Calgary is a city that surprises first-time visitors with how quickly the urban landscape gives way to rugged natural beauty. You can spend the morning exploring a world-class museum and the afternoon paddling a glacial river without ever leaving the city limits. With more sunny days per year than almost any other major Canadian city, the outdoors here are not a seasonal escape—they are a way of life.
Whether you are visiting for a weekend or have lived here for years, the sheer variety of accessible recreation can be overwhelming. From paved urban pathways to wild foothills trails, Calgary offers activities for every fitness level, interest, and budget. The challenge is not finding something to do, but deciding which adventure to tackle first.
The city’s unique geography plays a major role in this abundance. The Bow and Elbow Rivers cut through the heart of Calgary, creating green corridors that stretch for hundreds of kilometers. To the west, the Rocky Mountains rise dramatically, while the eastern edge of the city opens onto the vast Canadian prairie.
This guide focuses on outdoor activities within Calgary itself, not the famous mountain parks an hour away. Every recommendation here is accessible without a long drive, making them perfect for an afternoon, an evening, or a full day of exploration. You will find options that work in every season, from summer paddling to winter fat biking.
As a local outdoor enthusiast who has explored these trails, parks, and waterways for years, I have prioritized activities that deliver real value. You will not find generic tourist traps or overhyped spots here. Instead, this list highlights the places Calgarians actually go when they want fresh air, exercise, and a connection to the landscape.
Below is a curated list of the best outdoor experiences Calgary has to offer. Use it as a starting point, then branch out to discover your own favorite corners of this remarkably livable city.
Cobb's Adventure Park
| Address | 1500 84 St NE, Calgary, AB T2A 7X4, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: Closed Friday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (403) 210-2676 |
Cobbs Adventure Park is an absolute blast for families! We had such a fun time with my 13, 3, and 1-year-old kids. The highlight was definitely getting up close and personal with the wallabies, kangaroos, and capybaras, seriously cool! The staff were all super knowledgeable and incredibly friendly, which made the experience even better. And don't even get me started on the frozen lemonades, they were so tasty and refreshing. Just a heads-up, though: wear closed-toed shoes! You might encounter some animal surprises on the ground, if you catch my drift. We went a bit later in the day so we didn't get to check out all the other attractions, but there are tons of photo ops everywhere you look. Highly recommend it for a day of animal adventures and family fun!
Also didn’t see on the website that 2 and under were free, the lovely ladies at the front desk were kind enough to let me know and refunded my ticket online!!!
I had a surprise visit from my Daughter in Law and 3 Grandchildren from Nova Scotia. This was a perfect place for a all day excursion. If you like interacting with animals close up this is the best place to go. We arrived close to when the Farm opened a perfect tome to visit the Kangaroo and Wallaby. The open area is amazing; the Kangaroo and Wallaby are so much fun. They aren't aggressive they will eat right from your hand. I love how they will hold your hand as you feed them. If you want to take time to hold a Joey it will cost an extra 20 but for one who loves Joey's it is well worth it. The farm has many other animals you can closely interact with as well; we saw Capybara, goats, Alpaca, porcupine; emu, bunnies, sugar gliders (one of my favourites) i also paid an extra 20 to get up close to a sloth named Mabel she was sweet and friendly. I got to spend a good 30 minutes with her and learning about sloths 🦥. The are other things to do as well rock climbing miniature golf, pedal cars, slides and more. We stayed till almost closing which is 5:00 . The grandkids loved this place; they thought it was a highlight of their visit
Second visit to Cobb's this summer. Really can't say enough good things about this park. I love that there is a place that gives people a different perspective on wildlife. Staff and volunteers show an obvious passion for the park and the animals. We booked the sloth experience this time and it was amazing to spend time with Maple and learn more about sloths. Also, big thanks to Roxy who spent lots of time with us and educating us on sloth behavior. Thanks Roxy!
Park fees are reasonable and all fees for the experiences go straight back to the animals.
Super fun for all ages and great value for money! So many games/activities, photo ops, and animals to visit all included in your entrance fee. You could pet almost all the animals (a few were penned off and the sloth is in little building with big window, requires sloth experience add-on to enter) and got to feed the kangaroos and wallabies. The mama wallabies with babies in their pouch were the sweetest thing ever! I purchased the 1-on-1 sloth experience and that was very worthwhile, informative, and not rushed. Would definitely return!
Had a blast there today! The animals were adorable and the staff was fantastic. Especially Mike! He genuinely loves the animals there and gave my kiddo the best experience with the cuddly cute porcupines! Thank you, Mike! You absolutely made our day
Prince's Island Park
| Address | 698 Eau Claire Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 5N4, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | (403) 268-2489 |
Beautiful park right by the city, and very easy to get to from either side — you can come in from the north or the south, and it connects well with both the walking and biking paths.
Lots of shade, plenty of greenery, and good open space for picnics, hanging out, or whatever outdoor activity you're up for. It's the kind of place where you show up for twenty minutes and end up staying an hour.
Really appreciate how thoughtfully designed and well maintained it is. Great public park.
Well worthwhile enjoying this park overlooking the city. Walking, running and biking paths teeming with an active population. Great outdoor Canadian enjoyment.
