Heritage Park:
A large Western Canadian history museum with working antiques & seasonal re-creations with actors.
Location: 1900 Heritage Dr SW, Calgary, AB T2V 2X3, Canada.
Rating: 4.7.
What’s the deal with Heritage Park?
Heritage Park in Calgary is a bustling hub of history, adventure, and family fun, presenting a rich tapestry of Western Canadian heritage spread over 127 acres of beautiful parkland. With over 200 exhibits and attractions, including the engaging historical village, the Gasoline Alley Museum, and a plethora of events and activities throughout the year, Heritage Park offers a unique blend of educational experiences and fun. Visitors can journey through various historical eras, from the 1860s Fur Trading Fort and First Nations Encampment to the bustling 1910 Prairie Railway Town, each meticulously reconstructed to offer an immersive glimpse into the past.
What sets Heritage Park apart is not just its vast collection of exhibits but the interactive and hands-on experiences it provides. Whether it’s taking a ride on an antique steam train, exploring the meticulously preserved buildings, or enjoying the vintage midway rides, there’s something for everyone. The park brilliantly balances historical education with entertainment, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience life in different eras. Seasonal events like Christmas festivals, historical reenactments, and themed weekends add to the charm, making each visit unique.
Heritage Park stands out for its commitment to accessibility and family friendliness. With facilities such as a comprehensive park map, accessible pathways (though not everywhere due to the historical nature of some exhibits), and various dining and shopping options, the park ensures a comfortable and enjoyable visit for all. Their special events, like Day Out with Thomas and Once Upon A Christmas, along with a variety of children’s programs, highlight Heritage Park’s role as a community-centered institution that not only educates but also entertains and brings people together.
TELUS Spark Science Centre:
An interactive science museum & HD theater offering museum exhibits, a children’s play area & an HD planetarium theatre.
Location: 220 Saint George’s Drive Northeast, Calgary, AB T2E 5T2, Canada.
Rating: 4.3.
What’s all the buzz about?
The TELUS Spark Science Centre in Calgary is a destination where the curiosity of visitors of all ages is ignited through the wonders of science and technology. This center offers an array of engaging exhibits, an outdoor park, and the immersive Infinity Dome Theatre, making it a must-visit attraction for families, educators, and anyone interested in science.
For families with young children, the Creative Kids Museum within TELUS Spark is a highlight. This area is designed to foster creativity and learning through play, featuring a variety of interactive zones such as a toddler and baby area with a track made of soft cushions, a theatre area for imaginative play, and creative spaces with loose parts like wooden blocks and tires for building and exploration. The museum also has areas dedicated to drawing and art projects, emphasizing the development of fine motor skills. This playground is considered one of the best for kids in Calgary, offering both indoor and outdoor play spaces.
Visiting TELUS Spark can be a day-long adventure, and there are several tips to make the most of your visit. These include wearing easy-off shoes for kids to enjoy the climbing structure in the Creative Kids Museum, packing snacks and a lunch to save on food costs, and bringing outdoor clothes to explore the Brainasium Outdoor Park. It’s recommended to save the Creative Kids Museum for last to ensure you have enough time to explore the rest of the center. Additionally, the center encourages visitors to embrace discovery, and it offers a range of Indigenous science features that provide an opportunity for learning and moving closer to reconciliation.
TELUS Spark has not only embraced the integration of science with art and music but has also hosted performances by musicians from the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra. These performances took place in various areas of the building, providing a unique blend of music, art, and science for visitors to enjoy. The Spark Science Centre itself is an environmentally friendly LEED® Gold Certified facility, showcasing its commitment to sustainability.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Calgary, the TELUS Spark Science Centre offers an enriching experience that combines education, creativity, and fun, making it a standout destination for people of all ages.
The Military Museums:
A complex of 8 museums covering naval, army & air force history, plus a gallery about human conflict.
Location: 4520 Crowchild Trail SW, Calgary, AB T2T 5J4, Canada.
Rating: 4.8.
What’s the Admiral have to say?
