legs and take in the stunning meadows and steep mountain slopes.

Jasper National Park

Jasper possesses many similar amenities to Banff but on a smaller scale. There are so many things to do in Jasper that we’re sure you’ll fall in love. Given that it’s another 4 hours to Edmonton from here, maybe stop for another overnight so that you can squeeze in some fun activities. (Why yes, we just suggested turning your one-day drive into three, but we ain’t sorry about it!)

Things to Do Along the Alternate Routes

Salmon arm waterslides.

The Salmon Arm Waterslides are a great stop if you’re travelling with kids. In the heart of the Shuswap, this outdoor waterpark boasts seven waterslides, two hot tubs an arcade, and a gift shop. This is also a good opportunity for an overnight stay to break up your trip.

Banff National Park

Of COURSE, you’re going to want to stop here (and Lake Louise), before you get to the Banff townsite. There is no shortage of things to do in Banff National Park . Explore the townsite, hike, ski, and soak in the hot springs—the options are endless!

Cross Iron Mills

Need a shopping break, anyone? Located right off Highway 2 just north of Calgary, Cross Iron Mills is the biggest one-level shopping centre in Alberta. With over 200 stores and a large food court, a stop a Cross Iron Mills is a great way to break up the last leg of your journey.

The Donut Mill is the perfect place to stop for a quick and delicious pastry snack. You can’t miss it – the storefront is a large windmill on the west side of the highway in Red Deer (along Gasoline Alley – and there is a very good reason why this spot is listed on our “foodie” road trip Alberta bingo card.

The Creston Valley is home to four great wineries. The Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery is the highest-rated in the area, with good food on offer as well. And if you want to indulge in taste-testing different wineries in the area, then this is also a good place to stop for the night to break up the drive, so you won’t need to worry about driving after a couple of glasses!

Frank Slide

This is a historical landmark you’ll drive through as you make your way down Highway 3 in the Crowsnest Pass. We recommend stopping at the Frank Slide Interpretive Centre for a stunning view of the remnants of Canada’s deadliest rockslide and to see and hear first-hand what happened the night Turtle Mountain fell.

Lundbreck Falls

These waterfalls are the perfect place to stop for a leg stretch and a snack right near the turnoff to Highway 22. Take in the stunning view of the falls from the observation deck, and if the weather is nice enough, walk down to the water and dip your feet.

Check out the ‘ Alternate Route #1 ‘ for additional options on the final stretch from Calgary to Edmonton .

Arrival in Edmonton

You made it!

For more information on your ultimate destination, check out our complete guide to what to do in Edmonton. And if you’re also looking for a place to rest after that long journey, the following are some suggestions.

Hotels in Edmonton

Luxury – Nothing beats the iconic Fairmont Hotel Macdonald . You can’t miss a stay here as it offers spectacular views of the Edmonton River Valley and features a restaurant and spa. Close to many Edmonton attractions and located right in downtown Edmonton, this hotel is worth the splurge even if it’s just for one night!

View from the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald Edmonton

Mid-range – The Mettera Hotel on Whyte is close to the shopping and vibrant amenities Whyte Ave is known for. Fitting in with the funky vibe of Old Strathcona, Mettera Hotel on Whyte offers rooms decorated in fire, earth, air or water themes. Additionally, this boutique hotel features a cozy library with a fireplace!

Budget – Close to Whyte Ave and West Edmonton Mall, Travelodge by Wyndham Edmonton South gives you access to Edmonton sightseeing without breaking the bank. Great for kids, it also has a hot tub and pool and also includes a complimentary continental breakfast.

Want more suggestions for accommodations? We’ve got an entire guide to Edmonton hotels .

Looking for more Edmonton info?

— We’ve got some great ideas for day trips from Edmonton .

— Thirsty? Enjoy one (or more!) of these great breweries in Edmonton .

— If you’re on the lookout for historic and cultural experiences, don’t miss these top Edmonton museums .

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TRAVEL to CANADA – Tips and Information Guide (2024 Edition)

Everything you need to know about travel to Canada in our comprehensive 2024 Canada travel guide.

Have you ever wanted to see the Northern Lights? Or to explore the beautiful cities of Vancouver, Quebec or Calgary? What about venturing out into the world-renown national parks of British Columbia?

Unspoiled nature and incredibly vibrant urban areas create the perfect mixture of reasons to travel to Canada.

“The Great White North,” is a vast country that offers virtually unlimited opportunities for visitors of all kinds.

Whether searching for wildlife, landscapes, adventure activities or the culture of city life, travelling in Canada will give you a variety of experiences you are sure to remember.

There really is so much to do it can be overwhelming to plan to visit Canada. But getting started is not that difficult.

Read on to learn everything you need to plan for travel to Canada!

TRAVELLING IN CANADA: AT A GLANCE

Here are the basics of travel to Canada.

TOP 5 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES IN CANADA

With so much to see and do in Canada, it really is hard to pick the top experiences. We have written a comprehensive guide on the best things to do in Canada here.

However, we think that to truly appreciate Canada you need to plan to do these 5 activities during your visit.

Check out Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is one of the world’s most famous waterfalls and well worth a visit. Find yourself in awe watching the water tumble over the top of the falls. Or hop on a boat and cruise up to the falls from the river!

Read about all our favourite Niagara Falls attractions .

Explore the Canadian Rockies

From picturesque mountain peaks to stunningly blue glacial lakes, the Canadian Rockies in British Columbia have so much exploration to offer! This part of Canada could be a trip in itself!

Check out our ultimate guide to Hiking in Banff

View The Northern Lights

Witnessing northern lights is one of the most amazing natural phenomena. The city of Whitehorse in the Yukon territory might be a perfect place for it! Your chances are highest between September and April since the nights aren’t dark enough during the summer.

Check out the Northern Lights in Whitehorse , Yukon Territory.

See Polar Bears

Churchill in northern Manitoba is known as the ‘Polar Bear Capital of the World’, making it an obvious choice to visit for travellers wanting to get close to the planet’s largest apex land predator.

See polar bears in Churchill, one of Canada’s best wildlife experiences .

Drink the Sourtoe Cocktail

Taking a shot of alcohol with a frostbitten toe may not be on everyone’s bucket list. But if it’s on yours, you absolutely must try to Sourtoe Cocktail in Dawson City. It’s a strange, yet unique experience when you visit Canada.

Read more about the Sourtoe Cocktail and lots of other great things to do in Dawson City .

Other Things to do in Canada

Scale the CN Tower in Toronto. If you’re unafraid of heights, strap into a safety harness and walk around the top or just check out the views.

Visit Stanley Park in Vancouver. The world’s happiest city has much to offer . But most visitors start at this famous park downtown.

Take a drive on the Icefield Parkway. This incredible stretch of highway connects Banff and Jasper National Parks and is full of amazing landscapes and stunning wildlife!

Hang out with Polar Bears in Manitoba. View these dangerous, but remarkable, animals as they waltz around Churchill like they own the place.

Take a gondola ride in Banff. Situated in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff boasts unrivaled beauty best seen by way of the gondola.

Eat poutine . A strictly Canadian plate, poutine is french fries and cheese curds covered in gravy. Try varieties all across the country!

Take a flight over glaciers in Kluane National Park. The only way to beat the spectacular views of driving or hiking the Canadian Rockies is to check them out from above !

Tour La Citadelle de Québec in Quebec City . One of the most visited cathedrals in Canada, you will feel lost in the grandeur of this sacred place.

Ride the Rocky Mountaineer train . The most relaxing way to enjoy the Canadian Rockies is touring them on this train ride from Vancouver to Banff .

Eat lobster in the Maritimes. Lobster doesn’t get much fresher than that caught and served up in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.

Go dog sledding in the Yukon. Yes, there are humane ways to enjoy this absolutely incredible experience . Dress warm and enjoy the ride!

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN CANADA

There are plenty of amazing places to visit in Canada. Depending on your interests, trip duration and time of year you will find plenty of things to do during any length of stay.

Toronto is not only the largest city in Canada but also truly one of the most stunning cities in the world. It’s famous for its diversity and travelling here will be a great chance to learn about different cultures! The people are incredibly nice, the sights are beautiful.

Check out our Toronto City Guide.

Montréal is a fascinating mix of Europe and North America. It’s a definition of a vibrant city – full of festivals, museums and must-visit restaurants. There’s an abundance of things to do there. Brush up on your French before your trip!

Check out our Montreal City Guide.

Ferrris Wheel, Old Montreal, Things To Do In Montreal

Vancouver is consistently ranked as one of the top places to live in the world. With picturesque scenery all around, tons of outdoor activities, numerous opportunities for wildlife encounters and many great day trips you absolutely have to add Vancouver to your Canada itinerary.

Check out our Vancouver City Guide.

Banff / Lake Louise

Lake Louise is one of Banff National Park ’s most famous sights. The extraordinarily turquoise water is a real feast for the eyes. Plus there is spectacular hiking, biking and even kayaking that you can do to further enjoy the beauty of the nature around. You can visit during the summer or spend your winter vacation here!

Check out our Banff City Guide .

For more information on specific things to do in the top places to visit in Canada, reference our following city travel guides:

BEST CANADA TRAVEL ITINERARY

Canada is huge and there are so many amazing things to do there that planning an itinerary for your travel can be a little overwhelming.

We’ve divided these itineraries into Eastern Canada and Western Canada options for both 1 or 2 weeks. Having at least 1 month to road trip across the entire country would be ideal.

But short of this, your best option will be to plan to visit each side of the country separately.

Of course, no one-size-fits-all plan will suffice. But if we were to head back to Canada these are the top places and things that we would want to do!

1-Week Canada Travel Itinerary Highlights

Eastern canada 1-week itinerary.

Fly into Toronto (2 days) / day trip to Niagara Falls
Go to Ottawa (1 day)
Go to Montreal (2 days)
Go to Quebec City (2 days)
Fly from Quebec City

Western Canada 1-week Itinerary (Road Trip)

Fly into Calgary (1 day)
Tour Canadian Rockies – Banff/Jasper/Yoho National Parks (3-4 days)
Vancouver (3-4 days)
Fly from Vancouver

2-Week Canada Travel Itinerary Highlights

This is an idea of how we’d spend 2 weeks in Canada.

Eastern Canada Itinerary

Fly into Toronto (3 days)
Day trip to Niagara Falls
Go to Ottawa (2 days)
Go to Quebec City (3 days)
Return to Toronto

Western Canada Itinerary (Road Trip)

Fly into Calgary (1-2 days)
Banff National Park (1-2 days)
Jasper National Park (1-2 days)
Yoho National Park / Glacier National Park (1 day)
Revelstoke National Park (1 day)
Stop in Revelstoke (1-2 days)
Drive to Vancouver (4 days)
Day trip (ferry) to Victoria on Vancouver Island
Fly out of Vancouver

CANADA TRIP PLANNING

Best time to visit canada.

Since the country is so vast and diverse, there really isn’t a time of year unsuitable for travel to Canada.

Depending on what you want to do, you should pick the month of your trip accordingly.

Summer Travel (June – August)

The warmer summer months, such as July and August, are the most common times to visit Canada.

As in many countries in the northern hemisphere, summer in Canada is an ideal time of travel and adventure for many tourists. Expect to come across more tourists and higher prices during this time.

But don’t worry about the crowds and expense. Canada is beautiful during the summer!

It’s summer temperatures tend to not be as extreme as other summer destinations. Some parts of the country, particularly those further north and at higher elevations, will still see the snow melting well into June and July.

This is a great time to explore Canadian cities. But it is also the ideal time to visit any of the stunning national parks.

Winter Travel (December – February)

Winters in Canada can be very cold. But this is also a great time of year for winter activities, such as dog sledding , snowboarding/skiing and ice climbing.

But, keep in mind that some parts of the country deal with extremely uncomfortable temperatures.

For example, Winnipeg is Canada’s coldest city. Temperatures there can drop to -40°C at times!

Many of the places that are popular during the summer months are not as popular during the winter.

So if you would like to see parts of the country with fewer crowds than winter may be a great option for you.

Shoulder Season

The shoulder season in Canada is similar to other parts of the world. Spring and Fall tend to see less tourist traffic than the summer and winter months.

The months that are not very popular are April and November. They are often neither cold nor hot enough to enjoy certain activities.

However, the prices are much lower during this part of the year. So if you factor this into your planning, maybe this isn’t such a bad time to travel to Canada.

CANADA TRAVEL BUDGET GUIDELINE

Budgets for travelling in Canada can vary greatly. This depends on where you want to go, what you want to see and do, how you want to travel and the level of comfort you expect in your accommodations.

Canada is a highly developed country. As such many day-to-day expenses such as meals and accommodation can range in price greatly.

Here are a few ideas of what to expect in planning your budget to travel to Canada.

Budgeting Tips:

To make your money go further here are a few budgeting tips:

Take public transportation or walk whenever you can.
For longer trips, look for rideshare options on places like Craigs List and travel forums and groups.
Buy food at local markets and cook your own meals as often as possible.
Look for free events and festivals to attend in the cities you visit
Consider couch surfing from time to time. And camping should be on your list of things to do anyway
Look for last-minute deals on accommodation, travel and activities.

But there are a few things you should know about the different budgets at which you can choose to travel.

Note: Budgets shown as Single Traveller / Couples per day.

Budget Traveller ($40-75 Single / $100+ Couples)

If you are a budget traveller visiting Canada on your own you will have quite a challenge to keep yourself within budget.

The most affordable accommodation, besides Couchsurfing, are hostels and Airbnb. But not all places you’ll want to travel will have these options.

If you’re on a tight budget then you probably won’t eat at restaurants on a regular basis.

Your best options might be fast-food restaurants and buying your own groceries and cooking when that is an option.

Canada has open-air markets and lots of chain grocery stores where you can buy groceries at affordable prices.

When it comes to public transportation, the prices are different in each area. But they’re not exactly cheap anywhere.

Daily city transportation can cost around USD$10 and single tickets are around USD$3.

Additionally, you will need to budget separately for the various activities that you would like to do.

For example, ski passes in winter can be pricey. And daily entrance fees to national parks are reasonable but will add up.

Mid-Range Traveller ($125 Single / $175 Couple)

If you are travelling to Canada with a mid-range budget then you have some flexibility in your plans that you wouldn’t have on a tighter budget.

The biggest changes will be in accommodation and meals. You’ll be able to stay in moderately priced hotels and eat most of your meals in proper restaurants (even if it’s only fast food).

You might also choose to rent a car from time to time or to upgrade on tour options to do an activity that might otherwise not be in the backpacker budget.

Couples travelling at this budget will save considerable expense by staying in hotels and Airbnb options instead of hostels. Transportation costs could also be reduced for couples choosing to rent a vehicle.

Luxury Traveller ($350+ Single / $450+ Couple)

If you can afford to travel with a little more luxury you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy yourself in Canada.

Large cities, as well as certain vacation destinations, have top-notch hotels and resorts. And you’ll find great stays in boutique lodging all throughout Canada.

You will also be able to afford to eat at the best restaurants and indulge in local delicacies and staples across the country.

Aside from more luxurious meals and accommodations, there are tons of things you can do when travelling in Canada with a more substantial budget.

You will be able to rent a vehicle or hire transportation around town. When travelling across the country you will be able to save time by flying.

Additionally, your choice in activities will expand to more unique experiences. From riding the Rocky Mountaineer train to flights through glacial ice fields , there is no shortage of experiences well worth the higher costs.