Very nice and well kept. Watch for wildlife and goose crap. Parking is scarce and lots of walking required
Lovely walkable park to have a stroll along when it's sunny. You can cover the entire island in about half an hour or so.
Prince’s island park is a wonderful place for a walk at any time of the day. Whether it’s an early morning walk or run, a relaxing lunchtime stroll, or a romantic evening walk, this place is beautiful all year round—365 days a year.
The City of Calgary has done an excellent job maintaining this area. It’s always clean, peaceful, and well cared for. You can enjoy watching birds and ducks in the pond, cafe too which makes every visit even more relaxing. The walking paths are well lit with streetlights, making it safe and comfortable to walk even after sunset.
If you’re looking for a quiet place to enjoy nature, get some exercise, or simply unwind, I highly recommend visiting Prince’s Island Park. It’s one of Calgary’s hidden gems.
Phoenix Capitals
Wild Life Outdoor Adventures
| Address | 9727 Horton Rd SW, Calgary, AB T2V 2X5, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (888) 564-3546 |
I wanted to get my children a subscription kit, and out of all the choices available, I settled on this one. Woman run, Canadian, and full of things to encourage outdoor play and learning. The items in the kit are good enough quality that we'll have them for years to come. Highly recommended if you want a kit that isn't going to be full of items that will be tossed out within a year, and that your kids won't age out of quickly. We especially love the merit pins. (Really, there hasn't been anything we haven't liked about the kits)
WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE! Jenelle is very good at customer service , she takes pride in her work and is always looking to improve your experience. This idea is beautiful for kids because it allows them to really connect with nature while focusing on there development. Her products are very fair priced and overall I'd rate the experience great and highly recommend to subscribe to there subscription .
Wild Life Outdoor Adventure kits have been a great investment for our family! I grew up at outdoors camps so really wanted to share a love of nature with my kids, but living in the city, found it challenging. These kits supply the kids with their basic gear to get them started. The games and activity suggestions give you lots of great ideas so you want to spend the day playing with the kids in the woods. As a family who has done many different subscription kits, this is by far the best because everything you receive is useful and doesn't fill your house with momentary fun to eventually be tossed away (keep the gear - it is great!)
The stuff included in their subscription boxes is thoughtful and well made. Ticks a lot of boxes for our kids. They love getting a package and it has a bit of a collection aspect as well, and its stuff that encourages them to get outside and try things. We love it as parents too, because it is the kind of stuff that will get used for a long time, not just go in a drawer.
We loved this box! The gear was good quality and the whole kit was very interesting. Our child wasn’t as into doing the activities as we had hoped but we loved it, and she did enjoy reading through everything and looking at it all and coming up with other ways to use the different items.
Heritage Park
| Address | 1900 Heritage Dr SW, Calgary, AB T2V 2X3, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (403) 268-8500 |
A good place for kids day out. Lots of options to spend time with fun activities like ferry rides etc.
It has various modes of transport available for transfer within Park and one must board the steam train with its might. Standard ticket also includes ride on cruise which is an amazing experience in itself for kids
Overall a nice to visit place with kids and with family for fun, food and adventures!
We visited the Heritage Park and we were so thrilled with the experience. Being British we wanted to feel the proper experience of old Canada and we got that, the buildings kept just how they were back in the day, some were taken from a place and donated to the museum which I found fascinating.
The actors and the animals made the experience more realistic. It's a large place with a lot to see, we was here for about 4 hours going into all the buildings and having a look around.
We spent some time in the salon playing card games and having a beer which was amazing and they should do more of that around the area..
We got to ride the train that circles the park and had stop offs for ease of getting around. The park wasn't really busy which I think was a bonus going in the week.
Thank you for a great experience.
***Visiting Canada I was disappointed that we didn't get to see more history of the Indian indigenous history and there culture in places. I know that heritage park has a section but I really feel they should honour them more by upgrading their area and bringing more to the museum as I felt that was left underwhelming and I feel they need to have a bigger presence in the park. (Something to think about for the future but it's defo something I would have been more interested in knowing and learning)
This is a location that holds a lot of history on Calgary, just by the bank of the Glenmore reservoir.
It is considered the largest living history museum in Canada and covers a massive area of about 127 acres of land mass.
The staff are dressed in antique regalia to signify the times that these structures were set in and a good number of the structures were moved here or remodelled. The staff are well versed in the history of this location and ready to offer you some brief history lessons.
It's also a good place to bring kids to with a large play area.
It was quite an experience and you should visit.
Living museum!
Fabulous way to spend the day!
Special shoutout Gary at the synagogue and all his colleagues! Visiting the Synagogue was the highlight of our trip today!
So welcoming and informative!!
Train and train conductors were also amazing!
Stop for an ice cream or at the candy shop or at the bakery!
See the horses in the stable.
Heritage park does not disappoint!!
If anyone in your group has mobility issues, you can have staff call a courtesy shuttle that will drive you to certain spots in the Park.
GREAT PLACE!!!
Also: First car in the train has accessibility (If anyone in your group would rather avoid the 9” steps up into the train car).
Just ask train conductors for help, they are AWESOME!
Highly recommend a season pass.
If you can go more than 2x, it is well worth it.
