Edmonton, Alberta is a vibrant city that offers exceptional post-secondary education options for life after high school. Whether you’re looking to start your post-secondary journey or continue it, Edmonton has a variety of options to suit your needs. Here are some of the top post-secondary schools you could consider attending in Edmonton:

University of Alberta: The University of Alberta is a leading research university located in the south-central region of Edmonton, situated along the river bank. With over 40,000 students from around the world, it offers over 400 undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, including highly-regarded programs in engineering, business, law, medicine, and more. The University of Alberta also has a French campus located in the trendy Bonnie Doon neighbourhood, offering additional programs and services in French.

MacEwan University: MacEwan University is a comprehensive undergraduate university that offers a variety of programs including business, arts, sciences, nursing, and more. With small class sizes and a focus on practical experience, MacEwan is focused on preparing students for real-world learning. Situated near downtown Edmonton and the Brewery District, it is a convenient location to call home.

NAIT: NAIT (Northern Alberta Institute of Technology) is a leading polytechnic institution that offers hands-on training in a variety of fields, including technology, trades, engineering, and health sciences. With over 140 programs, NAIT provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen careers. NAIT is located just north of downtown and near Kingsway Garden Mall.

NorQuest College: NorQuest College is a public community college that offers a range of certificate, diploma, and degree programs in fields such as business, health care, community studies, and more. With a focus on career preparation and practical skills, NorQuest prepares students for success in the workforce. Norquest has been expanding its footprint in the heart of the warehouse district of downtown Edmonton. If you have young children, you will appreciate the daycare located onsite: 1000 Women Child Care Centre.

Concordia University: Concordia University of Edmonton is a small, faith-based university that offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs in areas such as business, education, science, and more. With a focus on personalized learning and community involvement, Concordia provides a unique learning experience for students.

Edmonton’s post-secondary institutions offer a wealth of opportunities for students, but that’s not all that makes Edmonton a great place to live. Here are a few more reasons why Edmonton is a great place to call home:

Beautiful scenery: Edmonton is home to the stunning River Valley, North America’s largest urban park, and a range of parks, gardens, and trails. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful escape, Edmonton’s natural beauty won’t disappoint.

Vibrant arts and culture: Edmonton is home to a thriving arts and culture scene, with festivals, performances, and exhibits happening year-round. From the world-renowned Fringe Festival to the Art Gallery of Alberta, there’s always something to see and do in Edmonton.

Strong economy: Edmonton has a diverse economy and is home to a range of industries, including oil and gas, healthcare, education, and technology. With a low unemployment rate and a strong job market, Edmonton provides great opportunities for career growth and advancement.

Whether you’re looking to pursue post-secondary education, start a new career, or just enjoy a great quality of life, Edmonton has something for everyone.

As a well established residential neighbourhood in central west Edmonton, Laurier Heights has much to offer for families, retirees, blooming professionals, and everyone in between! Many of the community’s original homes were constructed between 1950-1980, but the neighbourhood has recently become a desirable spot for infills and new developments. With above-average lot sizes and iconic trees that have grown with the neighbourhood, who wouldn’t want to put their new home here!

Recreation

With some of the neighbourhood overlooking the North Saskatchewan River and other areas bordering popular natural parks, there are ample opportunities for outdoor recreation in Laurier Heights. 

Sir Wilfred Laurier Park, Buena Vista Park, and the off-leash dog park are easily accessible from the neighbourhood, and with a short walk across the foot bridge you’ll find yourself in of Hawrelak Park where all the best summer and winter festivities in Edmonton take place! Once there, you’re a short trek up the river valley stairs where you’ll pop out at the University of Alberta campus. There are also countless walking trails and well-maintained sidewalks where you’ll encounter your neighbours at any time of the year.  

At the bottom of Buena Vista road you’ll find the Edmonton Valley Zoo which is a great place to spend the day with your kids or to plan a local date day. With a recent renovation and makeover, the Valley Zoo is a hub for animal education and care!

Residents in Laurier Heights also have close access to the Royal Mayfair Golf Club, Jasper Place and St. FX Fitness Centres, and Whitemud Park.

Neighbourhood

The boundaries of Laurier Heights are roughly 87 Avenue to the north, 149 Street and the Whitemud to the west, Buena Vista Park to the east, and the North Saskatchewan River valley to the south. 

Laurier Heights features many architecturally unique homes that include single-family detached homes, a few low-rise apartments, and the recent addition of infill, or “skinny”, homes. Many of these mid-century homes have been updated to reflect more contemporary trends but prospective buyers can still expect to find one-of-a-kind style and charm.

Even though the neighbourhood is known for being quiet and tucked away, it is still highly accessible via public transit options and is conveniently located next to major thoroughfares. You can easily access the north side of edmonton and beyond via 149th street, and the Whitemud and Terwillegar Drive are accessible just a few blocks away to take you west or south in the city. 

