Public tours
Government House is pleased to welcome back visitors for public tours. Government House’s historic architectural details, numerous original artifacts and furnishings and an extensive historical art collection will all be available for viewing to the public while on a tour.
Regular Sunday and holiday Monday tours at Government House are on hold and will resume Sunday, September 25, 2022. The last scheduled tour date is December 18, 2022.
Information about a Government House tour is as follows:
- all tours are free of admission
- all tours are guided and run from 11 am to 4 pm
- tours are offered on Sundays and holiday Mondays, starting in February and running through to November
- no tours are offered on Canada Day (July 1). Visit the Legislative Assembly of Alberta or City of Edmonton’s website for a list of activities available on July 1
- tour appointments are not necessary
- tours generally begin on the hour or half-hour, and last 30 to 45 minutes
- entrance to the building for a tour is through the West Entrance only
Tour highlights
Visitors can view Government House’s historic architectural details, original artifacts and furnishings dating from its time as a vice-regal residence (1913 to 1938), and an extensive art collection showcasing historic and contemporary Canadian artists.
The main floor was restored to resemble its original décor as closely as possible, with a large combination reception and dining area, a music room and a library.
The second floor’s central reception area is surrounded by a small study and 6 small conference rooms, each named after one of the Lieutenant Governors who lived here.
The outstanding Alberta Room, on the third floor, was the result of extensive renovations in 1976 that made Government House a site for government meetings, conferences and state occasions.
Outside on the facility grounds, enjoy a stroll through the award-winning gardens or a view of the original carriage house.
Tea with Lieutenant Governor
From 1913 through to 1938, Government House was a centre of social life in Alberta. The Lieutenant Governor and spouse, the châtelaine of the house, were renowned for their gracious hospitality. As such, the Government House tradition of public teas was born.
Government House offers 2 teas with the Lieutenant Governor: one in Spring and one at Christmas.
To sign-up for updates on future teas at Government House, email: [email protected].
Spring tea
Check back for updates or general information for the Spring 2023 tea.
Christmas tea
The 2022 Christmas Tea is currently being planned. Stay tuned for updates.
New Year’s Day Levee
Event date: Sunday, January 1, 2023
We look forward to hosting the 2023 Levee at Government House. Full event details and updates related to the Levee can be found on the Lieutenant Governor's website.
Event background
Typically, each year, the Lieutenant Governor and spouse host the popular New Year’s Day Levee at Government House on January 1.
The levee is a tradition in Canada dating back to the 1600s. It’s based on an older tradition in Europe that saw subjects visit the monarch to pay their respects and pledge allegiance. Today, the Levee at Government House is a chance for Albertans of all ages to meet the King’s representative in a relaxed social setting.
Levee guests can enjoy light refreshments, a tour of Government House, send a postcard to Canadian troops serving overseas, and join in celebrating the start of a new year.
The event is free of charge and advance booking is not required.
Contact
Phone: 780-427-2281
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