Just take your family and spend a day at Heritage Park Historical Village - every dollar is worth it. Ride a real steam train, cruise on the paddle wheeler, enjoy wagon and midway rides, and explore the historic railway area. Plenty of space to walk, lots of ice cream, and a wonderful old-town atmosphere. A fantastic day for both kids and adults.
Carburn Park
| Address | 67 Riverview Dr S E, Calgary, AB T2C 4H8, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (403) 268-2489 |
I visited this lake-front natural and manicured park at two pm on a week day in April when the weather was still cold. Although there were not flocks of people, there were a significant number of people doing activities like walking, walking with their furry friends, cycling, and jogging. (boating and skating are not available at present.)
The park, established 38 years ago, has two lakes or huge ponds, created by channelizing the Bow River, wrapped by a paved trail. There is a forest with thousands of trees all along the trail.
There are tens of benches all along the trail, picnic tables at some places, and a gazebo.
Also, there are some other unpaved and winding trails and beaten paths, for those who like to explore more. Furthermore, there are Bow River Pathway and Trans Canada trail.
The parking lot is not immense; nevertheless, on a busy day. you may park your vehicle on the nearby streets, for free.
Over all, this is a well-maintained, good natural park for the dwellers of south east area of Calgary for a variety of activities, watching birds, and wildlife.
Very nice trail that wraps around a pond. The reflections of the trees are beautiful. Not too busy. The path is paved. The day I went was foggy and it was extra special. Parking lot is a bit small, but you can also park on the street nearby. There are a lot of dogs at this park. Deerfoot Trail is across from the park and can be noisy some days.
Summer time kayak and SUP, surrounded by birds of all kinds, cycle/walking paths, picnic areas and benches. Today we brought our SUP and launched off 1 of 2 docks on the round-about lake. There is another lake but no docks - readily accessible by any floating device. Kayak rentals are available onsite and today there was a wood burning pizza oven food truck (delicious - bought 1!) So much to do at this hidden gem; nestled along the Bow River and wildlife refuge area.
Such's an amazing park. Feeling the beatiful Bow River, the nice lake and comfortably trail. An ideal location for all season, but Summer time is good and great place for kayaking, biking, BBQ, photoshoot some wildlife.. (We caught a deer 🥰) Peace at heart 🙏❤️
LOVE this park!! It is so beautiful here with the wide pathways and great trails. Spectacular views at many times of the day and if your lucky, some wildlife will pop out for you 💕 It is truly a lovely park. Washrooms and picnic tables and great amounts of parking available.
Nose Hill Park
| Address | 6465 14 St NW, Calgary, AB T3K 2P6, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (403) 268-2489 |
Very clean park. It is a great workout to hike up the hills. I’ve seen deer and some falcons in the area. It is huge, and we only went up a small area. People ride bikes here a lot. There are several parking areas.
Beautiful park with marvellous views, specially when it’s summer. Perfect place to go on a long walk. It doesn’t feel like you are in Calgary! There were many dogs at this park. You can also get there by transit.
Well, if you like getting out, for a grand and beautiful adventure in the city, but having the non city vibe: this is it.
Always good for walking! You'll find the nature you like.
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Nose Hill Park in Calgary! One must experienc this vast spa e affording a panoramic view of Calgary downtown! ! The park is one of the largest urban parks in North America, offering vast open spaces, rolling hills, and breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscapes. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone looking to have a nice walk or enjoy solitude!
The trails are well-maintained and cater to all levels of fitness. The natural prairie landscape is home to a variety of wildlife, adding an extra layer of excitement to the visit. One must visit in the evening to spot them though! Friends have spotted deer and bob cats!
Nose Hill Park is a must-see destination in Calgary. I saw an amazing sunset and would love to visit again
Lazy Day Raft Rentals
| Address | 720 3 St NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1N9, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Phone | (403) 258-0575 |
We brought over 50 staff members from Champion's Creed out with Lazy Day Floats for our summer staff appreciation day, and they were exceptional from start to finish.
Our original date had to move because the river was too high. They contacted us with plenty of notice and were completely accommodating about rescheduling to later in the summer. Very professional about the whole thing.
On the day, the owner, Arlin, came to our gym personally to make sure everything was running smoothly, got everyone onto the buses, and met us at the launch point on the Bow. All the equipment was ready to go, so it was easy to get everyone into groups, onto the floats, and out on the water.
Normally they hand you a cooler with the sandwiches and food and you carry it in your own boats. With a group our size, Arlin made an exception and brought the food out to us at the halfway point at Edworthy Park instead. He met us there personally with one of his helpers. That was a genuinely nice and professional thing to do for us.
At the end, his staff were friendly and easy to work with. They grabbed all our gear and told us to leave our garbage in the boats and they would take care of it. That kind of thing is what made the whole day relaxing for our team.
Events like this running cleanly matters a lot to us. We had a fantastic time, built a ton of connections, and it was a great team building experience. On time, great communication, and very professional throughout. Highly recommended.
Lazy Day Raft Rentals delivered an excellent experience from start to finish. Booking was simple and convenient, and the staff were welcoming, professional, and thorough in explaining everything we needed to know. The rafts were clean and well-maintained, making for a smooth and enjoyable trip. This is a fantastic summer activity in Calgary and a great way to enjoy a relaxing afternoon with friends floating down the Bow river. We'll definitely be back!
