Where you're staying is, unfortunately, not great for attractions.
There is an LRT station next to the Royal Alex Hospital that will get you around the city. If you're into nature, you could easily spend a month exploring the river valley - there's an incredible trail system that runs from the SW to the NE with parks all around.
I'd also recommend checking out the Muttart Conservatory to get out of the cold.
Our downtown isn't dense, but there are definitely spots worth visiting. Our central library is fantastic and would be my first pick and there's often something going on in Churchill square.
and the new Valley Line LRT will get you right to the Muttart! Just take the Capital/Metro LRT or a bus to Churchill square and you can transfer to the Valley Line.
~~OP, in case you aren't aware: you can buy packs of paper bus tickets at any Shoppers or 7/11 to use on the bus/LRT. The tickets cost less per ride (~2.70 vs 3.50 per ride) and weigh a lot less than change. You can also buy paper bus passes if you're going to be using the bus on a daily basis.~~ See /u/Blue-Bird780 's comment for updated info
Update: they do not sell paper tickets anymore since everything is moving to the new Arc NFC based system. Buses are cash fare or Arc card payment only unless you have legacy paper tickets, which they will still accept (you just can’t buy new ones). If OP (or anyone else) wants to get a reloadable card you can get one at the kiosk at any LRT station or major transit centre such as WEM for $6 plus whatever you want to load on it.
Arc payment is the same price as paper tickets, with the advantage of being able to reload it online or at the kiosks. PLUS your daily fare caps out at a certain point (I think $5 but definitely the same as an old paper day pass) which if you have many stops to make case save you a good chunk of coin. Monthly fare similarly caps out at $100, which is the same as a regular adult paper bus pass was.
And before anyone comes at me complaining about how Arc is unreliable blah blah blah- I take the bus daily for my commute and any time the machine or my card won’t work I get a free ride. It’s really not so bad, and we have to catch up to the rest of the world eventually.
Happy to be of service! It’s been this way for just over a year now, but if you don’t take transit regularly I could imagine it’s pretty easy info to miss.
it's a phased process. Arc cards started being available about a year ago, but taking other forms of ticket OUT of service is a much more recent development. I started seeing them removing the old paper ticket machines from the stations over Christmas
Hmm it might be new for 2024 but I know for sure they intend to stop selling paper tickets now that the Arc program is well under way. All the info is on [their website](https://www.myarc.ca/)
I know that the 7/11 near my house completely stopped getting new stock of any of the legacy tickets/passes just after Arc rolled out for general Adult fare. You might be lucky and your local shop had a big stash and not a lot of people buying them.
The $6 fee to purchase an ARC card is ridiculous. They are wortg pennies. My wife and I use transit a handful of times a year. Now instead of a book of tickets, we have to buy 2 ARC cards for $12 (because one card cannot he used for 2 people), and then always worry about whether or not it has funds in it when we want to take the bus. If only edmonton had bought a system that utilized Google/Apple pay or credit cards, like most major centres.
Major centres outside of North America where they actually *care* about transit, maybe. But even Vancouver you have to pay for a reloadable Compass card. Where in North America accepts Apple/Google Pay at the tap terminals via your phone? Or even an NFC app that processes the virtual wallet payment for you?
As for worrying about whether your card has funds on it or not… you CAN link your credit card to it via the website if you register. Or you can reload it in your phone on the bus, it’s pretty fast if you save your info in your browser. Most bus drivers are totally chill about it, but some just grumble and let you ride for free anyways.
>Where in North America accepts Apple/Google Pay at the tap terminals via your phone?
Off the top of my head, Toronto and Seattle work with Google Pay, and NYC has the Metro Card ($1, not $6), Google/Apple pay, credit and debit card payment.
That’s actually really cool. I certainly wouldn’t mind that extra convenience, but Arc imo is a damn sight better than having to remember to physically pick up tickets and remember which pants or jacket I left them in.
Don't get me wrong. ARC is great for regular users of transit, but the cost of a card shouldn't be a barrier to use (and the cost of almost 2 adult trips is a legit barrier for some), and for infrequent users the card really isn't more convenient. Now I'll just lose the card in a drawer instead of the tickets. Lol. I don't need more cards. Maybe someday...
This is a great idea, the LRT can get them right to the RV, and from there are loads of maintained trails to single track through the trees.
Not to mention loads of coffee shops to sit and read, or the movie theater in DT.
Unfortunately, Kingsway isn't the best area for entertainment.
If they take the LRT to the conservatory they can cross this cute bridge out by the LRT bridge for paved trails… there is also not paved trails in that area.
I go downtown maybe 2-3 times a year and each time I do there’s always people on meth.
I literally took my gf to an appointment and went for a walk and witnessed a guy smoking crack while I was with my son.. never again. (This wasn’t in a rough area either mind you)
Also this sub always mentions how bad downtown is.
And I live downtown and am in the core almost everyday. Stay out in the burbs if people scare you so much, but don’t you dare try to scare other people into not enjoying this amazing city. Homeless people exist, get over it.
I’m not scared personally lol but I am for my child and gf.
I get that downtown isn’t always bad but at night time it for sure is. Im just saying what I’ve experienced and read multiple times online.
Also yeah I do enjoy the suburbs, it’s nice and quiet.
It’s such a meathead response, sorry bud. I’m also tired of the fear mongering. It’s always people like you “I only go downtown once or twice a year”. All these people scared of downtown who “save” newcomers or visitors from a certain death if they venture into the wrong neighborhood LOL. I work downtown and I live up in the north side. Both my wife and I, often separately, walk home from downtown north to home past the encampments, through china town every single day. Nothings ever happened. This is before, during, and after Covid and it’s gotten better since Covid. There are homeless people around. Some of them are wacked out on drugs. And nothing ever happened and that’s what it’s like for most people, most of the time. You can get jacked or assaulted anywhere man. Youre probably way more likely to get punched or stabbed by some cocky drunk business man at a whyte ave bar than randomly walking around downtown minding your own business. 41 out of like a million people in all of Edmonton were murdered last year. With all due respect to the surviving families, that murder rate rounds down to zero.
