For 2 years we’ve had to go without the joy, nostalgia, and fun that we look forward to every summer at Fort Edmonton Park, but that’s all about to change! History is once again coming alive with the Fort Edmonton Park reopening on July 1, 2021. With brand new attractions and updated favourites, you’re going to want to make sure Fort Edmonton Park makes your “must-see” list this summer.
As you enter the park, things may look a little different than your last visit. The brand new front entry plaza features a café, gift shop, gender-neutral washrooms, ticketing and guest services. Part of the major renovations also included updating one of the most-loved attractions in the park: the 1920’s style midway! Of course, you’ll still find old favourites like the carousel and swings, but even more fun has been added to the mix! A new, larger Ferris wheel will be calling the midway home along with an outdoor maze, the Cabinet of Curios exhibit, funhouse, and expanded game selection.
I am most excited about the brand new addition of the Indigenous Peoples Experience – a 30,000 square foot exhibit! So much of our city’s history belongs to the Indigenous community and I am thrilled that there is a beautiful exhibit at Fort Edmonton Park dedicated to their experience. I can’t wait to take my kids to see the exhibit so together we can learn about and explore the rich cultures of the First Nations and Métis peoples. The hands-on, immersive exhibit features stories, music, and artwork from local Indigenous perspectives, voices, and sources. (And it’s worth noting in this record-setting heat, that this new exhibit is air-conditioned, too!!)
Beloved favourites like the 1846 Fort, 1885 Street, 1905 Street, and 1920 Street will all be reopened as well allowing you the opportunity to journey back in time with your family to experience different eras of life in Edmonton. I love exploring all the nooks and crannies of the 1846 Fort and imagining if I could endure life in the 1800s in the prairies (Fact: I could not.). Wandering through the buildings of the 1885 Street and 1905 Street harken back to a time of simplicity. But the 1920s Street may be one of my favourite areas as I imagine myself dolled up in a flapper dresser for a night out on the town.
Be sure to appease those taste buds during your visit, too. I can guarantee that will be prioritizing a stop at Bill’s Confectionery during our visit for a big scoop of ice cream! Adults will love grabbing an ice cold beverage at Kelly’s Saloon with local brew from Alley Kat Brewing. And you can find delicious food to eat at several locations throughout the park.
With all the new things to see now that Fort Edmonton Park is reopening, plus the many old favourites to revisit, you may want to consider purchasing a Summer Pass for repeat fun! Valid Wednesdays – Sundays (plus holiday Mondays) July 1 – September 6, 2021, a Family Pass (2 adults and 4 children) is just $175. Single day admission for a family is $95 so just 2 visits pays for your pass!
Fort Edmonton Park Reopening July 1, 2021:
When: Wednesday – Sundays July 1 – September 6, 2021
Time: 10 am – 5 pm
Cost: Single day admission starts at $20.90
Address: 7000 143 St NW, Edmonton
Website: www.fortedmontonpark.ca
