Calgary is a bustling city with so many family-friendly activities to offer that it can be hard to fit everything into just one day. But that’s okay because Calgary is also the perfect gateway to Banff and Jasper National Parks, which are just a short drive away. These world-famous parks offer some of the most breathtaking natural scenery and outdoor activities in the world. However, Calgary itself is also packed with fun and exciting things to do with kids. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there’s something for every interest and age group. Whether you’re a local or visiting the city for the first time, you won’t want to miss out on these exciting activities. So pack your bags, bring some snacks, and get ready for two fun-filled days exploring all that Calgary and the surrounding area has to offer!
Day 1: Granary Road, Downhill Karting and Paddle Station
Get ready for an exciting first day in Calgary with our handpicked itinerary of fun-filled activities for the whole family. Kick-start your day at Granary Road, where your kids can interact with farm animals and enjoy interactive exhibits. Then, head to Downhill Karting for a thrilling ride down the mountain. Finally, unwind and enjoy a leisurely paddle down the Bow River with Paddle Station. Be sure to pack sunscreen and a sense of adventure for an unforgettable day in Calgary!
9:00 AM – Kick off your day at Granary Road, a sprawling active learning park spanning over 35 acres. With plenty of indoor and outdoor activities, it’s the perfect place to keep kids entertained for hours. Start by exploring the indoor butterfly garden, where kids can observe the life cycle of butterflies up close and watch them flutter around the enclosed space. After that, head over to the petting zoo to meet some friendly farm animals, including goats, sheep, and rabbits. But that’s not all – there’s also a giant ant farm, a honeybee exhibit, and a discovery center with interactive exhibits and hands-on activities. Don’t forget to visit the Farmer’s Market, which offers a variety of local products such as fresh produce, meats, and baked goods. If you have more time in Calgary, you could easily spend an entire day at Granary Road and still have more to explore.
11:00 AM – After a morning of exploring Granary Road, head to Downhill Karting for an exciting and adrenaline-fueled experience. Kids will love racing down the track on go-karts that are designed to mimic the thrill of downhill skiing. The track features twists, turns, and drops, making for an exciting ride that kids won’t forget.
12:30 PM – After all that excitement, grab a quick lunch at the on-site café at Downhill Karting. The café offers a variety of options, including sandwiches, wraps, and salads.
1:00 PM – After lunch, it’s time to head to Paddle Station. Here, you can rent rafts and explore the Bow River. Kids will love the experience of floating down the river and taking in the scenic views of Calgary from the water.
1:15 PM – Board your raft and head out onto the river. Before you start, you’ll be fitted with life jackets and paddles. Kids can choose from a variety of child-sized life jackets.
2:00 PM – Stop at St. Patrick’s Island for a picnic lunch. The island features a large playground, a wading pool, and plenty of green space for kids to run around and explore. It’s the perfect spot to take a break and enjoy some fresh air before continuing your paddle down the Bow River.
3:00 PM – Continue your paddle down the river and take in the sights and sounds of the city. Keep an eye out for wildlife like birds and fish. This is a great opportunity for kids to learn about the environment and the importance of preserving natural habitats.
4:30 PM – After a fun-filled day on the water, arrive back at Paddle Station and enjoy a refreshing ice cream treat from the on-site ice cream truck. Kids will love the variety of flavors and toppings available.
5:00 PM – End your day with a family dinner at one of the nearby restaurants like….
The Coup – This popular vegetarian restaurant is only a 10-minute drive from Paddle Station. They offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including salads, sandwiches, and entrees made with locally sourced ingredients.
Tamarind Vietnamese Grill & Noodle House: If you’re in the mood for something a bit lighter, Tamarind Vietnamese Grill & Noodle House is a great option. Located in the nearby Bridgeland neighborhood, this casual eatery serves up tasty vegetarian dishes like fresh spring rolls, noodle soups, and stir-fried vegetables.
All offer a variety of options that are sure to please kids and adults alike.
