Located in the heart of Alberta’s prairies, Edmonton is the capital of the province and a major hub in Canada. The city perfectly balances urban life with nature, creating an attractive destination for a more relaxed stay. It is also a good gateway into the Canadian Rockies!

As the tourism industry is a little less developed than nearby Calgary, figuring out where to stay can be difficult. That’s where we come in!

We’ve created this guide to Edmonton to help you decide where to base yourself in the city. Whether you are looking to splurge on a luxury stay as a couple or family, or are visiting as a backpacker on a budget, we have you covered.

So let’s just get started!

Quick Tips – Where to Stay in Edmonton

• Where to stay in Edmonton for your first time? Downtown
• Where to stay in Edmonton close to everything? Gateway Boulevard
• Where to stay in Edmonton for nightlife? Garneau
• Best neighborhood in Edmonton for families? West Edmonton
• Where to stay in Edmonton on a budget? Ritchie
• Where to stay in Edmonton for couples? Oliver
• Where to stay in Edmonton for culture? Strathcona

Where to Stay in Edmonton

Get a professional guide in Toronto! These tours in Toronto are absolutely INCREDIBLE!

Edmonton 7 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in

Let’s take a look, in more detail, at the five best neighbourhoods in Edmonton. Each caters to different interests, so be sure to pick the neighbourhood that’s right for you.

Neighborhood #1 – Downtown

Best neighbourhood in Edmonton for your first time!

• COOLEST thing to do in Downtown – marvel at the high rise buildings, traditional architecture and green spaces in this eclectic area
• BEST place to visit in Downtown – check out the best art on offer in the city at Alberta Art Gallery

Downtown is the central region of Edmonton and both the political and economic hub for Alberta. This area has a little bit of everything that Edmonton has to offer, making it the perfect base for your first time in the city! Art galleries, marvellous architecture and quirky new bars line the streets of Downtown.

It is also well connected to the rest of Edmonton, and there are even chances to travel further out into other areas of Alberta. Many of the tour companies offering trips to the Prairies and the Rocky Mountains are based in Downtown, letting you see beyond the city with ease!

• Visit the beautiful Alberta legislature building and wade in the small pools outside, or take part in some ice skating over the winter
• Hop on the High Level Streetcar for a relaxing ride through the city and great views of all the major Downtown monuments
• Head to Chinatown or Little Italy for excellent cuisine showcasing the multicultural flavours of Canada
• Catch a show or live music performance at the Citadel Theatre right in the heart of the Downtown area
• Check out one of the many festivals that take place in the area across the year, such as the Street Performers Festival in August or the Cariwest Festival in July!

Best Budget Hotel in Downtown

Canterra Suites Hotel

Cantera Suites Hotel has a traditional authentic feel to it with it being equipped with wooden furnishings, patterned carpets, and a bustling fire pit. The hotel also has a fantastic location situated in the heart of Downtown with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars on its doorstep.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Downtown

Sandman Signature Edmonton Downtown Hotel

One of the key features of this hotel is its spectacular rooftop pool and hot tub area that has breathtaking views overlooking the city! We’ve heard it’s even more surreal as the sun has set, so make sure you slot in an evening swim when planning your days in Edmonton.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Downtown

Chateau Lacombe

This truly is the next level in luxury for hotels in Edmonton! It features three restaurants – one of which is a revolving restaurant famous with locals. There’s also a high-end bar within the hotel, and large business and banqueting spaces if you are visiting the city on business.

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P.S. – Save a bit of cash in Toronto with our EPIC guide to the most awesome hostels in Toronto!

Neighborhood #2 – Gateway Boulevard

Where to stay in Edmonton close to everything!

• COOLEST thing to do in Gateway Boulevard – develop your axe skills and learn about the lumberjack lifestyle at Jack Axe
• BEST place to visit in Gateway Boulevard – check out Southgate Shopping Centre, the most popular mall in Edmonton and best for international brands

Gateway Boulevard is the main street in Edmonton running right through the southern half of the city. This gives you great access to transport links allowing you to quickly get around the city and even further to nearby nature reserves. As the largest street in Edmonton, it also has diverse entertainment options!

The High Level Streetcar begins on Gateway Boulevard, which acts as a tourist attraction in itself on your way north to Strathcona and Downtown. There are plenty of great shops and restaurants along the road, and a great selection of venues for you to enjoy local culture!

• The streets surrounding Southgate in the Empire Park neighborhood are lined with great boutiques if you are more interested in local brands
• Check out the Street Car Barn and Museum to learn about the history of transportation in the city
• Head north for a great selection of hipster bars, quirky restaurants and local coffee shops fulfilling all of your culinary needs
• Visit Monster Mini Golf – a popular recreation spot on Gateway Boulevard with arcades, street food and of course mini golf
• Unwind and indulge in some holistic therapies at the Self Centre spa just off the main street

I’m sure you’ve heard of Edmonton, but there are so many other things to do in Edmonton!

