Don’t let the fact that you can’t go on vacation get you down this summer. There are many ways to enjoy your very own staycation, right here in Edmonton! Here are a few ideas if you’re finding yourself wanting to have a little fun, rest and relaxation over the next few weeks.

1. Sand On Whyte

You won’t have to worry about missing the sandy beaches of a tropical destination with Sand On Whyte. From June 30th to July 8th, take a walk down the iconic Whyte Avenue and enjoy the work of amazing sand carving artists. Because the theme this year is Canada’s 150, you’ll be able to see the works of artists visiting from all over Canada.

2. Pembina River Float

Just outside Edmonton sits the Pembina River Valley, where you can float down the gentle current in a tube and enjoy a fantastic view. The Pembina River Float is a perfect staycation for the entire family! But make sure you check advisories before you go to ensure the levels are safe for your family age range. 

3. High-Level Bridge Street Car 

The High-Level Streetcar is a seasonal blast from the past! Take a trip back to 1908 when the street car took the first ride across the North Saskatchewan River. We recommend spending Saturday morning exploring the Strathcona Farmers Market then hopping aboard to enjoy some dazzling city views. 

4. Kurios by Cirque Du Soleil 

If you opted to skip out on your yearly trip to Vegas, be sure to see Kurios by Cirque Du Soleil instead! See the performers sing, spin and contort for an out of this world experience. Tickets start at just $49  Cirque Du Soleil is known for putting on a transformative show for all ages. 

5. Visit the Muttart Conservatory

Escape to the pyramids right in your own city of Edmonton! The Muttart Conservatory has three different pyramids that feature different displays of nature and art. They have one of the largest collections of botanicals in Canada so you’re sure to see something tropical and unique. 

6. SkyFlyer Zipline

If you’re feeling like a bit of an adrenaline rush, the Zipline at West Edmonton Mall could be just the thing for you! You can zip over the World Water Park at lightning speed and even go for a swim after. If you do both the zip line and go to the waterpark, it’s half the price! 

7. Visit the Union Bank Inn 

Have you ever wanted to live like Audrey Hepburn or Lauren Bacall? Then leave the kids with a babysitter and check out the themed heritage rooms at the Union Bank Inn. These rooms have all been staged by professional interior designers to emulate famous people of the past. Right in the heart of downtown, this gorgeous hotel used to be the Union Bank of Canada in 1911. So you’re sure to find yourself enjoying a little bit of history. 

8. Try Floating

If you’re feeling stressed from the regular day to day, what better way to relax than a float under the stars? At Modern Gravity you can float in 1000 pounds of salt making you completely buoyant and stress-free. There are many benefits to floating and although it’s not the beach, it’s just as luxurious. We think this is just as good as a vacation to the dead sea and costs just $65 for an hour-long float. 

Just because you aren’t getting out of town doesn’t mean you don’t deserve a holiday! So try out some of these enjoyable ideas and see how an Edmonton staycation can be exactly what you needed.

Photo credits: Muttart, West Edmonton Mall, river floating