Why Edmonton

There's never been a more exciting time to discover Alberta's capital. The most northern major city in the country, Edmonton is Canada's youngest and fastest-growing city.

The University of Alberta’s North Campus, our main teaching campus, is steps away from the lush river valley and quite literally at the heart of the city. You can take the train, grab a bike, electric scooter, or go on foot — and you’ll find unique shops, coffee houses, restaurants, and theatres just down the street or across the river from campus.

Campus Saint-Jean, our French language campus, is located in the heart of Edmonton’s francophone neighbourhood, Bonnie Doon. Enjoy the immersive environment of learning in French while still having easy access to North Campus amenities and facilities by taking a free 10-minute shuttle ride.

Use our campus map to see what surrounds our campuses.

What's good, Edmonton?

You’ll have years to get to know this city and find your favourite spots but why not start finding out how to get the most out of this city now.

Edmonton's river valley and U of A campus

River Valley

North Campus is located on the edge of the North Saskatchewan River Valley — the largest urban green space on the continent, 22 times larger than New York's Central Park.

Iskotew at the Indigenous Art Park in EdmontonIskotew at the Indigenous Art Park in Edmonton

Credit: Amy Malbeuf

ᐄᓃᐤ (ÎNÎW) RIVER LOT 11∞Indigenous Art Park Isoktew

Edmonton’s first Indigenous art park, înîw (EE-nu), which in Cree means “I am of the Earth” sits on a historic river lot, within Queen Elizabeth Park, with breathtaking views of the river valley and downtown. Here you will find six art installations created by Indigenous artists who were asked to create pieces “inspired by this land”.

Whyte Avenue shops

Whyte Avenue

Just steps away from North Campus, you'll find Whyte Avenue and its cafés, boutiques, year-round indoor farmers market, and lively nightlife.

U of A students skating outdoors

Skating at Victoria Park

Just across the North Saskatchewan River is the Victoria Park IceWay, an outdoor enchanting trail lit by vibrant colours and surrounded by trees. Skating here is FREE and it’s open to the public between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. daily.

Rogers Place in Edmonton

Ice District — Rogers Place

Downtown Edmonton’s newest sports and entertainment hub including Rogers Place, home to the Edmonton Oilers and Oil Kings hockey teams. Ice District Plaza is surrounded by restaurants and hosts live music and events throughout the year.

We are known as Canada’s Festival City

With 50 unique festivals happening throughout the year, there's always something happening in Edmonton.

During the Academic Year

Here are a couple of unique to Edmonton festivals that you can enjoy during the academic year.

Flying Canoë Volant

A creative and interactive festival celebrating French Canadian, First Nations and Métis traditions illuminating Mill Creek Ravine and the French Quarter.

Silver Skate Festival

An extravaganza of arts, culture, recreation, sport and winter joy complete with snow sculpture garden, storytelling and of course skating in the heart of Laurier Park.

Over the Summer

Staying for the Summer? Here are two more festivals to check out.

Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival

Old Strathcona is centre stage to local, national and international performers who put on every type of theatre performance imaginable over the ten day festival. Wander the grounds between performances and enjoy the many buskers and outdoor stages.

Edmonton Folk Music Festival

Four magical days of eclectic performers, delicious food and a remarkable setting make this the summer's premiere musical event. Nestled in the natural amphitheatre of Gallagher Hill.

Explore things to do in Edmonton

Ice castles
Explore Edmonton

Head to Explore Edmonton for a full listing of events, attractions and experiences for every season!

Bike trail
Curiocity Edmonton

And you can also follow @curiocityedmonton on Instagram and get the inside scoop on what's happening in Edmonton right now.