Top 13 Summer Activities to Enjoy in Edmonton | 2024

As the warm breezes of summer begin to sweep through Edmonton, the city comes alive with a vibrant tapestry of activities suitable for all ages and interests.

From serene nature walks in sprawling parks to thrilling festivals that capture the spirit of the city, Edmonton has become a playground for adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Whether you're looking to bask in the natural splendor, enjoy the lively street markets, or dive into a sea of music and food festivals, there's no shortage of ways to make your summer in Edmonton both memorable and exciting.

So get ready to discover the top summer activities that will define your 2024 in Edmonton. Pack your sunglasses and a sense of curiosity—we're about to explore all the fun and festivities that Edmonton has to offer!

When the mercury rises in Edmonton, heading to one of the City's Inviting Outdoor Pools is a refreshing way to cool off and soak up the summer vibes.

Edmonton's outdoor pools, renowned for their well-maintained facilities and stunning scenic views, offer more than just a swim—they provide a mini-vacation right in your backyard.

Take a dip in the newly renovated Queen Elizabeth Outdoor Pool, which boasts wide, family-friendly spaces and a serene setting that overlooks the picturesque river valley.

It’s an ideal spot for both leisurely swims and energetic water play.

For those looking to mix a bit of fitness with their leisure, the Fred Broadstock Outdoor Pool features dedicated lap swimming lanes alongside areas for casual swimming, making it perfect for all types of water enthusiasts.

Each facility offers ample sunbathing areas and poolside amenities, ensuring your swimming outings are comfortable and convenient.

For a delightful day out that combines educational experiences with wildlife conservation, the Edmonton Valley Zoo stands out as a must-visit destination this summer.

Home to over 250 species, the zoo not only entertains but also plays a crucial role in animal conservation, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of wildlife and their habitats.

The zoo is thoughtfully laid out, making it easy for families to navigate. It's the perfect size for young children to explore without feeling overwhelmed.

Parents will appreciate the availability of wagons for the little ones who might need a break from walking, and the ample restrooms and garbage facilities ensure a clean and comfortable environment.

Visitors often comment on the approachability and knowledge of the staff, who are always ready to answer questions and share fascinating insights about the zoo's residents.

For a more leisurely experience, the on-site café offers a pleasant spot to grab a coffee and some snacks for the kids, allowing for a relaxed stroll around the zoo grounds.

Escape the city's heat and head to Sylvan Lake Aqua Splash for a thrilling day of water fun that's just a short drive from Edmonton. As Alberta's first open-water park, Sylvan Lake Aqua Splash offers an exhilarating array of inflatable obstacle courses that float right on the lake, providing endless entertainment for both kids and adults.

On a sweltering summer day, diving into the refreshing waters and navigating through slides, trampolines, and climbing walls can be the perfect blend of excitement and cooling relief.

The park's popularity means it's bustling with energy, making it a lively spot for summer outings. After you've had your fill of aquatic adventure, the adjacent beach is a serene escape where you can relax and soak up the sun. The soft sand is ideal for building sandcastles with the kids or simply unwinding with a good book.

 From tasty local eats to refreshing beverages, there's something to satisfy everyone's cravings.

Explore Edmonton in a uniquely delicious way with the Food Bike Tour, a delightful blend of culinary discovery and leisurely exercise.

Ideal for both food lovers and casual cyclists, this tour is a fantastic opportunity to sample delectable offerings from local eateries while pedaling through some of the city's most scenic neighborhoods.

If you're new to cycling, fear not—the tour is designed with all skill levels in mind. The friendly and energetic tour guides ensure that everyone feels comfortable, regardless of their biking experience.

They not only lead the group safely through the routes but also share fascinating stories and insights about the local businesses you visit, enriching your understanding of Edmonton's vibrant culinary scene.

Participants get the chance to indulge in a variety of foods and drinks, making each stop an exciting adventure in taste.

Whether it's savoring freshly baked pastries, tasting artisan cheeses, or enjoying a refreshing local brew, the Food Bike Tour offers a spectrum of flavors that reflects the city’s diverse food landscape.

If you’re looking for an engaging and lighthearted outdoor activity in Edmonton, Snow Valley Target Golf at the Snow Valley Aerial Park offers a unique twist on traditional golf that’s perfect for players of all ages.

This family-friendly version of the game is designed to be low-pressure and high fun, making it a fantastic choice for everything from family outings to social gatherings and date nights.

Instead of walking from hole to hole, participants here enjoy hitting golf balls uphill toward a variety of quirky targets and yardage markers.

The setup allows you to challenge friends and family to see who can earn the highest score by landing balls closest to the targets, which include everything from traditional circles to novelty shapes.