The Military Museums in Calgary offer a deeply enriching experience for visitors interested in exploring Canada’s military history. This expansive complex is the largest tri-service museum in Western Canada and stands as the second largest military museum in the country. It provides an insightful journey through Canada’s military past, from the valor and sacrifices of the armed forces to the technological advancements and historical artifacts that have shaped the nation’s defense history.
The museum complex houses eight distinct museums and offers a variety of exhibitions that cover the army, navy, and air force, along with specific regimental histories. Highlights include artifacts from Lord Strathcona’s Horse, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, and an impressive collection of military hardware such as tanks, LAVs, and fighter jets from different eras, including the Cold War.
Interactive and engaging, the museum’s exhibitions cater to a wide audience, from history buffs to families looking for an educational outing. Children, especially, might find the outdoor vehicle display and the Naval Museum of Alberta particularly captivating due to their interactive features and life-sized artifacts. Additionally, the museum provides a unique educational opportunity with its vast amount of text-based exhibitions, filled with interesting stories, factoids, and supporting visuals that could keep a visitor engaged for hours.
Beyond its role as a custodian of history, The Military Museums also serve as a vibrant hub for community and educational events. It attracts over 50,000 visitors annually, offering educational programs to thousands of schoolchildren and hosting numerous cultural, historical, and community events throughout the year. This makes it not just a museum, but a center for learning and community engagement.
The Military Museums provide an insightful and thorough exploration of Canada’s military heritage, offering something for everyone – from interactive displays for kids to in-depth historical examinations for adults. It’s a testament to the bravery, sacrifice, and resilience of the Canadian armed forces throughout history.
Pearce Estate Park:
A riverside wetland park featuring a fish hatchery, plus a playground, picnic sites & trails.
Location: 1440 17a St SE, Calgary, AB T2G 4T9, Canada.
Rating: 4.7.
What’s happening out here?
Pearce Estate Park in Calgary is a 21-hectare gem that combines natural beauty with recreational opportunities, making it a favorite among families, nature enthusiasts, and those looking to explore the outdoors. This park features a reconstructed wetland, interpretive pathways, and a variety of wildlife, making it an educational and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages. The large playground and bookable picnic sites provide perfect spots for family gatherings, while the shaded areas offer a cool retreat on sunny days.
Wildlife at Pearce Estate Park is diverse, with birds like the white-breasted nuthatch and gray catbird frequently spotted among the old balsam poplar trees. The park’s wetlands and ponds support a rich ecosystem, including invertebrates that are crucial for the diet of ducks and other pond birds. This blend of wildlife and habitat restoration efforts showcases the park’s role in urban conservation and environmental education.
The park also serves as a gateway to the Harvie Passage, a section of the Bow River designed for recreational paddling. This area, along with the nearby Bow Habitat Station, offers additional educational opportunities, including fish hatchery tours and fishing clinics, enriching the visitor experience with hands-on learning about Alberta’s aquatic ecosystems. Pearce Estate Park, with its mix of leisure and learning, underscores Calgary’s commitment to preserving natural spaces while fostering a connection between residents and their local environment.
Nose Hill Park:
A tranquil, spacious park known for its abundant wildlife, hiking trails & archaeological finds.
Location: 6465 14 St NW, Calgary, AB T3K 2P6, Canada.
Rating: 4.7.
Who let the dogs out?
Nose Hill Park, situated in the northwest quadrant of Calgary, is not only one of the city’s largest urban parks but also a cherished natural environment park. It spans over 11 square kilometers, surrounded by 12 residential communities, offering residents and visitors alike a massive green space for recreational activities and wildlife observation. The park is characterized by its hiking trails, designated off-leash areas for dogs, native grassland, and diverse wildlife, including deer and coyotes. Additionally, it’s a place where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and the Calgary skyline.
Exploring Nose Hill Park with children can be a rewarding experience, thanks to its vast expanse of natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor activities. The park’s numerous trails cater to both casual walkers and serious hikers, with options ranging from dirt and gravel paths to paved walkways suitable for strollers. While the park is known for its natural features, it lacks playgrounds, so visitors are encouraged to engage with the landscape itself, climbing rocks and exploring the grasslands. It’s important to be mindful of the park’s off-leash areas and to prepare for a day out with appropriate walking shoes, water, and an understanding of the park’s limited amenities.
