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Why Edmonton is the Perfect Destination for a Weekend Getaway

Why Edmonton is the Perfect Destination for a Weekend Getaway

Looking for a weekend getaway that balances stunning outdoor experiences, rich culture, and a vibrant food scene? Edmonton has it all. Whether you’re craving adventure, inspiration, or indulgence, this city offers the perfect escape just waiting to be explored.

Here’s your ultimate guide to spending an unforgettable weekend in Edmonton:

1. Outdoor Adventures in the River Valley

At the heart of Edmonton lies its River Valley Park System, the largest urban park system in North America, stretching an impressive 180 kilometers along the North Saskatchewan River. This massive network of parks and trails offers year-round opportunities for adventure and relaxation.

Explore:

Discover lush forests, river views, and trails that wind through the city’s natural beauty. The River Valley feels like a wilderness escape, yet it’s right in the middle of the city.

Activities:

  • In summer, enjoy hiking, biking, or kayaking along the river. You can rent gear locally and immerse yourself in nature.
  • In winter, the park transforms into a snowy wonderland perfect for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.
  • If you’re looking for a low-key experience, take a leisurely riverside walk or find a scenic spot for a picnic.

Must-Visit Spots:

  • Rundle Park: A serene escape featuring walking paths, ponds, and picnic areas, along with recreational facilities like disc golf and paddle boating.
  • Louise McKinney Riverfront Park: Your gateway to the River Valley, featuring waterfront trails and the iconic 100 Street Funicular, which offers incredible views of the city skyline.

2. Immerse Yourself in Arts and Culture

Edmonton’s arts and culture scene is as diverse as its residents, with options ranging from world-class museums to vibrant live performances.

Don’t Miss These Highlights:

  • Art Gallery of Alberta: Explore stunning exhibits featuring Canadian and international artists in this architecturally impressive gallery.
  • Royal Alberta Museum: Learn about Alberta’s fascinating past with exhibits on Indigenous culture, natural history, and ancient artifacts.
  • Winspear Centre: Experience breathtaking live performances at one of the world’s finest concert halls, featuring everything from orchestras to contemporary artists.
  • Public Art: Stroll downtown to discover incredible murals and sculptures. Don’t miss the shimmering Talus Dome, a reflective sculpture near the Quesnell Bridge.

3. Indulge in Edmonton’s Culinary Scene

Food lovers, rejoice—Edmonton’s dining scene is a destination all on its own. From fine dining to casual eateries, this city celebrates fresh, local ingredients and global flavors.

Restaurants to Try:

  • Bundok: A downtown gem specializing in seasonal, minimalist dishes that are big on flavor and made with locally sourced ingredients.
  • Bernadette’s: An Indigenous restaurant dedicated to our grandmothers, Bernadette’s serves seasonal, traditional, and political dishes that evoke comfort and connection. Nestled downtown, the intimate space features a stunning mural by bb.iskwew. Founded by Chef Scott Iserhoff (Attawapiskat FN) and Svitlana Kravchuk (Boyarka, UA), it’s a celebration of heritage, community, and Kokhum’s hospitality.

Foodie Neighborhoods:

  • Old Strathcona: This historic district is bursting with charming cafes, global eateries, and craft breweries. It’s the perfect spot to explore for lunch, dinner, or a quick coffee.
  • 124th Street: Trendy and vibrant, this neighborhood offers some of Edmonton’s best restaurants, like family-run bistros and upscale dining, alongside boutiques and galleries.

Local Tastes:

For an Edmonton classic, grab a pastry from the famous Duchess Bake Shop, consistently ranked among the best bakeries in Canada. Then, head to one of Edmonton’s many craft breweries, like Blind Enthusiasm Brewing or Sea Change Brewing Co., for a pint of locally made beer.

4. Shopping and Exploring in Trendy Districts

Edmonton’s neighborhoods are full of charm, with eclectic shops, artisan markets, and local boutiques offering unique finds you won’t see anywhere else.

Must-Visit Districts:

  • Whyte Avenue (Old Strathcona): The heart of Edmonton’s creative scene, this area is packed with vintage shops, quirky stores, and local vendors. Don’t miss the street art and live music often found here.
  • 124th Street: A hub for art and design lovers, this area features galleries, handmade goods, and a mix of upscale and casual shops. It’s also home to some of Edmonton’s best coffee shops and dessert spots.
  • Downtown: The 104th Street Promenade is a must-see for its farmers’ markets, specialty shops, and cozy cafes.

5. Get Paid to Stay: Edmonton’s Best Hotels’ 123 Deal

Your Edmonton adventure just got even better with Edmonton’s Best Hotels’ exclusive 123 Deal, where you can actually get paid to stay! When you book a 1, 2, or 3-night stay with EBH, you can earn up to $225 in free rewards to enhance your trip.

What You’ll Get:

  • Gas Cards to fuel your explorations.
  • Meal Cards to enjoy Edmonton’s vibrant culinary scene.
  • Cash Rewards to spend however you like.

This unbeatable deal is the perfect way to stretch your travel budget while enjoying top-notch accommodations. Don’t miss the chance to elevate your weekend getaway with rewards that make your stay even more rewarding.

Conclusion: Your Weekend Adventure Awaits

Edmonton is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring the beauty of the River Valley, diving into the arts and culture scene, or savoring delicious cuisine, Edmonton makes it easy to escape, unwind, and create lasting memories—all in just one weekend.