Schools

While Laurier Heights only has one school within its geographic boundaries, it shares streets with Crestwood and Parkview to offer easy access to some of the neighbourhood’s best schools for kids of all ages.

Designated Public Schools in Laurier Heights:

Laurier Heights School (K-9, with french immersion)
Ross Sheppard (Grades 10-12)

Designated Catholic Schools in Laurier Heights:

St. Rose Junior High (Grades 7-9)
St. Paul Elementary (K-6)
St. Francis Xavier (Grades 10-12)

Other schools nearby:

Archbishop MacDonald (Grades 10-12, with french immersion)
Crestwood (K-9)
Parkview (K-9)

Shopping and Services

Residents of Laurier Heights have convenient access to some of the city’s most diverse shopping centres. Just five minutes down the road is Meadowlark Health and Shopping Centre – home to DynaLife, Safeway, Wal-Mart, pharmacies, fast food restaurants, banking, and much more! Another five minutes down the road lands you at West Edmonton Mall which is your one-stop-shop for all things fashion, home, and tech.

A few blocks north from Laurier Heights takes you to Crestwood Shopping Centre which has a selection of local boutiques and local restaurants for a night out close to home with your neighbours.

No matter your reason for moving to Laurier Heights, we’re sure you’ll love it and lifestyle it offers! If you’re looking to move into the neighbourhood or relocate within the neighbourhood, get in touch with us! We’d be happy to help you find your dream home in Laurier Heights.

Edmonton’s Ice District has been underway for quite some time—but we are finally nearing its completion! If you haven’t been downtown in a while, you should plan to visit our beautiful new Ice District (and all the fun areas around it) come summertime, because there will be a lot of new things to see, do and eat when it is all completed.

Here is what you can expect to find in Edmonton’s Ice District over the next few months!

Upcoming in 2022

The Banquet

Even though there are going to be several incredible places to visit in the Ice District, we are most excited for The Banquet to open up.

We already know that this restaurant, bar and entertainment establishment is going to be a staple in Summer 2022. The Banquet will have a rooftop bar, a bowling alley, incredible food, tasty drinks, a pool hall, arcade games and more. The better question may have been: what does this bar not have?

The Banquet even has a rewards system—for every dollar spent, they will give you 15 points. Once you get up to 1500 points, you get $5 Banquet Bucks! You will want to keep coming back.

Canadian Icehouse

A spinoff of the iconic Canadian Brewhouse, the Canadian Icehouse will be located directly underneath The Banquet, on the main floor. This flagship location will feature a patio with fireplaces & outdoor games overlooking the plaza, as well as sub-zero vodka tasting in a room made entirely of blocks of ice & snow. How cool!

More details about this restaurant are TBD, but we know we at TruHome will be one of the first tables seated once it opens up.

Open & Ready for Visits!

Archetype

Looking for a new place to get your sweat on? Archetype might be the perfect fit.

Archetype combines the science of high performance with an invested team of expert trainers and a comprehensive health and fitness offering in one exceptional facility. Archetype is more than a gym—it’s an elevated fitness experience for those seeking the rewards of a high-performance lifestyle.

This facility runs on a membership basis, but you get a lot for your monthly fee. Such as: cardio, strength and performance areas, daily group classes, pool, hot tub, steam room, regeneration lab, meditation pods and more. You have to check it out for yourself!

Bob & Doug McKenzie Statue

We thought we would throw this fun (and free!) experience here. When visiting the Ice District, you need to stop by this iconic statue to really complete your downtown experience.

If you haven’t heard of Bob & Doug McKenzie, they are Canadian culture icons who starred on Second City TV (SSTV)—a show that filmed several of its seasons right here in Edmonton.

You can find this statue at the South entrance of the Ice District—you won’t miss it!

Grand Villa Casino

The Grand Villa Casino offers 60,000 square feet of exceptional gaming, dining, and entertainment in the heart of ICE District. You can enjoy an array of dining and entertainment options including Match Eatery & Public House, Atlas Steak + Fish and quick serve options such as Starbucks.

This one stop shop is a must see when visiting the Ice District—even if you just stop in to see it for yourself!

Alchemy Bar

Located on the fifth floor of the JW Marriott hotel (which we will talk about next!), Alchemy features an intimate indoor cocktail bar and lounge, as well as a large heated patio overlooking Rogers Place.

This stunning cocktail bar serves up handcrafted libations and next-level bar snacks! A few members of our team are regulars here absolutely loved it.

JW Marriott Hotel

Looking for a staycation? The JW Marriott in Edmonton is the place to be!

This contemporary, chic hotel gives guests so much to do without even leaving the area. It is connected to Rogers Place and is just steps away from the Citadel Theatre, The Royal Alberta Museum, the Art Gallery of Alberta, City Hall/Churchill Square, and the Edmonton Convention Centre. The JW Marriott is also home to two restaurants, Alchemy (noted above) and a spa, so you will never want to leave!