White Water Rafting Adventure Activities In Canada

GETTING TO AND AROUND CANADA

Entry requirements.

Canada is relatively accessible for travel. Passport holders in 54 countries can visit Canada without obtaining a visa.

Canada will permit these travellers to stay in the country for up to six months.

Click here to see if your country is on that list. Others must obtain a temporary resident visa.

Travellers must also have an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA).

When applying for the eTA , visitors have to provide certain biographical details and passport information. Also, you’ll be asked about your employment information, available funds and your health and immigration history.

Getting to Canada

Since it is one of the most developed Western countries, there are multiple ways to travel to Canada.

The choice is yours depending on your needs and origins.

But you may want to consider comfort, prices, duration of trip and preferred method of travel as you plan how to get to Canada.

Canada has around 20 major international airports. This makes flying to Canada the quickest, most convenient way to enter the country.

The biggest and busiest airport is the Toronto Pearson International Airport. Direct flights to Toronto are available from a lot of cities across the world.

But you will also find international flights in and out of most major cities across the country.

Regardless of whether you put a lot of time into planning your trip or make a last-minute decision to visit Canada, there are almost always reasonable flight options available.

Sometimes it might also be cheaper to fly into the USA and then drive to Canada. So take that option into consideration.

Personal/Rental Vehicle

Many people travel to Canada as part of a North American exploration. Or you may find a better flight deal into a major US city like Boston, New York City, Chicago or Seattle.

As such you may find yourself driving to Canada from the United States.

In many places, it is very easy to pass between the Canadian/US border to visit nearby places in both countries.

Popular places include the Seattle/Vancouver area, Niagara Falls and Montreal/Vermont.

Roads between the US and Canada are generally in excellent condition. They are also marked well so navigation between the two should not be difficult.

Depending on your country of origin, time of stay and purpose for visit, passing through border security by vehicle is often less of a hassle than when arriving by plane.

If crossing into Canada from the United States, do check with your car rental company to make sure that you are able to do so without violating the terms of your agreement.

You will also want to make sure that the vehicle is insured in both countries.

If you’re going to travel to Canada from the United States, you can also travel by bus. Certain cities, like Seattle, Boston, Albany, Detroit or New York, have direct routes and inexpensive fares.

Some well-known bus companies that make trips between the US and Canada include Greyhound, Megabus and Quick Coach.

If you like to travel by train, then travelling to Canada from the US on a train is a great option. This combines relatively low costs, reasonable duration and incredible scenery.

In travelling from the US into Canada train you have two company options. VIA Rail Canada and Amtrak each have three routes that cross various borders between the US and Canada.

Further, all routes start and end in major cities so you can quickly orient yourself to other transportation options upon arrival.

Ferries can be a unique way to see parts of both Canada and the US that are not usually explored by most travellers.

At the moment, there are five ferries that travel to Canada from the United States.

Two depart from Maine and go to Yarmouth, Nova Scotia and Deer Island, New Brunswick (Bay Ferries Limited, East Coast Ferries).

Another two travel from Alaska to Port Hardy and Prince Rupert, both in British Columbia (Alaska Marine Highway System, BC Ferries).

Finally, you can get to Victoria, British Columbia from Seattle (Victoria Clipper).

Reasons Why You Should Take Rocky Mountaineer

Getting Around Canada

It is pretty easy to get around when you are travelling in Canada. Expect to pay quite a bit more in Canada to travel between cities than in many less developed parts of the world.

And with higher costs, also expect longer durations in between destinations as distances in Canada can be great.

Travelling by Air

Travelling within Canada by air is the best way to cover ground quickly.

The county has many international and domestic airports. Sometimes, especially if you’re short on time, your best option is flying across the country.

In certain remote areas, there aren’t any other options besides air travel. When it comes to domestic flights, Air Canada has the best network of flights.

A few other companies include Air Creebec, Air St-Pierre, Pacific Coastal Airlines among others.

Travelling by Car

Rental cars are accessible and typically reasonably priced in more populated cities.

Much of Canada is best seen by rental car. There are many trips you can take to explore places considered off the beaten path for most.

Keep in mind that fuel prices can be high, particularly in less-trafficked regions of the country.

But a rental car would be a great way to explore the various cities in eastern Canada. It would also be the best way to get around the various national parks and other natural beauty in western Canada.

Travelling by Bus

In most cities, buses are the main form of public transportation. Toronto has the largest system, with around 140 bus lines.

Travelling by Taxi & Rideshare

Taxis are available everywhere in Canada. However, they are a very expensive way to travel.

You should ask the driver in advance what the price is going to be.

The prices are based on mileage and can’t be negotiated and are usually around USD$2 per kilometre.

In many of the larger cities you can also find rideshares such as Uber and Lyft.

These are often substantially more affordable than taxi. But note they are not always available outside of urban areas.

Travelling by Subway

Subway systems exist only in Toronto and Montréal. These systems cover the cities quite well. In Montréal, the subway network has 4 lines.

The daily tourist card costs USD$9 and a three-day pass costs USD$17. In Toronto, there are 3 subway lines available, and the daily pass costs USD$8.50.

In Vancouver they have the Skytrain network, which now connects the airport with downtown, making it very convenient to get around.

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APPS AND TECHNOLOGY

Here are a few apps we think you should definitely acquaint yourself with prior to your travels:

XE Currency – Transfer, monitor and calculate currency as the need arises. This app may not be totally necessary as you are typically tied into rates the banks charge for services. But it is handy to have around.
Express VPN – This will protect your sensitive information wherever you travel – not just in Canada. Be sure to have this to keep your online information secure as you travel.
iOverlander – iOverlander is any Canadian road trip enthusiast’s best friend. Find every resource you need on the road – from free or cheap campgrounds to places to eat or refill RV supplies if travelling by campervan or RV.
Gas Buddy – This app will help you find the most up-to-date fuel locations and prices when driving nearly anywhere in Canada. This is especially important to have when covering large distances or across remote parts of Canada.

BEST THINGS TO EAT IN CANADA

Some Canadian specialities are worldwide famous. While some require some research to discover!

Here are some of the most popular dishes in Canada:

Poutine : Probably the most well-known Canadian staple consisting of french fries and cheese curds topped with light-brown gravy
Lobster Rolls : a sandwich made with lobster meat, lemon, and seasoning best served fresh in Nova Scotia or New Brunswick
Butter Tarts : crumbly crust filled with a butter, sugar and egg cream
Nanaimo Bars : a sweet, crispy and crunchy dessert bar with layers of chocolate and custard
Montreal Smoked Meat : Delicious pastrami or brisket smoked and seasoned in a way particular Montreal
Bannock : delicious native bread either baked or fried and similar to nan. Bannock is served in a variety of ways and included in almost every meal.
Yellow Split Pea Soup : soup made with dried peas, veggies and salt pork
Montreal Bagels : smaller and denser than its famous NY bagel, but usually with the typical everything seasoning
All-dressed Potato Chips : a name given to some of the fanciest and most interesting flavours you can imagine for potato chips
Maple Syrup : The maple leaf is iconic of Canada and the syrup from the maple tree is just as famous and delicious and well worth a try as often as possible

PLACES TO STAY IN CANADA

Canada is not exactly known for cheap accommodation. A highly developed country, rates can be relatively similar to those in Europe and the United States.

However, the prices vary and with advanced planning, you should be able to find a reasonably priced room.

Types of Accommodations

There are over 100 hostels spread out through dozens of cities across Canada. Staying in hostels is not only accepted, it is expected among budget travellers.

You can expect prices and amenities to be comparable to those in Europe. But remember many of the smaller towns and villages will not have hostels as an option.

Canada offers an abundance of hotels. These are typically the best option for travelers in a mid-range budget and are available in most cities and small towns and villages across the country.

Of course, prices range by location and amenities. And if you are travelling during the busier summer season be sure to book in advance.

Another good option for budget accommodation in Canada is Airbnb. In recent years Airbnb has been growing and there are more and more amazing places popping up in Canada to stay for very affordable prices every day.

As is typical in many destinations where Airbnb accommodations are available, you’ll likely find great value and a little more personal space with an Airbnb stay.

CANADA TRAVEL TIPS

Travel to Canada is more or less the same as travel to any country. But there are some subtle tips and tricks that will help make your visit safe, pleasant and more affordable.

GENERAL CANADA TRAVEL TIPS

While there are many basic travel tips we suggest you use when travelling to Canada, there are also plenty of Canada-specific tips that will make your visit the best it can be.

Here are a few we recommend you consider as you plan your trip to visit Canada:

Pack (and dress) according to the weather. Depending on where and when you travel to Canada the weather can catch you off guard. From extreme heat to mind-boggling cold and everything in between, be sure to pack and wear what will keep you comfortable and safe.
Have travel insurance. Canada has a fantastic health care system. But having travel insurance is always the best way to protect yourself financially from any mishaps on the road. Not sure you need it? Read this post .
Be aware (and warned) of wildlife. Bear and moose look cute in pictures and videos. But they can be deadly in person. Canada abounds in wildlife so be mindful when you are out exploring.
Know the emergency number. 911 is the same call for help in Canada as it is in the US. In some areas, 311 is also helpful for non-emergency situations.
Tax and tipping are not included in meal prices. Know that tax will be added at the end of the meal and, while not required, tipping is customary at the 15-20% level.
Pick up a little French. Depending on where you travel, it might be necessary. But you’ll find French is almost everywhere on signs and sometimes it will help to make local friends who can assist you in making the most of your trip to Canada.

CANADA PACKING LIST

We always travel with a core packing list wherever we go. And when it comes to Canada, many factors will affect what else you need to bring along with you.

Check out our travel essentials and be sure to add any of the other additional items listed below.

Important Note! Before you book any international trip, we honestly recommend getting travel insurance. You never know when things will go wrong, and medical bills can add up quickly if you get sick or injure yourself overseas.

Our personal recommendation based on our own experience is World Nomads.

STAYING SAFE IN CANADA

Canada is a very safe country to visit. It has a very low crime rate and Canadian people are known for their hospitality and seem to always be willing to help someone in need.

Violent crime is basically non-existent in popular tourist spots.

Just like anywhere else in the world, there are some areas in big cities should be avoided. Ask the locals about those neighbourhoods so you can enjoy your trip in peace.

Also, take care of your personal belongings, since tourists are often victims of petty thefts.

Canada is also one of the safest countries for female travellers.

You shouldn’t have any problems if you’re travelling solo. Just keep in mind the same general safety tips you would use anywhere else in the world.

If you’re visiting the Canadian wilderness, watch out for the wild animals.

Every year tourists are attacked by bears, moose and bison. But this is usually due to not respecting the space of the animals and approaching too close to them.

Please mind the wildlife when you see it!

Your best option is to explore and area with someone familiar with it. But if that’s not possible, just be careful and study your maps, have bear spray, whistles and bells and know any regional laws or warnings when it comes to wildlife.

Check out our best travel tips to help you navigate around safely.

STAYING CONNECTED IN CANADA

Canada is a developed nation and staying connected while travelling in Canada is not very difficult. Of course, there are more remote places you can travel where cellular service will be limited.

And if you drive across the country you’ll experience long stretches of highway where you may have hit-or-miss cellular service.

In general, you can expect to connect to WiFi in a few ways for little to no cost. But we feel like your money will go a lot further if you consider a few other options.

Purchase a SIM Card

Purchasing a SIM card is one of the best ways to access local wireless networks in most countries.

In Canada, you can purchase a SIM card in any of the country’s 3 major carrier stores and at convenience stores and kiosks in major cities. Apply funds for prepaid service and purchase data as you need.

Then throw up a hot spot from your mobile device if you’d like to get online with your computer or tablet.

Rent a Portable WiFi Device

Portable WiFi devices are also readily available across Canada. Roam Mobile, WiFi Cube and MyWebspot Mi-Fi are just a few of the handful of options to look into if you don’t have a qualifying portable WiFi device of your own.

Access Free WiFI

Of course, the easiest and cheapest option to stay connected in Canada is to access free WiFi at a variety of places across the country.

Most hotels, hostels and Airbnb accommodations offer free WiFi.

And if you are out and about you can expect fast food and coffee restaurants such as Tim Hortons, McDonald’s and Starbucks to provide free WiFi as well.

BE A RESPONSIBLE TRAVELER IN CANADA

As is the case whenever you choose to visit and interact with people and places in a foreign land, Canada offers you the opportunity to be responsible in your journey.

Here are a few things to consider as you plan to travel to Canada:

Leave the natural environment better than you found it. Pretty standard stuff here: pack out your trash, stick to the trails, pick up after yourself.
Leave wild animals alone. Canada is full of wildlife encounters sure to change your life. But don’t touch, feed or otherwise harass wildlife.
Be your own transportation as often as possible. Adding a bit of walking or biking to your travel plans reduces the impact of taking vehicles that contribute negatively to the environment.
Support locals as often as possible. Sure the bigger cities will be full of big brands and mega shopping centres. But as you wander into more remote parts of the Great White North be sure to support smaller, independent businesses as often as possible – including merchants and tour operators.

BOOKS TO READ ABOUT CANADA

Maybe you already know everything about Canada. Chances are you don’t!

But even if you are well-read, here are a few suggestions that might be worth your time while you’re on the plane to Canada.

Canada (Mike Meyers) – Yes, Mike Meyers the comedian and actor has written a book that shows his take on his homeland from his hilarious, if not entirely quirky, perspective.

Alone Against the North (Adam Shoalt) – In a wild adventure that crowned him the “Canada’s Indiana Jones,” Shoalt embarks to explore the Again River in a way that shows that there are still parts of the world unexplored.

Why I Hate Canadians (Will Ferguson) – A humorous, satirical account of Canadian culture and history that sets out to show that opinions on Canada are best expressed through personal experience.

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The Best Things to Do in Canada

25 Best Things to Do in Edmonton

May 19, 2020 By Matthew G. Bailey 28 Comments

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Things to Do in Edmonton Last updated: April 10th, 2023

Known as the “Gateway to the North”, Alberta’s capital city is the farthest north of Canada’s major cities and is home to a variety of things to do and places to see. Stretched along the banks of the North Saskatchewan River, Edmonton is a city that can be visited year-round, depending on what you’re looking for. Due to its location, Edmonton’s winters can be some of the coldest and darkest in Canada, and yet, it can be a great time to visit if you’re looking to experience frozen castles, ice hockey, or perhaps the Northern Lights. The summers, in contrast, can be quite hot with the sun staying up until close to midnight. This is a great time to enjoy the outdoors, as well as an incredible array of festivals and events.

Speaking of festivals, Edmonton is known to some as the “City of Festivals”. This is, in part, due to the fact that Edmonton has lively festivals all year round. However, the best of them is during the summer, when the city comes to life with the International Fringe Theatre Festival, Heritage Festival, the Folk Festival, and the International Jazz Festival, just to name a few.

So whether you’re looking for some of Canada’s best festivals, a beautiful river valley, a delicious culinary scene, or North America’s largest mall, Edmonton is a great place to visit. In this guide, we’ll show you what to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Edmonton

There are so many places to see and things to do in Edmonton, including visiting North America’s largest mall and the largest urban park in Canada! But there’s much more than that. Here are the best things to do on your next trip to Edmonton, Alberta!

