When the weather outside is frightful, there's no need to hibernate at home. Edmonton has an abundance of indoor activities that will keep you entertained, warm, and maybe even teach you something new.
This article is your ultimate guide to the 14 best indoor activities in Edmonton, picked for their diversity and fun factor.
This guide is crafted to help you make the most of your indoor time, turning chilly days into opportunities for new adventures and experiences. Let’s explore and make those cold days a lot more fun!
1. Get Lost at West Edmonton Waterpark
Go on a thrilling aquatic adventure at the World Waterpark, located within the iconic West Edmonton Mall. This indoor waterpark is home to the world's largest indoor wave pool, making it a prime destination for both locals and visitors.
The main attraction here is undoubtedly the colossal indoor wave pool. Experience riding the waves indoors, no matter the weather outside.
But that's not all! The World Waterpark offers a staggering 20 slides and attractions, suitable for thrill-seekers of all skill levels.
For those new to water slides, the gentle Caribbean Cove and Caribbean Cruiser provide a fun and safe introduction. On the other end of the spectrum, adrenaline junkies can brave the heart-pounding Cyclone or take the plunge on the Sky Screamer.
Ever wanted to surf but never had the chance? The Surf Club brings the beach to the prairies with indoor surfing lessons suitable for all skill levels.
For those planning a group visit, the World Waterpark offers fantastic group discounts. Purchasing 25 or more passes to any attraction means significant savings, and options like the Skyflyer Zipline or the endless waves of the FlowRider provide unforgettable group activities.
Looking to add a touch of luxury to your visit? The waterpark offers several rental spaces, including the Coastal Cabana, Beachfront Patio, and the Pina Colada Rooftop Lounge.
2. Try a Cooking Class
When the Edmonton chill sets in, there's no better way to stay warm and have fun than by taking a cooking class at Caffè Sorrentino.
For those looking to spark some romance, the Date Night classes are perfect. Enjoy an evening filled with laughter, learning, and delicious food, all while spending quality time with your partner.
These hands-on experiences are designed to make your night out not just memorable but truly special.
If pasta is your passion, the Pasta Series is an essential experience. This four-class program offers an in-depth exploration into the art of pasta-making, guided by skilled chefs who share their professional secrets.
Looking to add a unique twist to your next event? Their Private Classes are an excellent choice.
The Artisanal Series offers an in-depth exploration into traditional Italian culinary techniques. Led by Chef Antonio, this hands-on exploration spans three days, focusing on authentic sauces, pasta making, and pizza creation.
For businesses looking to enhance teamwork and communication, the Team Building Classes are a fantastic option.
These classes include cooking competitions, mystery boxes, and collaborative cooking experiences that break the ice and foster better communication among team members.
Even if you can't be there in person, Caffè Sorrentino offers Virtual Group Classes via Zoom. These live and interactive sessions are perfect for corporate team building or remote gatherings, allowing participants to connect and cook together from anywhere.
3. Learn Improv Comedy
Swap your typical weekend movie night for an hour of laughter, creativity, and spontaneity. That's what you get when you engage with the world of improv comedy with Rapid Fire Theatre.
They offer a wide range of public improv classes all year round, accommodating everyone from complete beginners to seasoned performers.
One of the coolest aspects of Rapid Fire Theatre's courses is their specialized workshops. These aren't your run-of-the-mill classes.
For instance, there's Improv for the Fabulously Mature, a lighthearted jam designed for individuals aged 55 and up. It's all about light physical movement and having tons of fun.
If public speaking makes your palms sweat, you might find the Improv for Public Speaking workshop useful. This class equips participants with improv skills that can help them shine in front of a crowd, even earning standing ovations!
And for those battling anxiety, the Improv for Anxiety workshop offers a supportive space to learn helpful techniques while managing stress.
Rapid Fire Theatre also has something for the younger crowd. They offer a 10-week workshop called Improv for Homeschoolers, designed exclusively for homeschooled kids.
Additionally, the Kidding Around Workshop is an 8-week program for children, encouraging imagination, positivity, and performance skills.
These workshops are a fantastic way for kids to develop confidence and creativity in a fun setting.