GURU Kitchen + Bar

With a successful location already located in West Edmonton, it only made sense to open up a second location in Edmonton’s downtown core.

Located at the main level of Edmonton Tower, GURU Kitchen + Bar operates for lunch and dinner serving as an Indian cuisine all day dining venue. This is some of the best Indian cuisine you’ll find downtown!

Delux Burger Bar

Do you like burgers? Of course you do! Delux Burger Bar has some of the city’s best burgers in a chic setting that you are sure to love. And what’s more—they have a large array of drinks for you to keep the night going after finishing your delicious meal.

Let us suggest getting a side of french fries with their chipotle mayonnaise dip. It is simply the best!

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We hope this sparked some interest in visiting Edmonton’s new Ice District! There are so many things to do in the new neighbourhood that we couldn’t cover everything in this article, so we recommend you schedule some time in Summer 2022 to visit it yourself.

You’ve probably already guessed it, the TruHome team is a huge fan of Edmonton. Most of us on the team are born and raised Edmontonians with no plans to move to a new city! We know that Edmonton is an amazing place to live, and we want to share our love for it with you.

Because we’re fortunate to work with clients living in every neighbourhood in the city, we’ve come to know Edmonton from many different perspectives. In this blog post, we want to show you all the hidden gems in the neighbourhood of Garneau. 

Ride on the High Level Streetcar

After being closed for the COVID season, the High Level Streetcar is back in action! Take it to get from one end of the river to the other ($4 one-way for $7 round trip), or book it for a special event at an hourly rate, where you can invite friends and family to spend an hour or two on the streetcar. 

Paint your own ceramics

At Crankpots Ceramic Studio, you can pop in to shop or book a time to paint your own masterpiece. Both reservations and walk-ins are welcome! Simply pick your piece, paint colours, then start painting—and with unlimited studio time and paints, you can truly relax and enjoy your painting experience.

Experience French culinary mastery

A little bit of France in the centre of Garneau, Eleanor & Laurent is a French restaurant offering many different French dishes, such as baguettes, sandwiches, rotisserie chicken, desserts, wine and takeaway items. This description isn’t giving this restaurant the credit it deserves, so check out their Instagram to see the stunning dishes and treats that Eleanor & Laurent create.

Visit a hidden bistro

And if you wanted to stay in the area (or the same building), La Petite Iza is a rooftop terrace bistro located on Eleanor & Laurent’s uppermost floor. It serves patrons during the day and night, with two different menus for the time of day. With limited hours of Wednesday-Sunday, be sure to snag a reservation before stopping by.

Go thrifting

Though big box thrifting stores like Value Village or Goodwill are in the area, we’re all about supporting local, which is why you should check out Antique Treasure House Edmonton—a hidden gem located at 10701-85 Avenue at the base of an apartment building. Antique Treasure House is filled with everything, such as fine china, antiques, prints, toys, clothes, jewelry, furniture, kitchen goodies and more.  

Upgrade your kitchen knife-wear

It’s hard to find a shop that specializes in knives, but Knifewear in Garneau does. A Canadian business with locations in Edmonton, Vancouver, Calgary and Ottawa, Knifewear is a destination and hangout spot for those who love Japanese steel. They carry exclusive, scary sharp, high performance blades, and offer expert knife knowledge, expert purchasing experiences and support.

Purchase some antique collectables

If you didn’t overspend at the Antique Treasure House that we featured above, walk on over to Black Swan Antiques & Collectibles. With a lot of different treasures inside, this shop specializes in antique jewelry. You are bound to spend hours in this eclectic store!

Have a spa day

At Healing Waters Spa, you can have a full spa day to relax and rejuvenate—or, you pop on in (by appointment) to get something specific. Healing Waters Spa offers an array of services including facials, waxing, tinting, massages, scrubs and saunas, as well as experiences like full packages or Hammam treatments. Keep an eye out for their monthly specials!

Visit a cigar shop

La Tienda is the friendliest cigar shop in the city, offering service, knowledge and honesty. They sell only cigars—no vapes, chew or cigarettes. Not only are they open for walk-ins, but they also offer private memberships: a monthly or premium private selection cigar club.

And when you’re done shopping, head on over next door to Farrow to grab a sandwich, coffee or donut. If you’re an Edmontonian, you probably already know about this well-loved sandwich shop.

Take a walk down Saskatchewan Drive

Lastly, nothing beats a free walk down Saskatchewan Drive where you can take in the wonders of the view. With a complete view of our Downtown, a walk (or jog!) down Saskatchewan Drive never gets old.

If you’ve fallen in love with all the goodies Garneau has to offer, reach out to one of the agents on our TruHome team – we’d love to show you some homes in the area! 

As soon as you move into Parkview you will feel like you have lived there all your life – the whole community becomes your family, and everyone will be waving to you on their morning walks. 

