West Edmonton Mall is not just a shopping mall—it’s a top travel destination in Edmonton, Alberta. As the largest mall in North America, it offers endless entertainment, shopping, and dining experiences all under one roof. From high-end fashion stores to the thrilling Galaxyland amusement park and World Waterpark, there’s something for every visitor. Shopping for a car? There is a Toyota car dealership right inside the mall as well.
During my first visit, I was amazed by how much there was to do. You can spend an entire day exploring over 800 stores, grabbing a bite at unique restaurants, or catching a show at the cinema. For families, it’s perfect, with kid-friendly attractions like the Marine Life sea lion show and the Ice Palace skating rink.
This mall is so big that I have never explored every corner of it since I have been going there. I don’t think there is anyone who can explore the whole mall in one day because there are just so many things to see and do.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to explore all the best parts of West Edmonton Mall. We’ll dive into the top attractions, the best places to shop and eat, and tips on making the most of your visit. If you’re planning a trip to Edmonton, WEM is a must-see, and this guide will help you have an unforgettable experience! View WEM Map.
Facts About West Edmonton Mall
The West Edmonton Mall is owned and operated by the Triple Five Group, the same company behind other major retail centers in North America. As I said above, the mall has over 800 stores, attractions, and services, WEM is the largest shopping mall in North America by store count and the second largest by square footage, right behind the Mall of America.
WEM covers an incredible 5.3 million square feet of space, making it the 14th largest mall in the world, comparable in size to The Dubai Mall. What sets it apart is its variety of attractions. There are nine major attractions inside the mall, including Galaxyland, World Waterpark, an ice skating rink, and an indoor mini-golf course. It’s not just about shopping here—there’s always something to see or do.
The mall is also home to two hotels and over 100 places to eat, giving visitors plenty of options for dining and staying overnight. Parking is a breeze, too, with space for more than 20,000 vehicles. And let’s not forget the people—over 24,000 employees work at WEM, which brings in around 32 million visitors each year. On any given day, between 90,000 and 200,000 people pass through its doors, depending on the season and events.
In terms of shopping, the mall houses a mix of big-name brands and luxury stores like Balenciaga, Nike Factory Store, Guess Store, and Moncler, alongside Canadian favourites like Hudson’s Bay and L.L.Bean. It’s no wonder it’s the second most visited mall in Canada, right behind the Toronto Eaton Centre.
WEM first opened in 1981 and has expanded over the years through four phases of construction. Even though it’s no longer the largest mall in the world (a title it held until 2004), it remains a top destination for shopping and entertainment in North America.
How to Get to WEM
Getting to West Edmonton Mall is pretty simple, no matter how you’re travelling. The mall is located on the West side of Edmonton, Alberta, and is super easy to find. It is right on 170 Street. The address is at 8882 170 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5T 4J2. If you’re driving, it’s right off Whitemud Drive, Anthony Henday Drive, and Yellowhead Trail which are three of the city’s main roads. Parking isn’t usually a problem. With over 20,000 parking spaces, you’ll almost always find a spot, even on weekends or busy shopping days.
If you’re taking public transit, Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) makes it a breeze. Several buses stop directly at the mall, like routes 1, 2, and 100, which is handy if you don’t want to deal with parking or traffic. The bus drops you off right at the doors, so you can start your day of shopping or exploring without any hassle.
Flying into Edmonton? The mall is about a 30- to 40-minute drive from the Edmonton International Airport. You can take a taxi, rideshare, or even grab an airport shuttle. If you plan on seeing more of the city, renting a car is another good option.
Top Attractions and fun things to do
West Edmonton Mall is full of amazing attractions that make it more than just a shopping mall. First, there’s Galaxyland, the largest indoor amusement park in the world. It’s packed with thrilling rides and fun for all ages. Next, there’s the World Waterpark, where you can splash around in the world’s largest indoor wave pool or enjoy the water slides. If you love ice skating, head over to the Ice Palace, an indoor rink where you can skate any time of year. Don’t forget Marine Life, where you can see sea lions, and penguins, and even take a tour of the Sea Life Caverns.
Of course, there’s also the shopping. With over 800 stores, you can find everything from luxury brands to everyday essentials. When it’s time to eat, WEM has plenty of dining options, from quick bites at the food courts to sit-down restaurants serving all kinds of cuisines.
For a deeper dive into these attractions, check out my other article on the best attractions in West Edmonton Mall. It covers everything you need to know to make the most of your visit!
West Edmonton Mall Images
Where to Stay
If you’re planning to spend a lot of time at West Edmonton Mall, staying nearby is a great idea. The best option is the Fantasyland Hotel, which is actually inside the mall. It’s a unique place to stay because it has themed rooms like space, safari, and even a princess room. It’s perfect for families or anyone who wants a fun experience right in the heart of the action.
If you’re looking for more options, there are plenty of hotels close to WEM. Holiday Inn and Courtyard by Marriott are just a few minutes away, offering comfortable rooms and good prices. Staying near the mall makes it easy to explore all the attractions without having to worry about long drives or parking.
For more details on the best places to stay near WEM, check out my guide to hotels near West Edmonton Mall.
Best Time to Visit WEM
Best Time to Visit West Edmonton Mall
If you’re planning a trip to West Edmonton Mall, timing can make a big difference in your experience. Personally, I’ve found that weekdays are the best time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds. The mall tends to be quieter from Monday to Thursday, so it’s easier to shop and explore without the hustle and bustle. Plus, attractions like Galaxyland and World Waterpark have shorter lines, which means more time for fun!
If you’re coming with family or friends, weekends can still be a good time to visit. Just keep in mind that the mall gets much busier on Saturdays and Sundays, especially around the holiday season or during big sales events. It’s great if you love the energy of a busy place, but I always recommend arriving early in the day to get a head start before it fills up.
For those who like to make the most of special events, West Edmonton Mall hosts many events year-round. Like Mascot Meet and Greet, animal art exhibition, Fright Night at Galaxyland, and many more. In addition, winter is perfect if you want to visit the Ice Palace skating rink or enjoy holiday activities. In the summer, the waterpark is a huge hit, and it’s a great way to cool off while exploring everything the mall has to offer.
Conclusion: Guide to West Edmonton Mall
West Edmonton Mall is an incredible place to visit, offering so much more than just shopping. From the thrilling rides at Galaxyland to the relaxing waves at the World Waterpark, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss out on skating at the Ice Palace, checking out the marine life at the Sea Life Caverns, or exploring the hundreds of stores and dining options.
To make the most of your visit, I recommend going on weekdays if you want to avoid crowds and be sure to look for deals to save some money. Staying at Fantasyland Hotel or a nearby hotel will also help you make the most of your time.
With so many attractions, West Edmonton Mall is a place you won’t forget. I hope this guide helps you plan an amazing trip
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