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Edmonton an up-and-coming destination: stop 4 on my Canada summer travel tour

Not only do they have the number one pick in today’s NHL draft, almost certainly Connor McDavid, but the folks in Edmonton also can lay claim to living in a city that’s definitely on the rise. I’ve been in town a few times in the past few years and have been happy to see so many new developments to go along with old favourites. Here are some photos that show a city that is most definitely moving up. Now let’s see how the NHL Oilers can do!

photo courtesy Tourism Edmonton

photo courtesy Tourism Edmonton


The Art Gallery of Alberta is a great symbol of the renaissance of downtown Edmonton. The gallery features excellent work and is visually stunning, to boot.

photo courtesy Tourism Edmonton

photo courtesy Tourism Edmonton


The downtown shopping scene has come a long way in Edmonton. You’ll find excellent shops on 104th St. N.W.

photo courtesy Tourism Edmonton

photo courtesy Tourism Edmonton


The new Rogers Place will be the downtown home of the Edmonton Oilers and aforementioned (they hope) Connor McDavid. The arena already is sparking new condos, hotels, shops and restaurants in the area around 102nd St. N.W. and 104th Ave. It’s expected to open in the fall of next year.

photo courtesy Tourism Edmonton

photo courtesy Tourism Edmonton

The Mercer Tavern is a trendy and wonderfully atmospheric pub and restaurant near the new Rogers Place arena.

photo courtesy Tourism Edmonton

photo courtesy Tourism Edmonton


I found some truly excellent restaurants on my last visit to town. Tres Carnales might have the best Mexican food in Canada.

JIm Byers photo

Jim Byers photo


Not only is the food fantastic, but the decor is inventive and fun at Tres Carnales.

photo courtesy Tourism Edmonton

photo courtesy Tourism Edmonton


Take a ride on the High Level Bridge railway for great views of the city. It’s a ton of fun for kids and adults alike.

photo courtesy Tourism Edmonton

photo courtesy Tourism Edmonton


Old Strathcona is a fine and funky part of Edmonton, near the University of Alberta. You’ll find great old theatres, lively cafes and cool clothing shops.

Jim Byers photo

Jim Byers photo


Bar Bricco on Jasper Ave. is another fine spot for Edmonton foodies. They do great charcuterie, with some products flown in from as far away as Uruguay.

Jim Byers photo

Jim Byers photo


The patio at the Confederation Lounge at the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald is a great place to sip a drink or two and watch the sun go down.

Jim Byers photo

Jim Byers photo


Try a walk or a bike ride along the N. Saskatchewan River for a taste of Edmonton’s outdoor/nature opportunities.

Jim Byers photo

Jim Byers photo


I love the old neon signs that line this building on 104th St. N.W., across from the Mercer Tavern.

Jim Byers photo

Jim Byers photo


The Sherlock Holmes pub is a great spot for al fresco dining and drinking in downtown Edmonton.

Comments on this entry are closed.

  • Charles 28 June 2015, 2:14 am

    Edmonton might be the most underrated city in North America.

  • SC from Edmonton 28 June 2015, 5:10 pm

    Thanks for your portrayal of our city. It is likely the second most underrated place in Canada (after Hamilton, ON).

  • Sean Simpson 29 June 2015, 2:20 pm

    I moved to Toronto a couple years ago and this post pretty much has all of the ‘must sees’ on my list when I go back for a visit.
    Sherlock Holmes is a great pub, one of my favourite things about it is that the martini bar next door is called Moriarty’s. Quite clever (and subtle), if you ask me.

    • Carl 5 July 2015, 4:26 am

      Moriarty’s closed a couple years ago now. 🙁

  • celysse 30 June 2015, 1:30 pm

    I also moved to Toronto a few years ago and every time I return home, I can’t believe all the development and growth in the city, it’s really wonderful to see Edmonton coming into its own. Agree 100% with above poster who says it’s highly underrated. I just wish the city did more to promote itself, especially in other Canadian cities.