Parkview is a mature, west-end neighbourhood bordered by the Edmonton’s River Valley to the east, 149^th Street, 87^th Avenue/Buena Vista Road, and MacKenzie Ravine. Those familiar with the area know that it is also informally split into two sub- neighbourhoods: Valleyview (east of 142^nd Street) and Parkview (west of 142^nd Street).  

HOMES

With original homes dating back to the mid 1950s and brand-new infill homes, no two houses are alike. Parkview attracts residents in all stages of life: new families, retired couples, young professionals, and all those seeking an authentic community. It is also refreshing to see the community turn over after a few decades, as children who used to live in Parkview are now moving their own families back into the neighbourhood.

Real estate opportunities in Parkview consist predominantly of single-family homes, many with new upgrades and all with lots of character. However, there are also opportunities for semi-detached homes and walk-up apartment style condos. Because of its desirable location, many new homeowners are opting for the trendiest infill homes with less square footage to maintain but just as much pizazz. 

If you’ve ever gone for a Sunday cruise or detoured your bike ride to Valleyview Drive, you’ll be familiar with Parkview’s well-admired luxury homes. Known for boasting some of the west-end’s most fabulous properties, there is no shortage of “ooh-ing” and “ahh-ing” at Parkview houses. All equally as memorable and inspiring as the next. 

As the years pass, more and more irreparable mid-century homes are being replaced with infills or grand modern homes, a testament to the neighbourhood’s dynamism. But if you’re someone who loves the originality of old character homes, you’ll be pleased to see many homes with their original foundation, finishings, and flare. And if you’re lucky, you might run into someone who is the original owner of their home and would love to have you over for tea to tell you about the history of the neighbourhood.

SHOPS

As most of the neighbourhood can confirm, the hottest place to be is at the Valleyview Shopping Centre on 142^nd Street. Home to the famous IGA and neighbourhood’s social hub, Rebel, this shopping centre is where you’ll run into your neighbours and catch up with old friends. We’ve been advised not to wear our pyjamas there as it’s rumoured you’ll always see someone you know! 

A hat’s off to Parkview wouldn’t be complete without giving mention to Andy’s IGA. As a family-run business, Andy and his family have served Parkview and surrounding areas for countless years. As a strong supporter of the community’s youth and events, Andy’s IGA offers a warm welcome every time you go. The superb customer service, delicious doughnuts, and newly paved parking lot are reason enough to go back every single day. As a Century Hospitality Group restaurant, Rebel is a gathering place for family and friends in the community, offering an innovative selection of menu items. Whether it’s for brunch on the weekends or drinks after work, their casual but upscale dining experience will quickly convince you to become a regular. Fun fact: the manager of Rebel used to own and operate the Italian restaurant that occupied that space before – talk about commitment to the community!

COMMUTING

If the style of the homes, the culture of the neighbourhood, or the nearby amenities don’t win you over, Parkview’s proximity to every major commuting route will seal the deal. Here are some of the highlights:

• 8 minutes from downtown Edmonton
• 5 minutes from the Whitemud (and subsequently the Anthony Henday)
• 10 minutes from the Yellowhead
• 20 minutes from the University of Alberta campus
• 30 minutes to Edmonton International Airport

You’re never far from the action when you’re located in Parkview, including on foot or other! With maintained sidewalks, side roads, and trails, getting around via alternative methods of transportation is convenient and accessible. 

SCHOOLS/RECREATION

Parkview is a great community to support families with school-aged kids. Right in the heart of the community sits Parkview School (elementary and junior high) and St. Rose Catholic Junior High. However, there are numerous schools in surrounding neighbourhoods including St. Francis Xavier, Archbishop MacDonald, and Ross Sheppard High Schools, Crestwood School, and St. Paul Elementary. For families with young children, Parkview Community League also offers Preschool and Kindercare programs. The Community League hosts community soccer teams, has tennis courts in the summer, and floods a community skating rink in the winter. 

Living up to its name, there is no shortage of green space, parks, and places for outdoor recreation in Parkview. If you don’t feel like making your way down to the Buena Vista Dog Park, the Valleyview Drive off-leash area is easily accessible, offering a complete view of downtown Edmonton and the University of Alberta. This is also a great road for a family bike ride, to catch the Canada Day fireworks, or to watch the full moon rise over downtown every month. In the summer (post-COVID, of course), you may want to take your lawn chair to the lookout points to be serenaded by summer concerts in Hawrelak Park as the music drifts up the valley. 

You’re also walking distance from Hawrelak Park so you’ll never have to fight for parking to attend Edmonton’s Heritage Days, the World Triathlon, or a casual park day picnic on the weekend.  

As if anyone ever needed a reason to move into Parkview, we think there are many attractive qualities to Parkview and Valleyview. If you feel dazzled by the community and want to explore your residential options, reach out to one of our TruHome agents who will help you find the perfect home in Parkview – there is no shortage!