4. Play Games at The Hexagon Cafe
Welcome to The Hexagon Cafe, a true paradise for board game lovers in Edmonton.
This cozy and welcoming spot offers a diverse library of over 1000 games, making it a go-to destination for anyone looking to have a fun time indoors.
Once inside, you’ll notice the walls lined with shelves stacked high with games. From timeless classics like Apples to Apples to modern hits like Android: Netrunner and Arboretum, they’ve got it all. One can easily spend hours exploring the wide variety of options.
And if you’re up for a challenge, don't miss out on the Puzzle Playoff event. Held every 2nd Monday of the month at 7 PM, teams of 2-4 race to complete a 500-piece puzzle.
The fastest team even wins a bonus 1000-piece puzzle and other fun prizes!
Besides the gaming fun, make sure to check out the Hexagon Shop. It’s filled with an assortment of goodies, from board games to café accessories, mugs, and gift cards.
If you fall in love with a game you played, you can purchase it right there and take a piece of the fun home with you. It’s also a great place to find unique gifts for fellow board game enthusiasts.
5. Take a Stained Glass Class
Looking for a cozy indoor activity that lets you get creative? Visit Bissett Stained Glass! Located in Alberta, this venue offers a variety of Stained Glass Classes and workshops perfect for anyone eager to explore the colorful world of stained glass art.
No matter if you're a complete beginner or have some experience under your belt, Bissett Stained Glass has a range of classes to suit your needs.
Their sessions cover techniques including copper foil, lead came, fusing, and mosaic methods. You’ll be guided every step of the way by experienced instructors, making it a fun and educational experience.
A popular choice is the Beginner Lead Came Panel Class. In this class, participants learn the traditional method of stained glass construction.
From scoring and breaking to grinding, leading, soldering, and cementing, you'll gain hands-on experience to create your very own 10x15-inch panel.
If you’re looking to take your skills to the next level, their intermediate class is just the ticket. This class explores more complex techniques such as large panel and 3D construction, allowing you to create pieces up to 24x24 inches in size.
Before you sign up, keep in mind that all classes require standing for several hours. So, it's a good idea to wear comfortable clothing and avoid open-toed shoes for safety reasons.
Also, Bissett Stained Glass is a pet-friendly environment, which adds to its welcoming atmosphere. However, if you have allergies to cats or dogs, be sure to take the necessary precautions.
Beyond classes, Bissett Stained Glass also offers valuable services like repairs, pattern creation, and custom work.
6. Cuddle Cats at the CatCafe
Many people think a cat cafe is just a gimmick, but Cat Cafe on Whyte proves it's so much more! As Alberta's first cat cafe, it blends good coffee and rescue cats in perfect harmony.
This cozy spot is known for its high-quality coffee and specialty drinks, all prepared with freshly roasted beans from ACE coffee roasters, just blocks away.
Cat Cafe on Whyte welcomes visitors of all ages, though children aged 6 and under need supervision. And don't worry if you forget to bring socks—they've got cat-themed socks for sale to keep the lounge clean and comfy.
The real star of the show is the spacious yet homey Cat Lounge. It's designed to be a tranquil haven for both humans and cats.
What's even more heartwarming is that the cafe is home to six long-term foster cats, with many others available for adoption through their partner shelter, SAFE Team.
Additionally, each month, the cafe hosts a cat yoga session in partnership with Prana Yoga Studio. This mixed-level class runs from 8:30-9:30 AM and includes 30 minutes before and after for some extra cat cuddles.
7. Try a Pottery Class at Studio 72
If you're looking to warm up and get your hands a little dirty, why not try a pottery class at Studio 72? Their Pottery 101 workshop is perfect for anyone, from total beginners to those with some experience with clay.
In this 60 to 90-minute session, participants learn the basics of working with clay and the art of throwing on the pottery wheel. It's a hands-on adventure that lets you shape your own pottery piece from scratch!
Studio 72 Workshops is all about fostering creativity in a supportive and inspiring atmosphere. With their 3500 square feet of creative space, the studio is designed to make you feel right at home while you explore your artistic side.
This makes it an ideal place for small arts-centered non-profits, start-ups, designers, fiber artists, photographers, and even professionals in the fashion and film industries.
