Ways to Experience Hockey in Edmonton

Ways to Experience Hockey in Edmonton

16/01/2019

As Stompin' Tom Connors sang, "The good old hockey game is the best game you can name.” Folks in Edmonton, Alberta know this all too well. You don't live in a city that has won five Stanley Cups and pretend not to love the game. Suffice it to say, Edmonton, Alberta is a hockey city and embraces the game year-round. Here are some slapshot ways to get the full hockey experience in Edmonton.

Catch a Live Game at Rogers Place

If you are going to a hockey town, you need to see a pro hockey game and experience the thrill of hundreds of cheering fans. Rogers Place is in the famed ICE District and is one of the top hockey arenas in North America. With over 18,000 seats, enormous concourses for all levels, great food and beverage options, and amazing views of the ice, you'll be in hockey heaven. Die-hard fans, look for the lower bowl sections (100s) to see Connor McDavid in action and heckle the opposing team. If you’re on a budget or like a birds-eye view of the game, rows 1-4 in Sections 202, 203, 219 and 220 are great areas for you.

exterior view of Rogers Place Hockey Arena in Edmonton

Are the Oilers on the road? No problem. Catch a WHL game and see the Edmonton Oil Kings take the ice. Game on!

Stock Up on Oilers Merchandise

Show off your love for hockey by donning apparel or accessories adorned with the Oilers’ logo or of any NHL team. The Official Oilers Store at Kingsway Mall and Rogers Place are where superfans can get their swag on. Both shops boast the finest from hats to hoodies. You can get Oilers boots, shirts, sweaters, sleepwear, jackets, and, of course, Edmonton Oilers 99 jerseys, so you can rep the Great One himself, Wayne Gretzky.

See a Giant Replica of the Stanley Cup

Fancy a photo op? Any true hockey fan will want a photo with the giant Stanley Cup replica at The United Sport & Cycle located on Gateway Boulevard.

Lace Up Your Skates

hockey skates on outside ice

No trip to Edmonton is complete without getting on the ice yourself. Lace up and enjoy gliding across the ice in the crisp outdoors. Here are a few options for outdoor skating rinks:

  • Hawrelak Park 
  • Victoria Park Oval & IceWay 
  • City Hall 
  • Alberta Legislature 
  • Rundle Park

The Victoria Park Oval is one of the most picturesque outdoor speed skating tracks in Canada. The surface is 400-meters in size and oval in shape. Hawrelak Park is nestled in a 68-hectare parkland and boasts stunning views of the river valley, offering skate rentals and sharpening services too. If you’re thinking of bringing out your sticks, just remember that sticks, balls and pucks are only allowed in designated shinny/hockey areas!

two kids playing hockey

La Favorite Pastry Shop

Indulge your sweet tooth at the very bakery where Wayne and Janet Gretzky had their wedding cake made. La Favorite is nearing 33 years in business, providing Edmontonians truly exquisite European pastries and sweets.

Food for Fans

Hungry from all the hockey? Try the new Prestons Restaurant + Lounge, featuring Canadian-inspired comfort food with many locally sourced ingredients. Fall in love with made-from-scratch recipes and their twists on classic recipes. If you’re headed to a game, have a few drinks and appetizers before or after an event at Rogers Place.

bar at Preston's

Where to Stay

Your dream hockey vacation needs a home base to rest and relax. Coast Edmonton Plaza Hotel by APA is conveniently located in downtown Edmonton and just a 15-minute walk to Rogers Place. Looking for deals exclusive to hockey fans? Subscribe to their “I’m a Hockey Fan” email list to stay up to date with future Oilers & Coast Edmonton Plaza Hotel by APA promotions throughout the 2019 Season. BONUS: Subscribers are also automatically entered into the draw to win a pair of tickets to a future Oilers’ home game!

bedroom at Coast Edmonton Plaza by APA

Other Promos to Watch Out For:

  • Show Your Ticket – Get 10% off Best Available Rate when attending hockey games or events at Rogers Place. This promo also applies to events or concerts at venues like Shaw Conference Centre, Jubilee Auditorium, Northlands Expo Centre, and Commonwealth Stadium.
  • Cash Back in Your Pocket – To celebrate their 1st anniversary, the hotel is giving away a free night in cash every single day. Here’s how to enter: book any rate or promotion direct from now through February 14, 2019, and you’ll automatically be entered for a chance to win a free night.

During your stay, enjoy amenities such as:

  • Free Wi-Fi 
  • Complimentary downtown shuttle service (weekday business hours) 
  • Pet-friendly and accessible rooms 
  • Spacious accommodations 
  • Fitness centre, indoor saltwater pool and whirlpool 
  • Signature APA Amenities including Electric Bidet Seats (TOTOⓇ Washlet, disposable slippers, 55” televisions)

Edmonton is a must-visit hockey town and a fantastic city to experience hockey. Book your stay at Coast Edmonton Plaza Hotel by APA today!