Enjoy the thrill of competition or simply focus on improving your shot as you spend a sunny afternoon surrounded by the laughter and camaraderie of fellow players.

This unique golfing experience is a surefire hit for anyone looking to add a little playful competition to their summer plans.

Embark on a picturesque journey through Edmonton's expansive urban parkland with a Voyageur Canoe Tour a peaceful paddle down the North Saskatchewan River.

This activity offers a unique vantage point to experience the city's natural beauty while gliding through the waters in a traditional voyageur canoe.

Each tour lasts approximately 2 to 2.5 hours and is led by friendly and knowledgeable guides who enrich the journey by pointing out both historical sites and modern landmarks along the riverbanks.

As you paddle, learn about the rich tapestry of Edmonton’s past and the vibrant ecology of the river ecosystem. This stretch of the river winds through the longest expanse of urban parkland in North America, showcasing an impressive backdrop of lush greenery and cityscapes that provide a tranquil escape from the bustling city life.

Participants are asked to arrange their own transportation, with the typical route running from Capilano Park to Laurier Park.

This logistical detail offers flexibility for groups to plan additional activities before or after the canoe tour, making it an ideal addition to a day of exploring Edmonton.

For an adrenaline-pumping adventure right in the heart of the city, the Aerial Park Tower at Snow Valley Aerial Park is a must-visit summer destination in Edmonton.

This towering structure is packed with over 100 different elements that offer a thrilling blend of physical challenges and fun, set against the backdrop of Edmonton's lush landscapes.

As you navigate your way through the Aerial Park Tower, you’ll encounter a variety of obstacles that cater to all skill levels.

From the vibrant rainbow wall to a ski-bridge and a swinging picnic table, each element is designed to mimic local themes and inspire a sense of adventure.

The setup encourages a "choose your own adventure" experience, allowing participants to engage with elements that suit their comfort and thrill levels. The obstacles are color-coded like ski slopes, ranging from green (easy) to black (difficult), ensuring that everyone from beginners to adrenaline junkies can enjoy their experience.

This flexible approach makes the Aerial Park Tower perfect for a wide range of events, including date nights, friend gatherings, birthday celebrations, or team-building exercises.

Each session is capped at two hours, providing plenty of time to explore, challenge yourself, and build lasting memories.

Discover a uniquely serene way to unwind with Goat & Chicken Yoga in Edmonton, an experience that combines the calming practice of yoga with the whimsical charm of farm animals.

This activity provides a delightful escape from the everyday hustle and allows you to connect with nature and some incredibly friendly goats and chickens.

Goat Yoga: Step outside the confines of a typical yoga studio and into a peaceful outdoor setting adorned with lush greenery and blooming trees.

Here, a certified yoga instructor leads you through a gentle series of poses while adorable goats wander and interact with participants.

The goats add a playful and joyous element to the yoga session, enhancing the relaxation and connection with nature that yoga promotes.

Chicken Yoga: For something a bit different, try the indoor chicken yoga class, where the session is enlivened by the presence of charming chickens.

As you move through poses like the downward-facing chicken and the pigeon pose, these curious birds will roam around, adding a light-hearted feel to your yoga practice.

Participants also get the chance to feed the chickens and select a feathered companion for the session, creating a truly interactive and memorable experience.

Glide through Edmonton's breathtaking landscapes with Segway Adventures by River Valley Adventure, the ultimate way to explore North America's largest stretch of urban parkland.

Segway Tours for Every Level: Offering a range of tours that cater to various skill levels, River Valley Adventure Co. ensures there's something for everyone.

Beginners can start with a 30-minute Segway clinic, which welcomes riders of all ages over 60lbs, to get comfortable with the basics of Segway navigation.

For those looking for more, the company offers 120-minute themed tours, including the enchanting Summer Sunset Cruise and the Harvest Moon Tour, perfect for those who enjoy picturesque evening rides.

Beginner Adventures: The Beginner Segway Adventure is tailored for newcomers aged 14 and up and starts with a comprehensive 30-minute training session led by certified trainers.

This ensures everyone is confident and ready to embark on their journey through the expansive River Valley.

This introductory adventure not only familiarizes riders with their Segways but also treats them to stunning views of Edmonton’s natural and urban landscapes.

Get ready for an electrifying day at Paintball Action Games in Edmonton, where the energy of battle and the thrill of strategy combine to deliver an unforgettable paintball experience.

As one of the city's top destinations for paintball enthusiasts, this venue caters to players of all levels, from beginners to seasoned pros, ensuring everyone can find the adrenaline rush they’re seeking.

Unleashing the Paintball Adventure: Paintball Action Games offers a diverse range of packages designed to suit various needs and occasions.

