#CanadianVisitList Edmonton Alberta Downtown

by Christopher Lui  | Historic Building, Monument / Landmark, Places of Faith

A walking tour of downtown Edmonton offers a powerful look into the city’s LGBTQ2S+ history and rich cultural landmarks. Begin at Metropolitan United Church, a historic space that welcomed diverse communities. Continue to Orlando Corner, home to Audrey’s Books, a longtime supporter of queer literature and voices. Head to the former site of Flashback, a legendary nightclub where the LGBTQ2S+ community gathered, celebrated, and found belonging. Visit the site of the Gay Alliance Towards Equality (GATE), one of Edmonton’s first LGBTQ2S+ advocacy groups. Finish at Michael Phair Park, honoring the city’s first openly gay councillor and a champion for equality.

Places

Metropolitan United Church (McDougall United)

Edmonton, Alberta

The Metropolitan Community Church provided refuge and support for the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

Orlando Corner (Audrey’s Books)

Edmonton, Alberta

This corner is part of a legacy of queer bookstores in Edmonton dating back to the 1970s.

Flashback

Edmonton, Alberta

From the moment Flashback opened its doors, it was different.

Gay Alliance Towards Equality (GATE)

Edmonton, Alberta

Not every Canadian city had a GATE office, making Edmonton’s branch even more remarkable.

Michael Phair Park

Edmonton, Alberta

A park named after former City Councillor and 2SLGBTQ+ community leader, Michael Phair.

Road Map

Edmonton, Alberta to Edmonton, Alberta

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