Head east of Edmonton, to Strathcona County and Vegreville, for farm-fresh foods, beautiful parks, and fun festivals.
My daughter poses in front of a blazing sunset and hills covered with Ukrainian embroidery patterns. This large, colorful mural graces the corner of 50th Street and 50th Avenue in Vegreville. With sweeping skies and stitches seen on garments at local museums, Edmonton artist Carly Gordon’s mural illustrates the beauty of the surrounding farmland and cultural fabric of the region.
There are 10 more murals to find while exploring historic downtown Vegreville. While you’re at it, pick up fresh local produce from Skyline Greenhouse Store, homemade sausage from Prime Cuts Meat & Deli, and Ukrainian ceramics and souvenirs from The Ceramic Cottage. Next, have lunch at Vito’s Steak and Pizza House (besides their namesake, the nachos are highly recommended).
Partnership disclosure: This story was written in partnership with Go East of Edmonton, but all words and opinions are my own.
When in Vegreville, you must visit Pysanka Park. Also known as Elks/Kinsmen Park, the pretty park is home to the World’s Largest Pysanka (Ukrainian Easter Egg), Vegreville Visitor Information Centre, a playground, skate park, outdoor fitness stations, fishing pond, picnic area, and walking trails. Rent a bike or pedal boat from the Visitor Centre and get a cool photo with the giant egg. Bonus points if you post a “pick up the pysanka photo” pic.
Fun summer events in Vegreville include the Ukrainian Pysanka Festival (July), Vegreville Country Fair (August), and Vegreville Corn Maze (Saturdays & Sundays, 11 am – 5 pm, September 10-October 16, 2022).
For more details, see our story, 10 Fun Things to Do in Strathcona County and Vegreville, on Go East of Edmonton.
In Strathcona County, walk the Riverside Nature Trail along the North Saskatchewan River, play a round of disc golf at Strathcona Wilderness Centre (they have disc rentals), or get family photos at the historic Woodbridge Farms Covered Bridge in Sherwood Park. After working up an appetite, head to Branches Fresh Food Experience, Yoshi Japanese Restaurant, or the Sherwood Park Farmers’ Market (get fresh ingredients or takeaway from the food trucks) for a bite to eat, then get dessert at Confetti Sweets.
Where to Stay
With spacious rooms and a convenient location (near Anthony Henday Drive and Highway 16), Ramada by Wyndham Sherwood Park is the perfect base camp for exploring Strathcona County. Breakfast is included in your stay and there’s a mini convenience store onsite in case you forgot anything.
Enjoy Vegreville Suites’ pool and waterslide after a day of exploring, then enjoy a generous complimentary breakfast in the morning.
Elk Island Retreat offers unique and beautifully-decorated lodging in a wilderness setting. Choose from yurts, geodomes, or cabins on the large acreage near Elk Island National Park.
For More Information
Read our story, 10 Fun Things to Do in Strathcona County and Vegreville, on Go East of Edmonton and start planning your road trip now!
If you go… play the Go East of Edmonton Roadtrip Adventure Game (There are over $6,000 in prizes to be won!) and download the Roadtrip Savings Passport to save on dining and shopping, and unlock more prizes.
More East of Edmonton Destinations
- Experience culture, history, and adventures at Métis Crossing and Lac La Biche
- 10 Fun things to do in Cold Lake and Bonnyville this summer
- Exploring Camrose & Camrose County
- A Weekend in Wainwright
- 14 Fun Things to Do at Elk Island National Park
- Camping at Miquelon Lake Provincial Park