Best Budget Hotel in Gateway Boulevard

Super 8 by Wyndham Edmonton

This budget hotel comes with some great extra features to keep you comfortable during your stay. There is a large saltwater pool and jacuzzi pool for all guests to use – the pool even has a waterslide! A complimentary breakfast is included, and there is a small business centre for guests that require one.

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Best Mid-Range Hotel in Gateway Boulevard

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites

Holiday Inn are famous worldwide for their budget-friendly comfort and this hotel is, of course, no exception! This hotel features an indoor swimming pool with hot tub, fitness centre and business centre – fulfilling all of your needs for your time in Edmonton. A buffet breakfast is available every morning.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Gateway Boulevard

Sandman Signature

This hotel is highly rated thanks to its modern decor and luxurious facilities. The indoor swimming pool and gym are second to none, with the cutting edge in fitness technology available. Each room comes with a microwave and refrigerator, and free parking is available if you have a car.

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Neighborhood #3 – Garneau

Where to stay in Edmonton for nightlife!

• COOLEST thing to do in Garneau – experience the vibrant nightlife on Whyte Avenue, which extends right through South Central Edmonton
• BEST place to visit in Garneau – sift through antique books and records at the Wee Book Inn, also on Whyte Avenue

Garneau is the main student district in Edmonton and is, therefore, a hub for alternative culture. The nightlife is based along Whyte Avenue. Although this street extends right across South Central, the Garneau portion is best for budget-conscious travellers and those seeking alternative venues!

During the day it also has some cool cultural attractions and the art scene is very much alive in Garneau! With street art and independent galleries all over the place, this is a creative dream. There are plenty of hip restaurants and cafes to compliment the bars and help you recover from the hangover the next morning.

• Attend concerts by local musicians at the Northern Jubilee Auditorium
• Go for a relaxing stroll and admire the nature at William Hawrelak Park
• Visiting in winter? Check out the spectacular light shows and beautiful ice formations at the Ice Castles
• Unwind at the Dandy Salon Spa, which provides a wide range of holistic therapies and spa treatments at good prices
• Visit O’Byrnes – a somewhat authentic Irish pub celebrating the connections between Ireland and Canada
• Black Dog Freehouse is easily the most popular bar and nightclub in Edmonton, with three floors of entertainment and great prices

Best Budget Hotel in Garneau

University of Alberta Hotel

This hotel is located right in the University of Alberta. It is well priced, and has a very social atmosphere, making it perfect for backpackers that are looking for the perks of a hostel but with some privacy! The high speed WiFi is also very well commended by previous guests.

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Best Mid-Range Hotel in Garneau

Campus Tower Suite Hotel

For a little more luxury, but still at a good price, the Campus Tower Suite Hotel is located just opposite the university. Rooms are fully air conditioned and come with modern fixtures and fittings. There is also a large business centre making it a better option for business travellers to Edmonton!

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Best Luxury Hotel in Garneau

Varscona Hotel on Whyte

The Varscona Hotel aims to bring a sample of the high-life to all of their guests. There is a fitness centre, 24-hour reception and tour desk, and even a daily wine tasting! A buffet breakfast is provided every morning – perfect for getting you through the hangovers.

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Recommended article! – You must check out our article about some of the most adventurous day trips from Vancouver!

Neighborhood #4 – West Edmonton

Best neighbourhood in Edmonton for families!

• COOLEST thing to do in West Edmonton – try out the Edmonton Corn Maze for a unique attraction from the North American prairies
• BEST place to visit in West Edmonton – head to West Edmonton Mall – the largest in North America with its own theme park and ice rink!

West Edmonton is a huge neighborhood with a calm and friendly atmosphere. The attractions here are best for families – with the West Edmonton Mall easily filling an entire day. It has plenty of stores, a theme park and other entertainment facilities to keep the kids happy!

Further into West Edmonton, you will find community stores, local cafes and intriguing restaurants. This region has a much more suburban feel than others in the city, and you will feel right at home during your stay! There are also plenty of large parks to enjoy the nature and sporting activities.

• Check out Valley Zoo – this small zoo is an easy-going attraction to take the family to with local and international wildlife
• Enjoy a spot of golf at Lewis Estates – there’s a great clubhouse too!
• Visiting during Christmas? Parts of West Edmonton are transformed into Candy Cane Lane with elaborate light displays – be sure to bring a donation for the local food bank
• Sample some hearty North American food at Delux Burger Bar
• Enjoy the views across the river, and some sporting activities during the summer, at Laurier Park
• Head to Old Spaghetti Factory – the most popular Italian restaurant in the city!

