As Edmontonians, we’ve all gotten used to people from other parts of the country underestimating our city.
From the outside, Edmonton might seem a little rough around the edges, but those of us who live here know just how underrated it really is. But that’s part of its charm, the city feels like a hidden gem we get to keep to ourselves.
If you want to let others in on the secret, or just have some fun facts ready the next time someone takes a shot at Edmonton, here are 10 things that make this city completely underrated.
The river valley
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Edmonton’s river valley is vast, and we’re so lucky to have North America’s largest continuous urban park system right in our backyard. Whether you want to hike, bike, or just escape the city for a bit, it’s a spot that never gets old. An urban planning YouTuber even called Edmonton “criminally underrated,” thanks to this remarkable stretch of parkland.
The greenery stretches beyond the river valley
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Beyond the river valley, Edmonton is packed full of greenery and parks. From tree-lined boulevards in inner-city neighbourhoods that provide cool shade in the summer, to Borden Park, Mill Creek Ravine, and Hermitage Park, no matter where you live, it’s easy to step outside and feel like you’ve left the city.
Low cost of living
Edmonton is one of Canada’s most affordable major cities, making it easy to find a place that fits your budget. Perhaps that low cost of living is why our arts scene is so huge!
Easy commute
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No matter where you are in the city, you can get anywhere you need to go by car within half an hour. Even with the occasional construction project (or 12), traffic isn’t nearly the drag as it is in places like Toronto, and we can all be thankful for that.
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West Edmonton Mall
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While West Edmonton Mall is our obvious claim to fame, it’s no small feat to play home to such an outrageously massive shopping centre that also contains a hotel, waterpark, theme park, and ice rink, among many other attractions. Seriously though, where else in Canada can you go shoot down waterslides in the middle of January? We do miss seeing Cosmo on street signs pointing to the mall, though.
Bike trails
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Edmonton has quite a healthy biking community, and it’s easy to see why. Mountain biking through the river valley is elite, and tons of bike lanes make it easy for cyclists to navigate the city.
The festivals
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We are Canada’s festival city for a reason. Edmonton comes alive in the summer with 11 p.m. sunsets and at least one festival every weekend. From Folk to Fringe to Heritage Festival and more, you won’t find another city in Canada throwing parties this big. And the fun doesn’t stop in winter. Silver Skate Festival, Flying Canoe Volant, and others will have you embracing the season like you never have before.
Thrifting/antiquing
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Edmonton has a ton of vintage and antique shops, and they’re full of really unique and interesting finds. From the overflowing booths at the Old Strathcona Antique Mall to the Rocky Mountain Antique Mall, and cool finds at the Junque Cellar, there’s something for everyone. The city is full of garage sales, secondhand shops, and plenty of Facebook Marketplace gems, making it an awesome place to hunt for mid-century modern furniture or whatever you fancy. Edmonton really loves its antiques, and there’s always something out there waiting to catch your eye!
Art and music
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When you live in a city that’s as cold as Edmonton for eight months out of the year, what better way to spend time indoors than by making art? Maybe that’s why so much incredible talent has come out of Edmonton!
The people
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Lastly, Edmonton wouldn’t be the city it is without the people that call it home. Between all of the fascinating local legends and celebrities and your neighbours who are always willing to help dig your car out of the snow in the winter, we are fortunate to have so many incredible people call Edmonton home.