Once you've set up camp, you might be asking yourself if it's a good idea to take your Edmonton RV rental into town to explore the capital of Alberta. While the city has some street parking for RVs, it's best to make your way around using the transit system. Get a day pass and take as many rides as you need. First stop, the West Edmonton Mall. As the largest mall in North America, you'll be in awe of all that it has to offer. From shopping to mini putt, bowling to the infamous indoor roller coasters, there's something for everyone. Looking for outdoor entertainment? You're in luck, as Edmonton is known as Canada's Festival City. If you find yourself in Edmonton in mid-July, be sure to hit up the Edmonton International Street Performer's Festival. On the other hand, art lovers won't want to miss the Works Art and Design Festival that showcases art from well-known artists to up-and-coming students from all over the world.
Nature lovers can look forward to taking advantage of all that the North Saskatchewan River Valley has to offer. As the largest stretch of urban parkland in North America, there's plenty of activities to do. Open year-round, tourists have their choice of activity based on the season. Visiting in the winter? Explore the park by cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. If you're visiting in the summer, take to the water and canoe or kayak your way down the River. The many trails that weave through the park are a favourite among mountain bikers and hikers alike. Located within the park are the Muttart Conservatory and the Edmonton Valley Zoo. The Conservatory is home to three different climates and over 700 plant species. Take a walk through the pyramids and take in the beautiful collection of plants and flowers that you might not otherwise see in Canada. Animal lovers can make friends with over 350 types of animals at the Edmonton Valley Zoo. The Zoo focuses on conservation and has plenty of programs and interactive experience that lets visitors learn more about the animals.
Edmonton is located east of the Rocky Mountains and is a scenic, 4-hour drive to Jasper National Park. Once you're there, consider driving your RV down the Icefield Parkway. Rated as one of the top drives in the world, it will take you through some of the most beautiful spots in Canada. While visiting Jasper, make sure to embark on one of the many hikes in the area. You'll be surrounded by native wildlife from bears and moose to elk and bighorn sheep. Stop by Maligne Lake and take in the picture-perfect views. No matter what you decide to do in Jasper, it is sure to be a highlight on your trip to Edmonton.