Edmonton 
Credit: Elk Island National Park
Looking to get out of Edmonton…but don’t have more than a day to spare? No problem. Just head east! Discover the way of life in Alberta outside the big city with towns, villages, and parkland just waiting to be explored, and all doable within a day.
1. Elk Island National Park
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2. Town of Vegreville
Credit: Town Of Vegreville
You’ll know when you’ve hit Vegreville – just watch for the giant pysanka or Easter egg. But there’s more to the town than the world’s largest Easter egg. Check out the spray park, Regional Museum, or the Vegreville Kinsmen Golf Course. Get active by hiking near the Vermillion River or fishing at the Rainbow Park Reservoir.
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3. Town of Mundare
Speaking of world’s largest, don’t miss Mundare, home of the world’s largest sausage replica. Mundare is famous for its Ukrainian homemade-style sausage, so stopping here for a bite is a no-brainer. While you’re in town, visit the splash park with the kids or tee up at Whitetail Crossing Golf Course. Time it right and celebrate Agri Days Fair in August for exhibits and a parade.
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4. Hamlet of Lavoy & Akasu
The historical site of Akasu encompasses both Akasu Lake and Akasu Hill, believed to be a rest stop for native tribes that overlooks what is now the Hamlet of Lavoy. Just east of Vegreville, this hill is the highest geodetic elevation on the Yellowhead Highway between Edmonton and Winnipeg. The turnoff for the site, RR 133, is marked, but note that the road is not recommended for RVs or large trucks. While in the area, stop at the community’s Lavoy’s Antiques & Collectables – a surprisingly well-known shop and a favourite of collectors.
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5. Ukrainian Heritage Village
Credit: Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village
It’s a living museum where you can experience the history and culture of Ukrainian immigrants like nowhere else. With costumed interpreters portraying real pioneers, you can hear the stories of survival and perseverance. Just 25 minutes east of Edmonton, you can explore on your own, take classes such as photography sessions or cooking classes, or take a group tour.
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6. Hamlet of Bruce
This tiny hamlet attracts visitors in a big way. On the last weekend of July every year, the legendary Bruce Stampede takes place. Started in 1914, it is Canada’s oldest one-day rodeo. North America’s best cowboys come together for such events as bull riding and steer bronc. Likely just as famous are the Friday night steak dinners at Bruce Hotel, with steak cooked to perfection and a dessert buffet that make the drive worth it (reservations required).
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7. Strathcona Wilderness Centre
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8. Village of Innisfree
If you’re not careful, you may just drive right on by Innisfree – known as “The Hidden Village,” it’s tucked away behind a ridge. It may look familiar once you get there, though, as it’s where the movie Cut Bank was filmed. It’s now home to the Cut Bank Penguin, Ernie. Take in the local history at Prairie Bank of Commerce Museum. Check out events such as the fishing derby in July and Innisfree Fair Day in August.
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9. Town of Vermilion
Two hours east of Edmonton, at the corner of Highways 16 and 41, lays the Town of Vermilion. It’s a good thing it’s easy to find – you don’t want to miss out. The Annual Vermillion Fair takes place at the end of July with a parade, pony chuck wagon races, thousands of exhibitors, and more. Plus, explore walking trails, the spray park, a nine-hole golf course, and more.
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10. Vermilion Provincial Park
There are lots of ways to explore the great outdoors in Vermilion Provincial Park! Geocaching, fat and mountain biking, hiking, canoeing or kayaking, fishing…the list goes on. And with day use sites, it’s the perfect place to bring a picnic so you don’t even have to stop for meals.
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11. Town of Viking
Viking is full of small town charm, making it a great day trip. Stroll down historic walking trails (pick up a map to guide you at the Visitor’s Centre), hunt for the Scandinavian trolls in Troll Park, and grab a bite at the Viking Tea House and Station Gallery, located inside the old CN Building. Take a detour a few minutes out of town to Camp Lake Park for a day at the beach.
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12. Village of Holden
Experience the “charm of country living” in Holden. This small community features local businesses lining Main Street (such as the delicious Pudding Lake Bakery & Coffee Shop) and events all year long. Studio 14 Art Gallery showcases local talent, and the Holden Museum offers a unique look at the area.
