The Neon Sign Museum
The Neon Sign Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Edmonton’s history and culture. Located on 104th Street, this open-air museum features more than 20 neon signs from the 1940s to the 1990s, all restored to their original glory. The signs light up at night, creating a vibrant and nostalgic atmosphere.
Alchemy
Find yourself transported back in time to the era of prohibition when you step into Alchemy. That is if you can find it… Alchemy is as elusive as it is popular. Serving up craft cocktails and elevated bar snacks like bison tartare and oysters on a half shell, this speakeasy can be found only by pulling on the right bookshelf on the fifth floor of the JW Marriot in the ICE District. Good luck!
Keillor Point: The End of the World
No, the end of the world is not imminent, but heading down the concrete catwalk at Keillor Point to catch the sun setting over the North Saskatchewan River can make it feel like you’re staring into the void. Originally Keillor Road, which connected Saskatchewan Drive to Fox Drive, the road closed in the 90s and then was partially wiped out by a landslide in the early 2000s. The End of the World’s catwalk was built using pillars and a retaining wall left over from the original road.
Leadbeater’s Genesis
Have you ever seen a UFO crash site? Checking out Leadbeater’s Genesis in the Citadel Theatre may be the closest you’ll ever get. Inspired by the Apollo 11 moon mission, some of Einstein’s ideas, and the big bang theory, this art installation by Roy Leadbeater – one of Edmonton’s most celebrated artists – can be found among the greenery of Lee Pavillion. The sculpture itself is a fragmented metal disc that appears to be ripped apart, with jagged edges that create the illusion of a spaceship crashing into the jungle.
The Alberta Legislature Clap and Squeak
If you follow the footpath north from the domed side of the Legislature Building on the Alberta Legislature grounds, you’ll eventually find yourself at the South Amphitheatre on the East Lawn. There, you’ll find a giant brick circle with a smaller cement circle directly in the middle of it. Stand in that smaller circle and give a loud clap of your hands to experience an interesting phenomenon: instead of an echoed clap, the bricks around you will echo back with a squeak! Clap-Squeak.
Loma House
The MacEwan University Observatory is a hidden gem for kids, science lovers, and amateur astronomers that offers visitors the opportunity to explore the night sky and learn about astronomy. The observatory is equipped with a powerful telescope and staffed by experienced astronomers and volunteers who offer regular public viewing sessions and special events throughout the year. The observatory also offers a Universe in the Classroom program, which brings the wonders of the universe to local schools through interactive presentations and hands-on activities.
MacEwan University Observatory
The MacEwan University Observatory is a hidden gem for kids, science lovers, and amateur astronomers that offers visitors the opportunity to explore the night sky and learn about astronomy. The observatory is equipped with a powerful telescope and staffed by experienced astronomers and volunteers who offer regular public viewing sessions and special events throughout the year. The observatory also offers a Universe in the Classroom program, which brings the wonders of the universe to local schools through interactive presentations and hands-on activities.
The Secret River Valley Swing
Discover an ultra-secret spot in Edmonton where you can soar over the water on a hidden swing. To unravel the mystery of its location, just follow the paved trail near the Highlands Golf Course, past the Capilano Bridge. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, follow the path, and find yourself swinging out over the water with a picturesque view of the North Saskatchewan River – don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind experience!
Sea Life Caverns, WEM
You might not think of West Edmonton Mall when you’re thinking about hidden gems around Edmonton, but the truth is, the mall is so big that many things can often go overlooked. One of these oft-overlooked attractions is the Sea Life Caverns, an underground aquarium that you access by venturing into the mouth of a giant fish. With more than 100 species of colourful fish, sharks, reptiles, sea turtles, amphibians, penguins and more, you can get up close and personal with these amazing creatures through interactive exhibits that even allow you to pet sea stars!
4th Street Promenade
Nestled beside the LRT’s downtown Bay Station is the 4th Street Promenade, a red brick-laden lane that may remind you of historic cobblestone streets of older cities, offering a peaceful respite from Jasper Avenue’s mid-day traffic and hustle and bustle, with a variety of coffee shops, restaurants, and boutiques. And during the summer, the 200-yard stretch transforms into a lush oasis, adorned with trees and bathed in the sunlight of the long northern Alberta days that peeks through the buildings.Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident of Edmonton, these hidden gems offer a chance to discover something new and unique. Whether you’re looking for a new outdoor adventure or a hidden prohibition-era speakeasy, you’re sure to find many secrets just waiting to be uncovered. Other hidden gems worth exploring include the art galleries and studios in the 124 Street and Gallery Walk districts, the stunning architecture of the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald, and the charming cafes and mature tree-lined streets in the Oliver and Garneau neighbourhoods. So next time you’re in Edmonton, take some time to explore these hidden gems and discover all that this dynamic city has to offer.
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