The historical significance of Nose Hill Park adds another layer to its appeal. The area played a crucial role in Calgary’s development, from the Indigenous peoples’ use of the land for ceremonies and vision quests to its part in the early European exploration and settlement. The park’s name, though not definitively traced, is linked to local lore suggesting it resembles the nose of a chief when viewed from certain angles. The park has witnessed numerous historical events and changes over the centuries, from the presence of bison herds to its use for sandstone quarrying that contributed to Calgary’s architectural heritage.
Nose Hill Park remains a vital part of Calgary’s urban landscape, offering a natural retreat within the city limits and a testament to the area’s rich cultural and natural history.
Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo:
Features a huge variety of animals & a park filled with models of dinosaurs.
Location: 210 St. George’s Drive NE, Calgary, AB T2E 7V6, Canada.
Rating: 4.6.
What’s shakin’ all over the world?
The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo, nestled just east of downtown Calgary in the Bridgeland neighborhood, is a gateway to discovering nearly 1,000 animals from various corners of the globe. With its convenient location, the zoo is easily accessible via Calgary’s CTrain light rail system, car, walking, or cycling, making it an ideal destination for both locals and tourists looking to explore the wonders of wildlife. Parking is available on-site, with options for both the North Lot and the West Lot during peak season, ensuring visitors have ample space to start their adventure.
Visitors to the zoo can expect a full day of exploration and learning, with the zoo’s operating hours from 9 am to 5 pm daily, allowing ample time to delve into the diverse habitats housed within. From the splendor of Wild Canada to the vibrant landscapes of Destination Africa, guests are treated to a rich variety of ecosystems. The zoo’s layout facilitates an immersive experience, encouraging visitors to wander through the African Rainforest, embark on a safari through the Savannah, or venture into the Canadian Wilds to encounter grizzly bears among other majestic creatures.
Beyond animal exhibits, the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is committed to conservation and education, offering a unique blend of experiences that include the new Gateway to Asia exhibit and the upcoming return of polar bears. With a range of dining options, accessibility features, and special events throughout the year, the zoo provides an inclusive and engaging environment for all visitors. It’s not just a place to see animals but a venue where every visit contributes to the protection of endangered species both locally and worldwide.
Gasoline Alley Museum:
Showcases pre-1950s cars, old-timey gas pumps & vintage signage.
Location: 1900 Heritage Dr SW, Calgary, AB T2V 2X3, Canada.
Rating: 4.8.
What’s fueling this fire destination?
Gasoline Alley Museum, nestled within Heritage Park in Calgary, Alberta, is a nostalgic journey back to the golden age of automobiles. It’s renowned for having one of the world’s largest public collections of antique vehicles and oil and gas-related artifacts. The exhibits, spanning from the early 1900s to the 1950s, immerse visitors in a rich tapestry of auto history. This includes Canada’s largest collection of restored gas pumps and one of the most extensive assortments of restored trucks, all showcased in a vibrant, colorful two-story space. The museum effectively captures the essence of automotive evolution and the significant impact it had on society and culture during the first half of the 20th century.
Open year-round, Gasoline Alley Museum offers a variety of engaging activities and exhibits for all ages. Spring break and Easter activities, for instance, include crafting your own Easter creation, participating in a bunny scavenger hunt, and indulging in classic toys like slinky races and hula hoop-offs. It’s a place not only for car enthusiasts but also for families looking for a fun and educational experience. The museum’s artifacts, meticulously restored by local businessman Ron Carey and his team, range from vintage vehicles to unique gasoline pumps and products from various petroleum companies.
Located at Heritage Park, 1900 Heritage Dr. S.W., Calgary, the museum’s accessibility and the breadth of its collection make it a must-visit for anyone interested in the industrial and social history of transportation. It’s more than just a collection of antique vehicles; it’s a vibrant space that brings the past to life, offering insights into the technological advancements and cultural shifts that shaped the 20th century. Whether you’re a history buff, an automotive enthusiast, or just looking for a unique family outing, Gasoline Alley Museum promises an enriching experience.