When you join a Pottery 101 workshop, you'll be guided through every step of the process—from shaping the clay to choosing a glaze color.
And the best part? Once your masterpiece is done, it's trimmed, fired, and ready for pick-up in about three weeks.
Studio 72 is equipped with excellent facilities, including four studio rooms, 23 wheels, and three electric kilns that fire to Cone 6.
8. The Ultimate Spa Day Experience
Located in the peaceful heart of Ambleside, The Spa at Ambleside offers an unparalleled self-care experience for those seeking a luxurious escape from daily life.
The moment you enter this haven of tranquility, you are enveloped by an ambiance of relaxation and rejuvenation, setting the perfect tone for your spa journey.
Their full-service spa provides a wide range of lavish treatments designed to pamper and revitalize your body, mind, and spirit.
Massage Therapies are exceptional here. Choose from the Ambleside Signature Massage, a deeply relaxing Hot Stone Massage, or a therapeutic Deep Tissue Massage, and their skilled therapists will ensure you leave feeling refreshed and renewed.
Their body treatments are equally exquisite. Options like the Revitalizing Scrub and Detoxifying Wrap leave your skin feeling soft, smooth, and rejuvenated.
Facials at The Spa at Ambleside are a true treat for the skin. With options like the Illuminating Facial and Age Defying Facial, these treatments target specific skin concerns, leaving you with a radiant complexion.
For a comprehensive spa experience, try their Ambleside Signature Packages, which combine multiple treatments tailored to your needs.
In addition to their exceptional spa services, guests can enjoy complimentary drinks and snacks in the lounge area, creating a truly immersive and indulgent experience from start to finish.
9. Have a Gourmet Dinner with Theatre
Why settle for an ordinary dinner when you can have a gourmet feast paired with a captivating live theatre performance?
At the Mayfield Dinner Theatre in Edmonton, diners embark on a gastronomic adventure that tantalizes taste buds and entertains the soul.
Located in the heart of the city, this venue combines exquisite cuisine with an array of spectacular shows, making it a standout choice for indoor entertainment.
The culinary experience at Mayfield Dinner Theatre is nothing short of extraordinary. Consider starting your evening with a gourmet salad, followed by mouthwatering seafood selections.
The menu features delights like AAA Alberta roast beef and savory Yorkshire pudding, all crafted with the freshest ingredients by a talented culinary team.
But the food is just one part of the experience; the shows at Mayfield Dinner Theatre are equally impressive. From timeless classics to electrifying musicals, the variety of performances caters to diverse tastes.
For instance, Grease takes you back to the rock 'n roll era of the 1950s, while "On Golden Pond" offers a heartwarming comedy about family and love.
If you’re a country music fan, Musicians Gone Wild in Nashville: Music City will have you celebrating iconic artists and songs.
And for those who love a good laugh, The Full Monty is a hilarious and inspiring tale of unemployed steelworkers reclaiming their dignity.
10. Join a Jewellery Making Class
Try a jewelry making class at Silver Anvil Rock & Gem, It's the perfect opportunity to learn a new skill while staying cozy indoors!
One of the best parts about these beginner classes is that they provide access to a fully equipped studio.
This means you don’t have to worry about bringing any tools or supplies, everything you need is included to ensure a smooth and enjoyable learning process. No surprise fees here!
Silver Anvil Rock & Gem offers a variety of specialized classes to suit different interests and skill levels. For instance, their popular Ring Making Class teaches essential techniques to craft your very own stunning silver ring. You’ll love wearing a ring that’s truly one-of-a-kind, designed by you!
But that's not all. They also offer other exciting classes such as the Silver Pierced Pendant Class, Introduction to Wax Carving, and the Agate Slice Pendant Class.
If you’re looking for something even more unique, Silver Anvil Rock & Gem provides custom jewelry services.
Their Master Jeweller can bring your vision to life, if you have a specific design or need inspiration to make one, they got you.
11. Try an Indoor Shooting Range
Edmonton's Wild West Shooting Centres offers an ideal experience for those who want a true adrenaline rush.
This premier indoor shooting range is perfect for everyone, from seasoned marksmen to complete beginners.