Best Budget Hotel in West Edmonton

West Edmonton Mall Inn

This hotel is located close to the West Edmonton Mall. It is quite basic, but the budget price makes it a great option if you are looking to save on accommodation! The lounge has a very homely feel with a fireplace and comfortable relaxation areas. Rooms come with their own coffee makers.

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Best Mid-Range Hotel in West Edmonton

Executive Royal Hotel

This is the perfect option if you are travelling with a car thanks to the vast on-site parking. There is a fitness centre, and the on-site restaurant provides great drinks and grilled foods at a good price. All rooms have coffee makers and work areas, with WiFi available at an additional fee.

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Best Luxury Hotel in West Edmonton

Fantasyland Hotel

This hotel is attached to the West Edmonton Mall! It gives you great access to the theme park and shopping facilities, with high-quality rooms. There is a guest-only restaurant within the hotel that serves a buffet breakfast each morning. They also provide complimentary on-site parking.

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Check this out! Our complete guide about the best day trips from Toronto!

Neighborhood #5 – Ritchie

Where to stay in Edmonton on a budget!

• COOLEST thing to do in Ritchie – sample high-quality meat, and even watch how it’s prepared, at the Acme Meat Market
• BEST place to visit in Ritchie – visit the Sewing Machine Factory, a unique museum just to the north of Ritchie

As far as budget travel goes, Ritchie is a surprisingly leafy and suburban area that nevertheless has budget-friendly attractions and dining options! Located south of Strathcona and Garneau, it is a great base for discovering Edmonton’s alternative culture whilst also saving a few dollars.

The area is also excellent for cyclists, with many efforts taken recently to improve cycle lanes and dozens of bike shops opening along its streets. Ritchie has developed as the result of hugely successful revival efforts, making it not only a great option for tourists but also popular with residents of Edmonton.

• Pick up some bargain souvenirs, clothes and homeware from the Rocky Mountain Antique Mall
• Wander around Ritchie Market – recently opened as part of revitalisation efforts, it is a great place to discover local goods and culinary delights
• Sample some of the best coffee in Alberta at Transcend Coffee – attached to the Ritchie Market
• More interested in a typical Alberta breakfast? Barb and Ernie’s Old Country Inn is a family-owned restaurant and bar with great options
• Head down to Blind Enthusiasm Brewery to taste local craft beers and learn about how it is made

Best Budget Hotel in Ritchie

Argyll Plaza Hostel

Argyll Plaza Hotel has a fantastic location in Edmonton with it being slotted between the Argyll Plaza Arena and Union Hall concert. It is also just a short drive from the hustle and bustle of Edmonton’s city center. All the rooms at Argyll Plaza Hotel come with heating and air conditioning, making it perfect for the diverse Canadian weather.

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Will you also visit Prince Edward County? Check out where we like to stay in Prince Edward County!

Best Mid-range Hotel in Ritchie

Varscona Hotel on Whyte

The traditionally styled guest rooms with a sense of luxury without the price tag. Varscona Hotel is our top pick for the best mid-range hotel in Ritchie. To fuel yourselves for a day of exploring the city, the Varscona Hotel puts on a huge breakfast buffet every day, serving up a storm of tasty treats including pastries, juices, and cooked specials.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Ritchie

Four Points by Sheraton

If you are looking for a splurge hotel, but still sticking to a bit of a budget, this is an excellent compromise! Sheraton has brought their world-famous service to this hotel, which has many excellent facilities. There is an indoor pool and fitness centre, as well as a steam room to unwind in after a long day of exploring.

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Further Reading – You should definitely check out our guide on the coolest places to visit in Canada!

Neighborhood #6 – Oliver

Best neighbourhood in Edmonton for couples!

• COOLEST thing to do in Oliver – wander the old streets of Oliver and shop at the locally owned boutiques
• BEST place to visit in Oliver – marvel at the surprisingly beautiful architecture of St Joseph’s Basilica

Just west of Downtown, Oliver has evolved to become Edmonton’s cool district. The hip bar and restaurant scene, coupled with the excellent array of local boutiques, make this the perfect spot in the city for young couples. The recently redeveloped Brewery District is a great example of this!

It is also home to some of Alberta’s most eco-friendly attractions, making it a fantastic base for those who are environmentally conscious! The close proximity with Downtown and South Central make it ideal for getting around the attractions of wider Edmonton, whilst still being based in a calm and easy-going neighborhood.

