Edmonton, Alberta: My Brain Feels Like a Snow Globe (and That's Okay)
okay, so. edmonton. i didn’t plan to be here, not really. touring with the band, you know? one minute you’re sweating it out in a dive bar in Saskatoon, the next you’re staring at a giant ice sculpture of a beaver. it’s wild.
I just checked and it’s drizzling, a sort of damp, persistent sadness that clings to your coat. the kind of weather that makes you want to curl up with a book and a vat of poutine. which, honestly, I almost did. almost.
I’m a touring session drummer, which means my life is a constant cycle of airports, questionable hotel breakfasts, and trying to remember which city I’m actually in. edmonton’s… different. it’s got this quiet energy, like a city holding its breath. i spent most of my time wandering around *Old Strathcona, which is surprisingly charming. Lots of vintage shops, record stores, and cafes. I found a killer tweed jacket at one place - seriously, check out Blackbyrd Myoozik if you’re into vinyl. https://blackbyrdmyoozik.com/
Someone told me that the High Level Bridge is the place to watch the sunset. Apparently, it’s breathtaking. I didn’t make it, but I’m adding it to the list for next time. Or, you know, whenever i’m back in this neck of the woods.
Food-wise… okay, so i’m a drummer. we eat a lot. and we need fuel. i stumbled upon this place called Dos Mariachi’s - seriously, the tacos are insane. https://www.yelp.ca/biz/dos-mariachis-edmonton Drunk advice from a guy at the bar said their carne asada is the best in the city. i’m not arguing.
I also spent a weirdly long time at the Muttart Conservatory. I know, right? A conservatory? But it was surprisingly… peaceful. Like stepping into another world. The pyramids are cool, but the tropical garden was the real highlight. Check out their website for events: https://muttartconservatory.ca/
I overheard a couple arguing about whether Calgary or Edmonton is better. classic alberta debate. i’m staying out of it. honestly, both cities have their charms. if you get bored, Jasper and Banff are just a short drive away. seriously, go. the mountains are… well, they’re mountains.
I’m not gonna lie, edmonton wasn’t on my “must-see” list. but sometimes, the best travel experiences are the ones you don’t plan. it’s a city that grows on you, like a persistent, slightly damp moss.
Oh! and something a local warned me about: watch out for the potholes. seriously. they’re everywhere. check out the city's road report here: https://www.edmonton.ca/transportation/road-reports
My gear list for this trip (because why not?):
My trusty Tama Starclassic Maple drums (obviously)
Noise-canceling headphones (essential for sanity)
A ridiculously oversized scarf (because alberta weather is unpredictable)
A portable espresso maker (i’m a drummer, not a savage)
A notebook and pen (for jotting down random thoughts and song ideas)
Okay, i think that’s it. gotta go. next stop: regina. wish me luck.
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