Visitors to Edmonton may find themselves extending the length of their trip, as this city has an endless supply of fun things to see and do.

Sir Winston Churchill Square is a good place to begin. This urban plaza in the heart of Edmonton’s downtown plays host to a variety of events—including the annual Edmonton International Street Performers Festival in July. From face painters and balloon artists to musicians and acrobats, a variety of talented street performers will entertain festival-goers.

Sir Winston Churchill Square is a family-friendly area where parents and their children can engage in a game of basketball or take a self-guided tour of the gardens and artwork in and around the square. The Art Gallery of Alberta, Winspear Centre concert hall and The Citadel Theatre are in close proximity to Sir Winston Churchill Square.

Rich in history

A visit to Edmonton would not be complete without taking a stroll down Whyte Avenue. Situated in the Old Strathcona district of the city, Whyte Avenue is home to one-of-a-kind boutiques and specialty shops as well as lively pubs and restaurants that feature international cuisine. With its historic architecture, Whyte Avenue is an excellent spot for those who want to see what Edmonton was like 100 years ago.

From August 16 to 26, 2012, the Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival will be held in the Old Strathcona district.

Hidden gems

Alex Goatcher, who is the visitor services councillor at Edmonton Tourism, has lived in Edmonton for 11 years, and he said that the park system in the city’s river valley is often overlooked.

“Our park system is the longest urban park system in North America,” said Goatcher. “It’s longer than Central Park in the U.S.”

According to Goatcher, there are plenty of walking trails in the park system and he said that deer and moose have been known to wander through the parks.

In the summertime, several large festivals—including the Freewill Shakespeare Festival and the Heritage Festival—are held at William Hawrelak Park in the river valley. This 130-hectare park has an amphitheatre, a pavilion, a playground and picnic sites.