• Admire the old buildings and French revival architecture around the area
• Head to the Brewery District – a recent redevelopment with hip restaurants, quirky cafes and laid-back bars!
• Drink local craft beers and national favourites at Canadian Brewhouse – and learn about the country’s brewing culture in the process
• Discover local artists and the burgeoning modern art scene at the West End Gallery at the edge of Oliver
• Pick up some great antique clothing and jewellery at Beck’s – just north of the West End Gallery
• More interested in environmentally friendly shopping? Check out Carbon Environmental Boutique for sustainable homewares

Best Budget Hotel in Oliver

Edmonton Inn and Conference Centre

As budget hotels go, this is a pretty great option if you still want the comforts of a more expensive option. It comes with a fitness centre and full business suite – making it the best budget option for business travellers! They also provide a continental breakfast every morning at the on-site restaurant.

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Best Mid-Range Hotel in Oliver

Canterra Suites Hotel

This hotel offers suites for great prices right in the heart of Oliver! Each room comes with a kitchen and fireplace, and the high speed WiFi is highly rated by previous guests. There is a well-equipped fitness centre on-site, and they also accept pets – a rarity for hotels in Edmonton.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Oliver

Matrix Hotel

The slick, modern interiors of this hotel give it a touch of elegance and luxury. If you are splurging whilst visiting Edmonton, this hotel comes with great facilities such as a fitness centre and high-quality buffet breakfast! Rooms are equipped with modern gadgets and have separate work areas for business visitors.

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Neighborhood #7 – Strathcona

Where to stay in Edmonton for culture!

• COOLEST thing to do in Strathcona – head to the Strathcona Historical District and soak up the lively atmosphere in the restaurants and bars
• BEST place to visit in Strathcona – sit back and take in the jazz performances at Yardbird Suite

Strathcona is, without a doubt, Edmonton’s cultural hub! Flanked by Garneau and Ritchie, it is a great base for experience traditional, modern and alternative culture all in one place! Many of Edmonton’s festivals are based in Strathcona, and the old town is packed with venues.

Much of this culture centres on Strathcona Historical District, where you can enjoy excellent cuisine, live performance venues and independent art galleries. The area is also surprisingly peaceful, making it an ideal base for enjoying the best of Edmonton with ease! This is the city’s creative and historic hub and has something for everyone.

• Take the Strathcona Mural Tour to discover street art, learn about its place in the city’s revival and speak to local artists
• Hop on board the Edmonton Queen, which sails right down the river and has a bar and restaurant
• Soak up the views and relaxed atmosphere at Gallagher Park
• Mill Creek Architecture Walk is another great tour you can take in Strathcona to learn about the historical significance of its buildings
• Check out some alternative theatre and music performances at the Varscona Theatre
• Attend some comedy shows and offbeat theatre and dance performances during the Edmonton Fringe Festival in August – the second largest Fringe Festival in the world!

Best Budget Hotel in Strathcona

Commercial Hotel

Though pretty basic, this hotel is based right in the heart of the area and is known to be popular with Fringe Festival performers! The on-site casino and bar are notorious across the city and are great places to meet locals and visitors alike. WiFi and bike hire are both available from the 24-hour reception.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Strathcona

Walk to Whyte Ave

Strathcona isn’t home to any mid-range hotels, but this beautifully modern apartment should certainly do the trick if you’re looking for a comfortable place to stay in the neighborhood. The apartment is brightly decorated and features a deluxe bedroom, along with a kitchen and living area.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Strathcona

Metterra Hotel on Whyte

This hotel is next-level in luxury offerings! It is located right on Whyte Avenue, giving you immediate access to the cultural and culinary attractions. There is a fitness centre and a library on-site, and all rooms come with their own spa bath. A complimentary buffet breakfast is provided every morning.

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Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for the best neighbourhoods in Edmonton.

Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Edmonton?

Though not well-visited by tourists, Edmonton is a hidden gem in the heart of Canada! Calmer and more alternative than nearby Calgary, the city has a lot to offer if you are looking for great food, unique culture or vibrant bars.

For the best area it has to be Strathcona! It is well located just south of Downtown and is by far the cultural hub of the city. There are many historical tours, excellent dining options and alternative culture venues across the area, making you spoiled for choice on how to spend your time.

Nevertheless, Edmonton is quite a compact city that is easy to get around, and we hope this guide has helped you find the best area for you during your stay in the city. It has a lot to offer if you are willing to visit.

Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comments!

Editor’s Note – No matter where you are traveling, you NEED to have great travel insurance. We have personally tested TONS of travel insurance companies, and can say without a doubt that World Nomads is the absolute best (and most affordable!). Fill out this form to get a quote for your trip to Edmonton!

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