Be transported to the elegance of Edwardian 1915 in the fully restored home of Alexander Rutherford- Alberta's first Premier. The Rutherford House is one of the most beautiful structures of the city. Guides dressed in period costumes and interpreters demonstrate aspects of daily life from the period and describe important events that occurred in the politician's house. There is an on-site gift shop. You can experience Edwardian dining in the Arbour restaurant, which is run by the Friends of Rutherford House. Hours vary seasonally, but the restaurant hours are constant. Visit the website for varying dates.
Explore Edmonton's beginnings as a fur trading post at Canada's largest living museum. Walk around recreations of life in Edmonton as it was in 1846, 1885, 1905, and during the Depression. Learn how a beaver hat is made, see the way children lived on the homestead, get your picture taken in the historical style, and visit an old-fashioned soda fountain. There are also annual and special events like the children's Easter candy hunt that are sure to delight visitors of all ages.
With its shining facade, The Citadel Theatre is one of the most noticeable structures in the heart of downtown Edmonton. Established in the year 1965, it remains famous as being the sole performing arts spot to have witnessed the production of Pieces of Eight musical by Jule Styne. With three theaters and a number of multi-purpose rooms available for rental, the Citadel Theatre is a popular destination for a wide range of audiences, hosting a range of theatrical performances and other events.
The High Level Bridge Streetcar is a historic streetcar that started operating in 1979. Travelling between Strathcona Streetcar Barn & Museum to Jasper Plaza, the streetcar is operated by the Edmonton Radial Railway Society. It is open to the public for rides between these two destinations in the months of May to October. So, take a break from the regular fast vehicles and go into the history while you ride on this street car.
This train-lover's museum is out on the northeastern limits of the city, near Fort Road. However, if the golden age of steam is for you, it is well worth the visit. Established in 1976, this museum is all set to impress you and take you back to the period when steam engines were the discovery of the time. See a restored railway station, bunk house, water tower, and fire hall. There is a working steam train that offers rides along with numerous carriages, cars, and railway artifacts. During the summer holiday weekends, why not ride a passenger train?
Francis Winspear Centre for Music is a seat of culture in downtown Edmonton. This impressive concert hall and arts complex seats in excess of 1,900 people. It is home to the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra and is touted to be some of the best performing art centers in the country. Conference facilities and banquet rooms are also available. So, take some time off from your regular schedule and enjoy a melodious evening with classic concerts at Francis Winspear Centre for Music.
The University of Alberta's collection of geological specimens is unlike any other; there are over 20,000 varieties of rocks and minerals. The collection has been assembled during the last 80 years and is available for the scrutiny of researchers and visitors. Researchers use these specimens for studying plate tectonics and as samples to be used in university courses. Over 40 schools a year visit this museum on organized trips; guided tours can be arranged by prior appointment. Admission is free.
Father Lacombe, who built this mission in the 1860s, was well respected and admired by all. The mission he built has now been restored to its original legacy. Father Lacombe Chapel allows visitors to descriptively imagine what life was like when people lived on the edge of the western frontier. Demonstrations, educational programs, and guided tours are all regular features.
Based in Sherwood Park just to the east of Edmonton, Timberwolf Tours takes small groups of adventurers into the Rocky Mountains. A maximum of around 12 people set off from bases near Edmonton or Calgary and, using two-man tents for accommodation, experience the Rocky Mountains up close. Tours last two weeks and you have the option of backpacking, adventure camping or mountain river canoeing. You can opt for a hotel base for your activities. Check website for more details.
Downtown Community Arena in Edmonton is a communal ice rink which offers a lot of programs and facilities to the people who live in the neighborhood. Visitors here can indulge in skating as this space has a huge ice rink arena in the middle and there are many facilities for professional skaters as well. With a capacity to host 1000 spectators, this place is ideal to watch a game of ice hockey.
The Harcourt House Arts Centre is a public gallery and a centre that is managed by the artists. Established with the mission to promote contemporary visual art, this center helps artists to display their work. For more details, check website.