And guess what? You don't even need an appointment – walk-ins are warmly welcomed, making it super convenient to drop by whenever the mood strikes.
One of the best things about Wild West is their beginner-friendly environment. If you're new to shooting, there's no need to worry!
They offer personalized guidance every step of the way, ensuring you feel comfortable and confident while honing your skills. It's an empowering and exhilarating experience that you won't soon forget!
For those who already know their way around a firearm, Wild West offers an extensive gun selection that will surely impress.
It's important to note that single walk-in shooters need to be accompanied by a friend or family member unless they have a firearms license.
12. Real Life Escape Room Fun
Ever thought escape rooms were just about being locked in a room? Think again! Time Escape in Edmonton is here to change your mind.
Perfect for thrill-seekers and puzzle enthusiasts, Time Escape offers some of North America's most intricate escape rooms, designed to challenge your intellect and teamwork skills without ever compromising on safety.
At Time Escape, participants are transported into a variety of immersive scenarios where they must solve mind-bending puzzles to escape.
Time Escape stands out with its intriguing themes. Each room offers a unique adventure that makes you feel like you've entered another world. Take Time Warp, for instance.
In this high-stakes mission, participants act as scientists and engineers racing against the clock to protect a revolutionary time machine from mobsters.
With only 45 to 50 minutes to complete the mission, the pressure is on to think strategically and act swiftly.
If sci-fi is more your thing, Spaceship Mysteries might be right up your alley. This room transports players to the moon's desolate surface, where a buried spacecraft holds secrets waiting to be uncovered.
Equipped with advanced technology, teams must navigate through lethal toxins and otherworldly challenges to retrieve the spacecraft's secrets within 50 minutes.
For those who crave even more variety, TLE Secrets offers an unparalleled adventure in a hidden castle filled with untold treasures. As daring archaeologists, participants must decipher cryptic clues and solve intricate puzzles to uncover ancient riches.
13. Admire Nature at the Muttart Conservatory
During Edmonton's chilly months, one can find a colorful oasis amidst the cold at the Muttart Conservatory.
Visitors are invited to traverse the distinct climates housed within the Pyramids. Each pyramid showcases a unique environment: arid, temperate, and tropical.
These carefully controlled climates host over 700 plant varieties, making each visit a unique and educational experience.
The feature pyramid is particularly special, as it changes with themed displays and seasonal celebrations, ensuring there's always something new to admire. The centre court is a harmonious blend of water, fire, and living plants—truly a sight to behold.
Adults can unwind during the Happy Hour at Muttart every Wednesday evening, enjoying beverages from Café Bloom alongside musical performances.
For families, the Imagination Station is perfect for children aged five and under, fostering creativity and exploration.
Meanwhile, tiny tots aged three to five can participate in the Mornings at Muttart program, which includes sensory play, crafts, and pyramid explorations.
Don’t miss a visit to the Marigold Gift Shop, which offers a delightful selection of unique gifts and souvenirs, many from local designers and artists.
14. Visit the Alberta Aviation Museum
Looking for a fascinating way to stay warm in Edmonton? Head over to the Alberta Aviation Museum, located in a historic World War II hangar.
This museum offers a rich history with over 30 aircraft on display, a restoration area, simulators, and even a gift shop. It's like stepping back in time, with every aircraft telling its own unique story.
For an even more engaging visit, check out their special events like the Flight Focus Night. This evening is designed for photography enthusiasts.
Capture the intricate details of these magnificent machines in a setting that's both visually stunning and historically rich. It's an unforgettable opportunity to blend a love of aviation with a passion for photography.
Visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets online for a smooth experience. Just remember to follow a few simple rules to keep the exhibits in perfect condition: no food or drink in the exhibits, check backpacks at the front desk, no running, and respect the red curbing boundaries.
To Sum It All Up
As you can see, Edmonton has a ton of amazing indoor activities to keep you warm and entertained. From getting lost at the Waterpark at West Edmonton Mall, testing your chef skills with a cooking class, to enjoying some cuddles with cats at the CatCafe, there are numerous options to choose from.
Remember, trying new things can be a great way to create lasting memories. For even more ideas on what to do in Edmonton, be sure to visit ActiviFinder Edmonton! Get out there and have some fun!