We had a fantastic experience with Lazy Day Raft Rentals! The staff gave us a very warm welcome and were friendly and professional throughout the entire process.
We used their shuttle service, which made everything easy and convenient. The rafts were clean, well maintained, and fully equipped. The team was ready to help us both at the launch point and when we returned.
The safety instructions were clear and easy to follow, and we enjoyed a relaxing and safe trip down the Bow River.
We highly recommend Lazy Day Raft Rentals to anyone looking for a fun and well organized rafting experience in Calgary!
Heather from Lazy Day Raft Rentals was so helpful when I first made enquiries and made every effort to accommodate myself and my husband so we could kayak the river during our 2 day stay in Calgary. Even though we were very early in the season and they were only operating on weekends, they went out of their way to make sure that we had a kayak at the start of the ‘float’ and were met at the end as well.
Thanks to Ben and Nick for taking time out to make this all happen.
It was the highlight of our stay.
I would highly recommend this family run company for a few hours or a day if gun in the beautiful Bow River.
The staff is very attentive and they clearly explain everything you need to know to sail along the river. The experience is relaxing and delightful, perfect for spending time with friends surrounded by nature.
Devonian Gardens
| Address | in the CORE Shopping Centre, 317 7 Ave SW 4 floor, Calgary, AB T2P 0W4, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (403) 268-2489 |
Never would have guessed there's a big, beautiful garden sitting on the top floor of a shopping mall. Really nice place to enjoy some greenery and get your shopping done in the same trip.
I love the idea of building nature into the architecture like this — it makes good use of the space, keeps things green and clean, and it's a genuinely environmentally friendly way to design a building. More cities should do this.
The koi pond was the highlight for me, and there are plenty of benches along the walking paths if you just want to sit for a while. The food court is right below, and the shops are on the floors underneath that. Easy to spend a couple of hours here without planning to.
Credit to the city for this one.
Inside a mall in downtown Calgary are the Devonian Gardens. They've done quite well for the space, the gardens are well maintained. It's the kind of care I'd expect out of a greenhouse.
There were also some neat carvings scattered around the garden. Take some time to enjoy them too.
A wonderful hidden gem in downtown Calgary! Devonian Gardens is a beautiful indoor garden with lush greenery, peaceful walking paths, and a relaxing atmosphere. It's a perfect place to take a break after shopping or enjoy a quiet family outing. The indoor playground makes it a great spot for kids to have fun while adults can unwind. Free to visit and definitely worth stopping by if you're at the CORE Mall! 🌿😊
A hidden gem in the heart of Calgary, Devonian Gardens inside CORE Shopping Centre is such a peaceful escape from the busy city atmosphere.
Surrounded by lush greenery, water features, and plenty of seating areas, it is the perfect spot to relax, unwind, or spend some quality time. Whether you are taking a break from shopping, enjoying lunch, or just looking for a quiet place to recharge, this space offers a calming environment right in downtown.
It is clean, well-maintained, and family-friendly, with unique touches like fish ponds and open spaces for kids. A must-visit spot if you are in Calgary, highly recommended for a quick escape into nature without leaving the city.
"This is a spacious indoor botanical garden located on the top floor of a downtown shopping mall, featuring a rich collection of tropical plants and a lovely fish pond. The layout is quite versatile; during my visit, there was an engagement ceremony taking place, while a group of Chinese aunties were enjoying a game of mahjong nearby. Thanks to the well-spaced seating, the area doesn't feel crowded at all. It makes for an excellent getaway during Calgary’s cold winters. They run a misting system to maintain the humidity, which is great, though the only drawback is that the air can feel a bit hot and stuffy."
Calgary Farmyard
| Address | 284022 Township Rd 224, Rocky View County, AB T1X 0J6, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: Closed Friday: 10:00 AM – 9:30 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:30 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (403) 648-2719 |
Calgary Farmyard should be named the funnest yard in Calgary! We upgraded to an annual pass after our very first visit, and it has been the best season pass ever. The farm is a great size, and all the facilities are extremely well maintained. Even when visiting on the weekend, it never feels too crowded! The petting zoo is surprisingly clean and fresh every time we go. We love all the crafted structures, charming decorations, and fun little games around every corner. We always have so much fun, highly recommended!
We had a great time at this farm! There are so many activities for kids and families to enjoy. With the exception of the gem mining activity and animal feed, everything else is included in the admission price, which makes it a great value.
There are also plenty of picnic tables, both in the shade and in the sun, so it’s easy to find a comfortable spot to eat and take a break. Overall, it’s a fun place to spend the day, and we would definitely visit again!
Such a great place. We bought year pass as we will treat this as our weekly park hangs and can make the most of it during the weeks when is less crowded. They have soooo much to do and we easily spent 4 hours going through most of the activities. It is a heavy day for kids but well worth it. We ordered chicken tenders (too breaded) and fries.
This place was better then I expected !! The entire experience was phenomenal , the staff EVERY single one that I encountered was friendly , informative and genuinely happy to help. My kids had a great time!! 10 / 10 will definitely recommend. Money well spent.
