Are you fresh out of ideas? We know planning a fun day out for the kids can be a real challenge. Fortunately, there are countless things to do with kids in Edmonton that guarantee smiles all round. From the largest indoor wave pool and catching a glimpse of immense bison to exploring the Royal Aberta Museum, make your next family day out count.
1. Elk Island National Park
Let the kids breathe in the fresh air and roam free at the UNESCO designated Biosphere Reserve, Elk Island National Park. Just 35 minutes from Edmonton, you can enjoy a day out in nature accompanied by herds of bison, elk, and over 250 bird species. Go hiking, book your place at the Bison Tales Campfire on a Friday, and keep an eye out for other exciting events such as the park’s Star Party.
📍 54401 Range Rd 203, Fort Saskatchewan
2. West Edmonton Mall
Let them explore the commercial wilderness at West Edmonton Mall. Inspired by the traditional urban bazaars of Persia, this mall in Edmonton is not only abundant in shops, but it also places a huge focus on entertainment. Discover twelve world-class attractions, 100 dining venues, and more. Your kids won’t be able to resist the art electric Sodi race karts, 18-hole miniature golf course, visiting the underground aquarium, skating at the Ice Palace or experiencing the world’s largest indoor wave pool.
📍 8882 170 St NW, Edmonton
3. Royal Alberta Museum
Set aside some time for the kids to contemplate at the Royal Alberta Museum in Edmonton. This is easily one of the best things to do with kids in the city thanks to the Natural History Hall, Bug Gallery, and Children’s Gallery. Whether they feel like getting up close to life-size replica skeletons or going on a dig at The Dig Pit, there’s something for kids of all ages at the museum.
📍 9810 103a Ave NW, Edmonton
4. Fort Edmonton Park
If you’re looking for what is undeniably one of the best things for kids in Edmonton, then look no further than Fort Edmonton Park. This heritage park featuring architecture from 1885, 1905 and 1920 Edmonton offers countless attractions suitable for families and friends. Endless adventure awaits, including boarding the 1919 Baldwin Steam engine and train, riding on a streetcar, enjoying a wagon and pony ride, a Ferris wheel and outdoor maze.
📍 7000 143 St NW, Edmonton
5. TELUS World of Science
Budding scientists and curious little minds will feel at home at TELUS World of Science. Numerous fun and educational activities are organised by this sciene museum and visitors can also explore exhibits such as a display of LEGO® Art. Kids will enjoy spending time at the early childhood development gallery Curioscity, testing their skills at The Sciene Garage, and so much more.
📍 11211 142 St NW, Edmonton
6. High Level Bridge Streetcar
Surprise your youngsters with a journey on a historic streetcar. Not only is this a unique way to travel from downtown Edmonton to Old Strathcona, but riding a High Level Bridge Streetcar provides you with the opportunity to educate the little ones on 100 years of Edmonton history. Each streetcar comes with its own story and a name like Osaka #247 or the ex-Melbourne tram #930.
7. World Water Park
Make your next family-themed trip to the aforementioned West Edmonton Mall a focused mission by spending the day at World Water Park. This tropical oasis boasts over 17 waterslides featuring meanders, colour-changing and transparent sections. After hours of splashing and taking on the wave pool, kids can sip on a cup of ICEE (the “coldest drink in town) or snack on pizzas, burgers, and more at Sharky’s Grill.
📍 8882 170 Street Northwest, Edmonton
8. Lois Hole Centennial Provincial Park
Pack a picnic and your binoculars for a trip to Lois Hole Centennial Provincial Park. Take in the views of Big Lake and engage in some birdwatching. You can download the Bird Scavenger Hunt document from the state park’s website and challenge your little ones to spotting a red-winged blackbird, great blue heron, and more.
📍 1 Ray Gibbon Drive, St. Albert
9. Jurassic Forest
Do you have a youngster obsessed with palaeontology or, like most kids, simply fascinated by the enormity of dinosaurs? If so, Jurassic Forest, a 40-acre prehistoric preserve, is an absolute must. Just minutes from Edmonton, visitors can encounter the Stegosaurus, Triceratops, Albertosaurus and Tyrannosaurus. After walking 2 kilometers of boardwalk trails, you can have some more fun at the mini golf course, and grab some hot dogs at the Cretaceous Concession (during the summer season).
📍 2-23210 Township Road 564, Gibbons Alberta
10. Candlelight concert
Candlelight invites everyone (8 years old or older) to experience renditions of some of their favourite music. From modern-day icons like Taylor Swift to timeless composers such as Vivaldi, there is a concert for everyone. Halloween and holiday specials, tributes to Coldplay and so much more is included in the concert series’ repertoire.