Inspiring art
Edmonton’s art galleries offer a diverse display of intriguing local, national, and international works, spanning many centuries and many different forms - from paintings and sculptures to photography and film.
The Art Gallery of Alberta - known as the AGA – sits within a flashy futuristic building of swirling steel and glass. The eye-catching design is a fitting introduction to the AGA’s vast collection of artwork spread throughout its wide walkways and spacious halls. With a strong permanent collection and diverse temporary exhibits, the AGA offers something for every art-lover.
2 Sir Winston Churchill Square, Edmonton AB T5J 2C1.
124th Street
This long street, located west of the city center, is known as the Gallery District, as it’s lined with dozens of intriguing independent art spaces. Here you’ll find mainly local artists showcasing their bold and memorable work, which goes beyond paintings and pictures and into fine jewelry and glasswork. If you see something you like, there’s a good chance it’ll be for sale.
124 Street NW, Edmonton.
Museums
Edmonton’s wealth of galleries is matched by its range of riveting museums. Speckled throughout the central city area, these are guaranteed to please any history-fiend, whether you're an aviation fanatic, science geek or railroad buff. Royal Alberta Museum
The Royal Alberta Museum overlooks the vibrant greens of the river valley parkland. This natural and human history museum will take you through a billion years of fascinating geology, fossils, and gemstones. Find out about prehistoric plant life, gaze at life-size dinosaur models, and learn about ancient Aboriginal culture.
12845 102 Avenue NW, Edmonton AB T5N 0M6.
Performing arts
After a taste of high culture? Or some immersive avant-garde amateur theater? Edmonton’s dynamic performing arts scene can cater, with its wide array of community-led theaters, concert halls, and cultural centers.
Situated in downtown Edmonton, this live music performance centre is the ideal spot to catch a show. The vast concert hall - which can seat over 1,700 people - blends contemporary and classic design, colored in golds and blues with the layout of an immense cathedral. It's home to the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, but also puts on ballet shows, rock concerts, and lectures.
4 Sir Winston Churchill Square NW, Edmonton AB T5J 4X8.
Historic landmarks
With its roots deep in the past, and events like the frenzy of the Klondike Gold Rush in its shared history, Edmonton has a rich heritage reflected in its many landmarks.
This themed living history museum makes for a great day out. Situated around the still-standing residence of John Rowand - once the commander of Fort Edmonton - you can amble through the reconstructed trading posts, clerk’s quarters, and old-world wagons, all the while learning what life was like 200 years ago in this historic fort.
7000 143rd Street, Edmonton AB T5J 2R7.