West Edmonton Mall

West Edmonton Mall is probably the only mall in the world where you can stay indoors for multiple days and still have so much fun. Home to over 800 stores, it is North America’s largest mall and breaks a lot of records in many other ways as well. It’s also home to Canada’s largest parking lot, North America’s largest indoor waterpark, and North America’s largest indoor amusement park. But we’re not done yet. You’ll also find a massive movie theatre, an aquarium, a full-size replica of the Santa Maria (Christopher Columbus’ flagship used to sail to the Americas in 1492), a full-size skating rink, mini-golf, bars, restaurants, and even one of the nicest hotels in the city – the FantasyLand hotel – which is home to a variety of really cool themed rooms.

Edmonton’s River Valley Parks

Edmonton’s North Saskatchewan River Valley Parks System is the largest urban park in Canada. With more than 160 kilometres of pathways and an area of more than 7,284 hectares, the River Valley is a great place to get into nature without leaving the city. There are also 11 lakes, 22 ravines, and a host of facilities and attractions such as the Fort Edmonton Zoo, Gold Bar Park, the Edmonton Valley Zoo, a golf course, skiing opportunities, skating, and more. There’s even wildlife, including hares, deer, skunks, and porcupines.

Travel Idea: Click here to learn about a fun 1-Hour Segway tour in Edmonton’s River Valley .

Muttart Conservatory

Perhaps one of the most iconic images of Edmonton, not to mention a great place to get views of the city skyline, the Muttart Conservatory is more than just three beautiful glass pyramid structures. In fact, it’s home to a climate-regulated biome with three different zones, such as the tropical climate of Burma and Fiji and the temperate pavilion with its American redwoods and Australian eucalyptus, all with a mission of education and conservation. This premier horticultural facility features over 700 species of plants as well as an on-site restaurant. Note: the Muttart Conservatory is closed for rehabilitation work and will reopen in early 2021.

Neon Sign Museum

Located outdoors and thus, free of charge, this first-of-its-kind museum in Canada is home to 20 functional historic signs that tell the story of Edmonton’s “neon” past. It’s always “open” and is located on the east wall of the TELUS building and the south wall of the Mercer Warehouse building on 104 Street and 104 Avenue.

Edmonton Ice Castles

If you happen to be in Edmonton during the winter months between January and March, you simply should not miss the chance to experience the Edmonton Ice Castle s. Often compared to “Narnia”, this acre-sized castle is home to a variety of rooms and is extremely popular with Instagrammers. You’ll also find tunnels, a waterfall, and an ice maze. This is a truly unique thing to do in Edmonton.

Alberta Legislature Building

Whether you’re interested in history or just coming to look at the impressive design, the Alberta Legislature Building is well worth the visit. Built back n 1913, this attractive building is the meeting point for the Legislative Assembly of Alberta and the Cabinet of Alberta. Free tours of the building are available 362 days a year and cover topics related to the levels of government, Alberta’s political history, and the art and architecture of the building. The tours are highly recommended and this is also a great spot for beautiful views of the North Saskatchewan River.

Experience Many Festivals

Considering the fact that Edmonton is known as the “City of Festivals”, you should definitely try to experience one if you can. While the city is home to more than 50 festivals annually, some of the most popular ones include the Edmonton International Fringe Festival , the Edmonton Folk Festival, and the 10-day-long K-Days , which brings Street-parties, dancing, parades, live entertainment, gold panning, and a midway that really livens up the city.

Heritage Festival

Speaking of festivals, we recently attended Heritage Days, which occurs every year on August’s long weekend. This is a really cool event because it showcases the many different cultures that call Alberta home. It’s also free and is perfect for families as it’s both alcohol and tobacco-free as well. It’s located at Hawrelak Park and consists of a collection of Alberta Based cultural groups that come together, annually, to share their history, song, dance and food with the world. They supply all the songs, dance, crafts and music. We watched all sorts of cultural dances from Russia, Poland, Israel, Palestine, and many more, as well as food from countries such as Mexico, Azerbaijan, Nicaragua, and Ukraine. Considering the fact that Canada is known as one of the top multicultural countries in the world, this is a great festival to really see it up close and personal.

Walk Whyte Avenue

Edmonton’s most popular street is Whyte Avenue , which is located in Old Strathcona. This historic district is full of historic buildings but is also one of the trendiest parts of town, including many art galleries, music shops, and trendy restaurants and cafes. You’ll also find the nearby picturesque Dr. Wilbert McIntyre Park, which is often home to festivals, public events and informal gatherings. If you happen to be there on a Saturday between 8 am and 3 pm, don’t miss the Old Strathcona Farmer’s Market.

YEG Scoot Tour

Edmonton and Calgary are some of the few cities in Canada that allow scooters to be operated throughout the city and they are really fun to ride! But besides renting them by the minute, you can also join a tour with YEG Scoot tours and get a guided scooter tour around the city and the river valley. They offer a number of different tours, including a Wanderlust Picnic tour, and make it easier to explore the city, especially if it’s your first time on a scooter.

Paddle the North Saskatchewan River

As you’ll notice, there’s a big river that cuts through the centre of Edmonton and it’s called the North Saskatchewan River. Located in the river valley, paddling the river is one of the top things to do in Edmonton, for both locals and tourists. You can kayak, canoe, paddleboard, or go canoeing down the river. During our visit, we rented a raft from River Valley Adventure and paddled the river from the Edmonton Valley Zoo to the heart of downtown Edmonton. The river is different throughout the year but for us, it was extremely calm, almost to the point of not moving at times. We love tubing down rivers so it was a great way to see some nature and see Edmonton from a different vantage point.

Take a Segway Tour

Another activity that River Valley Adventure offers is Segway tours. We had no idea how much fun a Segway is but they are truly a great experience. They look far more difficult than they really are but there’s something about utilizing your balance to control them that makes it such a fun experience. Even better, River Valley Adventure takes you on a tour through downtown Edmonton to see some of the top sites such as Rogers Place, the Royal Alberta Museum, and the Legislative Building. They can set up tours as you like but it’s a great way to experience your first Segway.

Fort Edmonton Park

For a deeper look into the history of both Edmonton and Canada, Fort Edmonton Park is the place to go. Home to costumed historical interpreters, this 150-acre park is the largest living history museum in Canada. The Park includes a reconstructed Hudson’s Bay Fort from 1846, as well as historically accurate reconstructed streets from 1885, 1905, and 1920, each depicting the evolution of Edmonton’s early history. Visitors can also enjoy a ride on a horse-drawn wagon or a steam train and enjoy the brand-new Indigenous Peoples Experience. You’ll need at least a full day to truly enjoy this park as it’s both large and simply incredible to visit.

Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village

Located 25 minutes east of Edmonton, this open-air museum houses refurbished buildings from east-central Alberta that tell the tale of the early Ukrainian settlement in Alberta from 1892 to 1930. These early settlers made a significant impact on Alberta’s identity and the museum, which opened in the 70s, showcases the stories of survival and perseverance through more than 35 restored historic buildings and costumed interpreters. The delicious Ukrainian food available at the concession is worth the drive alone.

There are many living history elements to explore at the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village , including a blacksmith, a market, and an old-fashioned general store. Part of the fun is the opportunity to interact with the costumed guides who are there to explain what life was like for these early settlers. If possible, try to time your visit with one of the many events or workshops hosted throughout the year, which include cooking demonstrations, harvest celebrations, and the commemoration of Ukraine’s national day.

Royal Alberta Museum

Since its move to a new location in 2018, the Royal Alberta Museum is now western Canada’s largest museum. Home to a fascinating mix of permanent cultural and natural history exhibits, as well as temporary installations, a visit to this ultra-modern facility is a must-do when visiting Edmonton. Some of the most impressive exhibits include the many fossils from the dinosaur and ice age eras, a large aquarium of native fish, and live insects-including some exotic and enormous species.

You’ll also find a large feature gallery hosting travelling exhibits from across Canada and around the world, a new kids’ gallery, and a bigger bug room with live invertebrates and a visible nursery. The museum’s cultural history departments explore aboriginal cultures with artifacts from Blackfoot, Cree, and other First Nations.

Art Gallery of Alberta

Another beautiful modernist building in Edmonton, located on Sir Winston Churchill Square, is the Art Gallery of Alberta , which is dedicated to visual arts with an emphasis on Western Canada. The gallery features changing and travelling exhibitions and maintains an extensive collection of more than 6,000 pieces. The site also features a gift shop, restaurant, and theatre space, as well as lectures and workshops. Private guided tours are also available and can be tailored to suit your particular interests.

Edmonton Valley Zoo

Opened in 1959, the Edmonton Valley Zoo has traditionally focused on research into threatened animal species. However, its beautiful family-oriented grounds are also home to more than 350 animals representing over 100 species, from both the province of Alberta and around the world. The animals are regularly out and about meeting and engaging with guests and some of the popular species include red pandas, lemurs, snow leopards, and arctic wolves. This is also a wonderful thing to do in Edmonton with kids as the zoo also has paddle boats, a miniature train, and a carousel.

Alberta Aviation Museum

For those interested in aviation, the Alberta Aviation Museum is a must. Located near the Edmonton city center airport, the museum is easy to find with its two fighter jets mounted outside. Along with its 40 aircraft on display, the museum is home to a rare form of aircraft hangar constructed as part of Canada’s pilot training program back in WWII. Informative guided tours are available and last around 90 minutes.

University of Alberta Botanic Garden

For those who love gardens and flowers, you’ll want to make your way to the 240-acre University of Alberta Botanic Garden . Founded in 1959 and the largest such garden in the province, this massive site is split into two parts. One part consists of 160 acres that have been set aside in their natural state. The other part, which includes 80 acres, features dazzling gardens including a Japanese Garden, a large tropical greenhouse with butterflies, an Indigenous Garden, as well as numerous displays of many other plant species, both indoors and out. Another feature is the Aga Khan Garden, a nearly 12-acre site inspired by Islamic architecture and landscapes, but with a northern twist. You’ll find a number of pleasant forest paths, peaceful terraces, ponds, pools, and even a waterfall.

Visitors are free to roam on their own or can opt for a free guided walking tour, which comes highly recommended. For those interested in Opera, you may want to time your visit with the annual Opera al Fresco event performed here by the Edmonton Opera Company each June.

Alberta Railway Museum

Located in the northern suburbs, the Alberta Railway Museum (ARM) features a selection of still-operating and static locomotives and rolling stock. Founded in 1976 to preserve the province’s rich railway heritage, the museum features more than 75 engines and railcars, a number of original railway buildings, and many related artifacts. One of the highlights of visiting is having the chance to ride on one of the trains during the summer months.

TELUS World of Science

For those looking to get an immersive experience, the TELUS World of Science (TWOS) is a great place to go. Fun for all ages, this educational science center experience features many interactive and hands-on science and technology exhibits covering topics like space, robots, forensics, and the environment. Another feature is the excellent planetarium called the Margaret Zeidler Star Theatre, as well as the IMAX Theatre. You can also visit the on-site observatory for free, which offers a variety of interesting star-gazing opportunities.

Rogers Arena, Edmonton Alberta things to do

Hockey with the Edmonton Oilers

For sports fanatics, Edmonton is home to one of the most iconic NHL teams – the Edmonton Oilers . Once known as the “City of Champions”, the Edmonton Oilers had one of the top dynasties to ever play in the NHL, including players like Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, Juri Kurri, and many others. They won 5 Stanley Cups in just 6 years. They now have the NHL’s #1 player (Conner McDavid) and play in the brand-new Rogers Arena in downtown Edmonton. If you like hockey and can get a ticket, this is one of the most exciting places to watch a game.

Football with the Edmonton Elks

Another popular team in Edmonton is the CFL’s Edmonton Elks . For those who like American Football, you’ll definitely want to make it out to a Canadian Football Game, which is typically faster in play and is played on a larger field at 110 yards long and 65 yards wide. Either way, it’s a fun, fast-paced sport and a great way to spend a summer day and witness the passion that Edmontonians have for the sport and for their team.

Another cool feature of Edmonton’s winter is the inner-city ski hills. These are great places for those looking to learn how to ski as they’re not that big or intimidating. Popular hills include Snow Valley Ski Hill and Rabbit Hill Snow Resort . If you’re looking for more of a thrill, you’ll want to head west to Jasper where you can ski at the world-class Marmot Basin Ski Resort.

Eat Some Delicious Food

We all have to eat and there are some incredible restaurants in Edmonton to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a mouth-watering brunch or fine dining to impress your date, there’s no shortage of options in Edmonton. While we certainly recommend you check out our full guide on the best Edmonton restaurants, some of our favourites include DOSC, Pips, and RGE RD. We also have a guide to the best brunch in Edmonton .

Drink Some Great Beer

Just like the many amazing restaurants in the city, there are also many Edmonton breweries that you should visit. From dark stouts to fruity sours and everything in between, Edmonton has some of the best breweries in the province.

Where is Edmonton?

Edmonton is located in the middle of Alberta, just 3 hours North of Calgary and about 4 hours east of Jasper. Although it’s now one of Canada’s biggest cities, it was once a small fort, dating back to 1821.

Fun facts: Canada’s largest parking lot is located in Edmonton, but it’s also home to a massive River Valley urban park that is 22x the size of New York’s Central Park. So, whether you’re looking for inner-city nature or a concrete jungle, you can find it here. For more fun facts, check out our article on both Alberta facts and Canada facts .

Getting to Edmonton

If you’re a visitor looking for different ways of getting to Edmonton, here’s some practical advice on how to get here.

Getting to Edmonton by Car

Calgary to Edmonton: The drive from Calgary to Edmonton is approximately 300 km and takes roughly 3 hours. The highway is basically straight the entire way and the halfway point is the city of Red Deer.

Jasper to Edmonton: The beautiful town of Jasper is just 4-hours west of Edmonton. If you’re in Edmonton and want to experience the Rocky Mountains and/or the world-famous Icefields Parkway , this is where you’ll want to go. If you’re already in Jasper, you’ll simply take Highway 16 and head east all the way to Edmonton.

Edmonton to Saskatoon: Edmonton is fairly popular with Saskatoonians as well, as it’s the closest major city and somewhat similar in culture. The drive takes just over 5 hours, heading east on Highway 16. There are lots of things to do in Saskatoon once you arrive, including the beautiful Prince Albert National Park just north of the city.

Vancouver to Edmonton: The drive from Vancouver to Edmonton is one of the most beautiful drives in the country. While it can be relatively hazardous in the winter, it’s fairly straightforward in the summer months. The drive takes approximately 12 hours but you’d be better off adding a few days or even a couple of weeks to truly enjoy the sights along the way, such as Wells Gray Provincial Park and Jasper National Park. If you’d rather get to Vancouver via the Trans-Canada, you’re better off driving south to Calgary and then driving from Calgary to Vancouver .

Getting to Edmonton by Plane

Edmonton is home to the Edmonton International Airport (YEG), which is one of the biggest airports in Canada and also a hub for reaching Canada’s far north, such as Nunavut, the Yukon, and the Northwest Territories. Downtown Edmonton is about 30 kilometres from the airport, which takes approximately 30 minutes by car. There are a variety of ways for getting into Edmonton, including:

Rental cars: We recommend using Priceline to find the best deal, however, any search engine should do the trick. Generally, it’s cheaper to book in advance.
Taxi: taxies can be found at the airport and will take you to downtown Edmonton in 40 minutes for a $48 flat fee.
Public Transportation: For $5, you can take route 747 which travels from the airport to the southern transit station of Century Park. Once here, you can take the light-rail transit, bus, or taxi.
Shuttles: If your hotel doesn’t offer a free shuttle, you could take the non-direct service from the airport to any hotel downtown for $18 ($10 for kids). Please note that this is the slow option as it takes up to 90 minutes, depending on the number of stops. Rides must be pre-booked.
Uber: If you have the Uber app, this is another option.