When you think about Edmonton’s most desirable neighbourhoods, Glenora likely comes to mind. If you’ve ever driven east on 102nd avenue towards downtown Edmonton, you probably know how tempting it is to sneak peeks down every street to catch a glimpse of what life is like in one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city. No two homes look the same, yet each appears as if it holds the secret to an abundant and fulfilling life.

Edmonton Homes Like No Other

Glenora is a community where homes rich in history and those with modern architectural flair come together to create a neighbourhood of idyllic living. The streets are canopied with lush trees that entice you to explore the dozens of paths that connect the community with Edmonton’s River Valley. If strolling around the neighbourhood admiring the unique landscape (Alexander Circle, anyone?) isn’t your pace, walking, running, and cycling enthusiasts will find hours of entertainment amongst the trails.  

Whether you’re looking for estate homes with established character and fairy-tale-like charm, or newly built infill homes with both style and function, Glenora has it all. Along with the brilliant selection of single-family residences and duplex-style homes, this neighbourhood has something for everyone. A number of high-rise and low-rise properties exist in the community to offer stress-free living opportunities that cater to homebuyers of all ages and stages of life. With the recent addition of the West Block Glenora development, homebuyers on the market for a luxury condominium are sure to be impressed by full amenity living and unobstructed views. With its fantastic location along the north bank of the North Saskatchewan River, residents also have easy access to green spaces such as Government House Park and MacKinnon Ravine Park. The closeness of public green areas (William Hawrelak Park) and golf courses (The Royal Mayfair Club or Victoria Golf Course) in the middle of the city also provide endless opportunities for outdoor fun all year round.  

Shop Till You Drop

With its proximity to downtown, Glenora is only a hop, skip, and a jump away from some of the trendiest boutiques, cafes, and personal services. Within walking distance you’ll find fine dining experiences, salons, medical practices, and weekend markets. When it comes to local eateries, there are endless options. Some of our favourites include Vi’s for Pies, The Columbian Coffee and Roastery, Square 1 Coffee, Café Versailles, OEB Breakfast Co. and Credo. If you’re on a mission to support small businesses, Red Ribbon Boutique, Daisy Chain Book Co., and Carbon Environmental have endless options for gifting and self-indulgence. When you feel like treating yourself, a handful of bonbons from Carol’s Quality Sweets is a great way to finish off your shopping day.  For those who need a little tender loving care, The Cutting Room, Groove Dental, RejuvaDerm Cosmetic Laser and Surgery, Evolve Strength, and The Happiness Factory offer all kinds of services to support your wellbeing. 

Commuting Made Easy

If you’ve ever contended with Edmonton’s infamous construction work, you’ll understand the value of being close to the action. Bordered by some of the city’s major arteries, Glenora is situated in one of the most accessible locations in the city. Popular commuter routes make automobile travel and public transit simple and practical. The Anthony Henday is easily accessible from Stony Plain Road, which runs right through the centre of the neighbourhood, while 107th Avenue can take you west to West Edmonton Mall or east to Commonwealth Stadium. 142nd Street quickly takes you north to the Yellowhead and also provides fast access southbound to Whitemud Drive. Commuters will also have access to the highly anticipated Valley Line LRT which will be arriving in the community shortly, making the journey to Mill Woods or Lewis Farms both convenient and swift. Did we also mention how close to Edmonton’s downtown scene this neighbourhood is?

Schools

Families anticipating a move into Glenora are presented with a number of reputable schools serving students from kindergarten to grade 12. There are many in surrounding areas, but some within walking distance include:

• Glenora Catholic Schools
  • St. Mark
  • Archbishop MacDonald
  • St. Vincent
• Glenora Public Schools
  • Glenora School
  • Westminster School
  • Ross Sheppard School

Additionally, early learning centres such as the Kepler Academy are situated right in the community to provide exploratory education and out-of-school care for younger children.  

Fun Facts About Glenora

• Before Glenora was the highly sought-after neighbourhood it is now, it was originally a river lot homesteaded by Malcolm Groat. 
• The majority of homes in Glenora were built before 1970.
• The community is represented by the Glenora Community League, founded in 1949, which now has communal facilities such as an outdoor rink, tennis courts, and a community hall.

For more information on the current real estate opportunities available in Glenora, feel free to contact us or explore all Glenora Homes For Sale here.

It’s summer! We’ve been cooped up for far too long and we’re finally able to travel with some considerations in mind. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or maybe a week-long trip, we have some vacation areas in mind to bring our own families—so we thought we’d share them with you, too!

In Alberta

Alberta Beach

Driving time: 60 minutes

If you’re a born and raised Edmontonian, you’ve likely visited Alberta Beach once or twice. But just because you’ve been there before, doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t visit again! Located less than 60 kilometers west of Edmonton on beautiful Lac Ste Anne lies the Village of Alberta Beach—a sandy beach and warm shallow water provide fun for all ages. The best part: you can make it a day trip! If you want more than a day trip – talk to us about our lake specialist team in this area. 