Prince’s Island Park:
An urban park with picnic areas, trails & regular major events.
Location: 698 Eau Claire Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 5N4, Canada.
Rating: 4.7.
What’s so majestic about this place?
Nestled in the heart of Calgary, Prince’s Island Park emerges as a vibrant tapestry of natural beauty and cultural festivities, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its serene and lively ambiance alike. This urban oasis, celebrated for its scenic landscapes and the Bow River that hugs its edges, transforms into a dynamic venue for numerous landmark events, including the Canada Day celebrations and the Calgary Folk Music Festival. The park’s allure lies not just in these grand gatherings but also in its quieter moments, offering spaces for relaxation and family-friendly activities that beckon thousands of tourists and locals daily.
Access to this picturesque enclave is a breeze, with various bridges connecting it to the bustling life of downtown Calgary. Whether arriving by car, taxi, or train, visitors find themselves stepping into a world where the hustle of city life fades into the background, replaced by the tranquil presence of nature and the vibrant tapestry of community life. The park’s design welcomes all, from picnickers seeking a sunny spot on the grass to adventurers ready to explore its trails on foot or by bike. Even in winter, the park transforms, offering cross-country skiing and outdoor skating, showcasing its adaptability and year-round appeal.
What sets Prince’s Island Park apart is not just its natural beauty or its role as a hub for major events, but its commitment to enriching visitors’ experiences with educational opportunities and leisure activities that cater to all ages. From the Chevron Learning Pathway, which educates on environmental stewardship and wildlife, to the iconic Peace Bridge that offers unmatched views of the cityscape, the park blends recreational enjoyment with learning and aesthetic appreciation. It stands as a testament to Calgary’s investment in spaces that not only offer escape and entertainment but also foster community, learning, and a deepened connection with nature.
ENMAX Park:
A grassy greenway along the Elbow River, featuring paved paths for walking, cycling & running.
Location: Elbow River Pathway & MacDonald Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 4J8, Canada.
Rating: 4.5.
What a wonderful day for a walk?
ENMAX Park is a significant green space located in Calgary, celebrated for its natural beauty and cultural importance. This 16-acre park, nestled along the banks of the Elbow River, serves as a vital connection within Calgary’s extensive pathway system, including the 900-kilometer city network and the 23,000-kilometer Trans Canada Trail. The park features the Cenovus Legacy Trail, a 650-meter path that tells the story of the area through the perspectives of First Nations Peoples, the city of Calgary, and the Calgary Stampede. This trail and the park’s overall design reflect a deep respect for the land and its history, providing a space where visitors can engage with the natural environment and learn about the local heritage.
During the Calgary Stampede, ENMAX Park transforms into a lively and bustling area, hosting the Elbow River Camp with 26 tipis arranged in a traditional circle. This setup offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience and learn about Indigenous cultures and traditions. Beyond the Stampede, the park serves as a year-round destination for recreation and relaxation, with its scenic views, picnic areas, and access to the Elbow River, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.
Despite the setbacks in accessing specific reviews, ENMAX Park’s reputation as a beautiful, accessible, and culturally rich space in Calgary stands firm. Its role in hosting key events and providing a serene escape in the city highlights the park’s importance in Calgary’s community life. Whether you’re interested in cultural events, nature walks, or simply a peaceful place to relax, ENMAX Park offers a diverse range of attractions that cater to a wide audience.
Devonian Gardens:
An indoor tropical botanical garden located within a shopping center, featuring fishponds, palms, and a children’s play area. It’s a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.
Location: in the CORE Shopping Centre, 317 7 Ave SW 4 floor, Calgary, AB T2P 0W4, Canada.
Rating: 4.5.
What’s inside that feels like outside?
Nestled in the heart of Calgary’s bustling cityscape, Devonian Gardens presents a lush indoor oasis atop The CORE Shopping Centre, offering a serene escape from urban life since its inception in 1977. This botanical haven spans a full hectare, replete with skylights that bathe the space in natural light, an array of unique plants, and a delightful indoor playground. The comprehensive renovation in 2012 further enhanced its appeal, making it a cherished spot for locals and visitors alike to unwind, enjoy a meal amidst greenery, or simply marvel at the koi fish gliding through the ponds.
