Calgary & Edmonton, Alberta?

Question

I was wondering if someone could help me. I will be working in the rockies at a resort, and one is near Edmonton and the other is near Calgary.

I was just wondering which one is the best to be near, as I will most likely spend a lot of time in the city in the weekends. I mean things such as nightlife, culture, scenery, shopping and just overall things to do (including toursty things) in the city? Also other things like transport (as I will use one of them to fly to other parts of Canada) and things like that.

Any help would be appreciated.

Answer 1

No arguements here. Given your situation, Banff is your better choice. Distance to Calgary is about an hour whereas Jasper/Edmonton distance is almost 4 hours.

Answer 2

If your choices are Jasper and Banff, choose Banff.   Banff is much closer to Calgary then Jasper is to Edmonton.

Plus, Banff has a nightlife whereas Jasper seems to close down at 6.

The Calgary airport is much better if you plan to fly.    Calgary also has a lot more "touristy" things in and around it.  There are some interesting places in Edmonton though.

I really think you would like Calgary/Banff better.

Answer 3

I lived in Calgary for a few years and I know people who lived in Edmonton. Believe me Calgary is the lessor of the 2 evils. In Calgary you get Chinooks which will make the winters warmer. There is more to do in Calgary too and you're closer to Banff.

Both city have poor transportation system so you might want to invest in a car.

Answer 4

Both cities are comparable.  Calgary being located farther South gets to enjoy a little bit warmer weather.  Both have NHL teams, CFL teams, minor hockey, night clubs, recreation areas, etc.  

I think Edmonton's crime rate is a bit higher, but they have the provincial Legislature buildings and West Edmonton Mall.  Calgary has a great Zoo, the Glenbow museum and the Calgary tower.