For more, click here to see transportation options from YEG .

Getting to Edmonton by Bus

Although Greyhound has suspended service in Western Canada, there are some options for getting to and from Edmonton by bus. The best way to search is by using Busbud . The only bus we’ve personally used is the Red Arrow, which is really good and costs around $72 to and from Calgary. We love the free snacks. There are three drop-off points (south, downtown Edmonton, and the International Airport), and the current cost, if originating in Calgary, is nearly $72. Another less-luxurious option is the Ebus, which is just $42 for the same trip. Prices can change so please check with the bus companies for accurate pricing.

Getting to Edmonton by Train

Since Edmonton is actually home to the VIA Rail, it can be reached by passenger train. Connected destinations include Toronto , Winnipeg , Saskatoon, and Vancouver .

Getting Around Edmonton

Like most major cities, Edmonton offers a plethora of ways for getting around the city.

Taxis: For the fastest, most convenient option, albeit more expensive, you could opt for a taxi. Edmonton has multiple taxi services.
Uber: If you have the Uber app, this is another popular option that serves the city and nearby communities.
Transit: Edmonton has both public buses and a light-rail transit system, which makes getting around quite easy. You can buy an adult day pass for less than $10 or pay per trip if you like.
Cycling: If you’d rather exercise while you get around, you can rent a bike at a variety of places, including the River Valle Adventure Co., Revolution Cycle, Edmonton Bike Rentals, and United Sport & Cycle. Options include everything from mountain bikes to road bikes, and even electric bikes as well.

Best Time to Visit Edmonton

During the winter months, Edmonton is one of the coldest cities in Canada. However, that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do if you’re willing to brave the cold. For example, you can go skiing, snowshoeing, hang out in West Edmonton Mall, or experience the famous Ice Castles! However, there’s no doubt that the most popular time to visit is during the warmer months. From June to August, the scenery is much more beautiful and the city comes to life with a variety of festivals and activities. The sun is also out until almost midnight, giving you lots of time to do everything you need to do.

Where to Stay in Edmonton

As with any major city, there are no shortages of places to stay in Edmonton. While there are hundreds of hotels, here are some of the best options for your next stay.

Budget: One of the best budget hotels is actually the Best Western Plus South Edmonton Inn & Suites , which includes a hot Buffett breakfast, an indoor heated pool, a hot tub, and a fitness centre. Normally, these hotels are mid-range, but with costs often ranging lower than $100, this is definitely a GREAT hotel for those on a budget. There’s also the Jasper B&B and the HI-Edmonton Hostel .

Mid-range: While this might be considered somewhere between mid-range and luxury, we have to recommend the Fantasyland Hotel , which is located inside West Edmonton Mall and offers a truly unique experience with themed rooms, including Roman, Polynesian, and Hollywood Themes. However, if you rather be on trendy Whyte Avenue or in the heart of downtown Edmonton, we’ve stayed in and recommend The Matrix and Metterra on Whyte . The Matrix is our favourite out of the two as they offer a better breakfast and a bigger, more modern hotel, but the Metterra is a great option if you want to be where the action is as Whyte Avenue is truly alive with loads of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.

Luxury: When it comes to luxury, the top choice for most would be the iconic Fairmont Hotel MacDonald . This luxurious hotel offers spectacular views of the Edmonton River Valley and features a restaurant and spa.

Things to Do in Alberta Near Edmonton

While Edmonton itself is a great place to explore, there are also a TON of awesome things to do and places to see not that far away. Some examples of what to do outside of Edmonton are below:

Elk Island National Park

If you’re looking for a beautiful slice of nature, make your way to Elk Island National Park . Located just over 30 minutes east of the city, this wooded area with lakes and wetlands is a great place for spotting wildlife, stargazing, watching the Northern Lights, and camping. It’s also an important refuge for bison, elk, and more than 250 species of birds. The park is open year-round but is especially popular in the summer months when the area opens up to camping. Other activities include hiking, biking, kayaking and canoeing, as well as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing during the winter months.

Another cool area to see is Beaver Hills, which has now been designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve featuring a dark sky preserve, a bird sanctuary, and a wilderness center.

Reynolds-Alberta Museum

One hour by car south of downtown Edmonton is the little town of Wetaskiwin , which is home to the Reynolds-Alberta Museum, dedicated to everything to do with aircraft and vehicle construction. There are open-air displays of old agricultural machinery and tools, including some real old dinosaurs-steam tractors, threshing machines, caterpillar tractors, and trucks. There are also close to 100 historic aircraft housed here, as well as in the Canadian Aviation Hall of Fame, and numerous vintage motorcycles to see as well.

Sylvan Lake

Known as one of Canada’s top 10 beaches, this beautiful lake community can be reached just a two-hour drive south of Edmonton. It’s also the halfway point between Edmonton and Calgary, making it a great place to stop while visiting Alberta’s other major cities. The 2.5km white sand beach is perfect for relaxing and the lake is very popular with boaters as well. There are a variety of hotels as well as campgrounds and cute cabins.

Alberta Beach

If you want a beach but don’t want to drive as far as Sylvan Lake, head 1-hour north from Edmonton to Lac St. Anne’s Alberta Beach . This cute cottage-filled village is a popular spot for boating, swimming, and fishing but there’s also a campground and a weekly farmers market from spring until fall.

Jasper National Park

Located just four hours west of Edmonton is one of the most beautiful places on Earth – Jasper National Park. Home to the quaint mountain town of Jasper and the Canadian Rockies, there are so many things to do in Jasper , including a scenic tour on the Jasper Sky Tram, a boat trip on Lake Maligne, a hike into Maligne Canyon, and so much more. To learn more, check out our article about getting from Edmonton to Jasper .

Travel Idea: Click here to check out the many tours and activities offered in Jasper .

By now, your schedule is going to be full for weeks. As you can see, there are many to do in Edmonton and Alberta. For more things to do nearby, check out these travel guides below:

Things to Do in Alberta
Things to Do in Banff
Things to Do in Canmore
Camping in Alberta
Drumheller Camping

Note: Many of the photos above were taken by Edmontonian photographer Steven Li of stevenliphotography.com .

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

Reader Interactions

June 8, 2020 at 5:44 pm

Where and when are the best Times and places to see northern lights in Canada. I’m from Alberta. I’m thinking of taking the train to Manitoba to see them .

June 8, 2020 at 9:50 pm

Oh wow, you mean the train from Winnipeg to Churchill? I mean, Churchill is a good place but so is Alberta. I grew up in Fort.McMurray and saw the Northern Lights hundred of times. I miss that part quite a bit. So, Fort Mac is a great spot, and probably a number of regions north of Edmonton. Another famous place is Yellowknife and the Yukon. The best times is typically October to November, although the winter months are also good. The only reason the fall and winter are better than the summer is because of the sun. We have so much daylight that they’re hard to see in the summer. Lots of things have to fall in place, which makes them unpredictable. It needs to be an active night, no clouds (or few) and the darker the better. So, for example, a full moon would make it harder to see. This is one good place to check the forecast: https://www.gi.alaska.edu/monitors/aurora-forecast

June 8, 2020 at 10:42 pm

Thanks for the reply! You sure know Canada! Great stuff? Why is the posted time so different from my tune?

June 9, 2020 at 2:32 pm

what do you mean? like the time the comment is posted? I’m not sure. It should be at my time MST but I’ve noticed it can be off as well

April 7, 2021 at 3:49 pm

Great article! I look forward to Covid free days when we can take part in all the activities that Edmonton has to offer. I especially miss the summer music festivals.

April 8, 2021 at 5:42 pm

April 25, 2021 at 6:39 pm

Check out the High Level Bridge Streetcar ride next time you visit.

April 25, 2021 at 7:51 pm

Yes! Looks awesome. Hope to be back this summer

April 28, 2021 at 4:39 pm

Great to see ideas for things near by- thanks

April 29, 2021 at 12:03 pm

Always so many great things to do and see in YEG

May 8, 2021 at 9:51 am

It’s nice to be reminded all the possibilities close to home

It’s nice to be reminded all the possibilities close to home and near by without travelling too far

May 12, 2021 at 1:28 pm

Get your Edmonton Website tools ready – they claim that the Eskimos Football franchaise being as it was forced to find another name for the team is sure to make it a ‘good?’ name!? Far too many fans out there will still live for the Green and Gold Eskies – good luck with the name change!

May 12, 2021 at 6:55 pm

According to the news on TV last night, pretty soon (they were forced by major supporters (big company spenders) they will be changing the name of the Edmonton Eskimos (Football Team) to something else that likely will never hold a flame to the old name that should never have been changed. Inuit people of the north had no issue with the name as they are as they call themselves – Eskimos Good luck to the name change

May 12, 2021 at 9:15 pm

When we were up in Nunavut last year, we were told by the Inuit that it is an offensive name. So….

May 13, 2021 at 9:12 am

Great site – thanks!

May 13, 2021 at 9:02 pm

I live in Edmonton. I sure miss those festivals.

May 14, 2021 at 10:06 am

Edmonton is definitely under-rated -it’s a remarkable city with a great variety of amenities.

May 14, 2021 at 10:07 am

Excited to visit!

May 14, 2021 at 11:26 am

Can’t wait to check Edmonton out when this Covid nonsense is over, didn’t realize there’s so many places to see and enjoy.

May 21, 2021 at 5:45 pm

Lots of seasonal and year-round greenhouses and plant boutiques for plant lovers 🙂

May 25, 2021 at 7:30 pm

I’ve lived in Edmonton most of my whole life, barely ever saw the northern lights.

May 25, 2021 at 9:15 pm

There are the cafes that encourage board game playing. There are also live Interactive Improv shows to join and see. Hidden gems all over the city.

May 25, 2021 at 11:53 pm

I grew up in Edmonton and need to plan a summer trip back so I can reminisce!

August 24, 2021 at 11:43 am

So many things to do in Edmonton. There are lots I haven’t done too. Great post!

September 1, 2021 at 4:41 am

Revisited this beautiful city in 2018 and crammed lots of things into the few days we had. Enjoyed The Taste of Edmonton and the Legislature Grounds. After reading your article I discovered so many things that I’d love to do that it’s back on my list for when travel is safer.

September 1, 2021 at 1:49 pm

I had teen out of towners in for volleyball camp, 9am-4:30pm. Everything closed at 5pm. Only thing to do was the Segway, but cancelled due to rain and WEM, but attractions closed 7pm. Why do we roll up our sidewalks at 5pm?

September 1, 2021 at 3:01 pm

yea i never understood why museums close so early

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Transportation in Edmonton

Planes, trains and automobiles! No matter where you're coming from or how you get here, Edmonton can easily be visited in any season. Once you arrive, getting around is a breeze.

Getting into the city

Skyshuttle provides transportation to and from the Edmonton International Airport or you can catch Route 747 , a bus service from the airport to Century Park Station (where you can also catch the LRT ). Red Arrow also provides transportation from many surrounding cities.

Alternatively, you can also hire a taxi from Alberta Co-op Taxi or Edmonton Taxi , or take an Uber .

Public transport

Transit (ETS) - Edmonton Transit Service provides bus and light rail transit (LRT) services around the city. Catch a bus at one of our Transit Centres or jump on the train at one of the LRT Stations across the city. You can pay per trip or get a day pass .

Arc is Edmonton’s electronic fare payment system and is a convenient way to pay for and take transit. No need to deal with paper passes or exact change, as riders can simply tap on and off transit using an Arc card or single-use Arc ticket. The Arc card can be used when traveling on regional buses serving X, Y, Z. Visit myArc.ca for more information.

Plan your trip at edmonton.ca/transit .

Taxis, Car Rentals and More

Taxis - Edmonton offers a multitude of cab companies to help you get on your way. Car Rentals - Edmonton has most of the major car rental companies (e.g. Enterprise, Budget, Thrifty etc.) to help you get on your way. Pedway System and Maps - An extensive system of pedestrian walkways (above and below-ground) connects most major downtown buildings and the LRT. Cycling and Walking - Edmonton has over 200 KM of bike and walking trails to explore. You can also travel in style with Prestige Limousine or Champagne Limos Ltd. ! Finally, Edmonton now has electric scooter sharing available in select areas. Bird Scooters or Lime Scooters are available for rent through their respective apps! Check the City of Edmonton website for more details regarding regulations and safe travel.

Accessibility in Edmonton

Bean Gill is the co-founder and Executive Director of a rapidly growing non-profit organization called ReYu Paralysis Recovery Centre , a public speaker, and role model. Discover Bean's advice for Accessibility in Edmonton – from parks, to attractions, to dining, transportation, and more!

Getting around

Most of our streets and avenues are numbered, making it simple to locate addresses. Numbered avenues run east and west, the numbers going up as you go north, e.g. 103 Avenue is north of 102 Avenue. Numbered streets run north and south, the numbers going up as you go west.

The center of this numbering system, located downtown, is 100 Street and 100 Avenue.

West edmonton mall.

48 city blocks of shopping and entertainment under one roof.

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The downtown mecca of live entertainment.

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22 Amazing Things to do in Edmonton Alberta (2023 Guide)

Christopher Aiello
August 27, 2021

Sitting in the middle of the Canadian Prairies is a not so small city known for a thriving music festival scene, the world’s best farmers market and your gateway to Banff National park; all included in this comprehensive guide to the most Amazing Things To Do In Edmonton.

Why is this the BEST guide to exploring Edmonton, Alberta?

Well just like Melbourne is my home town, Edmonton is where my better Canadian half Laura was born and raised.

So we challenge anybody to know more about the best attractions in Edmonton than Laura does. But first, a lesson on Edmonton’s early history

Originally the city was known and established as Fort Edmonton in 1821 and the earliest known inhabitants arrived as early as 12000 BC during the last glacial period.

The Indigenous population prolific at the time, the Metis and Inuit people are the traditional custodians of the land and as of 2021 represent 6.4% of the total Edmonton population.

The land on which Edmonton is known by is located on Treaty 6 territory and a traditional meeting ground for many Indigenous populations.

Folks from Edmonton are colloquially known as Edmontonians, representing Alberta’s capital city and the second largest population behind Calgary.

Where is Edmonton

Geographically speaking, Edmonton sits on both sides of the North Saskatchewan river and lies within the middle of the Canadian Prairies, a 2000km plain of flat grass and farm land.

Wondering what to do when you visit Edmonton alberta?

Visitors flock to the province’s capital for world-class music festivals like Folk Fest or Edmonton international fringe festival .

Take a stroll down ‘ Whyte Ave ’ – the go-to hub for a lot of Edmonton’s attractions such as eclectic collection of live music, cafes and bars as well retail therapy and an impressive collection of museums and art galleries.

Much of what surrounds Edmonton are historic buildings that have been preserved or updated to suit the aesthetic of the town and preserve is heritage.

If none of these tickle your fancy you could always visit the North America’s largest mall in West Edmonton mall or escape the city and head to Alberta’s incredible national parks down in Banff and Jasper.

A little further to the west is the famous province of British Columbia or BC for short – housing names like Whistler, Vancouver and the island to the western coast of Vancouver.

