8 of the best neighbourhoods in Edmonton to enjoy summer
We’re well into summer in Edmonton, but there’s still plenty of time to get out and enjoy it, and some neighbourhoods are just better this time of year.
Whether you’re after bustling urban vibes, somewhere close to the river valley, or a quiet spot to wander around for an afternoon, here are eight Edmonton neighbourhoods we love spending time in during the summer.
Bonnie Doon
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One of our favourite neighbourhoods in Edmonton in the summer is Bonnie Doon. It’s quiet but close to everything, with great pubs, restaurants, and shops, plus easy access to Mill Creek Ravine for shady walks on hot days. We also love the quirky, slightly liminal nature of Bonnie Doon Shopping Centre, and having the LRT right there makes it super easy to get around the city.
Go for a stroll through the canopied streets, grab a coffee at The Colombian, explore Campus Saint-Jean, or head down into the ravine. Maybe stop for a pint on the patio at Duggan’s Boundary or splash around in the Mill Creek Outdoor Pool when you’re all finished.
Riverdale
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Riverdale is one of the most beautiful spots in Edmonton in the summer. Tucked into the North Saskatchewan River valley, it’s quiet and peaceful while still being super close to downtown. Wander the river valley trails, grab a coffee or hang out on the patio at Little Brick, explore the leafy streets, or just park yourself on a bench by the river for a while. It’s a serene little pocket of Edmonton and a great place to spend a summer afternoon.
Highlands
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Highlands is such a gem in the summer. It’s full of tree-lined streets and beautiful historic homes, including the stunning Magrath Mansion, plus you’ve got easy access to the river valley for walks and bike rides. Grab a burger from Fox Burger, get some ice cream from Kind, wander the shops along 112th Avenue, or head over to Ada Boulevard for some of the best river valley views in the city. It’s a really lovely corner of Edmonton to spend a summer day!
Alberta Avenue
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Alberta Avenue really comes alive in the summer. This historic, close-knit neighbourhood has a vibrant, multicultural vibe and a thriving arts scene that spills out onto the streets during festivals and events. It’s also one of the best places in the city to eat, with restaurants serving up flavours from all over the world. There’s always something happening, and the energy here makes it a great place to spend a sunny day.
wîhkwêntôwin
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Located just to the west of downtown is the lively and vibrant community of wîhkwêntôwin. With a densely populated area and many high-rise residential buildings, this neighbourhood is within walking distance of shopping, dining, and stunning river valley views along the Victoria Promenade, especially in summer. We also love the Odd Company patio on a sunny day, and just across the street, you can never go wrong with a trip to Paul Kane Park.
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Summerside
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Who wouldn’t want their own private lake in the summer? Lake Summerside might be a bit farther out in south Edmonton, but it comes with its own beach where you can relax, swim or paddle all day long. There’s also just something about summer in the suburbs, being inside a large air-conditioned house with nowhere to be, and when you’ve got a lake and beach right in your own neighbourhood, it’s pretty hard to complain.
Laurier Heights
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Laurier Heights is a great summer neighbourhood with easy access to Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park, Buena Vista Dog Park, and the river valley trails. The area features plenty of spacious, impressive homes and is close to popular spots like the Edmonton Valley Zoo and Fort Edmonton Park. With the river right nearby, it’s easy to get outside and make the most of the warm weather.
Old Strathcona
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One of Edmonton’s most historic and well-known neighbourhoods, this area is full of art, eclectic shops, restaurants, nightlife, theatres, festivals, and more. In the summer, it truly comes alive with outdoor patios, street performers, and lively festivals filling the streets with energy. It’s easy to explore on foot or by bike, and nearby major roads make getting to other parts of the city quick and convenient from this vibrant hub.