West Edmonton Mall, usually shortened to WEM, is far more than a shopping centre. It sits on the western side of the city and is built in phases, each with its own personality, so one corridor feels like a conventional mall and the next opens onto an indoor amusement park or a beach. Across its halls you will find fashion chains and local boutiques, a huge food court and plenty of sit-down restaurants, plus entertainment that changes with the season. Galaxyland and World Waterpark are the two headline attractions and are covered separately in this guide because they need their own tickets. Walking in and wandering is free, and the mall's posted hours run from morning until evening every day. It is also a practical shelter when the prairie wind is blowing, which is why locals treat it as a winter destination as much as a place to shop. Come with a plan, because the scale can wear you out.
Getting oriented is the key to enjoying WEM. The mall is divided into phases and a numbered system of entrances, and the entrance you choose decides how far you walk. If you are heading to World Waterpark, park near Entrance 50 off 87 Avenue, which puts you close to Level 1 of Phase III. For Galaxyland, follow the signs inside to Phase II. Use the directory boards and the mall map on your phone, and note which entrance and parking zone you used, because every corridor can look alike after a few hours.
Timing matters. Weekday mornings are calm, evenings and weekends are busy, and the weeks around Christmas and school holidays are the most crowded of the year. In November and December the mall is decorated and full of seasonal events, but it is also full of shoppers, so allow extra time for parking and expect lines at popular restaurants. Parking is free, which surprises many first-time visitors, but the lots are enormous, so noting your row and section is wise.
Making a day of it
Shopping and eating can fill a few hours, but most visitors pair the mall with Galaxyland or World Waterpark, both of which allow breaks and re-entry so you can step out for a meal. Families with young children should plan a midday rest, and anyone visiting in winter should bring a layer for the walk from the car. If you only have a little time, pick one area, enjoy it properly and leave the rest for another day.
What to expect
The experience
A vast indoor mall built in phases, with shops, dining, an amusement park, a waterpark and seasonal events, all free to enter and wander.
Best time
Weekday mornings are the calmest; evenings, weekends and the Christmas period are the busiest.
How long
Two hours covers a quick look and a meal; allow five or more if you add Galaxyland or World Waterpark.
Tips
Note your entrance number and parking zone when you arrive, wear comfortable shoes, and use the mall map to plan your route before you start walking.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants a weatherproof day out, from shoppers to families with energetic children.
- Families
- Excellent for families, because the mall has food, space to run around and two big attractions in the same building.
- Couples
- A cosy winter afternoon of browsing and dinner works well, though the crowds suit daytime better than weekend evenings.
- Pair with
- Galaxyland or World Waterpark inside the mall, then the Fantasyland Hotel for a themed overnight stay.
- Time needed
- Half a day is comfortable, and a full day if you add a ride or waterpark pass.
Good questions
Is West Edmonton Mall free to enter?+
Yes, walking into the mall and browsing is free, and parking is free too. Galaxyland, World Waterpark and some other attractions inside need separate tickets.
What are the mall's opening hours?+
The mall runs from morning until evening most days, and the posted hours are 10 am to 9 pm. Individual stores, restaurants and attractions keep their own hours, so check the ones you care about.
How long should I plan for a visit?+
Allow at least two hours for a casual visit and a meal. A full day is realistic if you add Galaxyland or World Waterpark, since the mall is enormous.
Is it a good place to go in winter?+
It is one of the best, because everything is indoors and the mall is easy to reach by car, taxi or transit. Dress for the walk from the parking lot and expect busy crowds near the holidays.
How do I find my way around?+
Use the numbered entrances, the directory boards and the mall's map. Note which entrance you used, because the long corridors and many phases make it easy to lose your bearings.
