Situated in Edmonton, Alberta, West Edmonton Mall (WEM) is the largest shopping mall in North America and one of the world’s top retail and entertainment complexes. Boasting over 800 stores, two hotels, a massive indoor amusement park, world-class waterpark, ice rink, marine life attractions, and countless dining options, WEM offers a one-stop destination for visitors of all ages and interests.
History of West Edmonton Mall
West Edmonton Mall opened its doors in 1981, originally designed as a shopping and entertainment complex for the region. Over the decades, it has continuously expanded, innovated, and added new features, becoming a global icon. Pioneering indoor amusement parks and massive indoor waterpark concepts, WEM set records as the world’s largest mall until the Dubai Mall surpassed it. Today, it remains a symbol of architectural ambition, bustling commerce, and family-friendly recreation.
Attractions at West Edmonton Mall
Galaxyland Powered by Hasbro: The second-largest indoor amusement park worldwide, it has over 27 rides and attractions of varying thrills—including the iconic Mindbender roller coaster (recently retired) and the latest launch ride Havoc.
World Waterpark: Encompassing over 5.1 hectares (20,903 m²), it’s home to the world’s largest indoor wave pool with waves up to two meters high. Thrill rides like the Twister and Cyclone slides soar 25 meters above!
Ice Palace: NHL-sized indoor rink for hockey, skating, and tournaments. It hosts special events and has undergone $3M renovations to modernize facilities.
Marine Life: Features a large indoor aquarium and interactive Sea Life Adventures for families.
Drive: An extensive indoor go-kart track offering adrenaline-filled races.
Ed’s Bowling: A spacious bowling alley with league and family play.
Professor WEM’s Adventure Golf: Two themed mini-golf courses, including a 9-hole black-lit fantasy course.
Birds of Paradise: A tropical aviary with free-flying exotic birds.
Splatterverse: Indoor paintball and escape-room experiences.
Jubilations Dinner Theatre: Offers live musical comedy paired with dinner.
Other Facilities: Drive-thru coffee shops, free live entertainment stages, seasonal events, and children’s play areas.
Things to Do at West Edmonton Mall
Spend an entire day riding thrilling roller coasters and water slides.
Skate at the Ice Palace or catch a hockey tournament.
Explore the exotic birds and marine life exhibits.
Test your skills at mini-golf or go-kart racing.
Shop at a diverse mix of specialty boutiques and big brand stores.
Enjoy live entertainment—comedy, music, and plays—at various venues.
Dine in diverse eateries ranging from fast food to fine dining.
Attend major annual events, including cultural festivals, celebrity shows, and seasonal celebrations.
West Edmonton Mall – Entry Eligibility and Open Timings
Mall stores: Generally, 10:00 am – 9:00 pm Monday to Saturday; 11:00 am – 6:00 pm Sunday
Galaxyland: Open during mall hours; some rides may have seasonal or weekday variations.
World Waterpark: Open year-round with specific hours. Check the official site before visiting.
Ice Palace: Open for skating and events, hours vary—public sessions and hockey tournaments run regularly.
Restaurants: Vary by location; food courts generally open till mall closing time.
How Long to Spend at West Edmonton Mall
Given WEM’s vast array of experiences, guests often spend an average of 4 to 6 hours for shopping, entertainment, dining, and recreation—though many family visitors set aside a full day or multiple days to explore everything, especially during summer or holiday seasons.
How to Get There
By Car: Located at 8882 170 Street NW, Edmonton. Over 20,000 free parking spaces and 10,000 overflow spots, one of the world’s largest parking lots.
By Transit: Edmonton Transit offers several routes with direct stops, including buses #111, #113, and #125 connecting to mall entrances. Regular service runs daily, with approximate travel time from downtown Edmonton of 25–40 minutes.
By Taxi/Rideshare: Popular choice from Edmonton International Airport (35-minute ride), downtown (20-30 minutes), and surrounding neighborhoods.
By Bicycle: Numerous bike racks and bike-friendly paths lead directly to mall entrances.
By Boat: Not applicable.
Eateries Nearby West Edmonton Mall
WEM itself features over 100 dining options, from casual food courts to sit-down eateries. Nearby dining includes:
Moxies Deerfoot Meadows: A popular casual restaurant with diverse menus perfect for families.
Cafe du Parc: Located nearby along Glenmore Trail, offering cozy breakfasts and coffee.
Morning Brunch Co.: Lovely brunch spot within driving distance.
Bennys Breakfast Bar: Classic diner experience with kid-friendly options.
Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant: Upscale dining close to Fish Creek Provincial Park.
Other Attractions Nearby West Edmonton Mall
Galaxyland and World Waterpark: Onsite within WEM for unmatched indoor thrill and family fun.
Ice Palace: Indulge in skating or watch hockey inside the mall.
Heritage Park Historical Village: Alberta’s foremost living history museum, about 15 km east.
Elk Island National Park: For wildlife and outdoor adventure about 30 minutes from Edmonton.
West Edmonton Mall Inn and Fantasyland Hotel: Convenient stay options for tourists.
West Edmonton Mall, also known as West Ed Mall or WEM Canada, is a premier shopping and entertainment destination in Edmonton, Alberta. As one of the largest malls in North America, Edmonton West Edmonton Mall attracts millions of visitors annually with its diverse offerings. Shoppers can explore hundreds of retail outlets at West Edmonton Mall stores, enjoy thrilling rides at Galaxyland West Ed, or cool off at the expansive West Edmonton Mall Waterpark, also referred to as West Ed Waterpark.
Visitors can easily plan their trip with West Ed Mall maps and check West Edmonton Mall hours, WEM Edmonton hours, or West Ed hours online to maximize their experience. Located at 170 Street Northwest, Edmonton AB, Canada, the mall provides endless entertainment, shopping, and dining options for families, tourists, and locals alike. Whether it’s for shopping at Shoppers West Edmonton Mall, riding the water slides, or exploring attractions, West Edmonton Mall Alberta offers a complete urban adventure.