Summer’s knocking, and let’s be honest — we’re all thinking the same thing: “We should go somewhere this weekend.” But between work, school winding down, and that ever-growing laundry pile, planning a big family getaway can feel like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube in the dark.
Good news: you don’t need a 20-step itinerary to escape the city. These five easy weekend trips from Edmonton are close enough to make sense, fun enough to remember, and simple enough that you can throw things in the car Friday night and go.
1. Tubing the Pembina River + Camping in Entwistle
Drive time: Approximately 1.5 hours west
Perfect for: Lazy river floats, low-fuss camping, and older kids (age 7+ is recommended for tubing)
Nothing says summer like drifting down a river in an inflatable tube. The Pembina River float is a classic—pack your own gear or rent from Pembina River Tubing (reservations highly recommended). Pair it with a night of camping at Pembina River Provincial Park, or opt for the Entwistle RV campground in Entwistle.
Quick tips:
- Always check river conditions before heading out.
- Life jackets are strongly recommended (and required for kids).
- Water shoes and sunscreen will make your day much better.
2. A Night in Jasper (But Keep It Casual)
Drive time: Approximately 4 hours west
Perfect for: A quick mountain escape, wildlife spotting, and families with a little road trip stamina
You don’t need five days in Jasper to get that mountain magic. A one-night stay can give you plenty: stop at Miette Hot Springs on the way in, have dinner in town, and spend the next day exploring Maligne Lake or hiking the Valley of the Five Lakes. If you can swing mid-week, hotel rates are often lower.
Pro move: Book a hotel with a pool. Kids swim, you relax in the hot tub. Everyone wins.
3. Discovery Canyon + Red Deer Reboot
Drive time: Approximately 1.5 hours south
Perfect for: Water play, quick getaways with younger kids, and surprising stops along the way
Red Deer often flies under the radar, but families love Discovery Canyon. It’s a seasonal water park built around a natural river-fed channel, where kids can tube, splash, and cool off—for free. It’s right next to Bower Ponds, where you can rent paddleboats, bikes, or just enjoy the playground and picnic areas.
Make it a full overnight trip with a stay at a hotel with a pool, or treat it like an epic day trip. While you’re in town, consider a stop at Sweet Capone’s Cannoli Bar for a snack that’s worth the detour.
4. Overnight at Elk Island National Park
Drive time: Approximately 45 minutes east
Perfect for: A fast nature escape, bison sightings, and an easy camping experience
Elk Island is close enough for a spontaneous adventure, especially with kids in tow. Book a campsite or reserve one of the park’s oTENTik cabins for a rustic overnight that doesn’t require too much gear. Spend your time walking lakeside trails, spotting bison, and enjoying a campfire under the stars.
Note: This park books up quickly for weekends, so plan ahead if you want to stay overnight.
5. U-Pick, Ice Cream, and Farm Stays Near Lacombe
Drive time: Approximately 2 hours south
Perfect for: A wholesome weekend, fresh berries, and getting outside the city without going too far
The Lacombe area is full of small-town charm and low-key adventures. If the timing’s right, you can pick berries at Billyco Junction, grab a treat from The Cone, and explore Ellis Nature Centre — a lovely stop with trails, picnic spots, and kid-friendly exhibits.
If you’re up for an overnight, check out one of the farm stays or country B&Bs in the area. Or swing through Gull Lake for a little beach time before heading home.
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Final Note:
Alberta summers are short and sweet — and you don’t have to go far to make the most of them. Whether you’ve got one night or a whole weekend, these quick escapes offer that perfect mix of fresh air, memory-making, and just enough adventure.
Have a favourite fast getaway from Edmonton? Let us know — we’re always game for a new detour. 