Petting zoos are always a fun experience with the kids, and Calgary Farmyard takes this experience to a whole next level!
We bought tickets ahead of time, but to be honest, there was no line when we arrived.
There are LOTS of activities that the entire family will enjoy - farm animals, games, variety of play areas. Just be prepared to deal with the heat so you can enjoy and make the most of your time here. Bring your hats, sunglasses, and dress appropriately for the weather.
The staff assisting were great as well. I highly recommend this place for families especially if you have little ones!
Spruce Meadows
| Address | 18011 Spruce Meadows Way SW, Calgary, AB T2X 4B7, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (403) 974-4200 |
Our first visit to Spruce Meadows was absolutely amazing, and it definitely won't be our last! We attended the Barbie event with our daughters and had a fantastic day as a family.
Everything was well organized, family-friendly, and full of activities for kids. The highlight for us was watching the show jumping competition - seeing the horses and riders perform at such a high level was truly impressive.
The atmosphere was welcoming, the grounds were beautiful, and there was something for everyone to enjoy. Spruce Meadows exceeded our expectations, and we're already looking forward to coming back again. Highly recommended for families looking for a memorable day out in Calgary!
I had an amazing experience at Spruce Meadows this year. The shows were incredible, and I am very grateful to the organizers and sponsors for creating such a unique atmosphere. Since Barbie was one of this year’s featured sponsors, the entire event truly felt like stepping into a Barbie movie.
The venue was beautifully organized, there was plenty to see and do, and the overall experience exceeded my expectations. I especially recommend visiting with family, as there are many activities for children, including opportunities to interact with animals, which makes the event enjoyable for all ages.
While I hope some of the logistical aspects can be improved in the future, everything else was absolutely fantastic. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit and hope to attend again in the years to come.
Thank you to everyone involved for creating such a memorable experience!
Unbelievably beautiful grounds!!!!
Spruce has stepped it up!! Inclusive to everyone!!! Movies, concerts, markets, horses and more! There canada day event is amazing!!! Best value for money spent. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
The Christmas market was just what I needed to get some spirit running through the veins. The Christmas lights are so fabulous. Recommend going when the sun goes down. Leave before the end because traffic is crazy!!
The overall atmosphere and charm of Spruce Meadows was wonderful. Beautiful scenery, the amenities are top notch. The only reason the rating is missing one more star is because of the lantern festival all the hippie tiktokers and influences descended upon the place like a plague of locusts. Gotta get the "Insta shot" or "Blog whatever". At least I didnt have to witness any viral dance recordings. Of course this was not in any way the fault of the facility itself.
Wonderland Sculpture
| Address | 110 6 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 1S6, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
Calgary Stampede
| Address | 1410 Stampede Trl SE, Calgary, AB T2G 2W1, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (403) 261-0101 |
Rodeo, evening show and cattle shows were fantastic. Would highly recommend getting tickets for these events. It was VERY clean and I was really impressed. There were groups of cleaning staff everywhere. Even the bathrooms were clean. Food was fun but very expensive. The rides were great but way too expensive and lines were too long. We spend $150 and two kids got on 5 rides total. Wait times were up to an hour depending on the ride. Stampede crowds were very congested. You could barely walk. Would love it if they limited admission somehow. When it rains, there are only a few places to go and they get uncomfortably busy. If you dislike crowds, you won’t like Stampede.
A fantastic event with superb organization. It is wonderful to see the value placed on the descendants of the "One Nation"—the Native American tribes indigenous to this land. A great amusement park for both children and adults alike. It is hard to describe; you have to experience it for yourself.
If you only visit Calgary once, make sure it’s during the Stampede. The atmosphere is electric—it feels like a cross between a real-life pioneer frontier town and a massive block party. The city completely transforms, and everyone is decked out in denim and cowboy boots!The World's Largest Outdoor Rodeo is the real deal. Watching the top riders and horses compete in events like bull riding and steer wrestling is incredibly intense and a total rush. Once the rodeo wraps up, you absolutely must check out the Midway. Prepare yourself for an absolute gauntlet of wild and wacky fair foods—from deep-fried Oreos and pickle pizza to their famous, piping-hot mini donuts, it's a foodie's dream.As the sun goes down, the energy spikes even higher. The evening Grandstand show, featuring the thrilling chuckwagon races and the high-energy Young Canadians stage show, is spectacular. It wraps up with some of the best fireworks I've ever seen.Pro-tip: Book your rodeo tickets in advance, wear comfortable walking shoes, and definitely pace yourself with all the fantastic food and entertainment!
One of the best carnivals Calgary has to offer. Biggest Rodeo in the world. It is a must bisit place during July every year
As a part of my Sperm Donation World Tour of Canada, here for the Calgary Stampede I got to watch the last 20 minutes of the show I bought tickets through AXS and downloaded the app and only 1 ticket was sent through so spent ages with services essentially getting the other ticket.
Came in for a 2nd night General admission around $28 and watched All Time Low at the Coca Cola stage.
That aside what I did see was some angry bulls some great rides and a full crowd loving it. Cool venue.
I also got the Nashville North buck the line which for $110 was a waste, you can only use it once that day and when I went in wasn't that busy. Security was a bit intense though when you first come through the gate you go through scanners and then once inside going into Nashville north they take ID photos and frisk you down.
