Your Hot Summer Guide to Fun!

Jennifer FilipCampgrounds & RV Parks, East of Edmonton, Elk Island National Park, Events, Metis Crossing, Northeast of Edmonton, Outdoor Adventures, Roadtrip Adventure Game, Southeast of Edmonton, Summer Adventures

Summer adventures await—whether you’re into festivals, outdoor exploration, or simply enjoying the warm weather.

Check out these MUST SEES from our Top 25 Attractions:

Enjoy a magical mix of outdoor adventure & family fun at Prairie Gardens.

Step back in time and explore the prehistoric wonders of Jurassic Forest.

Soar to new heights with Aerial Adventure Park at Kinosoo Ridge.

It’s an unforgettable day of discovery and fun at Reynolds Museum.

Visit Alberta’s major Metis cultural interpretive centre: Metis Crossing

Click here to see the complete list.


Go Adventuring Outdoors

More daylight = more fun.
Summer East of Edmonton just feel right! Whether you want to get out on the ATV trail, camp, fish, golf, take a hike, or simply enjoy the warm sunshine, our Land Adventures section has ideas so you can plan all your adventures.

Plan Your Visit To Elk Island National Park

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this natural beauty in the heart of the Beaver Hills Biosphere offers unforgettable experiences—from a chill day at the lake, to hikes for varying skill levels, to unique wildlife encounters. Elk Island National Park has grown in popularity, and with the new Canada Strong Pass, a little planning goes a long way in making your visit to Elk Island National Park smooth, safe, and spectacular. over the last decade and as more people come to discover its charms, weekends are VERY busy, especially during the summer. Visiting during the week allows you to avoid disappointment, lineups, crowds and the potential of getting turned away due to the park reaching its capacity.

Alberta’s historic sites and museums participation in the Canada Strong Pass runs from July 4 to September 2, 2025. Visitors can take advantage of the Alberta discount as many times as they like until the end of the program.

Experience our region’s cultural richness and explore:
Reynolds Museum – Wetaskiwin
Fort George and Buckingham House – Elk Point
Victoria Settlement – Smoky Lake County

Learn more about the Canada Strong Pass


Go Camping or Glamping

What’s the perfect way to spend time outside and enjoy our beautiful landscapes? You know it, Camping! Take your pick from more than 100 campsites across the region – there’s a slice of paradise wherever you’re looking to venture.

If you want to glamp it up, try a geodesic dome at Elk Island Retreat, or indulge in peace and relaxation at Wildly Eweneek Cabins.


Villa at Obsidian Ridge

Looking for the perfect staycation? A getaway to relax and recharge? Come find your own private oasis nestled in the forested countryside at Obsidian Ridge. Located in Beaver County only 30 minutes east of Sherwood Park.
It’s w𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙣𝙖𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙢𝙚𝙚𝙩𝙨 𝙚𝙡𝙚𝙜𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚 whether it’s in their 𝐇𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐒𝐮𝐢𝐭𝐞 to 𝐆𝐞𝐨𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐜 𝐃𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐬; to their newest accommodation 𝐋𝐮𝐱𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐕𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐚 complete with a kitchenette, bathroom, private sauna, cold dip tub, and firepit. Book your stay today!
www.ObsidianRidge.ca

Experience an unforgettable overnight stay at Métis Crossing in one of the luxurious Skywatching Domes. Relax and appreciate the beauty of the night sky!


Roadtrip Rewards

What you can win…

  • Private Observatory Tour at the Hesje Observatory for up to 10 people. (email certificate) Value $120 (Night sky viewing observatory at Miquelon Lake)
  • 3 prizes for 2 person canoe trip of Saskatchewan River Voyager Value $80 each prize. (Located at Smokey Lake County on the North Saskatchewan River)

Over $350 in total prizes.

How to Enter and Win:
Email us your full name and a phone number to in**@**************on.com and use the subject line of Enter me for Free Observatory Tour and/or Canoe Tour. Its that easy to enter.
Deadline to enter is July 17 at 5:00pm. Winners will be selected from a random draw.
Thanks for following Go East of Edmonton!


