A New Way to Explore Downtown Edmonton With Kids (That Actually Feels Fun)
If you’re looking for something different to do in downtown Edmonton that is not just “walk around and see what happens,” this is such a cool find.
It’s called Story City, and it turns downtown Edmonton into an interactive adventure where you and your kids actually become part of the story.
Instead of just sightseeing, you’re solving clues, following prompts, unlocking chapters, and moving through the city with purpose. Think scavenger hunt meets choose-your-own-adventure, but outdoors and in real life.
And honestly? It makes downtown feel exciting again.
What Is Story City?
Story City is a free app that unlocks interactive walking adventures based on your location. You download the app, pick a story in Edmonton, head to the starting point, and the story unfolds as you move.
You are not just reading. You are deciding. Solving. Exploring.
There are over 25 Edmonton adventures created by local writers and artists, which I love. It feels very YEG.
Some of the downtown stories include:
• Boring Old Edmonton – A playful time travel challenge where you prove Edmonton is anything but boring
• The Tontine – A downtown mystery with puzzles and twists
• And the City Fell Silent – A story that dives into Edmonton’s music scene
• Coal Call – A treasure hunt style adventure with historical vibes
• Instagrammable Tour of Downtown YEG – A guided walk to some of the most photo-worthy spots downtown
Each one feels a little different, so you can choose based on age, vibe, and how much walking you want to do.
Who Is This Good For?
This is perfect for:
• Families with school-age kids who need a mission, not just a walk
• Tweens and teens who roll their eyes at “family time” but love solving things
• Date nights that are more interesting than dinner
• Visitors who want to explore downtown Edmonton in a structured way
• Moms who are tired of the same indoor spots
If your kids are younger, you can still do it, but you will likely be reading and guiding them through the clues.
Edmonton Mama Tips Before You Go
Here is what I would do:
Start earlier in the day. Downtown feels more relaxed and easier to navigate before late evening.
Pair it with a treat. Plan a stop for coffee, hot chocolate, or a snack along the route so it feels like a full outing.
Check the walking distance. Some stories cover more ground than others.
Charge your phone fully. It uses GPS and you do not want to lose the story mid-adventure.
Wear proper shoes. Downtown exploring adds up fast.
Why I Actually Love This
We talk a lot about “supporting local” and “experiencing our city,” but this is such a creative way to actually do it.
It gets you outside.
It gets your kids thinking.
It shows you parts of downtown Edmonton you probably walk past without noticing.
And the best part? It feels like something new.
If you try one of the Story City adventures in Edmonton, tell me which one you picked and who you went with. I am curious which story would be your family’s favourite.
Stay caffeinated, Mamas. ☕