Gull Lake

Driving time: 90 minutes

Located less than 60 kilometers west of Edmonton on beautiful Lac Ste Anne lies the Village of Gull Lake—a sandy beach and warm shallow water provide fun for all ages. Enjoy the beautiful, relaxing beach, go sport fishing or go windsurfing during the summer months! And if you love it enough to return in the winter, Gull Lake is also a great spot for ice fishing.

Jasper National Park

Driving time: 3.5 hours

Another classic spot for Albertans to visit is Jasper National Park. The largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park has activities that suit people of all ages. With breathtaking views, hikes, biking, paddling, shopping, camping, eating and drinking, Jasper is bound to make for a beautiful weekend away.

Drumheller

Driving time: 3.5 hours

A perfect vacation if you have some little ones to bring along with you (or not!). Drumheller has a ton of things to keep you busy, such as amusement parks, dinosaur adventures, museums, historic sites, natural attractions, performing arts, sports, recreation and more. With so many things to do, there’s definitely something for everyone. For more details about what to do and to grab some accommodations, visit the Drumheller website.

Sikome Lake

Driving time: 3 hours

Stay in Calgary soaking up our sister city’s downtown vibes, then take a day trip to Sikome Lake to get a vacation from your vacation. This man-made lake is located in the Southern quadrant of the city, and it gets up to 20,000 visitors a day in the busy season! 

Ghost Lake

Driving time: 3.5 hours

Though the shoreline is more driftwood and rocks than soft, silky sand, Ghost Lake might be right up your alley if you’re looking for peace, quiet and lots of sunshine. What’s more—when you’re done floating on the water for the day, head on over to the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary as it is a very short drive away. There, you can go for a beautiful sanctuary walk or a visit with the wolfdogs—if you’re lucky, you may even get to give the dogs a treat!

Beyond Alberta

Kelowna

Driving time: 10.5 hours

Though the driving time is a bit long for a Kelowna day trip, it’s definitely worth it to go enjoy the views for the week. For the childless folks looking for a fun time, Kelowna is filled with wine tours, boozy boat rides and lots of good cocktails spots. And if you’re looking for a family-friendly time, there’s plenty of large beaches, stunning hikes, mini golf, animal encounters, small clothing boutiques and playgrounds in this small city, too! Did we mention, the food and restaurant scene in Kelowna is incredible?

Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park

Driving time: 6.5 hours

Have you ever wandered east of our border? If you haven’t, now’s your time to explore. And if you’re a fan of the outdoors, Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park might be the perfect close-to-home vacation. Only a 6-hour drive away, you and your vacation crew can enjoy the daytime backcountry Grasslands National park, and during the night, because of the crystal clear skies, you can stargaze for hours upon hours.

Little Manitou Lake

Driving time: 6.5 hours

Another Saskatchewan gem is Little Manitou Lake—the soothing vacation spot where the salty lake water possesses natural skin and body care properties, kind of like the Dead Sea in Israel! This beach is perfect for parents who want to relax, float and enjoy their free spa day, while the children are enjoying the sandy beach and splashing in the water!

Grand Beach Provincial Park

Driving time: 14 hours

It’s true that many Albertans haven’t yet travelled further east to provinces like Manitoba, and that needs to change. Manitoba is filled with many beautiful attractions, with Grand Beach Provincial Park being no exception! Only one hour from Winnipeg, this beautiful beach is a well-known and well-visited beach throughout the summer months. Take a day trip from Winnipeg or set up camp in one of the various sites!

We hope this sparks some inspiration for you and your family! Get out, enjoy the summer and spend time with those you love—in Edmonton or beyond. You deserve it.

After over a year and a half of living through a global pandemic, we can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. Even though it’ll be a while before we’re able to live our lives carefree, we should still be able to enjoy and celebrate Edmonton’s summer this year! Here are some ways our team will be celebrating Edmonton’s beautiful summer, and hopefully we’ll inspire you to do the same.

Park hangouts (with beer or wine!)

Last summer was filled with many socially distanced picnics, and we definitely plan to continue doing it this summer as well. But this year it’ll look a bit different because we can now enjoy alcoholic beverages while we’re soaking up the sun in select public parks! In Sir Wilfrid Laurier, Whitemud, William Hawrelak, Government House, Victoria, Gold Bar, and Rundle Park, you can enjoy alcohol legally between the hours of 11 AM and 9 PM daily. Learn more.

Grab some takeout from Edmonton’s incredible food scene, pack some booze, grab a blanket and a good book, and soak up the sun all summer long.

Electric scooter around the city

eScootering will never get old. There’s just something about cruising around the city with a few friends—whether it’s travelling from A to B or just going for a joy ride.

This summer, another eScooter threw itself into the ring: Spin. Alongside its competitors Lime and Bird, Spin is offering free 30-minute Spin rides to essential workers in need of safe and socially distanced transportation during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic!

