Making the best of a stay-at-home vacation

MAKING THE BEST

OF A STAY-AT-HOME VACATION

by PEPPER RODRIGUEZ

Elk Island National Park

Summer is here and vacation time is staring us right in the eye, and a stay-cation might just be the way to go. With things still in flux as far as the grand vacation abroad are concerned, it might be a good idea to stay close to home for your vacation.

It’s a good thing then that the Edmonton area is abundant in attractions and activities, offering tons of fun for everyone. Besides, it would be extremely beneficial to the local economy. Support local, right?

Day trips to Elk Island, Lois Hole or Jasper, rafting by the river, or just exploring new walking paths with the dog, it’s the simple things that can do the body and soul some good.

We talked with a few of our friends in the local homebuilding industry about their favourite staycation spots that can hopefully offer some tips on where best to spend the summer.

AROUND EDMONTON

Tara Van Horn, the Marketing & Design Manager at Coventry Homes, loves the idea of staycationing, pointing out that there are a lot of fun and unique recreational opportunities in and around Edmonton.

Her first tip is “glamping” in Elk Island National Park. She says there are cabins and geo domes available for rent that can be the perfect setting for a “glamorous camping” (or “glamping”) experience

According to the Elk Island Retreat, which provides recreational activities on their 60 acres parcel of land, the geo domes are designed for naturecravers and memory-makers. “This is where nature and comfort meet,” they say. “What better way to treat your significant other on a special occasion or ‘just because’ than a unique stay in a geodesic dome.” The Domes accommodate a maximum of two adults.

Elk Island National Park itself is a nature wonderland open all year long. It lies just 35 minutes east of Edmonton and is not only an important refuge for bison, elk, and more than 250 bird species, but is also an oasis of calm for day picnickers and overnight campers alike. There are tons of activities available here, and the Parks Canada website (pc.gc.ca) has more information.

Tara is also a big fan of the Snow Valley Aerial Park for a fun, four-

season stay-cation. The theme for the Snow Valley Aerial Park tower, it says on its website, is “Edmonton’s River Valley”. Among its attractions is the Aerial Park Tower structure that has over 100 games in its “choose your adventure” course. It also includes Snow Valley and Rainbow Valley themed elements including a ski bridge, snowboard balance bridge, picnic table, freefall drop, and a few more surprises.

Snow Valley Edmonton is a not-for-profit organization that is dedicated to providing year-round, premier outdoor adventures in the heart of the city. They are located in Whitemud Park just off the Whitemud Freeway on 119 street.

DOWNTOWN ETC.

Cody Price, Marketing Manager at Anthem United, has plenty of ideas when it comes to enjoying time-off close to home.

“Personally, I love the Terwillegar Dog Park and Servus Place Rec Centre in St. Albert. The massive river valley trail system is another huge one for me, with its connectivity to all the parks and green spaces,” he tells Edmonton New Home + Condo Guide.

“I love kayaking and paddleboarding up the North Saskatchewan River from Devon to Edmonton,” he adds. Cody is also a foodie who can’t get enough of the food scene in Edmonton. Violino’s downtown is a particular favourite.

Tara says that her go-to spot for some rest and relaxation in the downtown is the JW Marriott Edmonton ICE District. Right smack dab in the heart of Edmonton’s dynamic downtown, Tara says it is the perfect place to stay, play, and embrace downtown Edmonton’s energy. It has four distinct dining experiences as well under its roof – from fine dining at the Braven Restaurant to casual meet-ups at the Alchemy Bar.

HOME RUN

As long as staying close to home for a vacation is the trend, having a home that has the feel of a vacation spot might be the way to go.

Cody says Anthem United’s Glenridding Ravine, a naturally scenic southwest community, is the perfect home base for adventure. “It’s a great jumping-off point to connect to the City’s trail system, or venture to Terwillegar or Paisley Dog Park.”

He also points out the natural beauty of Lois Hole Centennial Park and Big Lake as can’t-miss attractions for a stay-cation, with hiking, kayaking, and bird watching opportunities, plus connections to St. Albert’s trail system. “Anthem United is developing three communities that surround Big Lake, Trumpeter, Hawks Ridge, and Kinglet, with over 19 showhomes open between them.”

Marty Pawlina, Marketing Manager at Rohit Land Development, also sees the advantages of choosing a community that already offers recreational opportunities within its borders. And this is exactly how Rohit designs their developments.

“Gordon King Pond in Arbours of Keswick is a seven-acre natural area with walking trails along an aerated pond, we also have a gazebo with a picnic area and tables next to a playground for families to enjoy,” he says.

“We also have walking trails along Wedgewood Creek Ravine in Woodhaven – which won Edmonton’s best new community - and a new playground.”

The Edmonton Riverboat

Elk Island National Park