Rutherford House Provincial Historic Site - Image 1
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Rutherford House Edmonton

4.7
·162 reviews·Edmonton, Canada

Explore Alberta's past at Rutherford House, the restored mansion of its first Premier, offering a glimpse into early 20th-century life.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more personal tours

CrowdLow
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Rutherford House Provincial Historic Site - Image 1

Rutherford House Edmonton

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more personal tours

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Alberta's past at Rutherford House, the restored mansion of its first Premier, offering a glimpse into early 20th-century life.

4.7
(162 reviews)

"An incredible place where you can feel like you're in the past and see how people in Edmonton once lived!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Guided Tours

Highly recommended for a deep dive into history! Guides are fantastic .

📸 Photo Opportunities

The library and balcony are great for pictures .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Alexander Rutherford's Former Residence

Alexander Rutherford's Former Residence

Main House

Step back in time and explore the beautifully restored mansion of Alberta's first Premier.

The Library

The Library

Library Room

A picturesque spot within the house, often used for photos and intimate gatherings.

Historical Tours

Historical Tours

Throughout the House

Knowledgeable guides bring Alberta's early history to life with engaging stories and insights.

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Planning Your Visit

Immerse Yourself in Alberta's Past

Rutherford House offers a unique glimpse into early 20th-century Alberta. Plan your visit to coincide with guided tours for the most insightful experience. Check their schedule in advance, as hours can vary, and consider booking special events like historical reenactments for a truly immersive journey.

Event Venue Considerations

This historic mansion is a popular spot for intimate weddings and elopements.Instagram If you're considering it for an event, book well in advance, especially during peak seasons. Be aware that private events might affect public access to certain areas during your visit.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Crowd
Low
When
During special events
Why
Unique historical experiences
Crowd
Medium
When
Fall
Why
Beautiful surroundings and ambiance
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

New construction #webringyouhome #luxury #luxurylife #lifeofarealtor #fyp #realestate #realtor #dreamhouse #Rutherford #nj #modern #invest #2024
@nikitamamontov19
6.1K likes • 149.9K views

🎯 Book Guided Tours

Highly recommended for a deep dive into history! Guides are fantastic.Reddit

📸 Photo Opportunities

The library and balcony are great for pictures.InstagramReddit

For only $339,000, you can call this beautiful townhouse home! Listed by Robbie Kamaleddine with The Bureau / Re/Max Excellence #edmonton #yeg #yegrealestate #yegrealtor #edmontonrealestate #edmontonrealtor #realtor #realestate
@brandonupright
5.8K likes • 173.8K views
Місце, куди точно варто піти, якщо ви в Едмонтоні 🇨🇦 Якщо хочете глибше зануритись в історію Альберти і побачити, як жили люди тоді — це місце просто must-visit! 📍Rutherford House 11153 Saskatchewan Dr NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 2S1
xiiusha
70 likes • 2K views

🍽️ Lunch Hours

Lunch is served 11 AM-2 PM, but it can be a bit pricey.Reddit

👻 Haunted House Events

Check for seasonal events like the Halloween haunted house.Instagram

Looking for family fun things to do this weekend?? Check out www.todocanada.ca. Lots of Easter 🐣 fun events 👇🏻 Easter Eggstravaganza Rutherford House, 11153 Saskatchewan Drive Northwest, Edmonton April 2, 2023 Price: Regular Admission Come celebrate the Easter season at the magnificent Rutherford Historic House. Hunt for eggs, enjoy freshly-baked cookies, and create a spring-themed craft too. Ea...
meynrealestate
4 likes • 90 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Guided Tours

Highly recommended for a deep dive into history! Guides are fantastic.Reddit

📸 Photo Opportunities

The library and balcony are great for pictures.InstagramReddit

🍽️ Lunch Hours

Lunch is served 11 AM-2 PM, but it can be a bit pricey.Reddit

👻 Haunted House Events

Check for seasonal events like the Halloween haunted house.Instagram

📅 Event Venue

Popular for small weddings and elopements.InstagramReddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(162 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Rutherford House as an incredible place to step back in time and experience early Edmonton life. The beautifully preserved mansion and knowledgeable, friendly staff are consistently praised, making it a highly recommended historical gem. While some find the lunch service a bit pricey, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, especially for history enthusiasts and those seeking a unique venue.

"This is an incredible place where you can feel like you're in the past and see how people in Edmonton once lived!
It's very beautiful and cozy here! And the friendly employee of the house is always ready to tell you interesting information and show you around this wonderful building! I

highly recommend visiting this place!"

Oles Iusypchuk

"We had our wedding ceremony here and it was so beautiful . The staff were polite and even let us go on balcony for photos

It was a last minute venue change and it worked out wonderfully"

giulianna maria

"A must-visit destination for Alberta's history enthusiasts. Much of the Premier's house has been preserved in its original form, despite the vandalism incident in the 1970s. The tour guide, Colby, deserves high praise for his patient and insightful presentation. He effortlessly engages with diverse groups, including children, students, and adults, showcasing professionalism and adaptability throughout the tour."

Pavlo Startsev

What People Like

Stepping back in time
Knowledgeable guides
Beautifully preserved house

What People Dislike

Lunch can be pricey

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Rutherford House is located at 11153 Saskatchewan Drive NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 2S1.Instagram It's accessible by car and is situated in a lovely green area. Public transportation options can be explored via the Edmonton Transit Service website for routes serving the Garneau neighborhood.

While specific parking details can vary, visitors often find street parking in the surrounding residential areas. It's advisable to check the official Rutherford House website or contact them directly for the most current parking information.