Workout outside

The past year has been challenging to those who let loose by getting their sweat on. With gyms, group fitness classes and private training on again and off again, the Edmonton fitness scene has had to get creative.

XTherapy is taking things to the roof! Literally. While the COVID closures were on and off, XTherapy decided to rent out the rooftop of a nearby parkade and take their spin classes outside. Pandemic or not, this is a unique way to get a sweat in. If we’re lucky, these classes will come back!

Hive HIIT in the park is another way to get a high intensity workout in! With gathering locations in multiple areas of the city, Hive HIIT in the park might be right up your alley. Just sign up online, bring your yoga mat and water bottle, and let their incredible instructors do the rest.

The University of Alberta also provides an interesting way to get your sweat on. Though it’s new to us, the U of A provides a free outdoor gym all year long. The space outside represents a joint initiative between our Healthy Campus Unit, Campus & Community Recreation, and Facilities and Operations.

The last and probably most common way to get a workout in is by going for river valley runs and doing stairs. On any given day, you’ll find dozens of Edmontonians sitting in Ezio Faraone Park getting their workouts in!

Visit The Backyard 

New to downtown Edmonton, The Backyard is a place to unwind, connect and discover all things local. This space is a one-of-a-kind gathering place that can be transformed to accommodate all types of events. From yoga classes to concerts to private events, The Backyard’s programming brings energy & creativity to our downtown! Be sure to keep up to date on this initiative by giving them a follow on Instagram.

Stop by the Whyte Avenue Art Walk

Isn’t it great to see some normalcy returning to our city? A summer staple, the Whyte Ave Art Walk is back again between June 4th and August 1st. The only difference is that this year, the well-known event is moving indoors to the former Army & Navy building. 

Fun fact: the Art Walk was started in 1995 when a group of Edmontonians thought Whyte Avenue should have artists outside painting like they have on the Left Bank in Paris. It started with 35 and has grown to over 400 artists and more than 40,000 visitors. 

Enjoy the summer festivals

Edmonton is a beautiful city to live in for many reasons, but at the top of most everybody’s list is the summer festivals—and it’s looking like this year will be filled with them! Though most of us are probably already aware of Edmonton’s annual summer festivals, here is when we can expect them to happen:

The Works Art & Design Festival – June 24 – July 6, 2021

Edmonton International Street Performers Festival – July 9 – July 18, 2021

Taste of Edmonton – July 22 – August 1, 2021

K-Days – July 23 – August 1, 2021

Edmonton Heritage Festival – July 31 – August 2, 2021

Edmonton Fringe Festival – August 12 – August 22, 2021

Take a stroll through the Botanical Garden

An underrated Edmonton experience is the University of Alberta’s Botanic Garden. In this stunning forest garden, you’ll discover how nature ignites your “happy hormones” while you experience a peaceful, beautiful natural environment. Explore cultural gardens, northern climate-hardy plant collections and extensive natural areas, all on 240 acres.

There you have it! We hope you continue to stay safe this summer season. If you have any tips on things to do in Edmonton this summer 2021, give us a shout – we would love to hear from you! 

Listen, we know that condo or apartment living has so many perks. There’s just something about having additional security, condensed living, and having your condo board handle the dirty work (like parkade cleaning, fire inspections, maintenance… you name it). But let’s get real—a lot of the time, when living in a condominium, we sacrifice having an outdoor area to call our own. Sure, you may have a small balcony for your sunbathing and people-watching pleasure, but there’s not much else you can do out there… like grow your own vegetable garden. Luckily, there’s a fix for that. Edmonton is home to over 90 community gardens. You heard that right—NINETY. And we’re here to tell you all about what they are and how you can get involved.

What is a community garden?

First things first, we recognize that some of you may not even know what a community garden is. In a nutshell, a community garden is a public vegetable garden in a neighbourhood, led by a large group of people in a community. Just like its name, community gardens are operated by community members. Meaning, you usually have to be an active member of your neighbourhood and its community league in order to get access. Not only are community gardens useful for those who don’t have a space to grow their own greens at home, but it also promotes local, organically grown food, a healthy lifestyle, recreation for all ages and community building! The best part? A lot of the time, others from the neighbourhood can enjoy the beautiful garden themselves. But don’t worry, the vegetables you don’t have to share your greens— the vegetables you grow yourself are yours to keep. There’s often a small fee associated with getting your own plot in a community garden. At Oliver Community Garden, it’s only $40/year for a plot + the annual Community League membership. As a side note, we definitely recommend becoming a community league member in your area, because it often comes with awesome perks, like discounts, magazine deliveries, free admission to events, and more.

Where can I find a community garden in my area?

