If Neighborhoods Could Talk

How often have you driven through a neighborhood and wondered what the stories were behind the area’s houses, shops, churches and parks? Edmonton Transit’s Historical Transit Tours give you the chance to learn about many of Edmonton’s historical neighborhoods while riding on a vintage bus dating back to the 1960s.

This summer you have the choice of four different routes. The Rossdale route reveals the neighborhood’s significant historical developments including the site of Edmonton’s first mosque. The Strathcona route highlights the university and many businesses in Old Strathcona, while the Glenora and Highlands routes focus on the beautiful heritage homes.

Knowledgeable tour guide Doug Cowan describes how the neighborhoods have changed over the years, points out the former sites of historic buildings now demolished, explains architectural details and shares stories about some of the original owners.

Four to five tours are scheduled each week from July 11 to August 6 with a variety of afternoon and evening departures. Tickets are only $5 and can be purchased from Tix on the Square. Tours leave from the north side of City Hall – just look for the silver bus with the big windows (the bus’s distinctive appearance gives it the nicknames fishbowl and silverside).

Participate in one tour … or all four and satisfy your curiousity about Edmonton’s historic neighborhoods.