Located at Churchill Square in downtown Edmonton, Canada, the Art Gallery of Alberta (AGA) is a must-visit art museum set inside a striking 8,000-square-metre building. Designed by Randall Stout, the modern patinated zinc and stainless steel structure features a dramatic 190-metre exterior steel ribbon inspired by Edmonton's North Saskatchewan River and aurora borealis, built around portions of the site's original 1969 Brutalist building.
When you visit, you will explore over 3,000 square metres of climate-controlled exhibition space housing a permanent collection of over 6,000 works. The gallery focuses heavily on art produced in Alberta and western Canada, showcasing historical Canadian pieces alongside modern and contemporary creations, including Indigenous works by First Nations, Inuit, and Métis artists.
You will also discover a photography collection with over 1,500 photos, historical prints, and dynamic travelling exhibitions. Beyond the gallery spaces, the facility offers a rooftop patio called the City of Edmonton Terrace, an educational facility with the 150-seat Singhmar Centre for Art Education, a restaurant, an espresso bar, and a gift shop, making it a rich cultural destination.
What to see at Art Gallery of Alberta
- Striking zinc and steel architecture featuring a 190-metre ribbon inspired by the aurora
- Over 6,000 works of art focusing on Alberta, western Canada, and Indigenous artists
- Expansive photography collection featuring over 1,500 works
- City of Edmonton Terrace rooftop patio and the Singhmar Centre for Art Education
- On-site dining options including a restaurant and espresso bar
Visiting tips
Take public transit to nearby Churchill station to access the museum easily and receive a visitor transit discount.
How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Art Gallery of Alberta is easy to reach on Edmonton’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Al-Rashid Mosque. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Edmonton travel guide.
See the full Edmonton travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.