To know what Daryn Edgar’s favourite thing is about Edmonton, you have to ask her beautiful corgi Cheddar. Edgar’s job as head of Edmonton Global, a foreign direct investment and international business development agency, means that she is familiar with much of the city. On a sunny day, you can bet you’ll see her and Cheddar trotting around. “She likes a good ol’ day out,” says Edgar of her furry friend.
Cheddar is a sucker for an off-leash area and Mill Creek Ravine has an unfenced, linear natural space where she can roam free. It is also along the creek so it’s perfect for any dog to take a quick dip. “There is a sign that says ‘Share the Trail’ and I think it encompasses the feeling of the space,” Edgar says. “The trail is for every type of person.” There are paved and granular-crush pathways for walkers and cyclists alike.
And whenever Edgar and Cheddar head downtown, which they do often, the new O-day’min dog park has now become another favourite. Edgar says it is perfect for a quick walk around. “There’s no shortage of great spots, and that’s part of what I love most about the Edmonton area.” She is never short on information about the city, but it is something entirely different to be able to personally experience it. “You don’t have to go far to find somewhere new to explore.”
If there’s anything to be gleaned from this series: we Edmontonians love food and we love being outdoors. When we’re not slurping noodles or lingering over brunch, we’re taking scenic strolls, stopping at dog parks and snapping pictures at river valley vistas. Delve into this year’s list of Edmontonians’ favourite things — with best-loved picks from a variety of noteworthy locals who span the arts, business, sports and non-profit realms — to help build your own summer bucket list. And if you can’t make it beyond your backyard, you can at least follow this foolproof formula and enjoy something tasty in the sunshine.
This article appears in the July/August 2026 issue of Edify