There are several ways you can get started, but let us name a few: 

1. You likely already know what neighbourhood you live in. Simply Google it and see if your community league has a community garden!
2.   The next step is to check out the City of Edmonton Community Garden Map. The City already has everything covered with an up-to-date map filled with website and contact information.
3. Once you find a community garden in your area, you’ll likely need to reach out to its Community League to see if there’s any available plots in their garden. At the very least, you can usually sign up to get on the waiting list!
4.  And if you can’t find anything in your area, don’t fret. There’s often pop-up community gardens in Edmonton! In 2019, there were 29 pop-up gardens in our city.
5. If you still can’t find any community gardens in your proximity, that’s when it’s time to contact the City of Edmonton.

Get involved with Edmonton community gardens

Start your own community garden

Our city wants you to go green. So if you have any questions at all, you can easily contact the Community Greening Coordinator by emailing communitygardens@edmonton.ca or by calling 311 to ask anything you need in regards to starting a garden project in Edmonton. And what’s more—the City of Edmonton even has grants that you can submit if you’re wanting to start a community garden of your own.

Support in other ways

We get it. Not all of us have a green thumb. And that’s okay—many people get involved by providing land, seeds, plants or tools, or even by volunteering to help build the gardens. If that’s something that seems up your alley, be sure to send an email to the Community Greening Coordinator to see how to get involved, or contact your local community league directly.

You can also support by donation, too. Donate here! You can donate on behalf of yourself, a family member, or someone who has passed.

So, you’ve made the decision to move to Edmonton—or maybe you’re already a Yegger and just looking to switch things up. Either way, that’s great! We’re here to help you find the right Edmonton neighbourhood for you. Follow along to see what we think the best neighbourhoods in Edmonton for 20-somethings (or beyond) are. And don’t worry, we’ll ensure our choices are activity and budget friendly.

Oliver

For those already living in Edmonton, Oliver is an obvious spot. Located a short walk away from MacEwan University, several grocery stores and various restaurants and pubs, Oliver is a highly desired area in our city. Though it’s only a 10-20-minute talk to the Downtown core, Oliver is filled with towering trees, beautiful parks, and even a large community garden. And if you are planning on having a family, Oliver is home to several day cares, Oliver Elementary School and even has a public swimming pool—perfect for hot summer days! Explore all Oliver Homes for sale here. 

Ottewell

An up-and-coming neighbourhood, Ottewell is a large residential neighbourhood located East-central Edmonton. It’s a short bus ride to the University of Alberta and is filled with parks, long streets (perfect for the avid runner), and even an outdoor skating rink. Not to mention—Anvil Coffee House is a neighbourhood favourite. If you’re looking to purchase your first home, Ottewell is filled with perfect starter bungalows at an affordable cost. Discover all Ottewell Homes for sale here.

Downtown

Depending on your interests, the obvious location of Downtown Edmonton might be perfect for you. In non-pandemic times, Downtown is the hustling and bustling centre of our city, filled with many local eats (like Rosewood Foods and Tiffin), cocktails around every corner (shoutout to The Bower and Woodwork) and is home to Churchill Square—where most of Edmonton’s iconic summer festivals are held. So, if you’re working in one of the Downtown towers and are child-free, you’ll likely love Downtown. Though rent and mortgages tend to be higher, you’ll save a lot of money on transportation and parking if you simply set up fort in the core. Explore all Downtown Edmonton homes for sale. 

Summerside

We understand that not all 20-somethings want to be close to the downtown core. Sometimes we just want an affordable home in a beautiful neighbourhood! In Summerside, you’ll get exactly that. Filled with all the essentials, you’ll never have to leave Summerside. In this newer Edmonton neighbourhood, you’ll find large homes, walkable paths, and both chain & local restaurants. And what’s more, you’ll even find Lake Summerside—a 13-hectare and 28-foot-deep lake where you can swim, fish and even go to unique workshops at! Discover all Summerside Homes for sale.

Ritchie

Ritchie is known for being home to a variety of demographics—the long-time homeowners, the roommates and the young families. With a strong sense of community, you can’t go wrong with choosing a home in Ritchie. If you want to support local, you won’t have any troubles doing that in Ritchie as it’s home to favourites like Farrow, ACE Coffee, La Boule and Maven and Grace. And as an added bonus, this eclectic neighbourhood also has three parks and lots of family-friendly activities within a short reach. Explore all Ritchie Homes for sale. 

Woodcroft

And for our final recommendation, we’re bringing you Woodcroft. Woodcroft is the perfect mix of homey residential, heritage and convenience. A neighbourhood built in the 1950s, you’ll find lived-in homes, a roomy park and an abundance of furry friends. And if you’re looking to stay long-term, this neighbourhood is home to Woodcroft Primary School and Ross Shepherd High School. Be sure to check out all Woodcroft homes for sale. 

So, have we convinced you to call Edmonton home yet? The list of incredible Edmonton neighbourhoods doesn’t end here, and we’re happy to talk more with you to find out what area of our city best suites you and your lifestyle. Contact us today to chat about your Edmonton real estate needs.