Heading to the mountains? Check out Our Guide To Banff to plan your summer in the Rockies.

How to get to Edmonton

We’ve sorted out your different transport options depending on where you’re travelling from.

Edmonton to Calgary – 2 hours and 55 minutes

The Queen Elizabeth highway basically travels north to south with 300km exactly between the two cities with Red Deer being your best half way point option.

Edmonton to Banff national park – 4 hours including driving via Calgary as there is no other option, across 415 km.

Edmonton to Jasper national park – 3 hours and 46 minutes across 365 km via the Yellow head highway that travels due east of Edmonton.

Edmonton Airport to Edmonton City – YEG is the international airport code for Edmonton and is a 27 minute drive between each other

Vancouver to Edmonton – We’ve road tripped Edmonton to Vancouver before stopping in Nelson and Kelowna and it’s a lot of driving and you have two options.

Via Banff will take you 13 hours and 26 minutes

Via Jasper will take you 12 hours and 24 minutes

We personally took the longer route via Banff stopping in all the places listed above which made a super interesting road trip!

Getting to Edmonton by Plane

Most guests flying internationally will arrive at Edmonton International Airport (YEG), one of Canada’s largest airports and the central hub for exploring the North-West territories, Yukon & Nunavut.

Getting to Edmonton By Train

It won’t cost you an arm and a leg but Edmonton is home to the VIA rail, an intercity passenger railway service through Canada that’s able to get you closer to the best of the Edmonton attractions.

Alternatively Red Arrow is the bus transportation service that also runs intercity including between Calgary and Edmonton.

Getting around Edmonton

There’s a number of ways to catch public and private transport around town –

Taxis – Edmonton has a few taxi services to help you get around town easily, like the Greater Edmonton yellow cab service . Just download the link here from the app store or the google play store or call straight from your phone

Uber – For more geographic coverage around Edmonton hit up the guys at Uber who will also service the Leduc, Fort Saskatchewan and Spruce Grove area.

Transit – The LRT in Edmonton is by far the cheapest alternative to getting around Edmonton, at only $9.75 a ticket. The LRT map can be found on their website and an interactive map to help you plan your trip easier.

Discover the vibrant beauty of Edmonton’s Louise McKinney Park on an exhilarating 1-hour Segway tour with Get Your Guide . Glide through the enchanting Chinese gardens, marvel at the modern architecture of the city’s iconic funicular, and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this urban oasis.

With an expert guide leading the way, this adventure promises an unforgettable experience. Book now and enjoy free cancellation for added peace of mind.

22 Amazing Things to do in Edmonton

Only 3 hours north of Calgary, tourists flock to towns in the Canadian Rockies like Canmore to get full access to the incredible mountain trails and lakes of Banff and Jasper either before or after their time in Edmonton Alberta.

Being in the Northern hemisphere Edmonton is also a hot spot for northern lights activity during the winter time and a great spot to see the Aurora Borealis from.

Walk or Segway North America’s largest park

Have you heard of Central Park in NYC? Well the Edmonton river valley is 22 times larger than Central Park, making it the largest urban park land in North America.

Head into downtown and walk along the North Saskatchewan river that cuts straight through the guts of Edmonton from northeast to southwest.

If you’re unsure of what to do in Edmonton you should most definitely try a segway tour along the Edmonton river valley, a lot quicker than walking and a super fun experience allowing you to see more of the park in a quicker time.

Located outside of downtown on Grierson Hill North West in Louise McKinney Riverfront park is the best place to go Segway-ing , and while you’re here you can check out the Chinese garden and Accidental beach on the southern side of the river.

The seasons bring alive other Edmonton tourist attractions along the river valley like snow-shoeing, canoeing, cross country skiing or a fat bike-ing.

Snowshoeing in Edmonton was probably our most fun experience along Edmonton’s River Valley, with the caveat that this activity only applies in winter.

High level bridge street car

One of the most cheapest activities in Edmonton is to take a ride on the historic High Level Bridge streetcar that runs just north of the Old Strathcona farmers market, crossing the North Saskatchewan river through to the Jasper Plaza terminal.

It is the world’s highest street car river crossing with over 100 years of service in Edmonton and can be a fantastic activity in Edmonton for the day for as little as $7 for a round trip

Stroll down Whyte Avenue

To experience the very best in Edmonton’s culture and shopping precinct then you’re going to want to visit Whyte Avenue, 82nd Avenue as it’s otherwise known.

Laura and I went here with some of her family and close friends for breakfast one morning and the food is incredible! A completely vegetarian and vegan food and drinks menu that makes your mouth water.

In the heart of the theatre and festival district, the aptly named ‘ The Next Act’ serves up delicious burgers in a casual atmosphere with a range of locally sourced craft beer, a top attraction in Edmonton.

We highly recommend visiting Strathcona spirits distillery , a tiny pink rendered building that owns the title of being the smallest distillery in North America.

Not surprisingly they are also Edmonton’s oldest distillery, established in 2016. Try their limited release Oloroso dreamland whisky or their Barrel Aged Gin.

If you have time one of the most fun edmonton activities is take a 45 minute tour and taste session at Strathcona and see how the locals brew it.

Embark on a thrilling Segway tour through Edmonton’s Louise McKinney Park with Get Your Guide. Explore the stunning Chinese gardens, admire the city’s modern architecture, and let an expert guide unveil the park’s hidden gems.

Neon sign museum

For a free activity in Edmonton look no further than the east wall of the TELUS building and the south wall of the Mercer warehouse building on 104 street and 104 Avenue.

An outdoor collection of 20 neon signs that tell a story of Edmonton’s past on display 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Entry is free.

Edmonton convention centre

One of the top 5 leading convention and trade centres in the North America, the Edmonton convention centre is a sustainably purpose built trade and convention centre that hosts business events, world class chef led restaurants, media conventions as well as arts and culture performances.

Located in Edmonton city centre along the River valley, this architecturally stunning building runs events all year and it’s worth checking out their calendar to see if there’s something exciting on when you visit Edmonton.

Alberta Aviation Museum

For the history buffs and aviation fenatics the Alberta Aviation Museum in North West Edmonton showcases over 40 aircrafts of which some have been restored from their WW11 days.

Located near Edmonton city centre airport, the Alberta aviation museum is a must-see Edmonton attraction incorporating an exciting legacy of aircrafts that have formed much of Alberta’s aviation history since the early 1900’s.

Location: 11410 Kingsway Avenue, NW Edmonton Alberta

Explore the old Farmers markets of Edmonton

The Strathcona Farmers Market is a world renowned indoor farmers market two blocks north of Whyte Avenue and one of the more historic buildings in the city.

Operating since 1983, one of the best things to do in Edmonton is to venture on a saturday morning between 8am and 3pm and support Edmonton’s hand-picked independent local producers and retailers from across the city.

Over 120 vendors come here every weekend to show off the vibrance of local sourced food, coffee, sweets, fruit and veg and a variety of healthy living organisms

Downtown Edmonton farmers market is another locally famous market established in 1903 as the rice street market, now the site of the Stanley A Milner library.

Because Edmonton’s climate can freeze the fingers off your hands if you’re not careful, during the winter months the market is moved inside .

With over 28 different categories of Vendors and more than 100 individual vendors, their new location is at 10305 97th street, open Saturdays 9-3pm and Sundays 11-3pm with free parking on site.

Make your way to the Strathcona markets easily by booking your private vehicle transfer from the airport straight to the markets and take the worry out of public transport.

Journey to the Telus World of Science

A top attraction in Edmonton and one of our favourites is the TELUS world of science located in north west Edmonton providing people of all ages with an interactive and educational science exhibition centre promoting the best in science and technology.

Enjoy a screening of The Arctic: Our last great wilderness in IMAX , or the new Indigenous Traditional room the TELUS world of science centre focuses on displays that discuss science, forensics, space, robots and the environment.

Astrology lovers will enjoy the RASC Observatory in Coronation park which offers a wide range of star-gazing opportunities offered in the TELUS world of science; one of the best free things to do in Edmonton.

Location: 11211 142 Street NW Edmonton

The festival state

It’s been a while since Laura’s been back but her favourite festivals are some of the most unique places to visit in Edmonton and a crowd favourite.

Edmonton has secured its spot amongst all other Canadian cities as holding the claim as Canada’s top festival city .

The Edmonton Folk Festival has grown into one of the largest and most popular folk festivals in the entire world.

A star studded line up of other festivals like the Fringe theatre festival and the Interstellar rodeo pop up throughout the summer season in Edmonton.

Beginning in 1980 with star studded line ups every year the organisers ensure that prices stay low and they minimise their carbon footprint as much as possible.

For one of the most fun things to do in Edmonton make sure you’re at Gallagher Park for the festival.

If you need a place to stay while in Edmonton we personally recommend checking out these budget friendly hotels within a short distance of the festivals.

If you just can’t get enough for the theatrical then your next move should be to attend the Edmonton international Fringe Festival in Old Strathcona.

The fringe festival is all about opening up creatively and trying new things, experiencing new artists and letting go in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.

This year they have reimagined the festival and how they run the show but it’s still one of the best activities in Edmonton.

Fort Edmonton Park

For the history buffs out there your list of the best things to do in Edmonton starts here in Fort Edmonton Park.

Fort Edmonton Park is bound in the acknowledgement of the traditional custodians of the land and the first nations people by taking visitors on a 4 era history of Edmonton past to present through interactive and immersive experiences.

Learn about the rich history of the Metis people, the first nations people of Edmonton, go back in time to the 1840’s of horse drawn carriages to the train and street car era.

If you’ve never been to Edmonton and need some help figuring out what to do in Edmonton, we recommend buying the Fort Edmonton Park admission ticket, as it will give you access to the entire park for the whole day!

Ready for an unforgettable adventure? Experience the beauty of Edmonton’s Louise McKinney Park with Get Your Guide’s 1-hour Segway tour , exploring the Chinese gardens, modern architecture, and more. Book now and embark on a thrilling ride!

Your gateway to Lake Louise

When you’re done exploring downtown Edmonton and you’re ready to explore the Rocky Mountains then we highly suggest making your way to the insanely beautiful Banff national park where you will be able to explore hidden beauties like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake and Peyto Lake .

Swap the city for the mountains and see why Canada is known for beautiful lakes of the Rockies .

We could seriously consider moving to this part of the world for how stunning it is, even the drive down via the world famous Ice fields parkway is a stunning drive!

For the best natural phenomenons in the rockies, the northern lights shine their brightest from December and January and can be seen above the mountains of Banff across vast lakes during the night.

Muttart Conservatory

A fantastic tourist attraction in Edmonton is also a state of the art premium horticultural attraction known as the Muttart Conservatory.

Three architecturally stunning glass pyramids just south of accidental beach represent 2 different atmospheric climates within.

Arid, temperate and tropical climates represent over 700 species of plants in these three biomes drawing crowds to the Edmonton River Valley year round and after a much needed facelift, the Conservatory is back up and running.

Seeing Muttart Conservatory is part of your 90 minute Segway tour of Edmonton!

Alberta Legislature building – The Ledge

On the banks of the edmonton river valley near the high level bridge is the 1913 Alberta Legislature building known as ‘the ledge’ by the locals.

An imposing and architecturally stunning building, the best way to explore the ledge is by taking a guided tour of the assembly exploring the political history of Edmonton or going for a walk around the surrounding parks and gardens of Edmonton’s River Valley.

Just north of the ledge is the Legislative Assembly Visitor centre where you’ll find important displays of art, culture and historic buildings as well as a 4D immersive experience that provides visitors with an impressive visual history of the first nations people and the history of the province of Alberta.

Alberta Railway Museum

Established in 1976 with the aim of preserving the province’s rich railway heritage of locomotives and railway engines, the Alberta railway Museum features a selection of still operating and static locomotives, steam and railway engines.

If you want to take a trip down memory lane you have the opportunity to ride these prehistoric trains during the summer months, of which you can pre-purchase tickets for the ride here.

Reynolds-Alberta Museum

Located an hour’s drive south of Edmonton in the little town of Wetaskiwin is the Reynolds Alberta Museum, an award winning museum dedicated to the celebration of the machine.

The museum sports an impressive collection of both aircraft, motor vehicles and agricultural and industrial equipment.

Over 100 aircrafts call this museum home as well as the Canadian aviation hall of fame best seen in the summer months when the displays are out and interactive.

Location: 6426 40 Avenue, Wetaskawin Alberta

Both a cafe, stores and restaurant are located on-site

The U of A (University of Alberta)

The Alberta botanic garden of the University of Alberta is a fantastic edmonton attraction founded in 1959 dedicated to a flower and garden display, including a japanese garden, a tropical greenhouse with butterflies as well as an Indigenous garden that displays a selection of plants used by the first nations people of Canada for thousands of years.

The newly added Aga Khan garden is a new addition to the University’s Alberta botanic garden display that’s inspired by Islamic architecture and design which includes a peaceful terrace, ponds and a forest path.

Of special interest to some is the Opera El Fresco which is held here annually as part of the Edmonton Opera company every June.

Visit the largest indoor theme park in North America – West Edmonton mall

Seems like a bit of a trend here in Edmonton but I kid you not, there really is a theme park inside West Edmonton mall. In fact it’s the largest shopping mall in North America and the second most visited shopping mall in all of Canada.

We’re not big shoppers but this is perhaps the most unique place to visit in all of Edmonton because of the real-size theme park, complete with rollercoaster ride, indoor swimming pool and arcade.

Attractions inside West Edmonton mall include World Waterpark, Alien outbreak, Iceland, Dragon tale & Galaxy land.

Seriously my first time here I could not believe how massive West Edmonton mall was and just how hard they’ve tried to make this place a theme park.

West Edmonton mall is unique in its own right and is worth the visit if you have the time.

Address: 8882 170 Street NW

Step back in time in the Ukrainian cultural heritage village

More than 125 years ago Ukrainian immigrants sought a home in central east Edmonton, and the city has done well to represent this culturally significant piece of history with an open air museum.

The Ukrainian cultural heritage village has over 35 restored heritage sites depicting life of a Ukrainian Immigrant in Edmonton between 1892 and 1930.

Few places in Canada go to the lengths that Edmonton has to represent a rich piece of history and turn it into one of the most incredible things to do in Edmonton.

Costumed interpreters portraying the lives of early Ukranians show the immense length that this centre has gone to to portray their rich history and importance of early ukranian settlement.

Depicting tales of survival, solitude and how the Ukrainian immigration period has led to a positive impact on Alberta’s historical identity.

To book your tickets to the Ukrainian cultural heritage village tours, book through their website at ukrainvillage.com

Royal Alberta Museum of Canada

North of the River Valley behind Mckinney park is one of North America’s largest living history museum, the Royal Alberta Museum.

Within the arts district of Edmonton, locals refer to this as the RAM and is western canada’s largest museum.

Having moved to their new location in 2018, the Royal Alberta Museum contains a collection of impressive displays covering topics across permanent cultural displays across the eras of time, wildlife displays and prehistoric fossils from the age of the dinosaurs and the ice-age.

I find the RAM very similar in variety to the natural history museum in NYC just on a smaller scale, offering visitors a natural history section, human history and a bug gallery.

These guys mean business though, when they say the largest living history museum in Canada..they mean it!

The cultural history section of the museum explores Canada’s first nations history exploring aboriginal cultures like the Blackfoot, Cree and the many other first nations tribes.