Go Golfing

You’ll be spoiled at the 30+ golf courses East of Edmonton. With courses for all levels of experience, landscapes, amenities, we be you’ll want to visit them all!


Go Fishing

With 100 lakes, ponds and rivers, you are sure to experience fantastic fishing in the region. Find your next fishing spot! Book a fishing trip and charters here!

It’s summer and that means one thing: beach time. Take a dip at some of Alberta’s nicest lakes! Check out our guide to 12 great lakes and beaches near Edmonton.


Splish Splash it’s Hot and time to take the kids to a Spray Park!


With the hot weather upon us, spray parks are sure to be a great way to cool off. With over 25 spray parks across the region, you’re sure to find the perfect spot. Check out our guide to Spray Parks in the region.


Where Culture is an Adventure…

Summer is in full swing at Métis Crossing! Whether you’re looking for family time, cultural connection, or outdoor discovery, there’s something for everyone this season. Visit Alberta’s Premier Cultural Destination – Métis Crossing, where you can learn about the rich & distinct Métis culture. Open year-round, you can immerse yourself in hands on activities, experiences and packages. Choose from unique adventures and signature experiences.

Reconnect Through Nature: A Walk with Rooted Relatives
Join a Métis Cultural Interpreter for an immersive plant walk along the North Saskatchewan River. Discover the traditional knowledge behind native plants, their importance to Métis culture, and how they continue to nourish and support us today.
A meaningful experience perfect for curious minds of all ages. Limited spots available—book your walk today!

Experience Wildlife, Culture & Connection 
Step into the paddocks on a guided SUV tour and get up close with rare heritage species like white bison, wood bison, elk, and Percheron horses. The Visions, Hopes, and Dreams Wildlife Tour at Métis Crossing is an immersive journey through nature, culture, and history—led by a knowledgeable Métis interpreter. Book your signature experience today!

Watch for monthly and seasonal events, activities and workshops. Learn more about Indigenous Tourism experiences in the region.


Looking for Awesome Summer Events?

Must Attend July Events

July 12-19 ANTIQUE WEEK
Tour antique shops for all things vintage and collectable and deals along the way!

July 12 WETASKIWIN REYNOLDS MUSEUM ULTIMATE CAR SHOW
Check out a stunning line-up of cars, from the ordinary to the extraordinary, and exchange stories with their owners along the way. Museum vehicle demonstrations, live music, food trucks and more!

July 11-13 VEGREVILLE MEDIEVAL FAIRE AND ARTISAN MARKET
Don thy robes, gowns, armour and burlap and immerse yourself in Medieval Merriment.

July 12-13 LAMONT SUMMER SIZZLER & SUMMER FESTIVAL
Kick your boots off just under an hour away from Edmonton for a sizzling good time at the Lamont Summer Sizzler Rodeo!

July 17-20 WILD ROSE FIDDLERS OLD TIME FIDDLE CHAMPIONSHIP
Check out various competitions with amazing fiddle time sounds and music!

July 18-27 TWO HILLS BIKE WEEK
Get ready for an AMAZING TIME! RUN TO THE HILLS REUNION – there are TONS of activities! Your ultimate guide here

July 18-20 HARDISTY RODEO
Take in the Street Fair, Chariots and Chuckwagon Races, Parade, Outdoor Dance, Rodeo, Combine Crunch

July 19-21 COWBOY FEST IN THE PINES
A wild west extravaganza you won’t want to miss with a fantastic lineup of performers! Located at Northern Lights RV Resort near Vilna with on-site camping available, food trucks, kids activities, river tours, vendors and more!

July 19 BATTLE RIVER A PRAIRIE TOWN TRAIN EXCURSION
Take a passenger train journey through three Prairie towns in rural Alberta and uncover some of Alberta’s hidden gems. Book your train ride today!

July 19-20 SHERWOOD PARK HIGHLAND GATHERING
Enjoy piping and drumming competitions, massed band performances, Highland Dance competitions, and Scottish heavy games. There will also be children’s activities, food trucks, beer gardens, community market with local makers and Scottish Clan booths, and a family Ceilidh (pictured above).

