As we emerge from our months-long deep freeze, we’re looking for any excuse to get outdoors and stretch our legs, and what better way than by exploring interesting neighbourhoods around YEG?
From historic streets to easy river valley access, here are 10 Edmonton neighbourhoods worth exploring this spring.
Highlands
Highlands is a unique part of Edmonton and has so much charm, with its historic buildings and landmarks like the Magrath Mansion, a collection of cool shops along 112th Avenue, and easy access to the river valley with outstanding views off Ada Boulevard. The tree-lined streets make the whole neighbourhood feel extra cozy, and it’s one area we can’t wait to explore once the ground thaws.
Old Strathcona
One of Edmonton’s most historic and well-known neighbourhoods, this area is filled to the brim with art, eclectic shops and boutiques, restaurants, nightlife, theatres, festivals, and so much more. It’s walkable, bikeable, and its rows of charming, historic homes make it one of Edmonton’s most vibrant neighbourhoods to explore this spring.
wîhkwêntôwin
Located directly west of downtown is the lively and vibrant community of wîhkwêntôwin. With a huge concentration of high-rise residential buildings and charming rowhouses, this densely populated neighbourhood is within a short walking distance of shopping, dining, and stunning river valley views along the Victoria Promenade. It’s one of the most picturesque spots in Edmonton once the spring bloom arrives!
Laurier Heights
You can bet you’ll have a lovely spring stroll around Laurier Heights. The neighbourhood has fantastic river valley trails, beautiful views of downtown, and streets lined with impressive homes. You might even bump into an Oiler along the way, or bring the pooch and spend some time at the dog park in Buena Vista Park. Either way, it just feels good to get outside and enjoy it.
Riverdale
Riverdale is a gorgeous neighbourhood along the banks of the North Saskatchewan River, with a cozy, secluded feel. It’s the perfect spot to take in the beauty of the river valley and enjoy a cup of coffee. We’d love to call it home!
Mill Woods
We know this encompasses a large area, but that is exactly what we love about Mill Woods. It feels like its own city right in the centre of southeast Edmonton, with trails to the north along the Mill Creek and the Mill Woods Town Centre that has everything you need, including easy access to the LRT when you’re finished your spring stroll.
Griesbach
Griesbach is a unique and vibrant neighbourhood in Edmonton, known for its historic location, community-focused development, and gorgeous green spaces. It’s close enough to the city centre so that you can easily access everything you need, yet far enough away to enjoy peace and quiet without feeling like you’re stuck in a bland suburb.
Forest Heights
After a long, snowy winter, we want to get outdoors as much as possible, which is why we have our eye on Forest Heights this spring. As the name implies, there is plenty of forest with access to the River Valley around these parts, and we’re looking forward to watching the gorgeous tree canopy bud and blossom over the cozy homes of this community.
Glenora
From stunning historic homes and the stately Alexander Circle to Government House, parks, cafes, and so much more, Glenora is one of Edmonton’s most beautiful neighbourhoods and one worthy of exploring this spring. Established as Edmonton’s first “Garden City Suburb,” it is known for its winding, tree-lined streets and beautiful architecture with homes designed to maximize river valley views. Grab a coffee, wander around, and explore what makes this such a special slice of YEG.
Garneau
Lastly, with historic tree-canopied homes, beautiful architecture at the adjacent University of Alberta, and tranquil side streets, Garneau easily rounds up our list of neighbourhoods we’d love to explore in Edmonton this spring. Grab a coffee from any number of fantastic local coffee houses and spend the afternoon getting lost along the tree-lined streets.