The Louise McKinney Riverfront Park

This is the North Saskatchewan River playground with the riverfront park on the right.
The Edmonton Queen paddlewheeler is docked on the left and the Edmonton city centre is above. (42 kb)
[In 2005, to compliment the new convention centre expansion, they began major improvements on this park.]

The annual raft race and water fight runs down the river and then finishes here at the riverfront park. This is when the river becomes very busy, and a little crowded. (56 kb).
To more photos of this
unique raft race.

The view of the stairs and buildings, as seen from the path. This photograph hints of how this massive park dwarfs people. The feeling created by the park is similar to the feeling you get when walking in a large open area surrounded by mountains. (40 kb)

Almost a month after the raft races, the dragon boat races are held. Three boats at a time take part in a 10 minute race up the river.
In the background, above, the large brown building hints of a huge cat with two paws in front, or maybe a castle. This adds to the playground atmosphere of this unique park. (81 kb)

Here, the races are over and a crowd gathers for the awards. Meanwhile, the Edmonton Queen passes in the background. (73 kb)

This photograph clearly shows how the shape of the two stairways on the hill compliment the architecture of the two buildings that are just above and to the left, so it becomes one huge piece of art. In a way, this massive unified piece of art is more impressive than the flat, crowded, artificial Disneyland. (47 kb)

This angle highlights the step effect that is present throughout the park, and in the buildings above. (58 kb)

The design of the benches and lamp posts compliment the unique nature of the riverfront park. (58 kb)

What you see is a remarkable achievement that coordinates the architecture of two huge buildings, the design of a park, the preservation of historical buildings, and the recreational uses of the river. (41 kb)

The view looking south-east from the city core at the top of the valley. The Mutart Conservatory is on the right, the Edmonton Queen is in the centre, and the foot bridge can be seen on the left. (52 kb).

The Edmonton Queen at dock. Above, the small old buildings are one more element that adds to the Disneyland effect.
Before a voyage, many people chose to enjoy a meal which is cooked on the boat. (48 kb)

This is the view looking south west. The paddlewheeler is on the left, the low level bridge is in the background, and the city core is on the right. (49 kb)