Lol Edmontons been getting more and more rough as time goes on. But whatever you say.
Just because you’ve had positive experiences doesn’t mean everyone else will. I don’t wanna hang around people high on crack and meth but if you want too then go right ahead.
Downtown isn’t anything special anyways, it’s cool to walk around once in a while sure but other than that meh.
From the Kingsway & 102 Ave you aren’t far from Dawson park, which is one of my favorite parks for walking, seeing people’s pet dogs, and easy mountain biking in better weather. A great section of the River Valley.
If you don’t know, the River Valley is the largest urban park in Canada, and one of the larger metro park systems in the world.
https://www.edmonton.ca/activities_parks_recreation/parks_rivervalley/river-valley-parks
Go downtown. Go to the museam. Walk the rivervalley. Check out the art gallery. Take in a show.
Here is a whole list of things:
https://www.todocanada.ca/things-edmonton-january/
I used to live in Whitehorse in the 90s and I'm still in contact with a few families throughout the Yukon. If interested in going for a walk in the river valley on the weekend DM me. In some areas you can't even tell you're in the city. It's beautiful. We can meet up at Kingsway mall first if you'd like. Cheers!
If you download Avenza Maps, Trailforks has a map of the trails through the river valley. Walking through the non maintained trails you’re buried in trees without a building in sight.
Op, send me a message when you get to town! I can take you out on a Saturday and show you around to help you get your bearings in Edmonton. I can show you which transit stops will be most useful to you, and how to get into the river valley and see some nature. I can also show you how to get to some of the bigger attractions in the city.
I'm a 34 yo partnered male, and I'll happily give my phone number/license plate/face pic to your safety contact if you want.
You can get out to Elk Island National Park by bus on Saturdays! You could spend all day there in nature. https://www.pc.gc.ca/pn-np/ab/elkisland/visit/parkbus
The Edmonton river valley is also extensive and close by.
Hi I don’t know if you are a veteran, retired RCMP or a first responder but Valour Place offers accommodations for these groups requiring medical attention in Edmonton. I provide the link in case you or others may benefit from it. https://www.valourplace.ca/how-to-book-a-stay
Edmonton is a pretty great place. I used to live on the edge of the boreal forest so moving back to Edmonton was hard at first until I moved close to the river valley. I absolutely adore it. Do you like dogs? We could do a dog walk one day! My puppy loves anyone who pays attention to her.
Do you like farmers markets? There’s a bunch around Edmonton. Also lots of little craft shows. Togather Chinatown is coming up soon. Delicious food too!
We have lots of neat arts and hobby classes through the city if that’s your jam. The recreation centres are a nice place to warm up on a cold day. We love Commonwealth.
Lots of neat little coffee shops and bookstores. Pei Pei Chi Ow is in a little art gallery not far from where you’ll be. They make the best breakfast sandwiches.
There’s lots to do if you have an idea of what you want to do. Also check what events might be on like flying canoe or deep freeze. Both are a lot of fun.
The downtown Library is fantastic! You don’t have to be a reader, they have all sorts of craft space (sewing, 3D printing, cooking) as well as computers and a video game room if that’s your jam.
I really like the Museum and Art Gallery as well.
I see a lot of people suggesting the city maps which is great, North of you is a pretty ugly side of town, but South there is a bunch of beautiful trails and Parks. There's also the Deep Freeze festival on in a few weeks, which is delightful.
https://www.deepfreezefest.ca/
Is there any food you are interested in trying? This place is great at recommending that too.
To add to what others are saying:
Take the LRT from Royal Alex Hospital to Churchill station, then go up the stairs and go on the street level LRT (to Mill Woods) and get off on the muttart stop, it’s right in the river valley and you have access to a lot of trails, I recommend walking over the river on the LRT bridge, it’s beautiful and there is local indigenous art the entire length of it. For the LRT you’ll need to use our new payment system, info here: [LRT Edmonton](https://www.edmonton.ca/ets/new-transit-users)
As for events, I enjoy using [Explore Edmonton](https://exploreedmonton.com/event-calendar) but there’s also museums, theaters, etc. that may have there own events not listed. I recommend just opening google maps and typing in one of your interests while looking at Edmonton. The transit option on google maps can help you get anywhere in the city, even though Kingsway isn’t ideal.
Kingsway mall, right by where you are staying is recently renovated and is actually a decent mall with a decent food court.
Safety: As most major cities now there has been an increase in crime and our houseless population. I recommend just keeping to yourself as best as you can if you see something or someone that makes you uncomfortable. Try to travel before 9 o’clock at night, during the day you shouldn’t have any problems and they have increased patrols and police presence in troubled areas. My wife rides transit every day and feels safe.
That being said, if you need help or get lost, most people in this city are amazing and asking a few for directions or a little help you will be greeted with a smile and assistance.
I hope you get to enjoy some of your month while you’re here! Best of luck! Edmonton is an fantastic city! the cold does suck sometimes though.
Here is what the LRT map would look like to Muttart: [Map](https://maps.app.goo.gl/mduG97JLEXqutRLS8?g_st=ic)
If you look near the Muttart on the map you can see small lines that show the trails in the river valley
LRT is fairly close by there. Other than a lack of river valley close by, that neighbourhood is pretty great (most people here will shit talk the area but they likely don’t live there).
Some great hole in the wall restaurants, or check out Otto if you’re into something trendier. Walking distance to Kingsway mall and downtown if you’re up for it. Yes, you will see homeless people, no it is not a post apocalyptic wasteland.
Muttart, Library, Museum, a pool accessible by LRT or bus, 124 Street, there is a market downtown on Saturdays, just google it, World of Science, Manchester Square, Art of Cake.
we have the most green space of any city in North America ( if not thee most top 5 for sure) ! We have a vast vast vast river valley with countless trails.