Some good bands on inside the tent and around 10.30pm fireworks were popping off.
Fish Creek Provincial Park
| Address | Calgary, AB, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (403) 297-5293 |
We walked through the eastern half of the park, and it took a couple of hours. This part of the park consists of prairie landscape and some bushes near the Fish Creek river. It was a little bit monotonous, but we found a few interesting places. It'd be better if you came here with bicycles. I really want to explore more wild west parts of the park.
Fish Creek Provincial Park in Calgary is a natural gem, boasting expansive green spaces and numerous trails along the picturesque Fish Creek. Whether you're walking, cycling, or just enjoying a peaceful day in nature, the park offers a serene escape within the city. With diverse flora and fauna, it's a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil retreat.
Spending evening in the fish creek neighbourhood is just soothing. No amenities or shops in the area. It has large playgrounds, river bank, pond, scenic beauty and very less crowd m. It’s a nice spot to take an evening walk.
Fish Creek Park truly has something for everyone. From swimming in the lake the hiking to walking, rollerblading to single track mountain biking. Bring the fam for a picnic and enjoy time at the creek on a warm night while the sun goes down. The facilities are modern and convenient, and access points are plentiful. The is a year round park and some lots close at night. Camping is not permitted. This is a provincial park within the city of Calgary. Lots of wildlife so enjoy and keep your best friends on their leash. Some pliéing in the winter months for bike commuters. A vast park with a bit of everything.
Wonderful place to walk or to go for a bike ride. You can go through wooden area, chill next to the small river, see the small caves, go along the train line, beautiful place to visit. A little busy during weekends.
Wilder Institute's Calgary Zoo
| Address | 210 St. George's Drive NE, 1300 Zoo Rd NE, Calgary, AB T2E 7V6, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Phone | (403) 232-9300 |
A Perfect Family Day at Calgary Zoo - Highly Recommended! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Visited on Monday, August 24, 2026 as planned - our family of 10, with 4 from Edmonton and 6 from Ajax, Ontario.
We arrived at 10:30 AM. Parking was okay but I would definitely recommend starting early morning to get a better spot, especially if you are with toddlers and newborns.
This is a must-do all-day trip, so plan accordingly. Food and drinks inside are quite expensive as expected, so it's good to plan ahead.
Our first stop was Penguin Plunge - what an amazing experience!
The penguins were so active and fun to watch.
We followed the main track and were able to cover most of the exhibits.
We had 2 seniors and 2 babies in our group and we all had a wonderful time together.
The zoo is very well maintained, clean, organized, and very stroller and senior-friendly.
Highly recommended to visit and enjoy with your loved ones!
💞🇨🇦💞
The Calgary Zoo is an incredible place to visit for both kids and adults. The exhibits are beautifully maintained, the animals are well cared for, and it's easy to spend an entire day exploring everything the zoo has to offer. The pathways are clean, the staff are friendly and knowledgeable, and there are plenty of places to stop for food or a break along the way.
It was a fun, educational, and memorable experience for our whole family. If you're visiting Calgary, the Calgary Zoo is definitely worth adding to your itinerary. We can't wait to come back!
We spent the entire day at the Calgary Zoo, and it was one of the highlights of our trip. The animals all looked happy, healthy, and extremely well cared for. They looked so clean and well-groomed that I honestly wanted to pet them all! 🥰
The playgrounds were also surprisingly impressive, with plenty to keep kids entertained beyond just seeing the animals.
I was especially impressed by how accessible and accommodating the zoo is for people with different abilities. They offer things like rental power chairs and wagons, and I appreciated the clear warnings about sensory sensitivities. It shows that accessibility is being considered as part of the overall visitor experience rather than treated as an afterthought.
There is a lot to see and do, so I'd definitely recommend setting aside a full day rather than trying to rush through it.
Overall, a fantastic zoo with beautiful animals, great facilities, impressive playgrounds, and a very thoughtful approach to accessibility. Definitely worth visiting if you're in Calgary!
I recently visited Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo and overall had a mixed experience. There were definitely enjoyable parts of the zoo, and some of the exhibits and animals that were available were genuinely nice to see. The grounds themselves were decent, and when the exhibits were open and active, it could be a fun experience for families, tourists, and animal lovers.
However, the biggest issue was the pricing compared to what was actually available during the visit. The entrance fee was very expensive, especially considering that multiple areas of the zoo were either closed, under construction, or missing animals entirely. For the price being charged, I expected a much more complete experience. It became frustrating paying full admission while a large portion of the attractions and dining locations were unavailable.
Another disappointment was the number of food locations and areas throughout the zoo that were closed during operating hours. Part of visiting a zoo is being able to comfortably explore, relax, grab food, and enjoy the full experience, but with so many sections unavailable, it honestly did not feel worth the full ticket price. If construction and closures are significantly impacting the guest experience, I believe pricing should better reflect that.
I also was not very impressed with the professionalism at the front ticket area. The staff handling admissions seemed more focused on joking around and socializing than maintaining a professional and attentive atmosphere. While it is perfectly fine for employees to enjoy their work environment, customer service and professionalism should still remain a priority, especially when guests are paying premium admission prices.
