South Central Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and travel tips in South Central, Edmonton, Alberta.


Introduction to South Central

South Central is a vibrant neighborhood located in Edmonton, the capital city of the province of Alberta, Canada. This urban area is known for its diverse culture, rich history, and numerous attractions. Whether you’re looking to explore museums, have outdoor adventures, or indulge in delicious food, South Central has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in South Central

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Alberta Legislature Building: Located in the heart of Edmonton, the legislature building is an architectural masterpiece that houses the provincial government. Visitors can take tours, attend sessions of the legislative assembly, and explore the building’s beautifully landscaped grounds.
  • Royal Alberta Museum: This museum is home to more than 80,000 objects showcasing the province’s natural and cultural heritage. The exhibits include dinosaur bones, Indigenous artifacts, and contemporary art.
  • Edmonton City Hall: This iconic building in Churchill Square houses the city’s administrative offices and is surrounded by a public plaza that hosts events and festivals throughout the year.
  • Art Gallery of Alberta: This modern art museum features a diverse collection of works by Canadian and international artists, as well as temporary exhibitions and educational programs.

Natural Attractions of South Central: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Victoria Park: This park is located along the North Saskatchewan River and has numerous trails for walking, running, and biking. It also offers stunning views of the river valley and Edmonton’s downtown skyline.
  • Kinsmen Park: This park features a large playground, picnic areas, and sports fields, as well as an outdoor pool and a skatepark.
  • Rundle Park: This 220-acre park has something for everyone, including a golf course, a toboggan hill, a BMX track, and a summer spray park.
  • Mill Creek Ravine Park: This park features a peaceful trail along Mill Creek, where visitors can see wildlife and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Hiking/Biking Routes of South Central

  • The River Valley Loop: This is a popular trail that takes visitors through Edmonton’s beautiful river valley, offering stunning views of the North Saskatchewan River and the downtown skyline. The loop is about 20 kilometers long and is suitable for both hiking and biking.
  • The Trans Canada Trail: This trail spans the entire country and runs through Edmonton on its way to the Pacific Ocean. In South Central, the trail passes through Victoria Park and provides access to other trails in the river valley.
  • The Muttart Conservatory Loop: This trail takes visitors through the beautiful Muttart Conservatory and offers stunning views of downtown Edmonton and the river valley.

Best Things to Do in South Central: Activities and Tours

  • Explore the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market: This market has been a fixture in Edmonton’s southside for over 30 years and is the perfect place to buy fresh produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts.
  • Take a Ghost Walk Tour: This guided tour takes visitors through Old Strathcona’s historic buildings and tells the stories of the people who used to live there, including some who may still haunt the area.
  • Visit the Ukrainian Heritage Village: This living museum showcases Alberta’s Ukrainian heritage through authentic artifacts, costumed interpreters and restored historic buildings.
  • Take in a show at the Citadel Theatre: The Citadel is one of Canada’s largest and busiest regional theatres and is known for its high-quality productions of Canadian and international plays.

Week-Long Itinerary for South Central

Day Activity
1 Visit the Royal Alberta Museum
2 Explore the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market
3 Walk through Victoria Park and the River Valley Loop
4 Go on a Ghost Walk Tour in Old Strathcona
5 Take in a show at the Citadel Theatre
6 Visit the Ukrainian Heritage Village
7 Relax in Kinsmen Park or Rundle Park

Food and Drink Scene of South Central

Must-Try Dishes

  • Alberta Beef: Alberta is known for its high-quality beef, and many restaurants in South Central offer delicious steak dishes.
  • Poutine: This Canadian classic consists of French fries, gravy, and cheese curds, and is a must-try dish for visitors to Canada.
  • Bannock: This Indigenous food is a type of flatbread that can be served with a variety of savory or sweet toppings.
  • Perogies: These stuffed dumplings are a staple in Ukrainian cuisine and are commonly served with sour cream and fried onions.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: South Central is home to several breweries that produce a variety of delicious craft beers, including Alley Kat Brewing Company, Situation Brewing, and Brewsters Brewing Company.
  • Wine: Many restaurants in South Central offer an extensive wine list featuring local and international wines.
  • Coffee: There are numerous cafes in the area that serve delicious coffee, including Transcend Coffee, Lock Stock Coffee, and Mandolin Books and Coffee Company.

Where to Stay in South Central: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Matrix Hotel: This boutique hotel offers luxurious accommodations in the heart of downtown Edmonton.
  • HI Edmonton Hostel: This hostel offers affordable, clean accommodations for travelers looking to save money.
  • Crash Hotel: This recently renovated hotel is located in the heart of the city’s nightlife district and is perfect for those looking to party.

What to Buy in South Central: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Indigenous Arts and Crafts: The Alberta Craft Council Gallery is a great place to find handmade Indigenous products, including jewelry, pottery, and textiles.
  • Books by Local Authors: Audreys Books is an independent bookstore that has been a fixture in Edmonton for over 60 years and offers a wide selection of Canadian literature.
  • West Edmonton Mall: This massive shopping mall is located just a short drive from South Central and features over 800 stores, including many Canadian and international brands.

Local Culture and Customs of South Central

South Central is known for its diverse culture, with large Ukrainian, French, and Indigenous communities. Visitors should be respectful of the traditions and customs of these communities and take the time to learn about their heritage.

Best Time to Visit South Central

The best time to visit South Central is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and there are numerous festivals and events happening in the area. However, visitors can enjoy the area year-round, with plenty of indoor activities and events during the colder months.

Do’s and Don’ts of South Central

Do:

  • Do take the time to explore the river valley and its numerous trails.
  • Do try the local cuisine, such as Alberta beef, poutine, and perogies.
  • Do visit some of the area’s cultural attractions, such as the Royal Alberta Museum and the Ukrainian Heritage Village.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural beauty of the river valley.
  • Don’t drink and drive.
  • Don’t disrespect the traditions and customs of the area’s diverse communities.

Safety and Health

Safety in South Central

South Central is a safe neighborhood, but visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to avoid theft and other crimes.

Health in South Central

Visitors to South Central should make sure they have up-to-date vaccinations and travel insurance. They should also be aware of the risks associated with outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking, and take appropriate precautions, such as wearing helmets and using sunscreen.

Getting to South Central: Transportation Options and Logistics

  • Airports Near South Central: Edmonton International Airport is located about 30 kilometers south of South Central and offers numerous flights to and from destinations throughout Canada and the world.
  • Bus Stations Near South Central: The Edmonton Transit Service operates numerous bus routes that provide access to South Central and other areas of the city.
  • Other Options: Visitors can also take a taxi or use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to get to and from South Central.

How to Get Around in South Central

South Central is a walkable area, with numerous trails and pathways that connect its attractions. Visitors can also use Edmonton’s extensive public transportation system to get around, including buses and the Light Rail Transit system.

Where to Go Next from South Central: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • West Edmonton Mall: This massive shopping mall is located just a short drive from South Central and features over 800 stores, as well as an indoor amusement park and water park.
  • Fort Edmonton Park: This living history museum showcases the history of Edmonton through authentic buildings, costumed interpreters, and interactive exhibits.
  • Elk Island National Park: This park is located just outside of Edmonton and features a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

Conclusion

South Central is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring the area’s cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, or food scene, South Central has it all. Plan your trip today and discover the best of Edmonton, Alberta.

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