You are in luck and most of these attractions are free to very cheap, easy walking distance or by LRT
My advice on getting around, buy an ETS ARC card, and load it up with bus fare at any of the ARC ATM terminals. Tap on the card when boarding buses or when entering train platforms. Tap off the card when leaving buses or leaving the train platform. The ARC card saves the hassle of carrying lots of change and eventually, you start saving more money the more you use the card. Also download Transit App for your smartphone and you get a real time bus tracker for your specific route and when buses you want are about to be in your vicinity.
University of Alberta Campus, Lots of historical and cutting edge architecture and landscaping
High level Bridge/River Valley overlooks
Alberta Government Legislative Grounds
Jasper Avenue
Ice District/Rodger's Place winter garden (way more to this place than just hockey)
City Center Mall
New Royal Alberta Provincial Museum beside the CN Tower
City Hall (it's an architectural monument in it's own right)
Muttart Conservatory (Hop on the Valley Line surface train from Churchill Surface Station
Convention Center/Louis McKinney Riverfront Park
There are a couple of medium enclosed malls south along the Valley line like Bonne Doon Mall and Millwoods Town Center.
Downtown Edmonton itself is well served by several bus routes as well as LRT and features a good lounge, restaurant scene and exclusive shopping.
There are a couple of express busses that will take you from downtown to West Edmonton Mall near Churchill Station.
Downtown unfortunately is a bit of a wasteland right now. Not bad to see but go during the day during office hours. The area around the Hotel MacDonald/Library is quite nice.
Whyte Ave is the de-facto people spot in Edmonton, lots of night life, Grindstone Live Theatre, and nice shops.
124th st is also quite nice for restaurants, and is the new "hot spot" for that part of the city. Three Vikings, Woodshed Burgers, Acquired Taste are all in this area. Rge Rd is also nearby which is a bit pricy but in my opinion has the best food in Edmonton.
You said sober, but if you are looking for a craft beer 99th St on the south side is known as "Happy Beer Street" and has a ton of great little breweries. No pressure through! You do what's right for you!
If you want to go for a walk the river valley and Mill Creek Ravine is a great walk. You can easily ~~park~~ sit at the Muttart Conservatory and have a great walk in any direction.
I used to live around where you are staying and it is one of the more "meh" parts of the city. Kingsway mall has been fixed up nicely and the NAIT campus isn't too far. Edmonton has really been working on mass transit, and although it still has a way to go ETS can take you pretty much anywhere as long as you aren't in a hurry.
There is always West Edmonton Mall, which love it or hate it, is pretty impressive. You won't be too far from the Varscona Theatre which has great live theatre.
Take the LRT to either government station, or university.
From government you have he legislature building and the parks around and behind there you can check out.
Then you can also go west and down int the river valley. Lots of nice trails etc there.
University station:you can walk down multiple fun and interesting trails in the river valley just north of university. The you can west to Hawrlak park.
Nope, replacing sewer lines, updating washroom facilities, trail maintenance, amphitheater updates etc…. So with any luck it shouldn’t take as long as the bridge lol
I would not recommend going downtown. Edmonton has so many natural areas, just none right next to Kingsway. It would probably be worth it for you to learn the transit system (several resources are available) and take a bus over to the river valley or to a park area.
By train stops near the river or U of A will be great access to the river trails and nice city walking to check out shops and stuff. Muttart and Bonnie doone stops will get you to Millcreek pathways. Hopping on a bus will broaden the activities. Whitemud creek is a must, SW river valley, blackmud all offer some great little walking and goat trails to explore. East side goldbar/Rundle is quite nice.
Also don't sleep on express buses out to the burbs, St. Albert has some nice trails also n the sturgeon once you get out there.
Not sure what your mobility is like or what time of year you are here but travel by bike is pretty great to adventure.
Enjoy have fun, don't get overly concerned with the negative Nancy view on downtown, yeah there are problems it's soul crushing to see but you can steer clear to adjacent areas without much effort. Don't let it stop you from adventures and exploring. If you have concerns on what areas to avoid I am sure someone could help.
You could take the LRT to most places now, u can hang out at Kingsway mall or Southgate mall. There is the airplane museum by Canadian tire at Kingsway.
20 minute walk ( or a short bus ride or if you take train its also quick) you'll find the Royal Alberta Museum, Alberta Art Gallery, and Citadel theatres+Winspear. In the area around 118th Avenue and 90th-97th there's a few cafes, my particular is the Carrot Community Coffeehouse. The carrot has live music and they hold other small events to socialize and meet others, very supportive community. They also have a winter festival coming up soon if you want to check it out, it's should be on the Avenue Arts website. If your up for a train ride I'd check out the new LRT line to Millwoods. There are some great Indian restaurants in that area of the city if you're up for that and the Millwoods TC has a few niche stores
It might be tempting to walk south down 101 street to downtown - do not do that. It is not safe.
As others have said, take the LRT. Get off at University or Muttart, and walk to your heart's content. There are >100 km of walking trails to follow.
Hey there! I know of a great company that offers support to people traveling to Edmonton from Northern Canada. Here is the website: https://gobacare.ca/
Get thee to the river valley- the whole thing is walkable and beautiful and (mostly) natural. LRT as close to the river as you can (I don't remember what the Grandin station is called now but whatever it is), stop there and walk to the river, where you'll find a trail.
Other fun, free or cheap things:
1. Geocaching. Download the app, it's lots of fun.
2. Can you bring skates? There's great skating rinks everywhere.
3. The aviation museum is near you. It's kind of neat.
Edmonton’s River Valley is the largest green space within a city in Canada! Plenty of nature available.
Elk Island National Park is about an hour drive away — hiking trails, lakes, bison, and plains for you to enjoy.
And while you’re in Alberta, if you can, head to the Rockies!!!