That being said, I do want to acknowledge that parts of the zoo were still enjoyable, and there were moments that made the visit worthwhile. The animals and exhibits that were available were interesting, and the property itself has potential to provide a great experience when fully operational.
Overall, I believe this zoo could be much better if more exhibits were open, construction was completed, and pricing better reflected the actual experience being offered. Right now, it feels overpriced for what guests currently receive, and unfortunately I left feeling like I did not get the full value for the amount paid.
Fantastic experience for the whole family! The Calgary Zoo is beautifully kept, spacious, and offers so much to see. What I appreciate most is how family-friendly it is—there are plenty of rest areas, clean washrooms, and great food options. The animals look healthy, happy, and well cared for. It's the perfect place to spend a sunny day. We will definitely be back!
Pearce Estate Park
| Address | 1440 17a St SE, Calgary, AB T2G 4T9, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (403) 268-2489 |
We went early, around 8 am, and felt we had the park to ourselves. Which was lovely. Harley got to romp in the river, mostly safe on the big rocks, and even waded in at one of the boat launches. It's a juxtaposition, really, of natural river life and manicured water playground for kayaks, dingies, canoes, etc. The park gods obviously took time to think this through; there's natural wetland areas, walking paths and plenty of parking. I know Harley will be wagging his Golden tail once we come across Pearce Estate again.
Great place for a picnic or to just go and enjoy the day. Thoughts for the kids to do a good little spot of heaven right inside Calgary here washrooms on premises with running water, fish hatchery with activities for kids and rapids where you can jump in or and swim or float down. Still fun every time I go. Have a barbecue and enjoy
Beautiful walking paths here. There's no off-leash area for dogs, however this is a great spot for walks along the bike path. Right near Harvie Passage so you can watch people kayaking from the shore. There are a bunch of educational plaques scattered amongst the park with information about wetlands, the environment and nature preservation. Great for kids of all ages.
⭐☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
My family and I lived at The Pinnacle by Avenue Living for about 13 months, and unfortunately, our experience was disappointing.
During our tenancy, we experienced frequent fire alarm activations, ongoing security concerns, including stolen packages, bicycles, and vehicle tires from the underground parkade, and repeated instances of unauthorized people entering the building. These issues made us feel less secure than we expected.
Maintenance was another challenge. We had plumbing issues that took a long time to resolve, and after one maintenance-related flood, I was concerned that the affected area was not properly dried. We also experienced unpleasant odors from nearby restaurants that occasionally entered our unit.
After moving out, part of our security deposit was withheld for repainting. We disagree with that assessment and believe the condition of the walls was consistent with normal wear and tear. What was even more frustrating was the lack of communication. I sent multiple emails, made phone calls, and visited the office in person, but I repeatedly received promises of a callback that never came.
Overall, I expected better communication, better maintenance, and stronger attention to resident concerns. Based on my personal experience, I cannot recommend this building.
Great park with free parking and overflow parking. Civic Long weekend, it was super busy. People were ticketed for parking in a no-parking zone. Some BBQ pits but a lot of people tale gated or brought their own cookware and tents for summer fun. A couple of minutes walk to Bow Habitat Station and wetland Interpretative Centre and less than five minutes walk to Harvie’s Passage for swimming, kayaking, floating or waddling in the summer heat. Super fun highly recommend for a visit. Go for a walk or bring your bikes as there are both paved and unpaved pathways. The Calgary parks and pathways are great!
Activate Calgary North
| Address | 2929 Sunridge Way NE #420, Calgary, AB T1Y 7K7, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (587) 885-3358 |
Had an absolute blast at Activate! The experience is high-energy and challenging, but what really made the visit stand out was the service.
A huge shoutout to Patrick—he was super awesome and went above and beyond to make sure we had everything we needed. His energy really added to the vibe of the place. If you're looking for a great team-building activity or just a fun way to get moving, I highly recommend this spot.
Ask for Patrick if you can!
Our family recently visited the Calgary North Activate location, and it was an absolutely fantastic experience from start to finish! If you are looking for a fun, high-energy activity that the whole family can enjoy, this is definitely the place to go. The kids had an absolute blast navigating the different rooms and challenges, which kept them fully engaged and moving the entire time.
A huge part of what made our visit so spectacular was the staff, specifically Kai.
Kai was amazing, welcoming, and endlessly helpful throughout our time there. They went above and beyond to ensure we understood how everything worked and that we were having the best possible time. It is rare to find such genuinely caring and attentive customer service, and it really elevated our whole experience.
We left exhausted but smiling, and the kids are already begging to go back. I highly recommend this location for a perfect family outing!
We had such a great experience at this activity center. Matthew was very friendly, especially for going above and beyond to help us out. He was patient, organized, and made sure we knew exactly what to do, which made the whole experience fun and stress‑free. You can tell he really cares about their guests. I’ll definitely be coming back and recommending this place to friends and family.”
Activate Calgary NE is honestly one of the most fun things to do in the city. The rooms are super creative, interactive, and actually make you think while moving around. It feels like a mix of an escape room and a real-life video game. The technology works flawlessly and the challenges range from physical to puzzle-based so everyone can enjoy it. The staff were friendly and explained everything clearly. Perfect for groups, date nights, or just something different to do in Calgary. We had an absolute blast and will definitely be back to try the other rooms.