Visiting the Royal alberta museum can be a super fun thing to do in Edmonton if you ever get a little tired of visiting cafes, music events and want to walk around places in a slower, calmer fashion.

There are currently restrictions in place for the Museum limiting the amount of exhibitions open including their cafe but you can still grab a ticket for the day for $21.00

Art Gallery of Alberta

A collection of the most impressive visual arts predominantly featuring western canada in edmonton’s sir winston churchill square is the art gallery of Alberta- in the city centre.

An impressive twisted metal display leads visitors inside the 6,000 piece facility that has been collecting art since its foundation in 1924 with a heavy emphasis on Canadian abstract painting and sculpture.

The art gallery of Alberta has a cafe and restaurant on site and offers private guided tours year round that can be tailored to suit individual interests.

On the other side of the block on 103 avenue NW is the Alberta city hall that showcases a beautiful pool and fountain on either side. Grab a coffee from the Hallway cafe next door and explore the rest of city hall with coffee in tow.

Photograph the wildlife at Elk Island national park

Now for the pointy end of the stick, of course Alberta is known for myriad of native wildlife including Moose, Elk, Deer, Bison and of course Bears and if you’re lucky an Alberta Lynx.

Luckily bears don’t live in Elk island national park and the more fluffy creatures choose to live here, and you can experience them all from the safety of your car.

To get here take the Yellowhead Highway East of Edmonton and take a left onto Range road in Fort Saskatchewan to the entrance of the national park.

We recommend staying inside Elk island national park and the best way to see everything is by staying within the park at highly rated and competitively priced hotels!

There are so many incredible places to see in Edmonton’s Elk island national park like going for hikes, taking photographs of the native wildlife, star gazing at the Beaver Hills dark sky preserve or walking along one of the 10 trail heads within Elk island national park.

Our favourite natural attractions within the park was walking along the floating boardwalk at Lake Astotin waiting for the stars to come out and watching the natural glow of sunset.

Watch a football match in downtown

If none of the above tickle your fancy and sports is your thing then watching a game of Canadian Football leagues brightest is one of the best things to do when visiting Edmonton.

Luckily we have insider information as Laura’s brother used to be one of the coaches for the Edmonton Eskimos a few years back during their time as champions of the Grey Cup Premiership season.

Ice hockey is a very typical Canadian sport to play and watch and most times of the year you can go and see a game inside their purpose built ice stadiums; the Edmonton oilers are the local favourite.

Games run through the winter seasons from October through to April held at the Rogers centre in downtown Edmonton.

Party at K-days

The festival of a thousand names, previously known as Capital Ex festival is a 10 day festival known to many Edmontonians today as the Klondike days that celebrates the Gold Rush era of the 1890’s.

Street parties, dancing, carnival-esque rides , gold panning and celebration of a bygone era of gold miners is the name of the game come end of July when the entire city lights up.

One of the province’s premier festival events held in and around the Edmonton exhibition centre draws hundreds of thousands each year who come to learn about the role Alberta and Edmonton played in the gold rush era.

Accomodation in the city becomes a bit harder to find if you plan on staying for the entire event so make sure you book well ahead of time.

Chris & Laura

Australian and Canadian freelance photographers & storytellers addicted to travel, inspiring you to travel the world.

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Record your trips outside Canada

As a temporary or permanent resident, it’s a good idea to write down your trips outside Canada by air, land or boat, including day trips to the United States. You’ll need this information when you apply for a new Permanent Residence card and when you apply for citizenship .

The travel journal is an easy way to record trips outside Canada. Keep it with your passport or other travel documents. This is not an official document and we don’t need to see it. It’s just to help you remember your trips. You won’t need to send it to us with your application.

Download the travel journal

What to record

The date you left and the date you came back to Canada, even if it’s the same day
Countries you visited
Why you left – give examples like vacation, work, family, etc.
Include any day trips (less than 24 hours), including to the United States
When the journal is full, keep it safe and print a new copy

Example of how to fill out the travel journal

Shows the dates when the person left Canada and returned to Canada, which country they visited and why.

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2024 solar eclipse map: Where to see the eclipse on April 8

These 2024 solar eclipse maps will help you make the best decision about where and how to watch the total solar eclipse on Monday (April 8).

map of north america showing the path of the april 8 solar eclipse

It's finally here: Today, (April 8) a total solar eclipse will pass across the skies North America, giving more than 33 million people living in 15 U.S. states a rare view of the totally-obstructed sun, and — weather permitting — a taste of some seriously strange eclipse phenomena .

If you’re wondering where the total and partial phases of the eclipse will be visible, the good news is that almost everyone in the contiguous U.S. will be able to see the celestial spectacle to some extent. But for a more detailed view of the eclipse’s path, take a look at these handy eclipse maps, courtesy of GreatAmericanEclipse.com.

Solar eclipse 2024 path of totality map

Map of path of totality across North America of solar eclipse, tilted to show its full path over mexico and canada

Totality is the moment that every eclipse-chaser lives for: The moment when the moon completely covers the sun’s face, resulting in a brief but eerie darkness in the daytime. The path of totality , shown in the map above, is the path of the moon’s shadow across Earth’s surface.

On Monday (April 8), totality will begin in Sinaloa, Mexico, then move northeast up to Texas, ultimately crossing 15 states before moving on to Canada. The states where totality will be visible are: Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine — although Tennessee and Michigan will only be glanced by the moon's shadow.

Related: April 8 solar eclipse: What time does totality start in every state?

Viewers MUST be within the path of totality to witness the total phase of the eclipse; if you are off the path by even a mile, you will only see a partial eclipse, and miss out on the spooky daytime darkness. Furthermore, the closer you are to the center of the path of totality, the longer totality will last for you — up to a maximum duration of 4 minutes, 27 seconds in Torreón, Mexico.

Note: Totality is the ONLY TIME when it is safe to view the sun without protective eyewear like certified solar eclipse glasses . You must protect your eyes during the entire partial phase of the eclipse, no matter where you are.

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Solar eclipse 2024 partial eclipse map

A map of total and partial eclipse coverage across North America on April 8, 2024.

If you live in the U.S. and can’t make it to the path of totality, a partial eclipse still awaits you on April 8. The entire contiguous U.S. will have some view of the partial eclipse, ranging from 99% coverage of the sun just off the path of totality to about 15% coverage far to the northwest of the path.

The map above shows how much of the sun’s disk will be blocked from your location. Watching the partial phases of the eclipse — which last about an hour and 20 minutes before and after totality — means wearing protective eyewear at all times. Failure to do so could result in permanent eye damage, according to NASA .

If you want to experience the celestial spectacle but don’t have a pair of eclipse glasses handy, there are many other ways to safely enjoy the partial eclipse . These include making a homemade pinhole projector , using a pasta strainer to project the shadow of the moon onto the ground or watching one of the various eclipse live streams available.

2024 eclipse travel maps

A travel map showing driving distances to the path of totality on April 8, 2024

If you want to see totality but don’t live within the path, driving or taking public transit to a city within the path may be possible. The map above shows how far the drive is to the path of totality, based on where you’re coming from. Meanwhile, the map below shows the most populated cities within the path of totality — many of which are expected to be flooded with millions of eclipse tourists on April 8.

The biggest cities within the path of totality include: San Antonio, Dallas, Austin and Fort Worth in Texas; Indianapolis, Indiana; Hamilton and Montreal in Canada; and Torreón and Mazatlan in Mexico.

A map showing the 10 biggest cities on the path of the April 8, 2024 eclipse

Wherever you are on April 8, we wish you clear skies and protected eyes during this rare, wondrous eclipse over North America.

Brandon is the space/physics editor at Live Science. His writing has appeared in The Washington Post, Reader's Digest, CBS.com, the Richard Dawkins Foundation website and other outlets. He holds a bachelor's degree in creative writing from the University of Arizona, with minors in journalism and media arts. He enjoys writing most about space, geoscience and the mysteries of the universe.

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Photo Illustration: The phases of a total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com and TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

This composite image of thirteen photographs shows the progression of a total solar eclipse

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or pinhole projectors are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury, according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at.

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

The "diamond ring effect" is shown following totality of the solar eclipse at Palm Cove in Australia's Tropical North Queensland in 2012.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

The Bailey's Beads effect is seen as the moon makes its final move over the sun during the total solar eclipse on Monday, August 21, 2017 above Madras, Oregon.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.

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a composite image showing a solar eclipse

How and when to watch today’s total solar eclipse

The path of totality for Monday’s eclipse will sweep across 15 states, from Texas to Maine from 1.30pm CT and ending at about 3.35pm ET

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The total solar eclipse that will traverse a large chunk of the continental US on Monday, along with parts of Mexico and Canada, will be one of the most spectacular celestial events in recent memory. Here’s what you need to know:

What is a total solar eclipse?

The phenomenon occurs when the moon moves in front of the sun, and blocks its face completely, causing the bright sky to darken to twilight in just seconds. The track of the moon’s shadow is called the path of totality , which for Monday’s eclipse will be about 115 miles wide and sweep across 15 states in the US in a north-east direction, from Texas to Maine, for roughly an hour, beginning at 1.30pm CT and ending at about 3.35pm ET.

How rare is it?

The most recent total solar eclipse in the US was in 2017 , but an interval of only seven years is unusual. The previous one before that took place in 1979, and the next one visible in the contiguous US will not be until August 2044. Only 16 other total solar eclipses have occurred over at least a part of the lower 48 states in the last 155 years.

Didn’t we just have a solar eclipse?

Last October’s stunning “ring of fire” show was what’s called an annular solar eclipse, which occurs when the moon moves directly in front of the sun, but is at or near its farthest point from Earth, so is not large enough to entirely cover the sun’s face. You can find Nasa’s guide to the various types of eclipses here .

Why is this one special?

An estimated 31.6 million people, almost three times as many as in 2017, live in the path of totality – which is longer, and also wider than almost every other total eclipse before it, because the moon is closer to Earth and casts a broader shadow. The time of totality in any given location is also longer. Seven years ago, the longest duration anywhere was two minutes and 42 seconds. On Monday, it will be four minutes and 28 seconds in Torreón, Mexico, while almost every place along the path can expect between three and a half to four minutes of totality.

How can I watch it?

If you live anywhere in the path of totality, or can travel to it, congratulations, you have a front-row seat. Just remember you need eclipse glasses (more on that in a minute) to look up at all times other than the few minutes of full eclipse. But everyone in North America outside the path should be able to see at least a partial eclipse of varying percentages, and Nasa will be livestreaming the entire event here . Here’s the caveat: longer-range weather forecasts call for rain and clouds in many areas of the southern and central US on Monday, so the best viewing could be in the east.

And here is Nasa’s Eclipse Explorer , where you can enter any US address or zip code to find out what will be visible from that location.

What can I expect to see?

You can find Nasa’s guide to the stages of a total solar eclipse here . First contact is when the moon’s outer edge first appears to touch the sun, creating the beginnings of a partial eclipse and a crescent sun reducing in size until totality (second contact). In the moments before totality, look for (in order) shadow bands, Baily’s Beads and a diamond ring, three of the most memorable stages of a total eclipse.

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Shadow bands, says Nasa , are rapidly moving, long, dark bands separated by white spaces that can be seen on the sides of buildings or the ground just before totality; Baily’s Beads are short-lived light rays from the sun streaming through the valleys along the moon’s horizon, and give way to the diamond ring effect, the final, single spot of bright light immediately before the end of any direct sunlight.

The sun’s corona , the outermost part of its atmosphere, can only be seen during the total part of the eclipse, then, following totality, the same effects come in reverse. For most locations, the partial eclipse phase lasts from 70-80 minutes, according to Nasa.

How do I watch safely?

To look at the eclipse directly, you must have special eclipse glasses. Regular sunglasses, frosted or darkened glass, or any other method lacking the necessary eye protection just won’t cut it. Nasa’s must-read eclipse safety guide on the subject says: “Viewing any part of the bright sun through a camera lens, binoculars, or telescope without a special-purpose solar filter secured over the front of the optics will instantly cause severe eye injury.” Don’t do what Donald Trump did in 2017.

Many stores, businesses, schools and libraries are still offering glasses free or at low cost (Google is your friend here), but you need to make sure they are safety rated. The American Astronomical Society warned last month that unsafe fakes and counterfeits were circulating, and has published a handy list of suppliers of safe solar viewers and filters (certified ISO 12312-2 compliant).

Experts advise against taking photographs of the eclipse with a mobile phone (unless it’s protected by a solar filter) because it could damage the camera. Nasa has thoughts here .

What if I don’t have eclipse glasses?

You can make a box pinhole projector following the steps in this video , courtesy of Nasa’s Goddard space flight center. An even simpler method is using anything with a small hole, such as a kitchen colander, to project an image on to the ground. And remember that many places across the entire country, such as science centers and zoos, will be hosting special eclipse events so you can watch the action safely.

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The Eclipse Chaser

As millions of americans prepare to see a total solar eclipse, a retired astrophysicist known as “mr. eclipse,” discusses the celestial phenomenon..

This transcript was created using speech recognition software. While it has been reviewed by human transcribers, it may contain errors. Please review the episode audio before quoting from this transcript and email [email protected] with any questions.

Can you hear — Fred, can you hear me?

[DISTORTED SPEECH]:

The internet is a little wonky.

OK. Well, [DISTORTED SPEECH]: Arizona. So the internet speed here isn’t really fast.

I think we’re going to call — yeah, I think we’re going to call you back on a — for the first time in a really long time — a landline.

[PHONE RINGING]

Hey, Fred, it’s Michael Barbaro.

You can hear me OK?

I can hear you.

Perfect. So, Fred, where exactly am I reaching you?

I’m in Portal, Arizona, in a little community called Arizona Sky Village. And it’s a very rural community. So our internet and phone lines are not very good. And the nearest grocery store is 60 miles away.

Wow. And why would you choose to live in such a remote place with such bad internet?

Because the sky is dark. It’s like the sky was a hundred years ago before cities encroached on all of the country. I guess you’d call it an astronomy development. Mainly, amateur astronomers who have built homes here far from city lights for the express purpose of studying the sky.

[MUSIC PLAYING]

So it’s literally a community where once the sun goes down, it’s pitch black. And some, perhaps all of you, are stargazing?

Yes, exactly.

Well, I think I’m beginning to understand why you might have the nickname that you do. Can you just tell our listeners what that nickname is?

My nickname is Mr. Eclipse.

From “The New York Times,” I’m Michael Barbaro. This is “The Daily.” Today’s total solar eclipse will be watched by millions of people across North America, none of them as closely as Fred Espenak, a longtime NASA scientist who’s devoted his entire life to studying, chasing, and popularizing the wonder that is an eclipse.

It’s Monday, April 8.

Fred, help me understand how you become Mr. Eclipse, how you go from being Fred to this seemingly very hard-earned nickname of Mr. Eclipse.

Well, I was visiting my grandparents at their summer home. And it was a partial eclipse of the sun back in the early 1960s. And I was a 10 - or 12-year-old kid. I got my parents to get me a small telescope. And I watched some of the partial phases. And it was really interesting.

And I started reading about eclipses. And I found out that as interesting as a partial eclipse is, a total eclipse is far more interesting. The moon is only 1/400 the diameter of the sun. It’s tiny compared to the sun. But it’s 400 times closer to the Earth. So it’s just this incredible coincidence that the moon and sun appear to be the same size in the sky. And once in a while, the moon passes directly between the Earth and the sun. And you’re plunged into this very strange midday twilight.