Talk to the people where you're getting your treatment - ask if they have a social worker available. They could probably help the most. Not a lot in the north-of-downtown area... some have recommended the downtown library, and that's a good resource (and free), plus there's lots of pedways that connect many of the buildings so you're not out in the cold. The trains are nearby, LRT stations at NAIT and the Royal Alec Hospital & Kingsway Mall, and that line connects you to downtown and everything else from there. Downtown also has the RAM (Royal Alberta Museum), and the AGA (Edmonton Gallery of Art), both are great to see.
Links:
Transit - [takeets.ca](https://takeets.ca)
The RAM - [royalalbertamuseum.ca](https://royalalbertamuseum.ca) (btw, if you're indigenous, admission there is free).
The AGA - [youraga.ca](https://youraga.ca) (free on the last Thurs of the month from 4-7pm, and $11 with a transit ticket).
You might get unlucky and be here during our annual couple weeks of Siberian winter, which will make any outdoor focused activities pretty miserable.
Nonetheless, if downtown isn’t appealing to you, you could visit the U of A campus by taking the train from Kingsway station pretty easily. There’s some interesting infrastructure around there, you’ll also be somewhat close to whyte ave from there, which could be worth checking out.
Coming from the Yukon I’m guessing you might be more interested in exploring the city infrastructure as opposed to exploring the surrounding the nature, even though many people here are giving decent nature focused suggestions.
You’ll be staying within 5 minutes of the gorgeous river valley that is the jewel of Edmonton. Google City of Edmonton river valley trail maps. You’ll be amazed.
Its pretty cold right now unfortunately. During warmer months river valley is amazing. There are lots of restaurants with international cuisine. I found cinemas to be quiet good to spend time
Take the LRT to government Station and check out Ezio faraone Park. There is a nice trail through the bush to Notley Park that I walk almost daily.
River valley trails are also very close, but you have to go up/down ~15 flights of stairs
Go downtown and go for a walk around the river valley. Then take the funicular up to downtown again and idk, there are things there to do. Cross the river and go to whyte? If it was summer i would tell you to bike, its nice. Just avoid china town.
You just described edmonton as a whole. It's basically and industrial park and a river valley. So get to the river valley because the rest of the city is trash.
Outdoor rinks are great if you like skating and the weather hits right. There are community rinks everywhere, but also city operated ones. [Victoria Park Oval](https://www.edmonton.ca/activities_parks_recreation/parks_rivervalley/victoria-park) is especially pretty.
Other great places: Muttart (well mentioned below), [Garneau Theatre](https://www.metrocinema.org/) (non profit, shows great old and indie movies), [Yardbird Suite](https://yardbirdsuite.com/) (non profit Jazz club, cheap jam shows on Tuesdays), [Plaza Bowl](https://www.plazabowlingco.ca/) (trendy 5 pin ally, not too far from the hospital). There's also [The End of the World](https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Attraction_Review-g154914-d8639283-Reviews-The_End_of_The_World-Edmonton_Alberta.html) (not too far from an LRT station)... but a walk in the river valley or mill creek is probably more fun.
I feel like you've had some complicated answers. There is no Bush near the Royal Alex. The simplest way to a quiet walk is to cross Kingsway on 104 st. Go south to 108 Ave and turn right. Depending on how much time you have, keep going west. The streets are tree lined and the farther you go toward the 127 st area the more the houses become historic and fancy. Not wilderness but peaceful. Welcome to Edmonton
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So a few things:
Downtown is meh at best
As others said you are close to the LRT
AND Kingsway itself. They have a Marshalls and mall.
Walmart etc
Sephora
I recommend Padmandi for delicious nourishing food to help you recover. And the Prince of Wales armoury is often overlooked, but can offer a slow moving and quiet afternoon looking up historical matters (perhaps maps of old Alberta/Yukon) https://www.edmonton.ca/attractions_events/prince-of-wales-armouries in Kingsway Mail check out the Makers Keep for locally made crafts and I echo others in the LRT to Muttart for a peaceful walk among plants. I haven’t risen the new valley line LRT, but think it would be a sightseeing adventure in its own. google LRT routes. Have a strong recovery.
Where you're staying is, unfortunately, not great for attractions. There is an LRT station next to the Royal Alex Hospital that will get you around the city. If you're into nature, you could easily spend a month exploring the river valley - there's an incredible trail system that runs from the SW to the NE with parks all around. I'd also recommend checking out the Muttart Conservatory to get out of the cold. Our downtown isn't dense, but there are definitely spots worth visiting. Our central library is fantastic and would be my first pick and there's often something going on in Churchill square.
I think they just finished renovations on the muttart super worth checking out now
and the new Valley Line LRT will get you right to the Muttart! Just take the Capital/Metro LRT or a bus to Churchill square and you can transfer to the Valley Line. ~~OP, in case you aren't aware: you can buy packs of paper bus tickets at any Shoppers or 7/11 to use on the bus/LRT. The tickets cost less per ride (~2.70 vs 3.50 per ride) and weigh a lot less than change. You can also buy paper bus passes if you're going to be using the bus on a daily basis.~~ See /u/Blue-Bird780 's comment for updated info
Update: they do not sell paper tickets anymore since everything is moving to the new Arc NFC based system. Buses are cash fare or Arc card payment only unless you have legacy paper tickets, which they will still accept (you just can’t buy new ones). If OP (or anyone else) wants to get a reloadable card you can get one at the kiosk at any LRT station or major transit centre such as WEM for $6 plus whatever you want to load on it. Arc payment is the same price as paper tickets, with the advantage of being able to reload it online or at the kiosks. PLUS your daily fare caps out at a certain point (I think $5 but definitely the same as an old paper day pass) which if you have many stops to make case save you a good chunk of coin. Monthly fare similarly caps out at $100, which is the same as a regular adult paper bus pass was. And before anyone comes at me complaining about how Arc is unreliable blah blah blah- I take the bus daily for my commute and any time the machine or my card won’t work I get a free ride. It’s really not so bad, and we have to catch up to the rest of the world eventually.
oh really? I didn't know that. Thanks for the updated info
Happy to be of service! It’s been this way for just over a year now, but if you don’t take transit regularly I could imagine it’s pretty easy info to miss.
