Edmonton Historic Sites & Interpretive Centres

This Edmonton landmark has been restored to its original state of grandeur, sitting on the corner of 1905 Street and 1920 Street in Fort Edmonton Park. The original Selkirk was known for having the finest wines, liquors and cigars, which attracted a famous clientele of prominent musicians, actors, politicians and authors. On December 18, 1962, the hotel burned to the ground but has now been restored to feature 1920s-style furnished suites, a lounge and a restaurant. Open seasonally from mid-May until the end of August.

Canada's largest living history park! Join the costumed historical interpreters and experience life as an early pioneer. Live life like it was at the 1846 Hudson's Bay fort and on the streets of 1885, 1905 and 1920. The historical interpretation changes daily. March with the ladies on 1905 Street to ban the demon rum; learn all about herbal remedies; help make bannock bread at the Native Encampment. Take time to visit the new 1920 Midway & Exhibition, or one of the many food service outlets and period retail shops. All you can ride steam train and streetcar rides are included in the admission. Overnight accommodation is available at the Hotel Selkirk.

Spring hours (May 23 - Jun 25): Mon - Fri 10 am - 4 pm; Sat - Sun 10 am - 6 pm; Summer Hours (Jun 26 - Aug 29) Daily 10 am - 6 pm; Fall hours (Sep 5-19) Sun 10 am - 6 pm; closed for the winter after Sep 26. Admission: $13.75 adult, $10.50 youth/sen, $7 child, $41.50 family.

This gracious sandstone building, opened in 1913, served as the residence of Alberta's Lieutenant Governors. The mansion was closed in 1938 and was used as a WWII veterans' hospital from 1944 to 1951. Then, in 1976, after extensive restoration, Government House was reopened as the province's official government conference centre. Free tours every half hour and last 30 minutes. Open Sun only 11 am - 4:30 pm.

Extensive collection of private and governmental records dating back to the late 1880s, maps, over two million images, motion picture footage, video and audio tapes are housed at this research centre. Tue, Thu to Sat 9 am - 4:30 pm; Wed 9 am - 9 pm.

The Multicultural Heritage Centre has been preserving and promoting the history of Stony Plain and the tri-community area for over thirty years. A settler's cabin, homesteader's kitchen, general store, ethnic craft store and the Oppertshauser House are features of the centre, as well as an organic demonstration farm, fountain ponds, gardens and a kitchen. Open year round.

A public research facility housing government and private records documenting Edmonton's history. Rooms available for rent for shows and events. Mon to Fri 8:30 am - 4:30 pm; Wed until 8 pm.

Costumed interpreters re-enact life in the 1900's at the former home of the province's first premier, Alexander Cameron Rutherford. Built in 1911, this Edwardian mansion established new standards in residential design, marking the end of the pioneer era in Alberta. Lunch and afternoon tea are served at the Arbour Restaurant year-round.

May 15 - Labour Day daily 9 am - 5 pm; Labour Day - May 14 Tues - Sun noon - 5 pm. Admission: $4 adult, $3 youth/sen, $12 family, free for children 6 and under.

Built in 1861 by Father Lacombe and his Metis helpers, the original log chapel and the St. Albert Mission provide insight into the past of the Canadian West. This Provincial Historic Site is the oldest building in Alberta. Admission: $2 adult, $1.50 senior/youth, $5 family, free for children 6 and under. Open May 15 to Sept 1 daily 10 am - 6 pm.

Historical buildings date from 1891, prior to amalgamation of the town of Strathcona with the City of Edmonton in 1912. Known for its exuberant spirit, this south side district is an attractive shopping destination with a concentration of interesting antique and gift shops, coffee shops and cafes. Walking tour brochures are available at the Old Strathcona Foundation office: #401, 10324 - 82 Ave. open Tues and Wed 8:30 am - 4:30 pm.