St. Albert City Guide

Food has a mix of local dishes like Alberta beef and poutine, plus Italian, Asian, and Indian cuisines. Vegetarian and vegan options are common. Late-night food is limited.

Nightlife is quiet with mostly pubs and casual bars. For more activity, Edmonton is nearby.

Growing coffee scene with local cafés and chains, some specialty coffee available.

Tipping is expected. 15-20% in restaurants, 10-15% for taxis, 15-20% for services like salons.

SIM cards sell at the airport and stores. Major providers are Telus, Rogers, Bell, with eSIMs available. ID is needed to register.

City is clean with good waste management and recycling.

Limited late-night services. Some gas stations and convenience stores open 24/7. For more 24/7 options, Edmonton is nearby.

Major supermarkets carry international products. Stores open 7 AM to 10 or 11 PM, including Sundays. Bargaining is not done.

Credit and debit cards work almost everywhere. Cash is rarely needed.

ATMs are common at banks, grocery stores, and malls. Out-of-network withdrawals usually cost $1.50 to $3.00 CAD.

Public and Catholic schools teach mainly in English. No specific international schools noted.

Limited digital nomad scene. Most networking happens in nearby Edmonton.

Extensive trails and parks with shaded walking and running paths along the Sturgeon River.

Good running routes along river pathways and parks with safe, scenic trails. Annual marathon and other races.

Several gyms available with varied fitness options.

18 tennis courts and 18 pickleball courts available. St. Albert Tennis Club offers lessons and memberships.

No padel courts reported; pickleball is popular.

Several yoga studios offering common styles like Hatha and Vinyasa with drop-in and memberships.

Several gyms offer BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing, MMA, Shotokan Karate, Kung Fu, and Japanese Bujutsu. English-speaking instructors.

Ski resorts nearby include Rabbit Hill and Rocky Mountain resorts 3-4 hours away. Open December to April with options for all skill levels.

Kayaking and paddleboarding on the Sturgeon River. Rentals and guided tours are rare locally but available nearby in Edmonton area.

No surfing opportunities; inland city.

No diving possible here.

Sturgeon Community Hospital offers broad services and English-speaking staff. Canada’s public healthcare is high quality, but waits for non-emergency care can happen.

Tap water is safe and meets Canadian quality standards.

Many parks with playgrounds and kid-friendly cafés. Baby supplies are easy to find. Attractions include recreation centers, botanic park, and trails.

St. Albert and Alberta are accepting and safe. No specific venues, but general community is welcoming.

Many parks allow leashed dogs, off-leash dog parks exist, plus vet clinics and pet stores.