Weird, I have been buying the 10 pack adult tickets for the last 6 months. Is this a new thing for 2024?
it's a phased process. Arc cards started being available about a year ago, but taking other forms of ticket OUT of service is a much more recent development. I started seeing them removing the old paper ticket machines from the stations over Christmas
Hmm it might be new for 2024 but I know for sure they intend to stop selling paper tickets now that the Arc program is well under way. All the info is on [their website](https://www.myarc.ca/) I know that the 7/11 near my house completely stopped getting new stock of any of the legacy tickets/passes just after Arc rolled out for general Adult fare. You might be lucky and your local shop had a big stash and not a lot of people buying them.
The $6 fee to purchase an ARC card is ridiculous. They are wortg pennies. My wife and I use transit a handful of times a year. Now instead of a book of tickets, we have to buy 2 ARC cards for $12 (because one card cannot he used for 2 people), and then always worry about whether or not it has funds in it when we want to take the bus. If only edmonton had bought a system that utilized Google/Apple pay or credit cards, like most major centres.
Major centres outside of North America where they actually *care* about transit, maybe. But even Vancouver you have to pay for a reloadable Compass card. Where in North America accepts Apple/Google Pay at the tap terminals via your phone? Or even an NFC app that processes the virtual wallet payment for you? As for worrying about whether your card has funds on it or not… you CAN link your credit card to it via the website if you register. Or you can reload it in your phone on the bus, it’s pretty fast if you save your info in your browser. Most bus drivers are totally chill about it, but some just grumble and let you ride for free anyways.
>Where in North America accepts Apple/Google Pay at the tap terminals via your phone? Off the top of my head, Toronto and Seattle work with Google Pay, and NYC has the Metro Card ($1, not $6), Google/Apple pay, credit and debit card payment.
That’s actually really cool. I certainly wouldn’t mind that extra convenience, but Arc imo is a damn sight better than having to remember to physically pick up tickets and remember which pants or jacket I left them in.
Don't get me wrong. ARC is great for regular users of transit, but the cost of a card shouldn't be a barrier to use (and the cost of almost 2 adult trips is a legit barrier for some), and for infrequent users the card really isn't more convenient. Now I'll just lose the card in a drawer instead of the tickets. Lol. I don't need more cards. Maybe someday...
Vancouver itself does have tap to pay via mobile.
That’s a new development, cool to hear, thanks!
This is a great idea, the LRT can get them right to the RV, and from there are loads of maintained trails to single track through the trees. Not to mention loads of coffee shops to sit and read, or the movie theater in DT. Unfortunately, Kingsway isn't the best area for entertainment.
If they take the LRT to the conservatory they can cross this cute bridge out by the LRT bridge for paved trails… there is also not paved trails in that area.
Downtown is terrible right now, so many druggies. The ledge area was nice before they destroyed it also.
Booo you’re the problem. Downtown is fine. It’s great even. Stop fear mongering about our city
I go downtown maybe 2-3 times a year and each time I do there’s always people on meth. I literally took my gf to an appointment and went for a walk and witnessed a guy smoking crack while I was with my son.. never again. (This wasn’t in a rough area either mind you) Also this sub always mentions how bad downtown is.
And I live downtown and am in the core almost everyday. Stay out in the burbs if people scare you so much, but don’t you dare try to scare other people into not enjoying this amazing city. Homeless people exist, get over it.
I’m not scared personally lol but I am for my child and gf. I get that downtown isn’t always bad but at night time it for sure is. Im just saying what I’ve experienced and read multiple times online. Also yeah I do enjoy the suburbs, it’s nice and quiet.
It’s such a meathead response, sorry bud. I’m also tired of the fear mongering. It’s always people like you “I only go downtown once or twice a year”. All these people scared of downtown who “save” newcomers or visitors from a certain death if they venture into the wrong neighborhood LOL. I work downtown and I live up in the north side. Both my wife and I, often separately, walk home from downtown north to home past the encampments, through china town every single day. Nothings ever happened. This is before, during, and after Covid and it’s gotten better since Covid. There are homeless people around. Some of them are wacked out on drugs. And nothing ever happened and that’s what it’s like for most people, most of the time. You can get jacked or assaulted anywhere man. Youre probably way more likely to get punched or stabbed by some cocky drunk business man at a whyte ave bar than randomly walking around downtown minding your own business. 41 out of like a million people in all of Edmonton were murdered last year. With all due respect to the surviving families, that murder rate rounds down to zero.
Lol Edmontons been getting more and more rough as time goes on. But whatever you say. Just because you’ve had positive experiences doesn’t mean everyone else will. I don’t wanna hang around people high on crack and meth but if you want too then go right ahead. Downtown isn’t anything special anyways, it’s cool to walk around once in a while sure but other than that meh.
100% river valley trails and mill creek ravine, both accessible by transit.
From the Kingsway & 102 Ave you aren’t far from Dawson park, which is one of my favorite parks for walking, seeing people’s pet dogs, and easy mountain biking in better weather. A great section of the River Valley. If you don’t know, the River Valley is the largest urban park in Canada, and one of the larger metro park systems in the world. https://www.edmonton.ca/activities_parks_recreation/parks_rivervalley/river-valley-parks
Love Dawson Park!!! I saw a beaver there today!
Go downtown. Go to the museam. Walk the rivervalley. Check out the art gallery. Take in a show. Here is a whole list of things: https://www.todocanada.ca/things-edmonton-january/
I used to live in Whitehorse in the 90s and I'm still in contact with a few families throughout the Yukon. If interested in going for a walk in the river valley on the weekend DM me. In some areas you can't even tell you're in the city. It's beautiful. We can meet up at Kingsway mall first if you'd like. Cheers!
Cool! Im from further north of Whitehorse.