But they’re limited to a very small geographic areas to see a total eclipse. And this little book I was studying had a map of the world, showing upcoming paths of total solar eclipses. And I realized that one was passing through North America about 600 miles from where I lived. And that eclipse was in 1970.

And I was reading about this in 1963, 1964. And I made a promise to myself that I was going to get to that eclipse in 1970 to see it because I thought it was a one chance in a lifetime to see a total eclipse of the sun.

So just to be very clear, you see a partial eclipse, and you immediately think to yourself, that was fine. But I need the real thing. I need a full eclipse. And you happen to find out, around this time, that a real eclipse is coming but in seven years.

Right. I mean, there were other eclipses between that time and seven years in the future. But they were in other parts of the world. And I couldn’t buy an airplane ticket and fly to Europe or Australia.

And by 1970, I’d been waiting for this. And by this point, I had just gotten a driver’s license. And I convinced my parents to let me drive the car 600 miles to get down into the path of totality to see this great event.

Wow. Wait, from where to where?

From Staten Island, New York, down to a little town in North Carolina.

How did you convince your parents to let you do that? I mean, that’s —

Well, I had seven years to work on it.

[LAUGHS]: Right.

And I was just a nerdy kid. I didn’t get into trouble. I was interested in science. I was out in the woods, studying frogs and wildlife and stuff. So this was just a natural progression of the type of things I would normally do.

Right. OK. So I wonder if you can describe this journey you end up taking from Staten Island. How does the trip unfold as you’re headed on this 600 mile?

So, I think, on March 6, 1970, it was a Friday. My friend and I left to drive to the eclipse path. We probably got on the road probably at 5:00 AM because it was going to be a very long day.

And we’ve got a detailed map in the car, which I’ve plotted the eclipse path on. And we’re just trying to get far enough south to get into the path of the eclipse, which for us is easternmost Virginia or Eastern North Carolina. And I drive and drive and drive all day long. Very long day.

We get down to North Carolina right about maybe 6:00 PM. And we just see this little town in North Carolina that we’re driving through. And it happens to have a convenient motel right in the center of the path. And that was good enough. Got a room available. And we check in. And that’s where we’re going to watch the eclipse from.

And the next morning was eclipse day. It was a bright, crisp, sunny morning. There weren’t any clouds at all in the sky. And I was amazed that outside the back of the motel, in this grassy field, there were dozens and dozens of people with telescopes out there, specifically there for the eclipse that morning.

We were really excited about this. We set up our — my telescope. And we had another camera set up to watch it. And we walked around and marveled at some of the other people and their telescopes and discussed the eclipse with them. And the eclipse started probably around noon or 1:00 in the afternoon.

Describe the actual event itself, the eclipse. How did it begin?

Well, all solar eclipses begin as a partial eclipse. And the sun is gradually covered by the moon as the moon takes larger and larger pieces out of the sun, as it slowly crawls across the sun’s surface. And you don’t really notice much going on with a naked eye.

It’s really only in the last 10 minutes or so that you start to notice changes in the environment because now enough of the sun has been covered, upwards of maybe 90 percent of the sun. And you start to notice the temperature falling. There’s a chill in the air.

Also, since so much of the sun is covered, the daylight starts to take on an anemic quality. It’s weak. The sun is still too bright to look at. But the surroundings, the environment is not as bright as it was a half hour earlier.

You start to notice animals reacting to the dwindling sunlight. They start acting like it’s sunset. And they start performing some of their evening rituals, like birds roosting, perhaps calling their evening songs. And plants start closing up and the dropping sunlight. And then the dropping temperatures.

And there’s an acceleration now of all these effects. The temperature drop, the drop in the sunlight, it starts happening faster and faster and getting darker and darker. And maybe about a minute before the total eclipse began, we noticed strange patterns on the ground beneath us, on the grassy field that we were on — these ripples racing across the field. And these are something called shadow bands.

They look a lot like the rippling patterns that you would see on the bottom of a swimming pool, bands of light and dark, and moving very quickly across the ground. The sky is — it’s a dark blue. And it’s getting darker rapidly in this dwindling sunlight. And you go from daylight to twilight in just 10 or 20 seconds. It’s almost like someone has the hand on the rheostat and turns the house lights down in the theater.

You just see the light just go right down.

And the sky gets dark enough that the corona, the outer atmosphere of the sun, starts emerging from the background sky. This ring or halo of gas that surrounds the sun, and it’s visible around the moon, which is in silhouette against the sun. And along one edge of the moon is this bright bead of sunlight because that’s the last remaining piece of the sun before it becomes total.

And this is the diamond ring effect because you’ve got the ring of the corona and this dazzling jewel along one edge of it. You only get to see this for 10 or 15 seconds — it’s very fleeting — before the moon completely covers the sun’s disk. And totality begins. Suddenly, you’re in this twilight of the moon’s shadow.

And you look around the horizon. And you’re seeing the colors of sunrise or sunset 360 degrees around the horizon because you’re looking out the edge of the moon’s shadow. And looking back up into the sky, the sun is gone now. And you see this black disk of the moon in silhouette surrounded by the sun’s corona.

Maybe this says more about my nature than anything else, but what you’re describing, a little bit, feels like the end of the world.

Well, I think, when you see this all transpire, you can easily understand how people thought this was the end of the world because it seems far outside of the realms of nature. It seems supernatural. So you can see how people panicked that didn’t understand what was going on.

That was not your reaction?

No. I think it’s a sense of belonging — belonging to this incredible universe, both belonging and a humbleness that how minuscule we are. And yet we’re a part of this fantastic cosmic wheel of motion in the solar system. You almost get a three-dimensional sense of the motions of the Earth and the moon around the sun when you see this clockwork displayed right in front of you, this mechanics of the eclipse taking place.

It almost lifts you up off the planet, and you can look back down at the solar system and see how it’s all put together. And you’ve only got to, in that case — in that particular eclipse, it was only 2 and 1/2 minutes to look at this.

Wow. It’s kind of a clock in your head, saying, you don’t have much of this.

You don’t have much of it. And it almost seems like time stops.

And at the same time, all of a sudden, the eclipse is over. Those 2 minutes just raced by. And it’s over. All of a sudden, the diamond ring forms again on the opposite side of the moon, as the sun starts to become uncovered at the end of totality. And the diamond ring appears. It grows incredibly bright in just a few seconds. And you can’t look at it anymore. It’s too bright. You’ve got to put your filters back on and cover your telescope with a solar filter so it doesn’t get damaged. And you’re trembling because of this event.

Everybody was cheering and shouting and yelling. I mean, you would have thought you were at a sports game, and the home team just scored a touchdown. Just everybody screaming at the top of their lungs. And I immediately started thinking that this can’t be a once in a lifetime experience. I’ve got to see this again.

We’ll be right back.

OK. So, Fred, it’s the early 1970s. And you are not Mr. Eclipse yet. You’re just a kid who felt something very big when you watched an eclipse. So how did you end up becoming the premier authority that you now are on eclipses?

Well, after that 1970 eclipse, I started looking into upcoming solar eclipses so I could get a chance to see the sun’s corona again. And the next total eclipse was in Eastern Canada in July of 1972. And I started thinking about that eclipse. And by then, I was going to be in college.

And I started planning because that one was still something I could drive to. It was 1,200 miles instead of 600 miles.

So the summer of 1972 rolls around. And I drove up to the eclipse in Quebec to see totality and was unfortunately clouded out of the eclipse. I saw some of the partial phases. But clouds moved in and obscured the sun for that view of the sun’s corona.

You were robbed.

I was robbed. And I realized, well, I’ve got to expand my outlook on what’s an acceptable distance to travel to see a total eclipse because the next total eclipse then, in 1973, was through the Sahara Desert in Northern Africa. So I traveled to the Sahara desert for the eclipse, where we had decent weather, not perfect but decent weather. And we got to see totality there.

You saw totality in the desert?

In the desert. In the Sahara Desert. After that, it was just trying to get to every total eclipse I possibly could get to.

At this point, you’re clearly starting to become an eclipse chaser. And I don’t even know if such a thing existed at that moment.

Yeah. I don’t know if it was called that then, but certainly, yeah.

And if you’ll permit me a question that might seem maybe dopey to someone in your field, after you’ve seen one or two or three of these, do they start to blend in together and become a little bit the same?

Not at all. Each one is distinctly different. The sun itself is dramatically different. The sun’s corona is different at each eclipse because the corona is a product of the sun’s magnetic field. And that magnetic field is changing every day. So the details, the fine structure in the sun’s corona is always different. So every eclipse is dramatically different. The appearance of the sun’s corona.

Right. If you look at one Renoir, it’s not the same as the next one. You’re describing the corona of each eclipse as its own work of art, basically.

Exactly. Yeah.

So as you’re chasing these eclipses around the world, what is the place of an eclipse in your day-to-day academic studies and, soon enough, your professional work?

So I went to grad school at University of Toledo and did some work at Kitt Peak National Observatory, learning the ins and outs of photometric photometry — that is, measuring the brightness of stars. And eventually, this led to a job opening at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center.

And I got interested in the idea of predicting eclipses and started studying the mathematics of how to do this. And I took it over unofficially and started publishing these technical maps and details. And we published about a dozen books through NASA on upcoming eclipses. People would just write me a letter and say they wanted a copy of the eclipse bulletin for such and such an eclipse. And I would stuff it in an envelope and mail it to them.

So you take it upon yourself to make sure that everyone is going to know when the next eclipse is coming?

And no doubt, during this period, you keep going to each and every eclipse. And I wonder which of them stand out to you.

Well, I’ve seen total eclipses from Australia, from Africa, from the Altiplanos in Bolivia, from the ice sheet on the coast of Antarctica, and even from Northern China, on the edge of the Gobi Desert. But one of the most notable eclipses for me was I traveled to India to see a 41-second eclipse, which was very short. And besides seeing a great eclipse in India, I also met my future wife there. She was on the same trip.

I have to hear that story.

Well, she had been trying to see a total eclipse for about 25 years.

She tried to see the 1970 eclipse. But her friends who were going to drive down from Pennsylvania down to North Carolina talked her out of it at the 11th hour.

They talked her out of seeing the same eclipse that was your first total eclipse that was so important to you?

Yes. And they talked her out of it because from Pennsylvania, they were going to have maybe a 90 percent eclipse. They didn’t know any better. They thought that was good enough. And she regretted that decision.

So then she said, OK, well, I’ve got to get to the next total eclipse, which was in Quebec in 1972, the same one that was my second eclipse. And we were probably within five miles of each other in Quebec. And we were both clouded out. Then she was married. She was raising kids. She got busy with domestic life for 20 years. She became a widow.

So now, 1995, there’s this 41-second eclipse in India that is very difficult to get to. It’s halfway around the world. But she’s still itching to see a total eclipse. And we joined the same expedition, a travel group, of 30 eclipse chasers and end up in India for the eclipse. And we have fantastic weather. It’s perfect.

She was in tears after totality. She had been waiting so long to see it. And we struck up a friendship on that trip. By the time the 1998 eclipse was taking place in the Caribbean, at that point, we were together. That was our first eclipse to observe as a couple. I think our wedding cake had a big eclipse on the top of the cake.

[LAUGHS]: Perfect.

We made a music CD for the wedding that we played during the reception. And of course, all the music on the CD had sun and moon themes to it.

Nothing I can say, a total eclipse of the heart

Of course, we had “Total Eclipse of the Heart.” It was a must-have.

Had to. Had to.

It strikes me, Fred, that eclipses are such an organizing principle in your life. Your life seems to literally orbit around them. When you were a kid, you started planning for them years in advance. This work becomes central to your career. It’s how you meet your wife.

And you said, when I asked you, about each eclipse that they’re all different. And obviously, you’re different at each eclipse because time has passed. Your life has changed. And it just feels like your life is being lived in a kind of ongoing conversation with this phenomenon of the sun and the moon overlapping.

Well, the eclipses are like benchmarks that I can use to figure out what else was going on in my life during these times, because I remember the dates of every single eclipse I’ve been to. And if I see a photograph of the solar corona shot during any particular eclipse, I know what eclipse that was. I can recognize the pattern of the corona like a fingerprint.

That’s amazing.

And I the year of the eclipse. It reminds me of when Pat and I got married and between which eclipse we were getting married and had to plan our wedding so it didn’t interfere with any kind of eclipse trips.

And they just serve as benchmarks or markers for the rest of my life of when various eclipses take place. So they’re easy for marking the passage of time.

So we are, of course, talking to you a few days before this year’s eclipse, which I cannot fathom you missing. So where are you planning to watch this total eclipse?

Pat and I are leaving for Mazatlán, Mexico, actually tomorrow. And we’ve got about 80 people joining us down in Mazatlán for this eclipse in our tour group.

And for you, of course, this year’s eclipse is just the latest in a very long line of eclipses. But I think, for the rest of us — and here, I’m thinking about myself — this is really going to be my first total eclipse, at least that I can remember. And for my two little kids, it’s absolutely going to be their first.

And given the hard-earned wisdom that you’ve accumulated in all your decades of chasing eclipses around the world, I wonder if you can give us just a little bit of advice for how to best live inside this very brief window of a total solar eclipse, to make sure, not to be cliche, but that we make it count.

Well, I think one mistake that people tend to make is getting preoccupied with recording everything in their lives, what they had for lunch, what they had for dinner. And seeing the eclipse is something that you want to witness firsthand. Try to be present in seeing the eclipse in the moment of it. So don’t get preoccupied with recording every instant of it.

Sit back and try to take in the entire experience because those several minutes pass by so rapidly. But you’ll replay them in your mind over and over and over again. And you don’t want technology getting between you and that experience. And remember to take your eclipse glasses off when totality begins. Note how dark it gets during totality.

Take the glasses off because?

Well, the glasses protect your eyes from the sun’s bright disk. But when totality begins, the sun’s bright disk is gone. So if you use your solar eclipse glasses to try to look at the corona, you won’t see anything. You’ll just see blackness. You’ve got to remove the eclipse glasses in order to see the corona. And it’s completely safe.

And it’s an incredible sight to behold. But during totality, you just want to look around without the glasses on. And take in the sights. Take in the horizon, 360 degrees, surrounding you with these twilight colors and sunset colors.

You’ll easily be able to see Jupiter and Venus shining on either side of the sun during totality. And look at the details in the sun’s corona, fine, wispy textures, and any possible red prominences hugging against the moon’s disk during totality.

And let’s say it’s now the moment of totality, and you, Mr. Eclipse, can whisper one thing into someone’s ear as they’re watching. What would you say to them?

Enjoy. Just take it all in.

Well, Fred, thank you very much. We really appreciate it.

No, thank you. I hope everybody has some clear sky.

After today, the next total solar eclipse to be visible from the continental United States will occur 20 years from now, in 2044. In other words, you might as well watch today’s.

Here’s what else you need to know today. Israel has fired two officers in connection with the deadly airstrike on aid workers from the World Central Kitchen who were killed last week while delivering food to civilians in Gaza. In a report released on Friday, Israel blamed their deaths on a string of errors made by the military. The airstrike, Israel said, was based on insufficient and incorrect evidence that a passenger traveling with the workers was armed.

