Travel + Leisure has named Edmonton one of seven wallet-friendly Canadian destinations for Americans seeking an affordable getaway in the Great White North.
The list comes as more Americans travel to Canada, with visits by U.S. residents up 9.1 per cent in July 2026 from the same month last year.
“Consistently cooler temperatures up north, a continued strong U.S. dollar vs. the Canadian dollar, and the legendary friendliness and hospitality of Canadians could all factor into the surge in tourism,” the publication wrote.
Edmonton earned a spot on the list for its jam-packed festival calendar, including plenty of events with no admission fee.
“Mark your calendar for the Deep Freeze Winter Festival in January and fall’s Edmonton International Film Festival and Canadian Finals Rodeo Week. There’s always something going on in this city along the North Saskatchewan River.”
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In the warmer months, Travel + Leisure highlighted outdoor activities like canoeing on Astotin Lake or hiking through aspen forests and wetlands in Elk Island National Park.
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In winter, visitors can enjoy affordable activities like snowshoeing, stargazing at Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve, and viewing the Northern Lights.
Edmonton wasn’t the only Alberta destination to make the cut. Calgary also made the list for its proximity to the Rocky Mountains and budget-friendly skiing and snowboarding at Nakiska, compared with high-profile resorts in Banff.
Other Canadian destinations to make the list included the East Coast of Vancouver Island, Quebec’s Eastern Townships, Hamilton, Whitehorse, and Winnipeg.
You can find the full list on the Travel + Leisure website.