The Gardens are more than just a place of tranquility; they serve as a vibrant venue for family outings and educational experiences for children. The inclusion of an indoor playground offers a safe and engaging space for children, especially older kids, to play and explore. However, it’s noted that the climbing structures may pose a challenge for the younger adventurers. Despite these challenges, the Gardens provide an endless source of fascination for all ages, evidenced by the joy and curiosity they spark in visiting families.
Beyond its role as a recreational space, Devonian Gardens also plays host to a variety of special events throughout the year, enriching Calgary’s cultural tapestry. From the enchanting Luminaria to the family-friendly Fall Festival and vibrant Canada Day Celebrations, the Gardens offer a myriad of opportunities to celebrate and engage with the community. These events underscore the Gardens’ significance not just as a natural refuge but as a hub of communal activity and celebration, making it an indispensable part of Calgary’s social and cultural landscape.
Treehouse Indoor Playground – North Calgary:
Offers an indoor playground, cafe, and playgroup services, making it a great spot for families to enjoy indoor fun.
Location: 3337 34 Ave NE, Calgary, AB T1Y 6H2, Canada.
Rating: 4.2.
What feels more like a jungle?
Treehouse Indoor Playground in North Calgary is a vibrant and enchanting indoor play paradise for kids up to 13 years old, offering a wide array of activities that cater to the joy and imagination of children. This expansive facility provides everything from thrilling slides and dynamic ball pits to a racing zone, Xbox gaming, and an interactive game floor. The design focuses on creating a fun, immersive experience while ensuring the safety and comfort of all guests, including those with special needs. The play area includes a specially designed Toddler Zone to keep the youngest visitors engaged and safe.
Parents will find Treehouse Indoor Playground to be a thoughtful blend of fun and convenience, with a café area where they can relax and watch their children play. The playground stands out for its commitment to cleanliness and security, featuring regular sanitization, a controlled entrance and exit system with wrist stamps for families, and surveillance cameras throughout the premises to ensure a secure environment. A unique “Parents Date Night” package allows parents to enjoy a night out while their kids are entertained and cared for, highlighting the playground’s dedication to serving the needs of the whole family.
In addition to the play zones, Treehouse offers an engaging arcade area with a variety of games accessible through purchased tokens, birthday party rooms for celebrating special occasions, and a café serving a mix of fast food and healthy options. The central seating area allows parents to comfortably keep an eye on their children while enjoying a range of snacks and beverages. The diverse range of activities and the thoughtful layout make it an excellent spot for school-aged children and younger ones alike, providing quieter spaces for those who may find the main play area overwhelming.
Overall, Treehouse Indoor Playground in North Calgary is celebrated for its wide variety of activities that cater to different age groups, making it an ideal location for family outings and birthday parties. The playground’s focus on safety, coupled with its engaging and diverse attractions, ensures a memorable and enjoyable experience for children and a stress-free visit for parents.
Prairie Winds Park:
Features a playground with a zip line, a water area, fitness stations, sports facilities, and more. A perfect outdoor space for active families.
Location: 223 Castleridge Blvd NE, Calgary, AB T3J 1P6, Canada.
Rating: 4.5.
Where’s everyone going?
Prairie Winds Park in Calgary is a vibrant and family-friendly destination, renowned for its ample green spaces, diverse play areas, and water features that cater to all ages. The park’s Spray Park and Wading Pool are popular summer attractions, providing a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Open daily from mid-June to September, these water areas offer a variety of features including sprinklers, water fountains, and a lazy river, making it an ideal spot for families to cool off and have fun. The wading pool, with depths ranging from 0.3 to 0.6 meters, is accessible for children of all ages, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for even the youngest visitors.
Adjacent to the water park, Prairie Winds Park boasts two playgrounds. The South Playground, designed with accessibility in mind, features a range of equipment including climbers, swings, and spinners, suitable for children aged 2-12 years. The playground’s pour-in-place recycled tire surface and ramps make it welcoming for kids who use wheelchairs or are unsteady on their feet. The North Playground, on the other hand, offers a natural play experience with a variety of slides, swings, and a double zip line, surrounded by greenery and flower gardens, making it a hit among the park’s younger guests.