In conclusion, the first day of exploring Calgary has been filled with exciting activities that are perfect for the whole family. Granary Road provided a unique learning experience for kids, while Downhill Karting was an adrenaline-fueled adventure that everyone will remember. Paddle Station offered a relaxing way to end the day with a leisurely paddle down the Bow River. With so much to see and do in Calgary, it’s easy to see why it’s such a popular destination for families. Don’t forget to check out some of the nearby restaurants for a delicious meal to end the day on a high note.
Day 2: B-Line Bike Park, Heritage Park Historical Village and Spark Science Centre
Start your day at B-Line Bike Park, where kids can practice and improve their biking skills in a safe and fun environment. Then, head over to Heritage Park Historical Village for a glimpse into life in western Canada during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Finish off the day at Spark Science Centre, where kids can participate in hands-on activities and experiments to learn about science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) in a fun and engaging way.
9:00 AM – Start the day at B-Line Bike Park, an indoor facility where kids can enjoy a morning of cycling and mountain biking. The park provides bikes and helmets for rent, so there’s no need to bring your own gear. With over 40,000 square feet of space, B-Line Bike Park has a variety of trails and tracks for different skill levels, as well as jumps and features for practicing and improving skills.
11:30 AM – After a few hours of biking, head over to Heritage Park Historical Village for lunch. Choose from several options for food and drink, including the Selkirk Grille and the Railway Café. The park offers a unique glimpse into life in western Canada during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with over 180 exhibits and attractions to explore.
1:00 PM – Spend the afternoon exploring Heritage Park’s various exhibits and attractions, including the Gasoline Alley Museum, the antique midway, and the historical village. Kids can learn about the region’s history through interactive exhibits and demonstrations, and can even ride on a historic steam train or paddlewheel boat.
4:00 PM – End the day at Spark Science Centre, a hands-on science museum where kids can participate in activities and experiments to learn about science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) in a fun and engaging way. Exhibits include a planetarium, a human performance lab, and a maker studio.
6:00 PM – Have dinner at the Spark Café, which offers a range of healthy and delicious food options. After dinner, kids can explore the outdoor park area and enjoy the various interactive exhibits and installations. The park also hosts special events and activities throughout the year, such as outdoor movies and live music.
8:00 PM – Head back home after a fun-filled day of biking, history, and science education!
From biking and history to science education, this itinerary offers something for kids of all interests and ages. Whether they’re just starting out on a bike or are already avid riders, B-Line Bike Park provides a safe and fun environment for them to practice and improve their skills. Heritage Park Historical Village offers a unique and educational experience, allowing kids to learn about life in western Canada during a fascinating time period. And Spark Science Centre is the perfect place for kids to explore the wonders of science and technology in a fun and interactive way. Overall, this itinerary is a great way for families to spend a fun and educational day out together in Calgary.
If you’re planning on staying longer, here are a few more places you can add to your trip to explore the best of Calgary and its surrounding areas.
- Calgary Zoo – The Calgary Zoo is home to over 1,000 animals from around the world, including pandas, penguins, and tigers. The zoo also offers educational programs, guided tours, and interactive exhibits for all ages.
- Bowness Park – Located on the banks of the Bow River, Bowness Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including biking, picnicking, and paddle boating. There’s also a playground, wading pool, and a mini train ride for younger children.
- Olympic Park – Take a trip to Olympic Park, where you can see the site of the 1988 Winter Olympics and try your hand at winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. In the summer, there are also activities like zip-lining and mountain biking.
- Fish Creek Provincial Park – With over 80 km of trails and plenty of green space, Fish Creek Provincial Park is the perfect place to get outdoors and explore nature. There’s also a playground, picnic areas, and a visitor center with educational exhibits.
5.Devonian Gardens – Located in the heart of downtown Calgary, Devonian Gardens is a beautiful indoor garden with over 500 species of plants, a playground, and a fountain. It’s a great place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Conclusion
Calgary is a fantastic destination for families with kids, offering a wide variety of fun and exciting activities. From exploring the interactive exhibits at Granary Road and racing down the mountain at Downhill Karting to paddling down the Bow River with Paddle Station, there’s never a dull moment in this bustling city. Moreover, Calgary’s proximity to Banff and Jasper National Parks provides endless opportunities for outdoor adventures and breathtaking natural scenery. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Calgary is a popular family vacation spot. So pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and get ready for a memorable trip full of fun and adventure!