Discover Edmonton’s Outdoor Swimming Pools
Edmonton is home to an array of fantastic outdoor pools, each offering a refreshing respite from the summer heat. Let’s dive into Edmonton’s top outdoor swimming pools you shouldn’t miss this season.
Mill Creek Outdoor Pool
Located in the heart of the city, Mill Creek Outdoor Pool is a family-friendly destination perfect for fun in the sun. With on-site picnic tables, a concession stand, change rooms, and washrooms, this pool has everything you need for a delightful day of swimming and relaxation. Remember to pack a picnic lunch or indulge in a snack from the concession stand to refuel in between splashes.
Note: Though Mill Creek Outdoor Pool is currently closed for rehabilitation, you can keep informed of its progress and reopening dates by visiting the Mill Creek Outdoor Pool website.
Address: 9555 84 Avenue, Edmonton
Queen Elizabeth Outdoor Pool
Nestled near the Kinsmen Sports Centre and Kinsmen Park, the Queen Elizabeth Outdoor Pool is an excellent spot for families to unwind and cool down. This pool features a six-lane, 25-metre pool with a zero-depth entry, one and three-metre diving boards, and a spacious sun deck. To enhance your pool experience, the adjacent Kinsmen Spray Park offers a fun-filled aquatic playground for the little ones.
Address: 9100 Walterdale Hill, Edmonton
Oliver Outdoor Pool
Situated in the bustling downtown neighbourhood of Oliver, this pool is an urban oasis for city dwellers seeking a refreshing swim. The Oliver Outdoor Pool boasts a 30.5-metre swimming pool, a thrilling deep water slide, a sundeck, picnic tables, and a concession stand. After a day of swimming and sliding, take some time to explore the nearby playground for an extra dose of outdoor fun.
Address: 10315 119 Street, Edmonton
Fred Broadstock Outdoor Pool
Located in west Edmonton, Fred Broadstock Outdoor Pool is a modernized facility with an inviting, family-friendly atmosphere. This pool features a 25-metre, six-lane pool, two diving boards, a children’s teaching pool, a spray park, a sun deck, picnic tables, and a concession. With its range of amenities and accessibility features, Fred Broadstock is a favourite of many Edmontonians looking for a relaxing summer day.
Address: 15720 105 Avenue, Edmonton
Borden Natural Swimming Pool
As Canada’s first public, man-made, natural swimming pool, Borden Natural Swimming Pool is a unique and eco-friendly aquatic experience. Surrounded by sand and ample lounge space with umbrellas, Borden offers a beach-like atmosphere in the heart of the city. The pool’s water is treated using naturally occurring filtration processes, providing a chemical-free swimming environment.
Address: 7615 Borden Park Road NW, Edmonton
Explore Edmonton’s Outdoor Picnic Spots
Walterdale Hill
Boasting an unbeatable view of the Walterdale Bridge and the downtown skyline, Walterdale Hill is an ideal location to lay out your picnic spread and soak up the sun. Local restaurants like Eleanor & Laurent and Farrow, located south of the river, offer delicious takeout options for your picnic feast. Don’t forget to take a post-meal stroll along the river valley trails for a scenic and relaxing walk.Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park
Tucked away on the riverbank near the Valley Zoo, Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park offers a more intimate picnic experience with nine reservable picnic sites, tables, horseshoe pits, and trails. Bring a frisbee for some post-meal fun, and consider picking up some tasty treats from nearby Rebel Food & Drink or the Italian Centre Shop on your way to the park.Government House Park
Featuring picnic benches and barbecues, Government House Park allows for a more traditional picnic experience without the need for a blanket. Before or after your meal, take a stroll along the paved paths east along River Valley Road or west into McKinnon Ravine. With Jasper Avenue and 124 Street nearby, you’ll have endless grab-and-go food options to choose from.University of Alberta Botanic Garden
Located just 30 minutes west of Edmonton, the University of Alberta Botanic Garden is worth the drive for a memorable picnic experience. Explore 190 acres of gardens and natural areas, including the Kurimoto Japanese Garden, butterfly house, and the stunning Aga Khan Garden. For a truly memorable evening, consider booking their Twilight Picnic Experience, which includes a gourmet picnic box to enjoy amid the garden’s breathtaking beauty.Fort Edmonton Park
Bring the whole family to Fort Edmonton Park for a nostalgic picnic experience. Lay down your gingham blanket on a patch of grass or claim a picnic table near the Gyro Park picnic site, which features an old-fashioned playground and covered picnic shelter. You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time as you enjoy your meal in this charming historic setting.Constable Ezio Faraone Park
For a front-row seat to both the river valley and the High Level Bridge, head to Constable Ezio Faraone Park. This park offers one of the best evening picnic spots in the city, providing stunning views of the river valley and the illuminated bridge. Enhance your picnic experience with delicious takeout options from nearby District Café & Bakery or The Common.Emily Murphy Park
Nestled on the river’s south bank, Emily Murphy Park is perfect for families seeking a scenic and safe picnic location. With plenty of seating options and excellent views of the play area, you can ensure that the little ones are having a great time while you enjoy your meal. For an authentic Canadian experience, bring your own canoe or simply walk the trails and watch others paddle along the river.Borden Park
Located just east of downtown Edmonton, Borden Park is a fantastic summer hangout spot with plenty of grassy areas and shade to enjoy a picnic. The park is filled with trails and pathways that lead to stunning sculptures and unique art installations, including a mirrored pavilion. For a mouthwatering meal, consider grabbing a burger from Fox Burger, one of the city’s top-rated burger joints.Louise McKinney Park
Situated in the heart of the river valley, Louise McKinney Park provides a serene setting for a relaxing picnic. Explore the pagoda and statuary in the Chinese Garden, or take a post-meal riverfront walk for some light exercise. Pick up a coffee and pastry from Little Brick, nestled in the nearby Riverdale neighbourhood, for a tasty treat. Don’t forget to stroll across the new Tawatinâ Bridge for an unforgettable experience.Alberta Legislature Grounds
For a prime people-watching picnic spot, set up your meal on the steps by the wading pool at the Alberta Legislature Grounds. For a more peaceful setting, find a shaded area under the trees in the park behind the Legislature building. If you’re planning a picnic on a summer Saturday or Sunday, visit the Edmonton Downtown Farmers Market first to grab some local goods for your feast.
For the Best Picnic Experience in Edmonton
For those seeking a more luxurious picnic experience, consider booking one of the opulent picnic packages offered by True North Picnic. This boutique catering company specializes in creating one-of-a-kind luxury experiences in Edmonton’s parks, perfect for special occasions. True North will coordinate, style, and do all the work, so all you need to do is show up, relax, and enjoy.
If you’re planning a larger gathering or need a guaranteed spot, it’s always a good idea to reserve a picnic site at your chosen location in advance. Reservations are required for groups of more than 50 people or those needing special services. To book a picnic site, visit the City of Edmonton’s picnic site reservation page for availability and additional information.
Edmonton’s outdoor swimming pools and picnic spots offer countless opportunities for fun, relaxation, and making the most of the summer season. Whether you’re diving into the refreshing waters, lounging under the sun, or enjoying a delicious meal in a picturesque setting, Edmonton has everything you need for an incredible summer experience.
If you plan to visit Edmonton this summer, book your stay through Edmonton’s Best Hotels to take advantage of our 1, 2, 3 Reward Deal. You can get up to $225 in rewards, including Prepaid Mastercards, Ultimate Dining cards, and gas cards. Don’t miss out on this fantastic offer—reserve your accommodations today and make your summer in Edmonton truly unforgettable.
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