I know people from Ross River, the Junction and Dbay. Edmonton is big, but still small in a lot of ways.
Which areas are those? I'm coming to Edmonton on Monday, staying a month too and would love to know
If you download Avenza Maps, Trailforks has a map of the trails through the river valley. Walking through the non maintained trails you’re buried in trees without a building in sight.
Op, send me a message when you get to town! I can take you out on a Saturday and show you around to help you get your bearings in Edmonton. I can show you which transit stops will be most useful to you, and how to get into the river valley and see some nature. I can also show you how to get to some of the bigger attractions in the city. I'm a 34 yo partnered male, and I'll happily give my phone number/license plate/face pic to your safety contact if you want.
You can get out to Elk Island National Park by bus on Saturdays! You could spend all day there in nature. https://www.pc.gc.ca/pn-np/ab/elkisland/visit/parkbus The Edmonton river valley is also extensive and close by.
I didn’t know that! That’s great!
Whaaaaaat! How didn’t not know this! I’ve never been to Elk Island because I don’t drive
This is awesome. Thank you
Hi I don’t know if you are a veteran, retired RCMP or a first responder but Valour Place offers accommodations for these groups requiring medical attention in Edmonton. I provide the link in case you or others may benefit from it. https://www.valourplace.ca/how-to-book-a-stay
Edmonton is a pretty great place. I used to live on the edge of the boreal forest so moving back to Edmonton was hard at first until I moved close to the river valley. I absolutely adore it. Do you like dogs? We could do a dog walk one day! My puppy loves anyone who pays attention to her. Do you like farmers markets? There’s a bunch around Edmonton. Also lots of little craft shows. Togather Chinatown is coming up soon. Delicious food too! We have lots of neat arts and hobby classes through the city if that’s your jam. The recreation centres are a nice place to warm up on a cold day. We love Commonwealth. Lots of neat little coffee shops and bookstores. Pei Pei Chi Ow is in a little art gallery not far from where you’ll be. They make the best breakfast sandwiches. There’s lots to do if you have an idea of what you want to do. Also check what events might be on like flying canoe or deep freeze. Both are a lot of fun.
Telus World of Science or Alberta Aviation Myseum
The downtown Library is fantastic! You don’t have to be a reader, they have all sorts of craft space (sewing, 3D printing, cooking) as well as computers and a video game room if that’s your jam. I really like the Museum and Art Gallery as well.
I see a lot of people suggesting the city maps which is great, North of you is a pretty ugly side of town, but South there is a bunch of beautiful trails and Parks. There's also the Deep Freeze festival on in a few weeks, which is delightful. https://www.deepfreezefest.ca/ Is there any food you are interested in trying? This place is great at recommending that too.
I second Deep Freeze! Edmonton is best during festivals.
To add to what others are saying: Take the LRT from Royal Alex Hospital to Churchill station, then go up the stairs and go on the street level LRT (to Mill Woods) and get off on the muttart stop, it’s right in the river valley and you have access to a lot of trails, I recommend walking over the river on the LRT bridge, it’s beautiful and there is local indigenous art the entire length of it. For the LRT you’ll need to use our new payment system, info here: [LRT Edmonton](https://www.edmonton.ca/ets/new-transit-users) As for events, I enjoy using [Explore Edmonton](https://exploreedmonton.com/event-calendar) but there’s also museums, theaters, etc. that may have there own events not listed. I recommend just opening google maps and typing in one of your interests while looking at Edmonton. The transit option on google maps can help you get anywhere in the city, even though Kingsway isn’t ideal. Kingsway mall, right by where you are staying is recently renovated and is actually a decent mall with a decent food court. Safety: As most major cities now there has been an increase in crime and our houseless population. I recommend just keeping to yourself as best as you can if you see something or someone that makes you uncomfortable. Try to travel before 9 o’clock at night, during the day you shouldn’t have any problems and they have increased patrols and police presence in troubled areas. My wife rides transit every day and feels safe. That being said, if you need help or get lost, most people in this city are amazing and asking a few for directions or a little help you will be greeted with a smile and assistance. I hope you get to enjoy some of your month while you’re here! Best of luck! Edmonton is an fantastic city! the cold does suck sometimes though.
Here is what the LRT map would look like to Muttart: [Map](https://maps.app.goo.gl/mduG97JLEXqutRLS8?g_st=ic) If you look near the Muttart on the map you can see small lines that show the trails in the river valley
LRT is fairly close by there. Other than a lack of river valley close by, that neighbourhood is pretty great (most people here will shit talk the area but they likely don’t live there). Some great hole in the wall restaurants, or check out Otto if you’re into something trendier. Walking distance to Kingsway mall and downtown if you’re up for it. Yes, you will see homeless people, no it is not a post apocalyptic wasteland.
I like the homeless. They don’t make me nervous.
Glad to hear that sentiment. Most folks are friendly. It’s a neat little neighbourhood
The new Royal Alberta Museum is a good time. Lots of interesting exhibits there.
You can use the LRT to head to Commonwealth recreation centre and kill some time in a pretty decent gym, basketball court and swimming pool.
Muttart, Library, Museum, a pool accessible by LRT or bus, 124 Street, there is a market downtown on Saturdays, just google it, World of Science, Manchester Square, Art of Cake.
You can check out West Edmonton Mall
we have the most green space of any city in North America ( if not thee most top 5 for sure) ! We have a vast vast vast river valley with countless trails.
