Edmonton 
Want to enjoy some tranquillity? You’ll want to take your time on a walk through these different gardens around Edmonton. There are Edmonton’s two notable garden attractions, but also several community-planted gardens which can help to add a little colour to your day.
1. Lois Hole Memorial Garden & Legislature Grounds
You can easily escape some of the noise and business of downtown with a quick walk to the Leg. grounds. From front to back, there are impressively large trees, paths lined with flowers, and the Lois Hole Memorial Garden on the southeast side of the building.
The calm and quiet garden includes a few benches and garbage cans, which help make it even better for a lunch away from the office. The garden was built in memory of Lois Hole, Alberta’s 15th Lieutenant Governor (among her many other accomplishments). Details
Where: 10800 97 Ave NW, Edmonton
How much: Free
2. U of A Botanical Gardens
The gardens and collections on display at the University’s Botanical Gardens include a huge array of colours, flower and tree types, and cultural significance.
You can visit during regular admission hours for a walk on the garden’s trails and through the Aga Khan Garden, the Kurimoto Japanese Garden, the Indigenous Peoples’ Garden, and indoor displays showcasing different climates from around the world.
The Gardens also host a variety of events, including yoga sessions and traditional tea ceremonies. Details
Where: 51227 AB-60, Spruce Grove
How much: $5.25-$19.75
3. Muttart Conservatory
The indoor gardens of the Muttart Conservatory are held within the three large pyramids on the north banks of the river valley. Each pyramid represents a different climate and the plants that can be found in arid, temperate, or tropical areas.
The Muttart also features a seasonal garden which changes every few months; the spring feature is Making Memories, with displays of romantic arrangements perfect for any vital photo opportunity. Details
Where: 9626 96a St NW, Edmonton
How much: $7.75-$14.95
4. Edmonton Chinese Garden
The Edmonton Chinese Garden Society is a not-for-profit organization whose goal is not only to preserve the beauty of the river valley but also to enhance it. The group is dedicated to maintaining the Chinese Garden in Louise McKinney Park and creating a beautiful downtown space where visitors and passersby can stop and enjoy the scent of various flowers. The central stone bridge is a perfect photo spot because of the bridge itself and the views of the North Saskatchewan River. Details
Where: Louise McKinney Riverfront Park – 9999 Grierson Hill NW, Edmonton
How much: free
5. St. Albert Botanic Park
These botanical gardens are part of St. Albert’s larger Red Willow Trail system and offer an interpretive experience to help you learn about the variety in the gardens. If you stop at the gift shop and patio first, they can provide you with walking maps to help you make the most of your time in the Garden. Details
Where: 265 Sturgeon Road, St. Albert
How much: By donation
6. Twin Brooks District Nature Park
The Twin Brooks Community Garden is a great way to start a walk or hike through the Nature Park or to the MacTaggart Sanctuary. The community garden borders the Blackmud Creek Ravine and is easily accessible from the street or the trails.
What was once an empty field of grass was transformed by community members into a thriving garden of flowers and greenery. Details
Where: 1510 119 St NW, Edmonton
How much: free
7. Stone Barn Garden
The name is as literal as it seems for this Leduc Garden in William F. Lede Park. It is the former site of an old dairy barn, which has been recreated and decorated with flowers and shrubs. The park’s path cuts directly through the garden, taking you past other sights, such as public art installations, picnic areas, and the old milking shed. Details
City of Leduc
Where: William F. Lede Park – 4613 44 St, Leduc.
How much: free
8. George Pegg Botanic Garden
This unique combination of protected, preserved gardens and historic sites in Lac Ste. Anne County is a 12.6-acre area that celebrates the work of botanist George Pegg and the natural flora and fauna of Alberta. There are walking paths, event spaces, picnic sites, educational opportunities, and a self-guided interactive tour. It is also home to numerous heritage trees, significant for their size, age, and type. Details
Where: 56015 RR 43, Glenevis
How much: By Donation
12 of the Best Gardens & Conservatories to Visit in Alberta
