In some cases, you and your child will be transported to the Stollery in a medically-assisted flight. Your child’s care team will advise you if this will happen (in this case, bring a car seat with you for their travel home after discharge from the hospital). In other cases, you will need to plan your own travel to Edmonton.

By Air

Edmonton is served by one major airport: the Edmonton International Airport (YEG). From the airport, ground transportation services, taxis and access to public transit are available to make your way to the Stollery or to your accommodation. Keep in mind that the airport is a fair distance from the hospital and city centre (approximately 20 kilometers). The cost of a taxi ride to the hospital or to Ronald McDonald House is about $65.00.

If you plan on taking public transit from the airport, use the ETS Trip Planner. The Sky Shuttle provides transport from the airport directly to the University Hospital (where the Stollery is located). This service is suspended at times (for example, due to COVID-19). Always check the Sky Shuttle website to ensure it is available. If you are driving to the hospital, you can get directions from your current location using Google Maps.

By Car

Many families drive to Edmonton instead of flying. If you choose to do so, we recommend using Google Maps to plan your trip as directions to the hospital and your accommodation will vary based on where you are coming from. Keep in mind that Edmonton is a large city with high levels of traffic congestion, so plan your trip accordingly and leave ample time for delays.

Travel Support

If you need assistance to help cover the cost of travel, support can be accessed from:

• Hope Air – Arranges free flights so financially-disadvantaged Canadians can get the healthcare they need.

In addition, Social Workers (present at every hospital within the WCCHN network) can help you access financial support and resources. If you’d like to connect with a hospital Social Worker, speak to your care team at your home hospital.

Please visit the Stollery website for up-to-date information (such as parking information and maps) to help plan your travel to the hospital. When coming to the hospital for an appointment or surgery, try to arrive early in case there is traffic, difficulty finding parking or any transit delays.

If you plan on taking public transit to the hospital, use the ETS Trip Planner. If you are driving to the hospital, you can get directions from your current location using Google Maps. If you will be driving to the hospital, it is important to note that parking can be quite expensive (about $15 each day). The most convenient parking location is on the 4th floor of the East Public Parkade. From there, you can take a pedway directly into the 2nd floor of the hospital (be sure to look for the signs directing you to the Stollery). A parking map can be found on the Stollery website.

In some cases, you may need to find accommodation for your stay in Edmonton. There are numerous hotels, motels and AirBNB accommodations close to the hospital. Please note that there is room for one parent to sleep at their child’s bedside in all inpatient wards. The following accommodations are close by:

Larga House

Provides accommodations and offers transportation to and from the Stollery for families living in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut.

Ronald McDonald House

A non-smoking, alcohol-free accommodation with on-site laundry and shared kitchen facilities. Free parking is available. The current rate per night is $12.00. The accommodation is located approximately 10 blocks from the Stollery (which is about a 30 minute walk). Walking is not recommended during the winter months. For more information, speak with your Surgical Case Coordinator.

Signature Suites Campus Tower Suite Hotel

This accommodation is conveniently located right across the street from the main Stollery entrance. It is an apartment block with bachelor, one bedroom and two bedroom suites available. All suites include kitchenettes. The hotel also has two laundry rooms and paid parking. Special rates are available to families whose children are in hospital. Ask for the WCCHN rate at the time of booking. You may be asked to provide a letter from your medical team or social worker confirming your child’s hospital stay.

For more information on local accommodations and special rates for families with children in the hospital, check with a Stollery Social Worker (your Surgical Case Coordinator can connect you).

Packing correctly is especially important when travelling to another city or province for your child’s surgery. You need to pack the appropriate medical supplies and items for your child, and also need to ensure you have everything required for an extended stay. Please check with your Surgical Case Coordinator if you have any questions about what you should bring. The list below offers suggestions and was created with input from hospital staff and families.

For your child:

• Non-slip footwear
• Robe
• Pajamas that button up (or your child can wear provided hospital pajamas)
• Casual clothes
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Hairbrush
• Any favourite items (such as a toy, movie, iPad or blanket)
• If you are travelling to the hospital in a medically assisted flight, make sure to pack a car seat for your trip back home.

For a baby:

• Sleepers or shirts that fasten up in the front. Sleepers with snaps (as opposed to zippers) or open feet are preferable.
• Soothers
• Cups, spoons, bottles
• Any favourite items (such as a toy or blanket)

For you:

• Pillow (optional)
• Personal items and all medications you may need (clothing, toiletries, etc.)

The hospital has:

• Diapers
• Food for your child
• Bedding for children and parents
• Formula and bottles for babies