Fort Edmonton Park is a living history museum in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. It allows visitors to explore the history of Edmonton through costumed historical interpreters, and reconstructed historical buildings as they would appear in 1846, 1885, 1905, and 1920.
Website Ratings:
Google: 4.5/5
TripAdvisor: 4.5/5
10 Must-Do Activites:
1. Explore the 1846 Fort
Why it’s a must: The 1846 Fort is a replica of an Hudson’s Bay Company trading post, where you can step back in time to when Edmonton was a fur trading hub. The fort includes the Chief Factor’s House, trading rooms, fur storage areas, and blacksmith’s shop.
Tip: Be sure to interact with the costumed interpreters who play the roles of fur traders, blacksmiths, and local Indigenous people. They provide fascinating insights into the daily life at the fort and the fur trade economy of the time.
2. Ride the Steam Train
Why it’s a must: A highlight for visitors of all ages is the chance to ride on the 1905 Baldwin Steam Train, which loops around the park. The train offers a scenic and relaxing way to travel between different areas of the park, while also providing a glimpse into early 20th-century transportation.
Tip: Listen to the train conductor’s commentary during the ride to learn about the history of the train and the park. The train operates on a regular schedule, so check the timetable when you arrive.
3. Stroll Down 1885 Street
Why it’s a must: 1885 Street recreates a historical street from the late 19th century, showcasing Edmonton in its early settler days. You’ll find a general store, hotel, telegraph office, and livery stable, all restored to reflect the period.
Tip: Visit the Kennedy House and Jasper House Hotel to explore authentic interiors and learn about the lifestyle of early settlers. Don’t miss the chance to see the live demonstrations of traditional crafts like blacksmithing or cooking.
4. Discover 1905 Street
Why it’s a must: 1905 Street reflects the rapid growth of Edmonton after the arrival of the railroad. This area includes residential homes, businesses, and public buildings, offering a glimpse into the lives of Edmonton’s residents at the turn of the century.
Tip: Stop by the Penny Arcade, where you can try out old-fashioned coin-operated machines and games. Also, check out the Cameron Building, home to one of the park’s soda fountains, where you can enjoy a refreshing treat.
5. Visit the 1920s Midway and Exhibition
Why it’s a must: The 1920s Midway is a fun-filled area that captures the excitement of a traveling carnival from the early 20th century. With vintage rides, games, and concession stands, it’s a favorite for families and visitors of all ages.
Tip: Try riding the Ferris wheel, carousel, or whip ride, all restored to their original early 20th-century charm. Be sure to grab some cotton candy or popcorn while you explore the Midway!
6. Step into 1920s Street
Why it’s a must: 1920s Street shows Edmonton as it became a modern city, complete with movie theaters, automobiles, and electricity. This area includes residential homes, commercial buildings, and cultural landmarks like the Capitol Theatre.
Tip: Visit the Capitol Theatre, which hosts silent films, live performances, and historical reenactments. The theater is a beautifully restored replica of the original Capitol Theatre that once stood in downtown Edmonton.
7. Engage with Indigenous History at the Indigenous Peoples Experience
Why it’s a must: The Indigenous Peoples Experience is one of the newest and most immersive exhibits at Fort Edmonton Park. This interactive experience explores the history, culture, and perspectives of the First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples of the region.
Tip: Take time to listen to the oral stories shared by local Indigenous community members, and explore the interactive displays that offer a deeper understanding of Indigenous contributions to the land and Edmonton’s history.
8. Hop on a Vintage Streetcar
Why it’s a must: The Edmonton Radial Railway operates an authentic 1920s streetcar that travels along 1920s Street, offering a ride through the park’s historical landscape. The streetcar is a fun and historical way to see the park.
Tip: The streetcar operates on a loop, so it’s a great way to rest and take in the sights of the park after exploring on foot. Make sure to chat with the streetcar conductor, who will share interesting facts about the vehicle and its history.
