The mall isn’t the biggest, but the waves are

West Edmonton mall in Western Canada was the largest shopping centre in the world when it opened in four phases between 1981 and 1998. Unfortunately, the mall has lost that distinction to another shopping complex in Beijing,
China. Even the Chinese version will have a short shelf life with a new mega mall opening in Dubai, Saudi Arabia in the near future.

West Edmonton Mall still draws crowds, however, and it still has a few distinctions to its name including the world’s largest indoor wave pool, which is where many locals escape in the deep heart of winter when they can’t afford a Caribbean get-away.

The wave pool holds 12.3 million liters inside a two hectare water park.

It may not be Acapulco but a sign on the wall compares the temperature inside the water park to that in Mexico. Brandon Jansen, a local resident, spent his last spring break in the Mall rather than fly somewhere.

“It’s more fun than a beach,” he said.

In addition to the waves there are more than 20 slides of various degrees of adrenaline inducement with new additions after the park closed for extensive renovations.  The park has only recently reopened after a million dollar refurbishment.

Adult general admission into the park is $26.95 for the day.