Maximum Experience
User Story
By Kent McKay
Growing up in a small prairie town a few hours south of Edmonton, I was always excited to visit the city and experience all that it had to offer—driving past the Tourist Information booth on the highway always got me buzzed.
The University of Alberta was a natural choice for post-secondary education, so venturing out on my own, tentatively and not without a great deal of anxiety, I arrived in Edmonton in 2005 as a resident and not a visitor! Very shy and completely out of my element, I was at first very hesitant to explore the city. Surely enough, though, as my studies progressed and I familiarized myself with the abundantly rich shopping and eating grounds of Whyte Ave, I became increasingly confident that my decision to put down (temporary) roots in Edmonton was the right one.
Fast forward to 2009—those roots are growing deeper and the warmth of the community, along with the city's many experience-oriented gems make me increasingly proud to call Edmonton home.
As someone who loves living here, I suggest to anyone who isn't as familiar (or impressed) by the city to truly explore its sometimes hidden joys. Take in the city from the top of the High Level Bridge. Hit up both of the city’s Farmers’ Markets on a lazy Saturday morning. Attend as many of Edmonton's myriad festivals as you can. Familiarize yourself with the Arts; you won't be disappointed. Try a different non-chain restaurant every week. Bring a picnic to the Legislature grounds or to Sir Winston Churchill Square and soak up the summer heat by the water.
I've truly enjoyed my effort to maximize my experience in Edmonton thus far. And as the city continues to add to its already-rich pool of choices of things to do (the stunning new Art Gallery for example), it appears that the city will continue to welcome and stimulate residents for years to come.
