Edmonton is the capital of the province of Alberta, Canada, well-known for its friendly people and vibrant summer festivals.
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monton is situated in the heart of the province along the river banks of the North Saskatchewan. It is North America's northernmost major city and the oil capital of Canada as well. But this city is not known just because of oil. This is one of the more well-planned cities in Canada with underground walkways to shelter residents from the bitter cold. Its river banks have been turned into recreational parks where people gather during the winter and summer.
Edmonton is a sophisticated city with a population of one million people known as "the festival city". Edmonton Folk Music Festival is one of the world's best by performers and fans alike, Edmonton International Fringe Festival attracts 500,000 visitors each year, while The Edmonton International Street Performers Festival is Canada's first street theatre festival.
If you are not a fan of festival don't worry, there are many other attraction to be seen there. The Aviation Hall of Fame is housed in a modern-looking steel and glass Convention Centre. Here you will find exhibits, films, and displays about flying. The Hall of Fame has a flight simulator as well. The Strathcona Archaeological Centre is located in the Strathcona Science Park and it provides a fascinating account of what Native Indian life was like some 5,000 years ago.
One of the top tourist attraction is Fort Edmonton Park. Here you can expect a fun, interactive history lesson. The history of European settlement in Edmonton is depicted in vivid terms. There is also a recreation of what village life was like back in 1885 Edmonton, prior to the completion of the railroad. All of the reconstructions and recreations are meticulous in attention and detail.
Can you imagine a richness of tropical plants in Canada? The Muttart Conservatory proves that you can enjoy a whole year in thousands of species of plants, from domestic Canadian to exotic and its four pyramids are the landmark you can't miss. Environmental conditions are carefully controlled to allow the plants within to undergo a natural cycle of active growth each year. The result is visually dramatic seasonal changes. Every pyramid is host to plants from different climate.
The Great Divide Waterfall is one of many attractions of Edmonton. The waterfall was turned on for the first time in 1980, and some 50,000 litres of water per minute flow drop 64 metres into the North Saskatchewan River. Tourists can enjoy the spectacular view from spots along the river bank on both sides of the river.
For every businessman golf is the game of choice. Fortunately, there are many golf courses in Edmonton and the surrounding area to challenge golfers of many skill levels. If golf is too slow for you, try Castrol Raceway. It is one of the top 10 small track facilities in North America. From short and fast track to oval track to motocross track, every fan of burning tires can find his excitement here. Love outdoor activities? No problem, the beautiful Edmonton scenery is ideal for hiking, camping, biking, canoeing in summer, skiing, boarding, and any other activity you can imagine.
If you like shopping, here's something for you: The West Edmonton Mall. This is an attraction visited by more than 28 million people each year. In numbers: 570,000 square meters, more than 800 stores, 100 restaurants, 34 cinemas, an indoor amusement park... Even if you don't like shopping, the mall is worth visiting for the experience alone. ■
