I CANNOT believe that we are already halfway through Summer. Starting in March, I have had the craziest couple of months with clients buying and selling homes – especially in this crazy market! Working with properties in Fort Saskatchewan, Sherwood Park, Edmonton and surrounding area has me driving all over the city but I love working with different clients with different needs/goals! The Property Management division in our brokerage is also running at lightning speed. We have almost 97% vacancy in all of our rentals and I don’t think it is stopping any time soon. The post-pandemic market is crazy with the low interest rates and “normal” life coming back. With work being so crazy, there is definitely time needed for a little break. Fortunately, my wife Jezelle has found fun activities for us for Date Nights and activities to enjoy as a family with our almost-2-year old, Julia!
With the restrictions lifting in early July to a scorching heat wave, the days have definitely flown by. Despite both international and domestic travel bans, I found a deeper love and appreciation for Alberta. I found new trails to walk with my family, parks to picnic, and new local restaurants to try! I want to share my family’s adventure list with you all and enjoy the summer heat!
1. Fort Edmonton Park
This is a great place to go if you have little ones! There are a lot of fun activities, rides, food and walking trails for you and your family to enjoy. What I loved most about it was that your kids can learn about the history of Edmonton while being outside and having fun. There is a train that takes you to different areas – in case you get tired or want a little break. Tickets for Children (ages 3-17) are $20.90 and Adults are $26.20.
2. Pembina River Tubing
This is something that I have always wanted to do and I hope to do it by the end of summer. You can rent tubes, floaties, life jackets and float down the river and enjoy the wildlife, nature, and so much more. Located South of Entwistle, Alberta (1 hour away from Sherwood Park) – this calls for an awesome weekend adventure.
3. Patio at a Local Restaurant
Due to COVID-19, local restaurants have had to adapt the restrictions – no indoor dining, patios only, half capacity, etc… A lot of them built make-shift patios and it is incredible to see them evolve and adapt with the ever-changing ways. Enjoy a delicious meal with your family at different local spots here in our city.
4. Trails, Trails & More Trails!
Like many others, I have enjoyed walking, biking and running trails all over the city! It definitely is the best way to get outside and enjoy the fresh air instead of binging on Netflix or when you are bored in the house. It is also a great way to work up a sweat without even knowing it.
Click here for trails in and around the city.
5. Elk Island Retreat Campground
I have said this before and I will definitely say it again. Elk Island Retreat is one of the best ways to escape town without having to drive for hours! Depending on where you are it can be a 25 minute drive up to 45 minutes. They have tons of amenities, activities, and features that will give you the best camping experience. From domes, cabins to tipis, it is a great summer getaway for you and your family.
They have come out with a Geo Dome where you can sleep under the stars and it is definitely something I want to do… next year! The Geo Domes were booked up super fast during the hot summer months so I’ll be sure to stay on top of it next camping season!
6. Jurassic Forest
This one is for all of you with little ones. This was an awesome experience not only for Julia but for me too! Tons of interaction for your kids with moving dinosaurs (with sound!), fun facts and awesome effects.
7. Moraine Lake
I can’t do a summer activities list without mentioning the beautiful mountains and lakes of our neighbours out back in Banff, Lake Louise & Jasper. I have never been to Moraine Lake before but I just went last month and it was truly a beauty to see. It was family friendly hike where Julia was able to walk and climb up herself. The water was so blue and the pictures don’t do it justice. If there is one thing out of this list that I recommend you do – it is seeing Moraine Lake!
