Nine days off can be a lot to fill if you’re not prepared. And with so much to see and do in Edmonton, there are no excuses for any renditions of “There’s nothing to do” or “I’m bored!” Here are some attractions that we think make for perfect family outings.
EDMONTON VALLEY ZOO
Discover over 350 animals from different climates and habitats at the Edmonton Valley Zoo, including tigers, red pandas, and Lucy the Asian elephant. Open year-round, the zoo’s conservational focus and its engaging and educational exhibits will help foster a greater love and understanding of the world’s creatures. 13315 Buena Vista Rd.
WEST EDMONTON MALL
If you want all your activities in one place, an endless supply exists at West Edmonton Mall. Make a splash at the World Waterpark, take a roller coaster ride in Galaxyland, explore the underground Sea Life Caverns aquarium, try out blacklight mini golf, or brave the Crystal Labyrinth mirror maze. The largest mall in North America, West Edmonton Mall boasts over 800 retail stores, 100 eating establishments, and 9 world-class attractions, making the trip a must-do for the whole family. 8882-170 St.
TELUS WORLD OF SCIENCE
Learn about the inner workings of the human body, explore the sky through high-quality telescopes, and discover a whole lot more at TELUS World of Science— Edmonton. Check out the Zeidler Dome, the most technologically advanced planetarium in the world, and the exciting new interactive S.P.A.C.E. gallery. The current feature exhibit, Body Worlds: Animal Inside Out, runs until March 31. 11211-142 St., 780- 451-3344.
FAST TRACK INDOOR KARTING
Got a need for speed? When the track is inside, you don’t need to check for optimal driving conditions, which makes Fast Track perfect any time. Hop in an electric kart, and zip around for some 70 km/h fun. If that’s a bit too speedy, try the 30 km/h junior track! Check out their weekly specials to optimize your family time (and your budget). 11771-167 St., 780-341-0640.
ROYAL ALBERTA MUSEUM
Western Canada’s largest museum has an extensive collection of more than two million objects, with everything from pictographs and prehistoric plant-eaters to mountain landscapes and unusual insects. Spend a whole day exploring the detailed and interactive galleries: Natural History, Human History, Bug, and Children’s. 9810-103A Ave., 825-468-6000.
ELK ISLAND NATIONAL PARK
Head to Elk Island for some outdoor fun year-round. Go geocaching along the trails, ranging from half-hour to half-day treks, and watch for the largest native terrestrial mammal in North America: the bison. Learn more about these majestic mammals, play games, and more at the Astotin Theatre, which is open weekends only till March 31, then daily throughout the summer. 54401 Rge Rd. 203, Fort Saskatchewan.
LASER CITY
Entertaining a whole group? Try a kids-friendly version of paintball! Mini Paintball is designed for kids 8–12, with smaller paintballs, slower guns, and lots of fun.
Play Pokemon Go? Check out our blog post about which attractions double as Pokestops!
