Where to stay

In Alberta's capital city, explore the arts scene, a thriving French Quarter and a wide variety of festivals, including the world-renowned Folk Music Festival. Choose a hotel near Sir Winston Churchill Square, in the heart of Downtown Edmonton's Arts District, for its year-round events, Art Gallery of Alberta and Citadel Theater. For French culture, stay in the Bonnie Doon area, home to much of Alberta's Francophone population, a cultural center, a Francophone school, churches and more. Old Strathcona is a great choice to stay for theater-goers, with more theaters in one small area than anywhere in the province.

Thriving Downtown Edmonton is home to modern hotels, including high-end choices that place you close to the city's roots. Tour historic buildings, dine on Alberta game and fresh fish at more than 200 restaurants and browse more than 500 shops. Alternatively, stay in the favorite tourist neighborhood of Old Strathcona, a shopping and entertainment hub near the University of Alberta. The Old Strathcona Farmers' Market is worth a few hours on its own. Hotels along Whyte Avenue are surrounded by the highest concentration of excellent restaurants, spirited pubs and cool shops. A revitalized portion of the street has been deemed a Provincial Historic Area and has an enticing small-town vibe. To be close yet not too close to the youthful energy of the area, book a room on Gateway Boulevard.

Just west of Downtown Edmonton, residential Oliver is the place to stay for a nice selection of boutiques along Jasper Avenue, mixed in with stately, older architecture. For the region's best shopping, choose a hotel in West Edmonton, home to the famous West Edmonton Mall. It's not just about the upscale shopping here; there's an ice rink and theme park rides, too. Accommodations in the Warehouse Campus Area put you near the 4th Street Promenade, a new shopping and dining experience. All summer, you can shop for local food and crafts at the lively City Market.