Unveiling Calgary's Best-Kept Family Secrets
It was a fact of my childhood growing up in Kelowna that the red license plates would roll into town around the July long weekend and stay for the Okanagan heat and lake activities until September. It never occurred to me, until the fires and smoke of last year, to head to Alberta for summer fun and yet we found ourselves wondering why we hadn't done it sooner.
There were so many exciting things my kids had never seen or done that we got to experience as we escaped the thick smoke that had overcome the valley. If you’re heading to Calgary this summer or you’re looking for ideas for family fun without jumping on an airplane, here is what we recommend for a Calgary getaway!
Activities
The Telus Spark Science Centre is a dynamic hub of interactive exhibits and demonstrations. The Science Centre transforms abstract concepts into hands-on experiences and ignites that spark of curiosity in all ages.
This summer’s feature is Bugs & Bytes, a focus on monster insects, AI technology, and science experiments. The digital immersion gallery experience is Space: A Journey to the Moon, included in your general admission.
The Calgary Zoo was one of our biggest highlights with animal zones like Africa, Asia, Canada and even a prehistoric wing. We enjoyed the red pandas best of all for their spunky personalities and adorable faces!
You might have butterflies land on you in the Dorothy Harvie Gardens and your kids will love the penguin plunge! Some special experiences to be had in the zoo include high tea, Sunday Safari Brunch, and Polar Bear Breakfast.
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No family adventure in Calgary is complete without a visit to Calaway Park. From heart-pounding roller coasters to whimsical carousels, Calaway Park caters to thrill-seekers and gentle joy enthusiasts alike.
If your kids are anything like mine, they cover this adrenaline spectrum entirely. As the sun sets over the Rockies, the park's vibrant lights and lively atmosphere create an enchanting backdrop for family memories.
Give yourselves the whole day to enjoy time at Calaway Park so you don’t miss out on any of the exciting rides.
The Calgary Farmer's Market West is the latest location to open featuring a delightful mix of fresh, locally-sourced produce, artisanal goods, and delicious ready-to-eat foods. With over 70 vendors, it's the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the local culture, support local farmers and artisans, and taste the flavors of Alberta.
Discover fun finds like handcrafted jewelry, unique home decor, and delectable pastries from Yum Bakery. Enjoy live music and family-friendly activities that add to the lively atmosphere. The Calgary Farmer's Market West is a must-visit destination on your Calgary itinerary.
Venturing beyond Calgary's urban scene, our family explored the wonders of Drumheller. The Royal Tyrell Dinosaur Museum is where you’ll find colossal skeletons narrating Earth's ancient tales.
This museum features one of the world’s largest displays of dinosaurs including the world’s best preserved triceratops.
Although the fossils and skeletons were awe-inspiring, one of my favourite exhibits was the wooly mammoth! As you move through the exhibits you’ll move through time, exploring the remnants of creatures from the Paleazoic era, Triassic, Jurassic, Cenozoic and even the Cretaceous Garden.
The Hoodoo Trail, with its surreal rock formations is an absolute bucket list item! These towering, mushroom-shaped rock pillars have been sculpted over time by the forces of erosion, creating a truly otherworldly experience. As you hike along the trail, you'll encounter interpretive signs that provide fascinating insights into the natural history and cultural significance of the area.
Perfect for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and little kids who want to climb all over things, the Hoodoo Trail offers breathtaking views and an unforgettable glimpse into the ancient past of Alberta's Badlands.
Follow along the #bcbucketlistfamily through our Instagram handle @thiswildpassport as we explore the Shuswap next!
