Morinville Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, eat, and stay in Morinville, Alberta with this comprehensive travel guide that covers everything from outdoor adventures to cultural attractions.


Introduction to Morinville

Nestled in the heart of the Edmonton Capital Region in Alberta, Canada, Morinville is a charming town known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. With a population of just under 10,000, Morinville offers visitors a peaceful and laid-back atmosphere, making it the perfect destination for travelers seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

List of Places to Visit in Morinville

From museums and historical sites to outdoor adventures and scenic views, Morinville has something for everyone. Here are some must-visit places to include in your itinerary.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Morinville is rich in history and culture, and there are several museums and historical sites that showcase the town’s heritage. Be sure to check out:

  • Morinville Museum: This museum documents the history of Morinville and its surrounding communities, featuring exhibits on local agriculture, industry, and early settlers.
  • Musée Morinville Museum: Located in the original Roman Catholic convent school, this museum presents the multifaceted history of Morinville and its people, including the role of the nuns in the community.
  • St. Jean Baptiste Church: This beautiful, historic church is one of the oldest buildings in Morinville, dating back to the early 20th century.

Natural Attractions of Morinville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Morinville is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, and the town offers several opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration. Here are some must-visit natural attractions:

  • Cardiff Park: This park is perfect for a family day out, with picnic areas, playgrounds, and a spray park for the kids.
  • Morinville Dog Park: If you’re travelling with your furry friend, this off-leash dog park is a great spot for them to run around and play.
  • Sturgeon River Valley: The Sturgeon River Valley offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and is the perfect spot for hiking, biking, or simply taking a leisurely stroll.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Morinville

For nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, Morinville offers several great hiking and biking routes that allow you to explore the town’s natural beauty. Some of the top routes include:

  • Morinville Trail System: This extensive trail system offers over 30 kilometers of scenic routes for hiking and biking.
  • Sturgeon River Trail: This trail follows the Sturgeon River and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Cardiff Park Trail: This easy trail is perfect for families and takes you through the scenic Cardiff Park.

Best Things to Do in Morinville: Activities and Tours

Morinville offers a wide range of activities and tours that cater to all interests. Here are some must-try things to do in the town:

  • Morinville Farmers’ Market: Held every Tuesday from May to September, this market offers a variety of local produce and handmade goods.
  • Morinville Art Walk: This annual event showcases the work of local artists and craftsmen, and includes live music and food vendors.
  • Ghost Tours: Take a spooky tour of Morinville’s most haunted spots with a local guide.

Week-Long Itinerary for Morinville

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Morinville, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time in the town:

  • Day 1: Visit the Morinville Museum and Musée Morinville Museum to learn about the history of the town.
  • Day 2: Explore the Sturgeon River Valley with a hike or bike ride, and enjoy a picnic lunch in Cardiff Park.
  • Day 3: Take a guided ghost tour of Morinville in the evening, and enjoy dinner at one of the town’s local restaurants.
  • Day 4: Visit the St. Jean Baptiste Church, and take a stroll around the charming downtown area.
  • Day 5: Spend the day at the Morinville farmers’ market, sampling local produce and handmade goods.
  • Day 6: Take a day trip to nearby Elk Island National Park, known for its wildlife and scenic vistas.
  • Day 7: Relax at your hotel or guesthouse, and enjoy a final dinner at one of Morinville’s restaurants.

Food and Drink Scene of Morinville

Morinville offers a variety of dining options, from fine dining to casual cafes and bakeries. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to try during your visit:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Morinville Bakery’s Cinnamon Buns: These freshly baked cinnamon buns are a local favorite, and make the perfect breakfast or dessert.
  • Rendezvous Pub’s Fish and Chips: This classic British dish is a staple at the Rendezvous Pub, and is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
  • Green Bean Cafe’s Vegan Chili: This hearty vegan chili is a healthy and delicious lunch or dinner option, made with locally sourced ingredients.

Local Beverages

  • Morinville Farmers’ Market: Sample locally brewed beer and wine at the town’s weekly farmers’ market.
  • The Beer Hunter: This popular pub offers a wide selection of craft beers and local spirits, perfect for winding down after a long day of exploring.
  • Morinville Coffee: Nothing beats a fresh cup of coffee from one of Morinville’s local cafes.

Where to Stay in Morinville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Morinville offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some top choices:

  • The Morinville Plaza Inn & Suites: This modern hotel is located in the heart of downtown Morinville and offers comfortable rooms and suites with all the amenities you need.
  • The Vintage Rose Inn Bed & Breakfast: This charming B&B offers cozy rooms and personalized service, and is the perfect choice for a romantic getaway.
  • The Morinville Guest House: This budget-friendly guesthouse offers simple yet comfortable accommodations, with shared amenities and a welcoming atmosphere.

