Calling all Edmontonians, ex-Edmontonians, and current and ex-Stalbertans! A friend of mine from Saskatoon just got a job at the U of A and wants to know the ins and outs of the Gateway to the North. I recommended:
- Da-De-O on Whyte for their fabulous oyster po’boys
- Phobulous (the new Vietnamese place that took over the Kyoto slot across the street from the Garneau theater) for cheap, delicious eats in a fun atmosphere
- Kyoto itself, of course
- The Garneau and Princess theaters for indie films
- The Muttart Conservatory in any other season than high summer, because OMG, can has heatstroke?
- The Urban Diner and the Glenora Grill, depending on how fancy you want to get, for tasty tasty brunch
- Nokomis, Avenue Clothing, and the Plaid Giraffe on Whyte for unique wearables
- The Mall - suggested day including mini-golf, a sea-lion show, and a Galaxyland session (or skating)
So, other ideas? We’re especially looking for other ideas from former campus-dwellers, and for people who live in other neighbourhoods, what’s cool about your area or what neat things would you recommend? Day-trips? Cheesy tourist attractions? 
I’ve always liked Café de Ville. They’re a little pricey, but they have a dedicated pastry chef.
Oh, and from a former Campus-dweller, Academy Pizza in HUB Mall is fantastic!
The Citadel and Jubilations both bring in some good shows … also some not so good ones so its always a gamble but usually a good night out.
I highly recommend the Provincial Museum as a cheesy touristy option, especially during the winter. During the summer there is a schwack of festivals that shouldn’t be passed up: Shakespeare in the Park, Fringe, Street Performers, the Ex, Taste of Edmonton, Parades, etc.
Also recommend a ride on the street car over the high level bridge. If you go in the summer during Fringe and take the later trains, they stop on the bridge during the sunset.
Right now Bright Nights is on at Hawrelak Park but you need to drive through. Also skating at the Legislative grounds in the evening with all the lights is a lot of fun. I’ve heard that sledding behind the Provincial Museum is a blast. Don’t forget that a walk through Candy Cane Lane is also a great night out at this time of year.
Enjoyable restaurants downtown (the more $$$ the higher the cost):
- Laronde - revolving restaurant $$$ but you get a great view of the city
- Normands - great local cuisine $$$
- Manor Cafe - reservations are required but there are two seating times $$$
- Matahari - new asian restaurant on Jasper and 124th $, food is fun and good and really accommodates dietary restrictions
- OPM in South Common does gluten free chinese food (I love it, but that could just be a me thing)
- Good Indian Restaurants: Haweli (Downtown on the Board walk), Khazana
Don’t forget to check out some of the great organic stores in the area:
- Roots - just across from the U of A hospital
- Planet Organic - on Calgary trail south and 81st Ave