July 25-27 VERMILION AGRICULTURAL FAIR
Visit the Vermilion Fair with an amazing midway, rodeos, fireworks, parade, and more!

July 26 VEGREVILLE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PYSANKA
Pancake Breakfast 9-11am Opening Ceremonies 11am Performances on stage 11am – 6pm Farmers Market, Food Vendors, Kid Zone FREE Admission.

July 26-28 BRUCE STAMPEDE
Head over to Canada’s oldest rodeo and take advantage of the free parking/ camping. Dance Saturday night, Beer gardens, pancake breakfast and more!

July 26 BOYLE HELL ON HOOVES JACKPOT AND DANCE
The 6 pm performance will include Saddle Bronc, Bareback, Bull Riding, Ladies Barrel Racing, Junior Bull Riding, Novice Horse Riding, Junior Barrel Racing and Mutton Busting. A family-friendly dance will follow the performance.

Must Attend August Events

Aug 1-2 LAC LA BICHE LAKELAND COUNTRY FAIR
Two days of excitement at the Lac La Biche Agricultural Grounds! Enjoy a variety of fun-filled activities, including a Horticultural Bench Show, exciting kids events, a farmers’ market, live music, delicious food and the Alberta Wife Carrying Championship on the Saturday!

Aug 2-3 SMOKY LAKE STAMPEDE
Enjoy a parade, pancake breakfast, and plenty of rodeo!

Aug 2-3 MALLAIG HAYING IN THE 30’S
Rain or Shine this event will go on, with kid’s games, village tours, face painting, and more!

Aug 6-10 VEGREVILLE COUNTRY FAIR
Whether it’s your child’s first ride on the midway, the pounding hooves at the chuckwagon races, a majestic display of horses, or a rousing night of entertainment in the Grandstand, you’re sure to have some fun.

For more inspiration visit 100 Super Summer Events  and Festivals


Adventure awaits at every corner around the region.


Be inspired all summer long with our Stories.

Top Things To Do In The MD of Bonnyville
Relax. Breathe. Listen. with everything that the beautiful M.D. of Bonnyville has to offer! Here’s our list of top things to do in the M.D. of Bonnyville.

Top Things To Do In Lac La Biche
Home to pristine wilderness, gorgeous provincial parks, and beautiful lakes, perfect to see the night sky, search for wildlife and birds, or enjoy the vast network of trails via hiking, quadding, or ATVing.

Top Things To Do In Lamont County
Just a quick trip east of Edmonton, Lamont County has a combination of beautiful landscapes, rich cultural heritage, unique attractions and events that make it the perfect destination for daytrips and weekend getaways.

Top Things To Do In Vegreville
A history rich with culture, plus many new shops and services, makes Vegreville a welcoming community to create some memories and have some fun! Only an hour drive from Edmonton on Highway 16, it’s a great place for day-tripping, a quick getaway, or an extended vacation.

Top Things To Do In Camrose
Camrose is a vibrant growing city nestled in the heart of Alberta with a population of over 18,000 people. With exciting opportunities, arts, sports and recreation, and numerous festivals and events; there’s always a reason to discover Camrose every season!

Top Things To Do In Strathcona County
Strathcona County is a thriving, successful, and vibrant community of over 100,000 rural and urban residents. Only a 10-minute drive from the capital city of Edmonton, you will find Strathcona County–Sherwood Park offers endless opportunities for adventure right at your doorstep!
For more recent stories and Trip Ideas on great places to go, visit our Roadtrip and Itineraries webpage.


Play the Roadtrip Game Adventure Game!
Get out and play before August 31st and win great prizes!

Thanks to MCSnet for being a major sponsor for the Roadtrip Adventure Game!
Book a Stay at Canalta Hotels when you play the Roadtrip Adventure Game!

Please note some hours have changed at the sticker stations.
Check out these up to date Guides for Sticker Stations and much more! 
Go Northeast of Edmonton on the Roadtrip Adventure Game  
Go East of Edmonton on the Roadtrip Adventure Game
Go Southeast of Edmonton on the Roadtrip Adventure Game