Moving to St. Albert, Alberta offers new residents a wonderful mix of small-city charm and close proximity to larger urban centres like Edmonton. Whether you’ve recently bought a home through your Realtor® or are just exploring the real estate market in the Sturgeon County area, discovering what lies just beyond your doorstep adds tremendous value to your new lifestyle. Here are the Top 5 Day Trips from St. Albert every newcomer should experience.
1. Explore Downtown Edmonton
Just a short 20–30 minute drive from most St. Albert neighbourhoods, downtown Edmonton is a hub of culture and entertainment. From the Art Gallery of Alberta to the ICE District, there’s plenty to explore. For homebuyers working with a local Realtor® in Edmonton, convenient access to downtown amenities is a major selling point for communities in north Edmonton and St. Albert.
- Stroll along the scenic River Valley Trails
- Visit the City of Edmonton museums and galleries
- Enjoy local cuisine at Jasper Avenue bistros
2. Sturgeon Valley and Countryside Drives
If you’ve chosen St. Albert for its balance of nature and community, a day trip through the Sturgeon County countryside will showcase why this region is one of Alberta’s most desirable areas for rural real estate. Visit local farms, markets, and U-picks highlighted by the Sturgeon County Tourism Office.
- Shop local produce at the Prairie Gardens & Adventure Farm
- Take scenic photos along Meadowview Drive
- Visit heritage properties that display Alberta’s agricultural roots
3. Elk Island National Park
Located less than an hour east of St. Albert, Elk Island National Park is one of Alberta’s most accessible parks. It’s ideal for hiking, wildlife spotting, and picnicking. This park is also part of the Parks Canada network—a great reference point for nature-loving homeowners evaluating real estate near Edmonton’s eastern boundaries.
4. Enjoy Culture and Shopping in St. Albert
You don’t need to leave the city to plan a great day trip. Downtown St. Albert offers boutique shopping, art galleries, and the award-winning St. Albert Farmers’ Market—the largest outdoor farmers’ market in Western Canada. Walk through the Perron District and enjoy local cafes, or visit the Arden Theatre for live performances.
- St. Albert Place – local art and cultural centre
- Red Willow Trail – perfect for walking or cycling
- REALTOR® Tip: Homes near the trail system often attract higher interest among buyers seeking active lifestyles.
5. Morinville and Surrounding Communities
A short drive north brings you to Morinville, a growing town within Sturgeon County that’s becoming increasingly popular among buyers seeking more affordable real estate options outside St. Albert. The area has strong community spirit and offers events throughout the year, which can be found on the Town of Morinville website.
Final Thoughts
From urban attractions in Edmonton to rural escapes in Sturgeon County, these day trips showcase what makes owning property in and around St. Albert so rewarding. Whether you’re consulting a local Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA)–affiliated Realtor® or simply exploring future investment areas, discovering nearby adventures is an essential part of feeling at home in Alberta.