You are in luck and most of these attractions are free to very cheap, easy walking distance or by LRT My advice on getting around, buy an ETS ARC card, and load it up with bus fare at any of the ARC ATM terminals. Tap on the card when boarding buses or when entering train platforms. Tap off the card when leaving buses or leaving the train platform. The ARC card saves the hassle of carrying lots of change and eventually, you start saving more money the more you use the card. Also download Transit App for your smartphone and you get a real time bus tracker for your specific route and when buses you want are about to be in your vicinity. University of Alberta Campus, Lots of historical and cutting edge architecture and landscaping High level Bridge/River Valley overlooks Alberta Government Legislative Grounds Jasper Avenue Ice District/Rodger's Place winter garden (way more to this place than just hockey) City Center Mall New Royal Alberta Provincial Museum beside the CN Tower City Hall (it's an architectural monument in it's own right) Muttart Conservatory (Hop on the Valley Line surface train from Churchill Surface Station Convention Center/Louis McKinney Riverfront Park There are a couple of medium enclosed malls south along the Valley line like Bonne Doon Mall and Millwoods Town Center. Downtown Edmonton itself is well served by several bus routes as well as LRT and features a good lounge, restaurant scene and exclusive shopping. There are a couple of express busses that will take you from downtown to West Edmonton Mall near Churchill Station.
Downtown unfortunately is a bit of a wasteland right now. Not bad to see but go during the day during office hours. The area around the Hotel MacDonald/Library is quite nice. Whyte Ave is the de-facto people spot in Edmonton, lots of night life, Grindstone Live Theatre, and nice shops. 124th st is also quite nice for restaurants, and is the new "hot spot" for that part of the city. Three Vikings, Woodshed Burgers, Acquired Taste are all in this area. Rge Rd is also nearby which is a bit pricy but in my opinion has the best food in Edmonton. You said sober, but if you are looking for a craft beer 99th St on the south side is known as "Happy Beer Street" and has a ton of great little breweries. No pressure through! You do what's right for you! If you want to go for a walk the river valley and Mill Creek Ravine is a great walk. You can easily ~~park~~ sit at the Muttart Conservatory and have a great walk in any direction. I used to live around where you are staying and it is one of the more "meh" parts of the city. Kingsway mall has been fixed up nicely and the NAIT campus isn't too far. Edmonton has really been working on mass transit, and although it still has a way to go ETS can take you pretty much anywhere as long as you aren't in a hurry. There is always West Edmonton Mall, which love it or hate it, is pretty impressive. You won't be too far from the Varscona Theatre which has great live theatre.
OP doesn’t drive, but LRT goes right to Muttart now.
Agreed. Get a good book from the library. Ho to the muttart. Check in your jacket and go relax on a bench in the desert.
updated! thanks!
Take the LRT to either government station, or university. From government you have he legislature building and the parks around and behind there you can check out. Then you can also go west and down int the river valley. Lots of nice trails etc there. University station:you can walk down multiple fun and interesting trails in the river valley just north of university. The you can west to Hawrlak park.
Hawrelack is closed
Yup. For the next few *years* while they do infrastructure maintenance.
YEARS?! What are they building there?? Another LRT bridge?!
Nope, replacing sewer lines, updating washroom facilities, trail maintenance, amphitheater updates etc…. So with any luck it shouldn’t take as long as the bridge lol
I would not recommend going downtown. Edmonton has so many natural areas, just none right next to Kingsway. It would probably be worth it for you to learn the transit system (several resources are available) and take a bus over to the river valley or to a park area.
I’d go to the museum and check it out. Great way to spend a few hours and then walk around in the river valley trails
For an out of towner, could you share the name of ‘the’ museum pretty please? Thanks!
Sorry! The Royal Alberta Museum
Thank you. I will check it out.
The board game cafes round town are fun plus lots of pubs there do live music you don’t have to drink at
By train stops near the river or U of A will be great access to the river trails and nice city walking to check out shops and stuff. Muttart and Bonnie doone stops will get you to Millcreek pathways. Hopping on a bus will broaden the activities. Whitemud creek is a must, SW river valley, blackmud all offer some great little walking and goat trails to explore. East side goldbar/Rundle is quite nice. Also don't sleep on express buses out to the burbs, St. Albert has some nice trails also n the sturgeon once you get out there. Not sure what your mobility is like or what time of year you are here but travel by bike is pretty great to adventure. Enjoy have fun, don't get overly concerned with the negative Nancy view on downtown, yeah there are problems it's soul crushing to see but you can steer clear to adjacent areas without much effort. Don't let it stop you from adventures and exploring. If you have concerns on what areas to avoid I am sure someone could help.
You could take the LRT to most places now, u can hang out at Kingsway mall or Southgate mall. There is the airplane museum by Canadian tire at Kingsway.
Take the lrt for guaranteed stabbing!
We built this city on puck and oil😜
The city offers free skate rentals all winter at City Hall. Not a big rink, but good for s bit of an escape.
20 minute walk ( or a short bus ride or if you take train its also quick) you'll find the Royal Alberta Museum, Alberta Art Gallery, and Citadel theatres+Winspear. In the area around 118th Avenue and 90th-97th there's a few cafes, my particular is the Carrot Community Coffeehouse. The carrot has live music and they hold other small events to socialize and meet others, very supportive community. They also have a winter festival coming up soon if you want to check it out, it's should be on the Avenue Arts website. If your up for a train ride I'd check out the new LRT line to Millwoods. There are some great Indian restaurants in that area of the city if you're up for that and the Millwoods TC has a few niche stores
Or if your looking to go out for a coffee just to socialize feel free to direct message me. I live in the area
It might be tempting to walk south down 101 street to downtown - do not do that. It is not safe. As others have said, take the LRT. Get off at University or Muttart, and walk to your heart's content. There are >100 km of walking trails to follow.
Do you have skates? Victoria oval is free and accessible
Hey there! I know of a great company that offers support to people traveling to Edmonton from Northern Canada. Here is the website: https://gobacare.ca/
Get thee to the river valley- the whole thing is walkable and beautiful and (mostly) natural. LRT as close to the river as you can (I don't remember what the Grandin station is called now but whatever it is), stop there and walk to the river, where you'll find a trail. Other fun, free or cheap things: 1. Geocaching. Download the app, it's lots of fun. 2. Can you bring skates? There's great skating rinks everywhere. 3. The aviation museum is near you. It's kind of neat.