The house is nestled in a beautiful green ambiance, perfect for a stroll. Many visitors enjoy driving around the opulent fall scenery.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Rutherford House hours can vary, and it's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Guided tours are a highlight.Reddit

Admission prices can vary, especially for special events like the Easter Eggstravaganza.Instagram It's recommended to check the official Rutherford House website for current admission fees and any potential discounts.

For general visits, booking in advance might not always be necessary, but it's a good idea, especially if you want to ensure a spot on a guided tour. For special events, advance booking is often required.Instagram

While guided tours are highly recommended for the full historical experience,Reddit there might be opportunities for self-guided exploration depending on the day and any ongoing events. It's best to inquire directly with the venue.

Yes, Rutherford House hosts various events throughout the year, including historical reenactments, holiday celebrations like the Easter Eggstravaganza,Instagram and even seasonal attractions like a haunted house.Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the beautifully restored mansion, learn about Alberta's first Premier, Alexander Rutherford, and enjoy guided tours that bring history to life.Reddit The house itself is a historical gem.Instagram

Absolutely! Guided tours are a major highlight, with knowledgeable staff who can share fascinating details about the house and its history.Reddit They are adept at engaging all age groups.Reddit

Yes, Rutherford House can be engaging for children, especially during special events like the Easter Eggstravaganza.Instagram The guides are also skilled at making history accessible and interesting for younger visitors.Reddit

Photography is generally allowed, and many visitors find the interior, particularly the library, to be very photogenic.InstagramReddit However, always be mindful of any restrictions during private events or tours.

It was the home of Alexander Cameron Rutherford, Alberta's first Premier, from 1911. Much of the house has been preserved, offering a direct connection to early Alberta history.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Rutherford House offers lunch service, typically from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Visitors have noted it can be a bit pricey.Reddit

The menu has included tasty, yummy, and healthy ingredients for starter, main, and dessert courses, served nicely.Reddit

Given its popularity as a venue for small weddings and elopements,InstagramReddit it's likely they can accommodate private dining for events. It's best to inquire directly about their event packages.

📸 📸 Photography

The library is frequently mentioned as a very pretty location for pictures.Reddit The balcony also offers great photo opportunities.InstagramReddit

Yes, Rutherford House is a popular venue for engagement shoots due to its beautiful interiors and historical ambiance.Reddit

While generally permitted, it's always wise to be respectful of other visitors and any ongoing tours or private events. Check with staff if you have specific photography needs.

Rutherford House itself doesn't typically offer photography services, but it is a popular venue for photographers to capture weddings, elopements,Instagram and engagement sessions.

The house provides a historical, elegant, and classic aesthetic, reminiscent of early 20th-century Alberta, making it ideal for vintage or period-themed photos.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Rutherford House offers a fascinating historical experience that can be engaging for families. The guided tours are often tailored to be interesting for all ages, with guides skilled at capturing children's attention.Reddit Special events like the Easter Eggstravaganza Instagram are particularly family-friendly, offering fun activities beyond the usual historical tour. Consider visiting during these events for an extra layer of entertainment.

💍 Couples Planning a Wedding

If you're envisioning a small, intimate wedding or elopement, Rutherford House is a charming and historic venue. Its elegant rooms and beautiful surroundings provide a romantic setting.Instagram The staff are known for being accommodating, and the house offers unique photo opportunities, such as the picturesque library.InstagramReddit Be sure to inquire about availability and packages well in advance.

🏛️ History Buffs

For those passionate about Alberta's past, Rutherford House is an absolute must-visit destination.Reddit The preservation of the house, much of it in its original form, offers an unparalleled glimpse into the life of the province's first Premier. The insightful tours led by knowledgeable guides are a highlight, providing deep context and engaging stories that truly bring history to life.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Alberta's Premier's Life

Rutherford House is more than just a historic building; it's a portal to the past, offering an intimate look at the life of Alexander Cameron Rutherford, Alberta's first Premier. From 1911, this mansion served as his family home, and much of its original character has been meticulously preserved. Visitors can wander through rooms that echo with history, gaining a tangible connection to the province's formative years. The restoration efforts have been commendable, ensuring that the house stands as a testament to its era, even after facing challenges like vandalism in the past.Reddit

The experience is significantly enhanced by the knowledgeable guides who lead tours. These guides are praised for their patience, insight, and ability to engage diverse audiences, from children to adults.Reddit They don't just recite facts; they weave compelling narratives that bring the Rutherford family and their times to life. This personal touch transforms a visit into an educational and memorable journey, making Rutherford House a must-visit for anyone interested in Alberta's rich heritage.Reddit

Rutherford House as a Unique Venue

Beyond its historical significance, Rutherford House has emerged as a sought-after venue for intimate celebrations, particularly weddings and elopements.Instagram Its elegant interiors and charming ambiance provide a picturesque backdrop for special occasions. The staff's politeness and willingness to accommodate, even for last-minute changes, have been highlighted by couples who have celebrated their union here.Reddit

For those planning a small wedding, the venue is perfectly sized, accommodating a handful of guests with grace.Reddit The ability to use spaces like the balcony for photos adds to its appeal.Reddit While it offers a unique and memorable setting, it's worth noting that the venue can be a bit pricey,Reddit and private events might occasionally impact public access to certain areas during your visit.Reddit

Seasonal Events and Experiences

Rutherford House isn't just a static historical site; it comes alive throughout the year with a variety of special events. During the Easter season, the Easter Eggstravaganza offers a festive family activity with egg hunts and treats.Instagram As Halloween approaches, the house transforms into a haunted house, providing a thrilling and spooky experience for visitors.Instagram

These seasonal events add another layer of appeal to Rutherford House, drawing in different crowds and offering unique ways to engage with the historic property. Whether you're interested in history, a festive celebration, or a good scare, checking the Rutherford House schedule for upcoming events is highly recommended for a dynamic visit.Instagram+1

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