Beyond its water features and playgrounds, Prairie Winds Park is equipped with picnic shelters, bbq areas, a tandoori oven, and even a huge hill that’s perfect for tobogganing in the winter. The park’s extensive pathways and fitness stations invite visitors to explore its scenic beauty further or engage in more active pursuits.
Prairie Winds Park represents an expansive recreational space that caters to the diverse needs of Calgary’s northeast communities. With its blend of leisure, play, and relaxation opportunities set against a backdrop of lush landscapes, the park is a cherished urban oasis for residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a picnic, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat in nature, Prairie Winds Park promises a memorable experience for all who venture its way.
Stanley Park:
A riverfront park with play and picnic areas, tennis courts, a sports field, and a lawn bowling club. A great spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Location: 4011 1a St SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2P5, Canada.
Rating: 4.6.
What’s on the grill tonight?
Stanley Park, nestled along the Elbow River in southwest Calgary, offers a picturesque setting for a variety of outdoor activities, making it a cherished spot among locals and visitors alike. This extensive 21-hectare area is open from the early hours until late at night, providing a perfect backdrop for picnicking, swimming in the outdoor pool, canoeing, tobogganing in the winter, and even lawn bowling at the Stanley Park Lawn Bowling Club. The park is equipped with essential amenities including sports fields, tennis courts, playgrounds, picnic areas with BBQ stands, and seasonal washrooms, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit for everyone.
The park boasts three playgrounds catering to different age groups, each surrounded by mature trees offering ample shade. The playgrounds feature a mix of equipment including large play structures with slides, swings, bouncers, and more, set on a ground cover of recycled tire pebbles. While the playgrounds themselves may not be the sole reason to visit, they complement a day out at the park perfectly, especially for families looking to enjoy the outdoor and wading pools or the picnic areas nearby.
For those seeking a bit more adventure, the trail from Stanley Park to River Park presents a lovely opportunity to explore the area further. This very easy, roughly 1.5 to 2-hour hike covers a distance of 6.4 km, offering beautiful river views and a glimpse of Calgary’s stunning residential architecture along the way. The trail is accessible year-round for both hiking and biking, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of Calgary’s natural landscape in any season. Moreover, the park serves as a gateway to additional trails at River Park, providing ample opportunities for extended outdoor exploration.
Hide N Seek:
An indoor playground that also offers cafe services and children’s party services. It’s an ideal place for kids to play and for families to host birthday parties.
Location: 49 Aero Dr NE #18, Calgary, AB T2E 8Z9, Canada.
Rating: 4.5.
Where’d all the kids go?
Hide N Seek in Calgary is a large indoor playground that offers a myriad of activities designed to keep children engaged and entertained. The playground features an extensive toddler zone, arcade games, a cafeteria with a wide range of fresh, healthy food choices, a parent lounge, and party rooms to accommodate special occasions. It’s a place where kids can burn off energy in a safe, fun environment. Parents can relax in a comfortable lounge area while keeping an eye on their children, thanks to the thoughtful layout of the playground and the presence of security personnel at the entrance. Additionally, the indoor play area enforces a socks-only environment to maintain cleanliness and safety.
The Hide N Seek playground caters to families looking for a fun indoor activity, with admission prices varying based on age and the day of the week. The playground also offers special needs discounts to ensure everyone has the chance to enjoy the facilities. However, it should be noted that while the playground offers a lot of fun, some parents have expressed concerns regarding the size of the playground and the potential for younger children to find it overwhelming due to its vastness and the high level of activity.
For those considering a visit, Hide N Seek is located at 49 Aero Drive NE #18, Calgary, and operates from Monday to Thursday, 10 am to 7 pm, and from Friday to Sunday, 10 am to 8 pm. It’s a destination that promises an adventure for children with its jungle-themed playground, obstacle courses, and slides. The facility also ensures a hygienic environment and provides a serene lounge area for parents. For more details on their offerings, you might want to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current information and any specific inquiries.
