Fort Edmonton Park
On Whitemud Dr., at Fox Dr
About
Fort Edmonton Park literally reconstructs four distinct eras of Edmonton's history. Perhaps most interesting is the complete reconstruction of the old Fort Edmonton fur trading post from the turn of the 18th century. This vast wooden structure is a warren of rooms and activities: blacksmiths, bakers, and other guides ply their trades. On 1885 Street you'll see Frontier Edmonton, complete with saloons, general store, and Jasper House Hotel, which serves hearty pioneer meals. 1905 Street celebrates the agricultural boom years of the early 19th century, when Edmonton teemed with new immigrants and was named provincial capital. On 1920 Street, sip an old-fashioned ice-cream soda at Bill's confectionery and see the changes wrought in the rural west by World War I. If the variety of activities at Fort Edmonton appeals to your family, consider spending a night at the park's Hotel Selkirk, a very handsome replica of a 1910s hotel, but with all the modern comforts -- except TVs in the rooms, though there is wireless Internet (tel. 888/962-2522 or 780/496-7227; www.hotelselkirk.com).