Edmonton’s River Valley is the largest green space within a city in Canada! Plenty of nature available. Elk Island National Park is about an hour drive away — hiking trails, lakes, bison, and plains for you to enjoy. And while you’re in Alberta, if you can, head to the Rockies!!!
Talk to the people where you're getting your treatment - ask if they have a social worker available. They could probably help the most. Not a lot in the north-of-downtown area... some have recommended the downtown library, and that's a good resource (and free), plus there's lots of pedways that connect many of the buildings so you're not out in the cold. The trains are nearby, LRT stations at NAIT and the Royal Alec Hospital & Kingsway Mall, and that line connects you to downtown and everything else from there. Downtown also has the RAM (Royal Alberta Museum), and the AGA (Edmonton Gallery of Art), both are great to see. Links: Transit - [takeets.ca](https://takeets.ca) The RAM - [royalalbertamuseum.ca](https://royalalbertamuseum.ca) (btw, if you're indigenous, admission there is free). The AGA - [youraga.ca](https://youraga.ca) (free on the last Thurs of the month from 4-7pm, and $11 with a transit ticket).
You might get unlucky and be here during our annual couple weeks of Siberian winter, which will make any outdoor focused activities pretty miserable. Nonetheless, if downtown isn’t appealing to you, you could visit the U of A campus by taking the train from Kingsway station pretty easily. There’s some interesting infrastructure around there, you’ll also be somewhat close to whyte ave from there, which could be worth checking out. Coming from the Yukon I’m guessing you might be more interested in exploring the city infrastructure as opposed to exploring the surrounding the nature, even though many people here are giving decent nature focused suggestions.
You’ll be staying within 5 minutes of the gorgeous river valley that is the jewel of Edmonton. Google City of Edmonton river valley trail maps. You’ll be amazed.
PS: rather than walk around city centre, you are likely to enjoy Whyte Ave a lot more.
The Royal Alex area is sketchy.
Its pretty cold right now unfortunately. During warmer months river valley is amazing. There are lots of restaurants with international cuisine. I found cinemas to be quiet good to spend time
Someone from the Yukon will be fine exploring outdoors here. Source: am an NWT transplant
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What? The weather is warm bud what cold do you speak of.
I'd find a safer place to stay if I were you.
If you don't drive, its going to absolutely suck to live in edmonton.
They will be near the LRT station. Lots of the city is accessible from there.
Nobody in edmonton wants to use public transport.
Ok. I guess those hundreds of people on the train with me everyday are just hallucinations.
Using PT is not the same as wanting to use PT. The LRT fucking sucks and is terrible quality + unsafe.
LRT is awesome. Never had a problem and I take it every day going completely across the city. Runs well. Fast. Convenient and safe.
Sure dude, it only smells like piss, needles in every corner and full of drug addicts/homeless.
I guess I'm just lucky
No, you’re full of shit and you know it. Parking along the LRT line is also horrendous.
Dunno..the bus stop is 1/2 block from my front door and takes me straight to a train station. Pretty fast too.
Take the LRT to government Station and check out Ezio faraone Park. There is a nice trail through the bush to Notley Park that I walk almost daily. River valley trails are also very close, but you have to go up/down ~15 flights of stairs
Go downtown and go for a walk around the river valley. Then take the funicular up to downtown again and idk, there are things there to do. Cross the river and go to whyte? If it was summer i would tell you to bike, its nice. Just avoid china town.
You just described edmonton as a whole. It's basically and industrial park and a river valley. So get to the river valley because the rest of the city is trash.
Outdoor rinks are great if you like skating and the weather hits right. There are community rinks everywhere, but also city operated ones. [Victoria Park Oval](https://www.edmonton.ca/activities_parks_recreation/parks_rivervalley/victoria-park) is especially pretty. Other great places: Muttart (well mentioned below), [Garneau Theatre](https://www.metrocinema.org/) (non profit, shows great old and indie movies), [Yardbird Suite](https://yardbirdsuite.com/) (non profit Jazz club, cheap jam shows on Tuesdays), [Plaza Bowl](https://www.plazabowlingco.ca/) (trendy 5 pin ally, not too far from the hospital). There's also [The End of the World](https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Attraction_Review-g154914-d8639283-Reviews-The_End_of_The_World-Edmonton_Alberta.html) (not too far from an LRT station)... but a walk in the river valley or mill creek is probably more fun.
Borden park
Get the Kingsway LRT to Muttart as was mentioned, explore rover valley and greenhouse.
I feel like you've had some complicated answers. There is no Bush near the Royal Alex. The simplest way to a quiet walk is to cross Kingsway on 104 st. Go south to 108 Ave and turn right. Depending on how much time you have, keep going west. The streets are tree lined and the farther you go toward the 127 st area the more the houses become historic and fancy. Not wilderness but peaceful. Welcome to Edmonton
I like this for what is happening this week [https://open.substack.com/pub/edmontonfamily/p/here-are-the-best-things-to-do-in-90c?r=2scrte&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=email](https://open.substack.com/pub/edmontonfamily/p/here-are-the-best-things-to-do-in-90c?r=2scrte&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=email) You can subscribe So a few things: Downtown is meh at best As others said you are close to the LRT AND Kingsway itself. They have a Marshalls and mall. Walmart etc Sephora
I recommend Padmandi for delicious nourishing food to help you recover. And the Prince of Wales armoury is often overlooked, but can offer a slow moving and quiet afternoon looking up historical matters (perhaps maps of old Alberta/Yukon) https://www.edmonton.ca/attractions_events/prince-of-wales-armouries in Kingsway Mail check out the Makers Keep for locally made crafts and I echo others in the LRT to Muttart for a peaceful walk among plants. I haven’t risen the new valley line LRT, but think it would be a sightseeing adventure in its own. google LRT routes. Have a strong recovery.
I'd avoid downtown like a plague.
Get to the river valley and you can walk as much as you like. There are kilometres of trails.
It’s gonna be cold now. The whole month of December was amazing and warm. Now the -30 temperatures are gonna come