• Birthday Package: Kick off celebrations with this all-inclusive option. It starts you off with 100 paintballs and all the essential gear, making it easy for everyone to jump into the action. Additional paintballs are available for purchase to keep the game going.

• Starter Package: Ideal for those new to the sport, this package includes 200 paintballs and complete equipment setup, providing everything needed to start the paintball journey.

• Advanced Package: For those looking to step up their game, this package offers 300 paintballs along with high-quality equipment, allowing for more intense and extended play.

• Elite Package: Dive deep into the ultimate paintball experience with the Elite Package. It equips you with 500 paintballs and top-tier gear, designed for those who are serious about dominating the paintball field. Bulk pricing options are also available for players planning a longer engagement.

Edmonton transforms into a vibrant cultural hotspot during the summer with its lineup of exhilarating festivals, each offering unique experiences. From the visual arts to Caribbean celebrations, the city pulses with energy and creativity.

The Works Art & Design Festival: Spearheaded by The Works International Visual Arts Society, this festival turns downtown Edmonton into a vast outdoor art gallery. Free to the public, it features both local and international artists, making it a key cultural event that captures the spirit of innovation and creativity in visual arts and design.

K-Days Festival 2024: An iconic summer highlight in Edmonton, K-Days is a whirlwind of excitement with thrilling rides, live music, and mouth-watering fair food. Experience the rush of adrenaline on high-speed rides, enjoy live bands, and indulge in classic fair treats like barbecued ribs and candy apples. As dusk falls, the sky lights up with dazzling fireworks, creating a perfect end to your festive day.

Caribbean Arts Festival (Cariwest): Cariwest brings a splash of Caribbean culture to the heart of Edmonton with its vibrant parade, colorful costumes, and infectious rhythms. It's the city's largest celebration of Caribbean arts, music, and heritage, offering attendees a spectacular display of cultural richness and spirited festivities.

Spending a day at one of Edmonton's Picturesque Picnic Sites is the perfect way to enjoy the city's beautiful summer weather and stunning landscapes. 

These scenic locales provide the ideal backdrop for a family gathering, a romantic date, or a relaxing solo escape. As you spread out your picnic blanket, you can take in the lush greenery, the gentle flow of the river, or the vibrant flower beds that dot the landscape in many of the city's parks.

The serene environment allows for a truly tranquil dining experience, where you can enjoy homemade sandwiches, fresh fruits, and other picnic favorites while basking in the natural beauty around you.

For those who love to combine dining with activity, many picnic sites also feature walking trails, playgrounds for children, and sports facilities.

This means you can enjoy a game of frisbee, take a peaceful stroll, or simply lie back and watch the clouds roll by after your meal.

Strolling through Whyte Avenue in Edmonton is like taking a walk through a vibrant tapestry of culture, history, and modern flair. T

his iconic street in the Old Strathcona district pulses with the bohemian spirit that makes it one of the city’s most dynamic neighborhoods.

With historic buildings housing contemporary arts, unique boutiques, and a bustling culinary scene, Whyte Avenue offers an eclectic mix that appeals to both locals and visitors alike.

Food enthusiasts will revel in the diverse dining options available. From the smoky flavors of southern BBQ at MEAT, featuring Alberta’s renowned beef, to the inventive Mexican fare at El Cortez that keeps patrons coming back well into the night, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

For those looking for plant-based options, Cafe Mosaics offers an impressive array of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including a surprising variety of burgers.

Meanwhile, The Next Act is a must-visit for theater-goers and craft beer lovers, with its creatively named burgers and local brews.

Whyte Avenue is also a shopper’s paradise, especially on Saturdays at the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market, where vendors sell fresh local produce, food, and crafts all year round.

Fashionistas will find the latest trends at Bamboo Ballroom, and shoe lovers can explore an extensive collection at Gravitypope.

Don’t miss a chance to browse through the Wee Book Inn, a cozy bookshop with a charming resident cat, perfect for bookworms.

As you can see, Edmonton bursts with exciting activities that cater to every taste and interest throughout the summer.

From the tranquil joy of goat and chicken yoga, to the thrilling heights of the Aerial Park Tower, and the rich cultural tapestry showcased at vibrant festivals like K-Days and Cariwest, there's truly something for everyone. Whether you prefer leisurely strolls down Whyte Avenue, exploring local boutiques and eateries, or you're more inclined to dive into active adventures like Segway tours or paintball games, Edmonton ensures your summer days are filled with joy and excitement.

So, why not make the most of the long sunny days and explore all that this fantastic city has to offer? Grab your friends, pack your picnic, or simply set out solo to discover new experiences. This summer Edmonton is ready to welcome you with open arms and unforgettable moments.