Meanwhile, Israel said it withdrew a division of ground troops from Southern Gaza on Sunday, leaving no soldiers actively patrolling the area. The move raises questions about Israel’s strategy as the war drags into its sixth month. In particular, it casts doubt on Israel’s plans to invade Rafah, Gaza’s southernmost city, an invasion that the United States has asked Israel not to carry out for fear of large-scale civilian casualties.

Today’s episode was produced by Alex Stern and Sydney Harper, with help from Will Reid and Jessica Cheung. It was edited by Devon Taylor; fact-checked by Susan Lee; contains original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Corey Schreppel; and sound design by Elisheba Ittoop and Dan Powell. It was engineered by Chris Wood. Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly. Special thanks to Anthony Wallace.

[THEME MUSIC]

That’s it for “The Daily.” I’m Michael Barbaro. See you tomorrow.

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Hosted by Michael Barbaro

Produced by Sydney Harper and Alex Stern

With Will Reid and Jessica Cheung

Edited by Devon Taylor

Original music by Dan Powell , Marion Lozano , Elisheba Ittoop and Corey Schreppel

Sound Design by Elisheba Ittoop and Dan Powell

Engineered by Chris Wood

Listen and follow The Daily Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music

Today, millions of Americans will have the opportunity to see a rare total solar eclipse.

Fred Espenak, a retired astrophysicist known as Mr. Eclipse, was so blown away by an eclipse he saw as a teenager that he dedicated his life to traveling the world and seeing as many as he could.

Mr. Espenak discusses the eclipses that have punctuated and defined the most important moments in his life, and explains why these celestial phenomena are such a wonder to experience.

On today’s episode

Fred Espenak, a.k.a. “Mr. Eclipse,” a former NASA astrophysicist and lifelong eclipse chaser.

A black circular object stands out against a black sky with light bursting out around its edge.

Background reading

A total solar eclipse is coming. Here’s what you need to know.

Millions of people making plans to be in the path of the solar eclipse on Monday are expecting an awe-inspiring. What is that feeling?

The eclipse that ended a war and shook the gods forever.

There are a lot of ways to listen to The Daily. Here’s how.

We aim to make transcripts available the next workday after an episode’s publication. You can find them at the top of the page.

Fact-checking by Susan Lee .

Special thanks to Anthony Wallace.

The Daily is made by Rachel Quester, Lynsea Garrison, Clare Toeniskoetter, Paige Cowett, Michael Simon Johnson, Brad Fisher, Chris Wood, Jessica Cheung, Stella Tan, Alexandra Leigh Young, Lisa Chow, Eric Krupke, Marc Georges, Luke Vander Ploeg, M.J. Davis Lin, Dan Powell, Sydney Harper, Mike Benoist, Liz O. Baylen, Asthaa Chaturvedi, Rachelle Bonja, Diana Nguyen, Marion Lozano, Corey Schreppel, Rob Szypko, Elisheba Ittoop, Mooj Zadie, Patricia Willens, Rowan Niemisto, Jody Becker, Rikki Novetsky, John Ketchum, Nina Feldman, Will Reid, Carlos Prieto, Ben Calhoun, Susan Lee, Lexie Diao, Mary Wilson, Alex Stern, Dan Farrell, Sophia Lanman, Shannon Lin, Diane Wong, Devon Taylor, Alyssa Moxley, Summer Thomad, Olivia Natt, Daniel Ramirez and Brendan Klinkenberg.

Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly. Special thanks to Sam Dolnick, Paula Szuchman, Lisa Tobin, Larissa Anderson, Julia Simon, Sofia Milan, Mahima Chablani, Elizabeth Davis-Moorer, Jeffrey Miranda, Renan Borelli, Maddy Masiello, Isabella Anderson and Nina Lassam.

Corey Schreppel leads the technical team that supports all Times audio shows, including “The Daily,” “Hard Fork,” “The Run-Up,” and “Modern Love.” More about Corey Schreppel

2044 solar eclipse path: See where in US totality hits in next eclipse

Compared to this year's eclipse, with a path of totality that will cross over 13 states, the 2044 total solar eclipse won't have as quite as broad of a reach. here's what to know:.

Millions of Americans are by now eagerly awaiting the next total solar eclipse , which is only hours away from passing over a large swath of the continent .

But when the celestial event comes and goes, the awe-inspiring impression it leaves on skygazers may leave them with one question: "When can we see that again?"

Unfortunately, we'll have to wait awhile – this sort of spectacular astral phenomenon doesn't happen very often . Here's what we know about the next total solar eclipse that will cross over the contiguous U.S.

Solar eclipse glasses: What to know about glasses, safe viewing before the solar eclipse

When will the next total solar eclipse happen in the U.S?

Only seven years have passed since Americans had the opportunity to view a total solar eclipse, a relatively rare celestial event in which the moon appears to us here on Earth to completely block the sun.

The resulting fleeting moments of darkness can last for minutes or just mere seconds and is known as " totality ," whereby the sun's outermost layer known as the corona makes a rare appearance.

Today's total solar eclipse , the first in North America since 2017, will travel over portions of northern Mexico, thousands of miles of the U.S. and the maritime provinces of Canada, according to NASA . According to astronomers, this eclipse will be brighter, will last longer and will be visible to more people than the last one in North America.

It's also the last one for 20 years in the United States.

After Monday, the next total solar eclipse viewable from the lower 48 states will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

2044 total solar eclipse path of totality

Compared to this year's eclipse, with a path of totality that will cross over 13 states, the 2044 total solar eclipse won't have as quite as broad of a reach .

The Planetary Society, a nonprofit involved in research, public outreach and political space advocacy, says that during the 2044 eclipse, the path of totality will only touch three states.

The eclipse will begin in Greenland, sweep through Canada and end around sunset in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.

It's not too early to start thinking about where you want to witness it. According to whenisthenexteclipse.com , Americans may want to make sure their passports up to date.

The place to be will likely be Banff National Park in Alberta and Jasper National Park , with Calgary and Edmonton also within the path of totality.

What to know about the 2033 eclipse in Alaska

Outside of the "lower 48," Alaska is set to experience a total solar eclipse much sooner.

On March 30, 2033, a total solar eclipse will occur in Russia and cross over Alaska, according to nationaleclipse.com . The maximum duration of totality for this eclipse will be 2 minutes and 37 seconds.

Contributing: Mary Walrath-Holdridge and Gabe Hauari

Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at [email protected]

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16 BEST Stops On the Drive From Calgary to Edmonton (Direct Route)
The Canada Bus: A new service connecting Calgary, Red Deer, and Edmonton. The one-way ticket from Calgary to Edmonton is $49, and purchasing a 6-ticket pack (valid for 180 days) comes with a 15% discount. ... If you are still not ready to head to Edmonton's city center, why not visit the University of Alberta Botanic Garden which lies just ...
Calgary to Edmonton
Red Arrow operates a bus from Calgary - 304 35 Ave NE to Edmonton Downtown Ticket Office - Holiday Inn Express Plaza 5 times a day. Tickets cost $50 - $80 and the journey takes 3h 15m. Two other operators also service this route. Alternatively, Air Canada, WestJet and Air North fly from Calgary to Edmonton every 2 hours. Airlines.
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Find out the best times to travel to Edmonton based on our flight data from the last year. Discover the cheapest month and even day to fly. ... Below are some of the best deals for one-way flights to Edmonton found on KAYAK in the last 72 hours. 4/17 Wed. 1 stop. 29h 20m DEN-YEG. $93. Search. 4/30 Tue. 1 stop Flair Airlines. 27h 10m SFO-YEG ...
How to Get From Calgary to Edmonton (updated for 2024)
From Calgary, take Highway 2 north and then take exit 340A east on Highway 27 toward Trochu. Once in Trochu, head north and follow the map to Edmonton. This route will take you through Camrose and Wainwright, plus there are a few more turns along the way; follow the map below for the rest of the details! A scene along the Boomtown Trail.
10 BEST Stops on the Drive from Calgary to Edmonton +Route Info
Taking the QEII Highway (aka Highway 2) from Calgary to Edmonton is the fastest way from point A to point B. You won't be alone taking this route - it's the busiest stretch of highway in the entire province! The route is 300 kilometers (186 miles) and will take you three hours without any stops.
Toronto to Edmonton
The cheapest way to get from Toronto to Edmonton costs only $300, and the quickest way takes just 6½ hours. Find the travel option that best suits you. Rome2Rio uses cookies to help personalize content and show you personalised ads.
Tips on How to Go From Calgary to Edmonton
Things to Do from Edmonton to Calgary. The reason why we love having our own car for road trips is due to all the beautiful places you can visit along the way. If you do have that flexibility, there are a number of places along the way for you to visit, including: Red Deer. Red Deer is practically the mid-way point between Edmonton and Calgary.
Cheap Flights to Edmonton from C$ 60
Find out the best times to travel to Edmonton based on our flight data from the last year. Discover the cheapest month and even day to fly. ... Below are some of the best deals for one-way flights to Edmonton found on KAYAK in the last 72 hours. 25/4 Thu. direct Flair Airlines. 1h 40m YVR-YEG. C$ 60. Search. 9/5 Thu. direct WestJet. 1h 36m YXX ...
Calgary to Edmonton, AB
Fly, line 901 bus • 4h 15m. Fly from Calgary (YYC) to Edmonton (YEG) YYC - YEG. Take the line 901 bus from 102 Street & MacDonald Drive to 156 Street & 102 Avenue. $132 - $373. Quickest way to get there Cheapest option Distance between.
Taking the Drive from Calgary to Edmonton: Canada Road Trip
Located just a 5-minute drive from the University of Alberta, it offers amenities such as a refrigerator, cable TV, free Wi-Fi, access to a 24-hour business center and gym, laundry facilities, and parking. All in all, everything you need after a drive from Calgary to Edmonton. Mid-Range: Days Inn by Wyndham Edmonton.
30+ BEST Things to Do in Edmonton, Alberta (for 2024)
Sir Winston Churchill Square. Sir Winston Churchill Square, next to city hall in downtown Edmonton, is the place to be in the summer months. There's always something happening in the lively plaza in the heart of downtown. There are festivals, pavilions, public art, a pool and water features and plenty of seating areas.
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Air Travel. Flight over Vancouver - 4K. Watch on. Travelling to Canada by air is, without a doubt, one of the fastest and most convenient options. With airports like Toronto Pearson, Montreal Trudeau, or Vancouver International providing a direct gateway to Canadian cities, you'll be landing amidst Canadian charm in no time.
Edmonton, Canada: The Ultimate Travel Guide
Edmonton is a very cool city for a city break. Recently I visited Edmonton in Alberta, and can see plenty of reasons why it's worthy of being added to the hot list! It's fun, quirky, creative, buzzy and has an AWESOME food scene . If you're heading to Alberta to explore the stunning Rockies in Jasper or Banff, checking out Athabasca ...
25+ Things to do in Edmonton Alberta with 24 hours or Less
Festivals: Edmonton hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Edmonton International Street Performers Festival, Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival, Ice on White, and the Edmonton International Film Festival. Outdoor Activities: If you enjoy outdoor activities, Edmonton offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter ...
33 BEST Things to do in Edmonton, Alberta (2024 Guide!)
3. Visit the West Edmonton Mall. Europa Boulevard is one of the neat themed streets in WEM. With over 800 stores to lose yourself in, West Edmonton Mall (aka"WEM") will satisfy even the most hardcore shopper! It is actually the largest mall in all of Canada and the 2nd largest in North America.
Best Ways to Get from Vancouver to Edmonton (for 2024)
From Merritt, take Highway 5 north (Coquihalla Highway), passing through Kamloops. You will stay on Highway 5 until the small town of Tête Jaune Cache where you will then merge onto Highway 16 (Trans-Canada Highway), eventually crossing the Alberta, British Columbia border. The Trans-Canada will take you straight to Edmonton.
TRAVEL to CANADA
TRAVELLING IN CANADA: AT A GLANCE. Here are the basics of travel to Canada. CAPITAL: Ottawa. OTHER MAIN CITIES: Quebec, Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, Edmonton. CURRENCY: Canadian dollar (See current exchange rates) ELECTRICITY: In Canada, the standard voltage is 120 V, while the standard frequency is 60 Hz.
25 Best Things to Do in Edmonton
Photo by Steven Li. Art Gallery of Alberta. Another beautiful modernist building in Edmonton, located on Sir Winston Churchill Square, is the Art Gallery of Alberta, which is dedicated to visual arts with an emphasis on Western Canada.The gallery features changing and travelling exhibitions and maintains an extensive collection of more than 6,000 pieces.
Transportation in Edmonton
Taxis - Edmonton offers a multitude of cab companies to help you get on your way. Car Rentals - Edmonton has most of the major car rental companies (e.g. Enterprise, Budget, Thrifty etc.) to help you get on your way. Pedway System and Maps - An extensive system of pedestrian walkways (above and below-ground) connects most major downtown buildings and the LRT.
Traveller entry requirements
Use Advance Declaration in ArriveCAN to submit your customs and immigration declaration before flying into Canada. Government of Canada's official one-stop-shop for comprehensive international travel information.
22 Amazing Things to do in Edmonton Alberta (2023 Guide)
Edmonton Airport to Edmonton City - YEG is the international airport code for Edmonton and is a 27 minute drive between each other . Vancouver to Edmonton - We've road tripped Edmonton to Vancouver before stopping in Nelson and Kelowna and it's a lot of driving and you have two options.. Via Banff will take you 13 hours and 26 minutes. Via Jasper will take you 12 hours and 24 minutes
Record your trips outside Canada
As a temporary or permanent resident, it's a good idea to write down your trips outside Canada by air, land or boat, including day trips to the United States. You'll need this information when you apply for a new Permanent Residence card and when you apply for citizenship. The travel journal is an easy way to record trips outside Canada.
2024 solar eclipse map: Where to see the eclipse on April 8
On Monday (April 8), totality will begin in Sinaloa, Mexico, then move northeast up to Texas, ultimately crossing 15 states before moving on to Canada. The states where totality will be visible ...
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It will take 1 hour and 8 minutes for the moon's shadow to traverse the country from Texas to Maine, crossing parts of 15 states. The total eclipse darkened the skies in Kerrville, Texas, where ...
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There are 5 ways to get from Edmonton to Toronto by plane, bus, train or car. Select an option below to see step-by-step directions and to compare ticket prices and travel times in Rome2Rio's travel planner.
Solar Eclipse: Watch NASA's Live Stream
The 115-mile-wide path of totality stretches from Mexico through 15 U.S. states — from Texas to Maine — and on up to Canada. Totality will last for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.
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The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar ...
How and when to watch today's total solar eclipse
The path of totality for Monday's eclipse will sweep across 15 states, from Texas to Maine from 1.30pm CT and ending at about 3.35pm ET. The total solar eclipse that will traverse a large chunk ...
The Eclipse Chaser
April 8, 2024, 6:00 a.m. ET. Share full article. +. Hosted by Michael Barbaro. Produced by Alex Stern and Sydney Harper. With Will Reid and Jessica Cheung. Edited by Devon Taylor. Original music ...
Path of totality for 2044 total solar eclipse will only hit 3 states
Today's total solar eclipse, the first in North America since 2017, will travel over portions of northern Mexico, thousands of miles of the U.S. and the maritime provinces of Canada, according to ...

16 BEST Stops On the Drive From Calgary to Edmonton (Direct Route)

Buses Connecting Calgary to Edmonton

The Best Stops From Calgary to Edmonton

Where On Earth – Antique Mall & Vintage Market

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Heritage Ranch

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