16 awesome things to do in Edmonton this week: May 18 to 22
It’s finally starting to feel like summer around Edmonton, and if you’re looking to get out and discover one of the many ways to enjoy it, we’ve got you covered.
From a day at the zoo to theatre and optical illusions, check out these 16 awesome things to do in our city this week.
Visit Fort Edmonton Park
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What: Fort Edmonton Park is the largest living history museum in Canada. Visitors can experience the history of Edmonton before their very eyes, with a recreation of a fort from 1846 that was on the grounds during that time, to streets detailing each time period from 1885 to 1920.
When: Wednesdays to Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Fort Edmonton Park — 7000 143rd St. NW
Cost: $27.90 adult admission; find tickets online
Explore the Museum of Illusions
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What: The first Museum of Illusions location in Western Canada brings an immersive, mind-bending experience to Edmonton.
Museum of Illusions is a visual, sensory, and educational experience designed to engage your sense of wonder and shift your perspective through the science behind optical illusions.
Visitors to the Edmonton location will encounter a range of interactive installations, including the Infinity Room, which creates the illusion of endless space through mirrored reflections, and the Ames Room, where perspective dramatically alters how people appear in size. The exhibits combine education and entertainment—often referred to as “edutainment”—to create a playful, engaging experience.
When: Open until May 14, 2027
Where: West Edmonton Mall — Phase 4, Level 1 8882 170th St. NW
Cost: Tickets start at $29.99 for kids and $39.99 for adults, with family pricing and group discounts available.
Edmonton Valley Zoo
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What: The Edmonton Valley Zoo is home to more than 250 animals, focused on conservation, and offers fun and education for the whole family.
When: Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day
Where: 13315 Buena Vista Rd. NW
Cost: $16.95 adult admission
Cruise on the Edmonton Riverboat
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What: For three decades, Edmonton’s iconic riverboat has offered unparalleled views of the Edmonton city skyline and the stunning river valley. This incredible 90-minute excursion lets you indulge in fantastic dining options, drinks, and some awesome live music, and you get to experience Edmonton from a whole new vantage point.
When: Operates on select weekdays in May
Where: 9734 98th Ave. NW
Cost: Ticket prices vary and can be purchased online
Telus World of Science
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What: Head over to the Telus World of Science this week, where you can experience wicked screenings in IMAX, exercise your brain, and so much more.
Right now, you can step into a dog’s world in “Dogs! A Science Tail,” an interactive feature exhibition running this summer. Discover how dogs experience life through their powerful senses and explore the science behind the remarkable bond between humans and their four-legged companions.
Through hands-on exhibits and playful challenges, you can train a virtual dog to follow your commands, test your speed against some of the world’s fastest dogs, and explore how dogs see, hear, and smell the world around them. The exhibition runs until Monday, Sept. 7.
When: Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day except Mondays
Where: 11211 142nd St. NW
Cost: $24.95 general adult admission
Visit the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village
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What: Experience history brought to life by costumed interpreters at our open-air museum. Hear the first-hand stories of early settlers to east central Alberta and learn how Ukrainian immigration impacted Alberta’s cultural identity and heritage.
When: Opens Wednesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 195041 Hwy. 16 East, Lamont County, Alta.
Admission: $18 adult admission
Edmonton International Cat Festival
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What: This event combines elements of already-existing cat-themed events to create a one-of-a-kind festival celebrating all things cat-related. It’s like part cat show, cat/pet expo, and cat conference, all while supporting animal rescue organizations. Plus, there will be a TON of cats and kittens at events for you to see, cuddle and hold.
When: Saturday, May 2 to 31, 2026
Where: Various locations around Edmonton
Cost: Ticket prices vary and can be purchased online
The Citadel Theatre: Cyrano de Bergerac
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What: This bold reimagining of a timeless classic brings a fresh, witty edge to a story of love, poetry, and self-discovery. This show follows a brilliant and fiercely romantic soul whose sharp wit and swordplay mask a tender heart and deep insecurities. Filled with daring duels, lyrical wordplay, and unspoken longing, this adaptation delves into the complexities of courage and vulnerability in a world fixated on appearances.
When: Saturday, May 2 to 24, 2026
Where: The Citadel Theatre: Citadel Theatre — 9828 101A Ave. NW
Cost: Ticket prices vary and can be purchased online
Visit the Art Gallery of Alberta
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What: Right in the heart of downtown, the Art Gallery of Alberta (AGA) has been Edmonton’s go-to for art and culture for 100 years. With rotating exhibitions, workshops, and events, it’s the perfect spot to get inspired, learn something new, or just soak up some creativity.
When: Open Wednesdays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Fridays to Sundays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 2 Sir Winston Churchill Sq. NW
Cost: $13.33 regular adult admission
Bountiful Farmers Market
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What: Bountiful Farmers Market offers a wide variety of fresh goods, including local vegetables and meat, coffee roasters, and beer and wine. It also has an ethnic food hall, a children’s play area, live entertainment, and more.
When: Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday year-round
Where: 3696 97th St. NW
Cost: Free
Muttart Conservatory
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What: Be amazed at the stunning Muttart Conservatory, with each glass pyramid showcasing a different environment for plants from around the globe. It’s a relaxing, insightful, and beautiful experience and a lovely thing to do in Edmonton.
When: Hours vary
Where: Muttart Conservatory — 9626 96A St. NW
Admission: $14.95 adult admission
Elk Island National Park
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What: Located just 35 minutes east of Edmonton, Elk Island National Park offers rolling hills, glassy lakes, and some of the best stargazing around, no matter the season. Explore over 80 km of trails while spotting bison, elk, and hundreds of bird species.
When: Hours vary
Where: Improvement District No. 13, Alta.
Cost: Free admission
Corb Lund’s Ride for Water Not Coal
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What: Country singer Corb Lund will lead a three-day horseback ride alongside ranchers, musicians, and supporters from the southern foothills all the way to Edmonton. The ride will conclude with an event at the Edmonton Equestrian Centre, featuring performances from Loud in the Pines, Martin Kerr, Dana Wylie, Sherryl Sewepagaham, Mallory Chipman, Kaeley Jade, Corb Lund and more.
When: Monday, May 18, 2026, at 1 p.m.
Where: Whitemud Equestrian Centre — 12504 Fox Dr. NW
Cost: Free
Royal Alberta Museum
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What: Marvel at the Royal Alberta Museum’s vast collections. From its archaeology, Indigenous studies, and work-life industry sections to Earth and Life Sciences that will wow you, it’s one of the most intriguing things to do in Edmonton.
When: Hours vary
Where: 9810 103A Ave. NW
Cost: $10 to $21; tickets can be found online
Hit up the WEM World Waterpark
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What: It’ll feel like a bit of a tropical getaway when you visit the World Waterpark at West Edmonton Mall. Shoot down some massive slides or relax in the wave pool. Whatever you choose, it’s a prime way to spend the day.
When: Hours vary throughout the week
Where: West Edmonton Mall — 8882 170th St. NW
Cost: Ticket prices vary and can be found online
Galaxyland
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What: You can never go wrong with a trip to the amusement park, and Galaxyland is North America’s largest indoor amusement park. It features 27 Hasbro-themed rides and more for all ages.
When: Hours vary
Where: West Edmonton Mall — 8882 170th St. NW
Cost: $64 general admission; get tickets online