9. Enjoy a Historical Meal at Johnson’s Café
Why it’s a must: Located inside the Hotel Selkirk, Johnson’s Café offers visitors a chance to dine in a 1920s-themed restaurant. The café serves a menu inspired by traditional recipes from the early 20th century, with a mix of modern and historical dishes.
Tip: For a truly immersive experience, try one of the café’s historic dishes like a roast beef dinner or homemade pie. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak times.
10. Attend a Special Event or Festival
Why it’s a must: Throughout the year, Fort Edmonton Park hosts a variety of special events, including seasonal festivals like Halloween at the Park, Christmas Reflections, and historical reenactments. These events often include costumed actors, themed activities, and live performances, adding an extra layer of excitement to your visit.
Tip: Check the park’s event calendar before your visit to see if any special events are happening. These events often sell out, so consider purchasing tickets in advance if you plan to attend during a festival or holiday celebration.
Official Website: Fort Edmonton Park: Home
Main Positive Reviews:
Great way to experience history in an interactive and engaging way.
The staff in character were amazing and really made the experience immersive.
Beautiful park setting with lots to see and do.
Fun for the whole family, regardless of age.
The train and streetcar rides are a must-do!
Excellent attention to detail in the historical buildings and exhibits.
Lots of photo opportunities throughout the park.
Educational and entertaining at the same time.
Well-maintained grounds and facilities.
A great value for the price of admission.
Someone said: We had a wonderful day there. Old steam train, beautiful models of old buildings and so much more to see.
A bit pricey but worth it. Very interesting setup.
Had a great day at Fort Edmonton Park, lots of interesting things to see and get involved in.
The staff were knowledgeable, friendly and clearly enjoyed teaching others about our history.
One review mentionWe did the 'Where Dark Things Dwell' escape experience. It was so much fun and had some great jump scares. It was great to be outside and on the street rather than stuck in a stuffy room. The actors and guide's hints were great. The experience wasn't too difficult that we didn't have a really good time. Would highly recommend this experience!
Main Negative Reviews:
Can get crowded, especially during peak season.
Some reviewers found the food options to be overpriced and underwhelming.
A few attractions require an additional fee on top of the admission price.
Walking distances between areas can be long, especially for young children or seniors.
Some historical inaccuracies were pointed out by visitors.
Limited accessibility options for individuals with mobility issues.
Wait times for rides and attractions can be long.
Not all areas of the park are open year-round.
Some visitors felt that the historical interpretations lacked depth.
Limited parking availability during busy periods.
Someone said: I do wish there was a discount for entering the park within the last 2 hours before closing. Since they recommend 4 hours to fully experience all the park has to offer, it would be nice to have a more affordable option for those with limited time.
Admission is quite pricey and the family pass is not affordable for most families. The little market area is bare and lifeless, and like most historical buildings, many buildings have been converted into smaller spaces with nothing but posters on the walls. The food is overpriced within the park.
Staff were very rude and it's overpriced.
Overall Analysis
Cost:
Adult (18+) $31.00
Child/Youth (3-17) $24.75
Senior (65+) $24.75
Family (2 adults & up to 4 kids) $112.00
Children (2+ under) are free but do require a ticket to enter the Park.
Fort Edmonton Park receives overwhelmingly positive reviews from visitors. People appreciate the immersive historical experience, engaging staff, and beautiful park setting. The park is praised for being entertaining and educational for all ages.
However, some common criticisms include crowds, additional costs for some attractions, and long walking distances. Some visitors also noted issues with accessibility, historical accuracy, food options, and occasional rudeness from staff.
Despite some minor drawbacks, Fort Edmonton Park is a highly-rated attraction that offers a unique and memorable experience. It is a worthwhile destination for anyone interested in history, families looking for a fun day out, or those seeking a scenic park setting.
Is it Worth Visiting:
Based on user reviews and ratings, Fort Edmonton Park is generally considered a worthwhile experience, especially for families and history enthusiasts.
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