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13. Whitney Lakes Provincial Park
Credit: Alberta Parks
Whitney Lakes Provincial Park encompasses Laurier, Ross, Borden, and of course, Whitney Lake. Power boating and canoeing are allowed on Laurier, Ross, and Whitney, while only canoes are permitted on Borden Lake. Try to catch pike or perch, keep an eye on the shoreline for animals such as black bear and moose, and see if you can spot the elusive tiger salamander. Plus, the natural sand beach at Whitney Lake is a great spot to relax and play after hitting the water.
14. City of Lloydminster
Credit: Lloydminster Cultural & Science Centre
A day trip to Lloydminster is definitely worth the drive. Canada’s provincial border city is home to the world’s largest working sundial, a zoo, two challenging golf courses, and the ever-popular Border City Farmers’ Market, open year round. The Lloydminster Cultural & Science Centre will keep you busy all day itself, housing an art gallery, museum, wildlife display, science centre, and more.
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15. Bud Miller All Seasons Park
You could spend all day in the 200-acre Bud Miller Park, on the western outskirts of Lloydminster. Cool off after a long drive at the 540 square metre spray park or drop a line in the 10-acre trout fishing lake. Show off your skills at the Putting Zone mini-golf course or the disc golf course, challenge each other to lawn bowling, explore the walking paths, and much more.
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16. Town of St. Paul
Just over two hours from Edmonton, St. Paul is proud to call itself “A People Kind of Place.” But perhaps its most well-known claim to fame is a little more otherworldly: the world’s first official UFO Landing Pad. But if your interests are more earthbound, stop by Lagasse Park, the St. Paul Golf Course, the Mother Teresa House, or one of the many events taking place year round.
17. Village of Kitscoty & Tyler Lake
Don’t underestimate Kitscoty. This charming little village is full of Alberta charm. Get lost discovering the treasures at Ye Olde Fire Station Antiques and stop to smell the roses at Kathy’s Greenhouse, before catching a round of golf at the local nine-hole course. Venture just outside of town to Tyler Lake for walking and hiking trails of varying skill levels.
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18. Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area
The more than 170 km of multi-use trails, starting from the four staging areas, are considered moderate to intermediate hikes, so you don’t need to be a pro to explore the wonderful Alberta backcountry. Canoe or kayak on Islet Lake, stargaze like you just can’t get in the city due to the dark sky preservation, and watch for migrating bird species that flock here every year. Keep an eye out, and your camera handy, for wildlife such as moose, beaver, deer, elk, and even bears!
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19. Village of Chipman
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20. Wapasu Lake Conservancy Park
Wapasu (Cree for white swan) Lake is a well-known stop along the migratory path of white swans, as well as countless other species. In order to preserve and protect this stopover on the route, the Conservancy Park was created. Near Innisfree, there are walking trails, a day-use picnic site, beach, and playground to enjoy – plus keep an eye out for the famous swans.
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21. Village of Mannville
Credit: Mannville Riverview Golf Course
You’ll come across Mannville an hour and a half east of Edmonton, where Highways 16 and 881 meet. From the gazebo on Main Street to the views of the Vermilion River Valley, this picturesque village will make you ensure your camera is close at hand. The famed Riverview Golf Course is known to be one of the most challenging of the area, the Vermilion River adding a unique challenge to golfers.
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22. Beaverhill Lake Heritage Rangeland Natural Area
People come from around the world to watch the migration of birds through the Beaverhill area. Internationally recognized for the local and transitionary bird populations, Beaverhill Lake is a designated RAMSAR site (wetland of international significance). Whether you visit the Bird Observatory or explore on your own (there are some geocaches hidden), keep the binoculars handy and the camera at the ready for a day out you won’t soon forget.
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23. Village of Andrew
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24. Town of Tofield
Between outdoor activities and one-of-a-kind shops, it’s easy to make a day of it in Tofield. Find the town 40 minutes southeast of Edmonton, and once you’re there, you’ll find playgrounds, local businesses and restaurants, and the Tofield Musem – considered the best of the area. Stop at the nearby Footloose Caboose for dinner on your way home.
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25. Trappers Lake
This lake is so close to the city, you’ll wonder why you haven’t already been! Filled with Rainbow Trout, it’s great for taking the kids out fishing. The flat land surrounding the lake is filled with hiking and walking trails, making it easy to explore, looking for native plants, such as the wild rose, and animals such as deer. Keep an eye on the weather, as the lake level can noticeable change with a lot of rain.
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