What to Buy in Morinville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Morinville offers a variety of unique souvenirs and local products that make perfect gifts for friends and family. Here are some must-buy items:

  • Morinville Farmers’ Market: The farmers’ market offers a variety of handmade crafts, jewelry, and other one-of-a-kind items that make perfect souvenirs.
  • Morinville Art Walk: Support local artists by purchasing a piece of their work at the annual art walk.
  • Morinville Bakery: Bring home a box of the bakery’s famous cinnamon buns to share with friends and family.

Local Culture and Customs of Morinville

Morinville is a welcoming and friendly community, and visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the town’s cultural customs and traditions. Here are some local customs to be aware of during your visit:

  • Morinville is a bilingual community, and both English and French are widely spoken.
  • The town has a strong Francophone heritage, and many of the town’s festivals and events reflect this.
  • Morinville residents are proud of their community, and visitors will often be greeted with a warm and friendly welcome.

Best Time to Visit Morinville

Morinville can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your interests and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the town’s seasons:

  • Spring: This is a great time to visit for outdoor activities and festivals, such as the Morinville Farmers’ Market and Art Walk.
  • Summer: This is the peak tourist season, with warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities. Be sure to book accommodation in advance.
  • Fall: The fall foliage in Morinville is stunning, and the weather is still mild enough for outdoor adventures.
  • Winter: This is a quieter season, but ideal for those who enjoy winter sports or cozying up by the fireplace with a good book.

Do’s and Don’ts of Morinville

Here are some helpful tips for visitors to Morinville:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, like Morinville Bakery’s cinnamon buns and the Rendezvous Pub’s fish and chips.
  • Respect the town’s bilingual heritage by learning a few French phrases.
  • Take time to explore the Sturgeon River Valley and other natural attractions.

Don’t:

  • Ignore the speed limit in the town; Morinville is known for its strict traffic laws.
  • Litter or damage the town’s natural features, such as the Sturgeon River or Cardiff Park.
  • Disrespect the town’s community members or their customs.

Safety and Health

Morinville is a safe and welcoming community, but as with any travel destination, it’s important to take precautions. Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Morinville

  • Be aware of traffic laws and obey the speed limit in the town.
  • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in secluded areas.
  • Keep valuables locked away and out of sight in your hotel or guesthouse.

Health in Morinville

  • The town has a medical clinic and a pharmacy for any health needs.
  • Be sure to pack sunscreen and a hat for outdoor activities, as well as insect repellent in the summer months.
  • Water in the town is safe to drink, but visitors may prefer to bring bottled water for convenience.

Getting to Morinville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Located just 25 minutes from Edmonton, Morinville is easily accessible by car or public transportation. Here are some transportation options:

  • Driving: Morinville is located just off Highway 2, making it easily accessible by car.
  • Public transportation: The town is serviced by the St. Albert Transit system, which connects to Edmonton’s public transportation system.
  • Airport: The Edmonton International Airport is located approximately a 45-minute drive from Morinville.

Airports Near Morinville

  • Edmonton International Airport: This is the nearest airport to Morinville, located approximately 45 minutes away by car.

Bus Stations Near Morinville

  • St. Albert Transit: The St. Albert Transit system services Morinville and connects to Edmonton’s public transportation system.

Other Options

  • Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available for transportation within Morinville and to nearby destinations.

How to Get Around in Morinville

Morinville is a small town and is easily explored on foot. However, for those who prefer transportation, taxis and ride-sharing services are available.

Where to Go Next from Morinville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Morinville is a great home base for exploring the Edmonton Capital Region and beyond. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to add to your itinerary:

  • Elk Island National Park: Located just 30 minutes from Morinville, this national park is known for its wildlife and natural beauty.
  • West Edmonton Mall: This sprawling mall is just a 30-minute drive from Morinville and includes a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
  • City of St. Albert: Just a 10-minute drive from Morinville, this charming city is home to several parks and cultural attractions, including the Grain Elevator Park and the Art Gallery of St. Albert.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in history and culture, outdoor adventure, or simply taking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, Morinville has something for everyone. With its charming downtown, beautiful natural scenery, and friendly community, Morinville is the perfect destination for your next vacation.

The Provincial Building in downtown Morinville The Provincial Building in downtown Morinville The St Jean Baptiste Church in downtown Morinville The St Jean Baptiste Church in downtown Morinville