Stay with Edmonton’s Best Hotels
To make your weekend truly special, book your stay with Edmonton’s Best Hotels. With top-tier locations, exceptional service, and exclusive rewards, Edmonton’s Best Hotels provide the perfect home base to explore everything the city has to offer.

Start planning your Edmonton weekend getaway today. Adventure, culture, and relaxation are just a click away!

book your hotel now

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Terms and Conditions

The “1,2, 3 Pick Your Rewards”, Terms and Conditions and Blackout Dates 

Rewards Program campaign dates

Reward package available to book from January 5, 2022 for stays to December 31, 2025 for rewards except for possible blackout dates. At present there are no blackout dates scheduled.

Rewards are subject to while supplies last.  Substitutions of equivalent kind, value may be made as necessary.  Rewards are non-transferable, no cash value, no cash back.

  • Rewards are non-transferable, non-exchangeable, have no cash value, no cash back.
  • Rewards cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion.
  • Reward deal is net non-commissionable.

Blackout dates

At present there are no blackout dates scheduled. 

In the event blackout dates are scheduled, any guest who makes a booking for a hotel stay during the blackout period prior to the blackout period being named will receive the rewards they are booked for. 

Rewards Program offerings

Book one night’s stay with Edmonton’s Best Hotels and receive your choice of one of three $50 rewards excluding blackout dates:

  • $50 Gas Card or
  • $50 Prepaid Mastercard, or
  • $50 Ultimate Dining Card

Book two night’s stay with Edmonton’s Best Hotels and receive your choice of one of five reward packages excluding blackout dates:

  • $150 prepaid MasterCard, or
  • $75 Gas card and $75 MasterCard, or
  • $75 Gas card and $75 Ultimate Dining Card, or

Book three night’s stay with Edmonton’s Best Hotels and receive your choice of one of four reward packages excluding blackout dates:

  • Three Night Reward 1: $225 Prepaid Mastercard
  • Three Night Reward 3: $75 Ultimate Dining Card + $75 Prepaid Mastercard + $75 Gas Card

One choice of reward per stay. 

Guest must be 18 years of age or older at time of redemption. 

Prepaid Mastercard’s can be used for online purchases only. In Canada, prepaid Mastercard’s cannot be used at any retail outlet (including your hotel) with point-of-sale systems.

Rewards distribution

Rewards will be emailed directly to guests within 48 hours of Edmonton’s Best Hotels confirming their check-in.  Rewards are not provided by the hotel’s front desk.   All rewards are sent electronically. 

Reservations

Guest must reserve a minimum of 24 hours prior to arrival.

Rewards are NOT available for reservations made less than 24 hours in advance of arrival.

Reservations made directly with hotels and not through Edmonton’s Best Hotels are not eligible for rewards. No exceptions. Rewards are only provided to guests who book through Edmonton’s Best Hotels online booking platform.  Booking reservation confirmations will have Edmonton’s Best Hotels branding on them. Rewards not provided for hotel reservations during specified blackout dates.

Reservations cannot be extended by hotels for additional rewards.

Guests may add a night to an existing one-night deal reservation and receive additional rewards if the request is made a minimum of 24 hours in advance of arrival.

Booking terms and conditions

Rewards provided for more than one night, must be for consecutive nights under one registration under one name at one property. In addition, no more than up to three consecutive nights will be honoured. If a guest checks in for three days and then checks out and re-checks in for the next day, this is considered a consecutive night booking even if the second booking is made at different hotel.  

There must be a minimum of three days between bookings.

Multiple reservations for the same person for the same night(s) is considered a double booking and only one of those bookings will be eligible for rewards. For example, if a guest books two nights on x and y date and then makes another two-night booking for the same dates at the same hotel or another hotel, EBH considers this a double booking and will honour rewards for only one of those bookings. 

Is there a limit on the number of bookings I make on different dates?  Edmonton Best Hotels welcomes repeat business.  Some of our guests visit Edmonton every month.  Please note as stated earlier there must be a minimum of three days between bookings. Please also note stated blackout dates.

Cancelling and date changes to reservations

If a guest wants to cancel or change the dates of their booking.

What if I want to cancel my booking?  Edmonton Best Hotels must cancel your booking (not the hotel).  If you want to cancel, contact info@edmh.ca and let us know.  We will cancel your booking and send you a cancellation number for your records.  Please do not cancel directly with the hotel.

What if I want to change the dates of my booking?  You must contact Edmonton Best Hotels at info@edmh.ca and let us know you want to make a date change.  Your original booking must be cancelled first.  You will receive a cancellation number for your records.  Then, you must rebook for your new dates.  The hotel nor Edmonton’s Best Hotels cannot make date changes to the original booking.  Please note this does not guarantee you will receive the same hotel rate when you rebook for different dates.

Any questions, please contact Edmonton Best Hotels at info@edmh.ca 

REWARD YOURSELF with Exclusive INSIDER-ONLY Bonuses
When you become an EBH Travel Insider you receive:
  • Early, private access to limited availability deals.
  • Additional offers every month that aren't open to the public.
  • Opportunities to have your voice heard - tell us what deals you want to see! That’s what becoming an EBH Travel Insider does for you.
Become a Travel Insider
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