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Where to Stay in Edmonton

Where to Stay in Edmonton

Edmonton Alberta, Canada Travel Guide

Types of Accommodation

Hotels & Resorts

  • Luxury Hotels

    High-end establishments with premium amenities and services, usually found downtown or close to major attractions.

  • Mid-Range Hotels

    Comfortable options with standard services, good for travelers seeking value and convenience.

  • Budget Hotels & Motels

    Basic accommodations for cost-eco-conscious travelers, found throughout the city.

  • Resort Hotels

    Larger properties, often with additional facilities such as pools, restaurants, and entertainment, like those at West Edmonton Mall.

Alternative Stays

  • Vacation Rentals

    Apartments and houses available for short-extended visits, providing a home-like experience, often through Vrbo.

  • Hostels

    Shared or private rooms at lower prices, popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Check Hostelworld for options.

  • House Sitting

    Stay in someone's home and care for their pets or property. Explore TrustedHousesitters for opportunities.

  • Campgrounds

    For outdoor enthusiasts, options exist just outside the city limits.

Popular Districts & Neighborhoods

Selecting the right neighborhood can shape your Edmonton experience. Each area has a distinct character and range of accommodations.

Downtown & ICE District

Pros
  • Central location for business and major events
  • Easy access to attractions and transit
  • Modern hotels and dining
  • Lively what to do at night in the ICE District
Cons
  • Higher prices, especially for luxury hotels
  • Can be busy during peak event times
  • Limited green spaces directly
  • Parking might be expensive

West Edmonton Mall Area

Pros
  • Direct access to the mall's attractions and shopping
  • Variety of hotels attached or nearby
  • Family-friendly amenities
  • Convenient for amusement
Cons
  • Can be very busy, especially on weekends
  • Further from downtown core
  • Focused on mall activities
  • Less local charm in comparison with other areas

Old Strathcona & University Area

Pros
  • Historic charm and atmosphere
  • Independent shops, restaurants, and theaters
  • Convenient access to public transit
  • Lively nightlife on Whyte Avenue
Cons
  • Limited large hotels, more boutique/smaller stays
  • Can be noisy due to nightlife
  • Parking might be challenging
  • Further from West Edmonton Mall

Booking Resources

Online Travel Agencies (OTAs)

Use platforms like Booking.com or Agoda for a wide selection and comparative pricing.

Direct Bookings

Check hotel chain websites such as IHG Hotels for members-only discounts or loyalty points.

Things to Consider When Booking

Deliberate organization of your accommodation can improve your trip.

Location & Accessibility

  • Choose an area convenient for your main activities, whether sightseeing, shopping, or events.
  • Proximity to LRT (streetcar transit) stations makes getting around straightforward.
  • If driving, check for available parking options and associated costs.
  • Consider accessibility needs when choosing a property, especially for mobility impaired travelers.

Amenities & Services

  • Most places to stay include complimentary Wi-Fi.
  • Many hotels feature on-site restaurants, while others are near dining options.
  • Health clubs, pools, and business services are widespread in mid to high-end hotels.
  • Check for concierge services if you need assistance with bookings or local recommendations.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Flexible Bookings
  • Look for options with no-cost cancellation if your plans might change.
  • Read the terms and conditions carefully before finalizing your reservation.
  • Travel insurance for unexpected events is advisable.
  • Direct bookings sometimes offer more flexible policies.
Payment Considerations
  • Some properties charge upon booking, others upon arrival.
  • Be aware of any additional resort fees or local taxes.
  • Currency for all charges is Canadian Dollars (CAD).
  • Confirm accepted payment methods before your stay.

Seasonal Demand

Summer Peak (June-August)

Lodgings are in high demand during festival season and warm weather. Book long before these months.

Winter (November-March)

Fewer tourists mean increased availability and potentially lower prices, outside of holiday periods.

Shoulder Seasons

Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) have nice weather and less people, often with better rates.

Family-Friendly & Unique Stays

Edmonton has options for family groups groups and those seeking a memorable lodging experience.

Family-Friendly Options

West Edmonton Mall Hotels

The Fantasyland Accommodation and West Edmonton Mall Inn are inside or next to the mall, providing direct access to attractions.

  • Themed rooms at Fantasyland Hotel
  • Indoor waterpark and amusement park access
  • Numerous dining options nearby
  • Family suites available
Hotels with Pools & Amenities

Many hotel chains across the city offer indoor pools, complimentary breakfast, and family rooms.

  • Pools are a great thing to do for children
  • Morning meal included helps with budget
  • Spacious rooms for families
  • Easy access to city parks

Boutique & Unique Stays

The Metterra Hotel on Whyte

A boutique hotel in the heart of Old Strathcona, known for its unique décor and personalized service.

  • Stylish and intimate setting
  • Walk to Whyte Avenue attractions
  • Complimentary evening wine plus cheese
  • Artistic ambiance
Matrix Hotel

A modern, chic downtown hotel emphasizing contemporary design and amenities.

  • Sleek, minimalist design
  • Central downtown location
  • Fitness center and unique dining
  • Business-friendly amenities

Eco-Friendly Accommodation

  • Green Global Hotels

    Look for hotels engaging in sustainability programs like Green Global for environmentally conscious stays.

  • Recycling Initiatives

    A lot of hotels have in-room recycling bins and large-scale recycling initiatives.

  • Water Conservation

    Hotels often encourage towel reuse and have low-flow fixtures to save water.

  • Energy Efficiency

    Newer builds or renovated properties might feature energy-efficient lighting and climate control systems.

Long-Term Stay Options

  • Extended Stay Hotels

    Properties designed for extended stays, often including kitchenettes and laundry facilities.

  • Furnished Apartments

    Fully furnished units available for monthly rentals, suitable for relocation or project work.

  • Corporate Housing

    Specialized services for executives traveling for business needing longer-term accommodation.

  • Lease Agreements

    For stays longer than a few months, a short-term lease might be an alternative with local property management companies.

Accessibility Information

Wheelchair Accessibility

Many modern hotels and reputable chains offer accessible rooms with characteristics such as roll-in showers and grab bars. Inquire when booking.

  • Accessible parking spaces
  • Ramps or elevators for entry
  • Spacious common areas
  • Service animal policies
Special Needs Accommodations

Some hotels provide for particular needs, like visual or hearing impairments. Confirm details directly with the property.

  • Visual fire alarms
  • TTY/TDD phones
  • Braille signage
  • Accessible communication devices

Safety & Security in Accommodation

Reputable Operators

Stick to well-known hotel makes and reputable reservation websites for reliability.

Guest Reviews

Read recent guest reviews to understand authentic experiences and potential issues.

In-Room Safety

Utilize in-room safes for precious belongings and keep doors and windows secured.