We had such a fantastic time at Activate. The games are so much fun, well priced, and the staff are incredibly friendly and helpful. Lockers are included, which makes it easy to relax and enjoy the experience. Each room is unique, full of different challenges that keep everyone engaged and laughing the whole time. Absolutely a 5‑star experience – we will definitely be back!!!
Speeders Calgary Chinook
| Address | 324 58 Ave SE #4000, Calgary, AB T2H 0P1, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (587) 443-9131 |
Our first time visiting Speeders Chinook, and we were honestly amazed by how much this place has to offer! It’s so much more than just a go-karting facility. They have mini golf, an arcade, a bowling alley, and several other activities, making it a great place to spend several hours with friends, family, or your partner.
We also loved that there’s a sports bar inside, where you can grab drinks and snacks while taking a break between activities. The whole facility was spacious, modern, and, most importantly, very clean and well-maintained.
The variety of activities means there’s something for pretty much everyone, and you can easily make a full day or evening out of your visit. We had such a great first experience and were genuinely impressed by the facility. Definitely recommend checking out Speeders Chinook—we’ll absolutely be coming back!
We were here for a company event and were highly impressed with the entire setup. The two-track system is awesome, and the grid heights on the track really added to the excitement. They also have a small arcade section, but it features a great choice of games to keep everyone entertained. It seems like a very popular destination for companies, as there were several other teams here hosting events at the same time. Having food and drinks served right on-site made the whole experience incredibly convenient and fun for our entire group. Highly recommend for any team-building or corporate outing.
Lots of fun at this place, we just did the races 4 times but had a blast, track is great and the cars move along pretty good. The only thing the bother me was the hard seats in the cars. My back was hurting everywhere afterwards. My wife to a look and I have bruises all over my back from the hard seat.
We visited on Sunday evening, and since the concept is “Eat, Play & Race,” that’s exactly what we did!We started with the food — the nachos were absolutely delicious, freshly made, and perfectly seasoned. We also ordered drinks, which tasted great (image attached).
The server was very friendly, attentive, and provided great service throughout our visit. After eating, we enjoyed the gaming zone and tried different games, which made the evening even more fun. We also experienced the racing part, and it was a great time.Overall, it was a wonderful evening with good food, entertainment, and great service. Definitely a fun place to spend time…
It's just like they say, it's one of the best. Go-kart venues in the world. No stinky gas engines, all electric and tons of safety features while still being able to have fun.
A little known fact, you can upgrade into an elite speeder League which allows them to go 80 km an hour. You have to do 10 races to graduate.
Awesome spot for birthdays and just generally having fun. I took my nephews and they came back the next day with their own money. There's also indoor laser tag and a variety of video games to play. The top spot for this type of thing.
Tips for Making the Most of Calgary’s Outdoor Scene
Getting outside in Calgary is easy, but a little local knowledge makes the experience far more enjoyable. The city’s high altitude, dry climate, and rapidly changing weather create conditions that can surprise even experienced outdoor enthusiasts. These practical tips will help you stay comfortable, safe, and prepared no matter which activity you choose.
Check the weather and air quality before you go. Calgary’s proximity to the mountains means conditions can shift dramatically within hours. Summer afternoons often bring thunderstorms, while winter chinook winds can raise temperatures by 20 degrees in a day. During wildfire season, smoke from British Columbia or Alberta fires can roll in quickly, so always check the Air Quality Health Index before strenuous activity.
Dress in layers, even in summer. Calgary’s dry air means mornings can be cool even when the afternoon is hot. A lightweight jacket or long-sleeve layer is rarely wasted. In winter, focus on moisture-wicking base layers and a windproof outer shell rather than one heavy coat.
Protect yourself from the sun. With over 330 days of sunshine annually and an elevation above 1,000 meters, UV exposure is intense. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses year-round, especially when on the water or snow where reflection increases exposure.
Carry water and know where to refill. The dry climate dehydrates you faster than you might expect. Many parks and pathways have water fountains in summer, but they are turned off in winter. Bring more water than you think you need, particularly on longer bike rides or hikes.
Watch for wildlife and respect their space. Deer, coyotes, porcupines, and the occasional moose live within city limits. Give animals plenty of room, keep dogs on leash in designated areas, and never feed wildlife. In the fall, be extra cautious around elk during rutting season in the western neighborhoods.
Use the pathway system strategically. Calgary has one of the most extensive urban pathway networks in North America. Download a city pathway map or use a navigation app with cycling routes. During peak summer weekends, popular sections like the Bow River pathway near Eau Claire get crowded—go early or explore less-traveled stretches in the southeast or northwest.
Rent gear before you commit. If you are visiting or trying a new activity, rental options are plentiful. Local shops rent bikes, e-bikes, kayaks, paddleboards, cross-country skis, and snowshoes at reasonable rates. Renting lets you test the activity without investing in equipment you may only use occasionally.
Calgary’s outdoor culture is built on accessibility and genuine enthusiasm. You do not need to be an elite athlete or own expensive gear to enjoy the city’s natural spaces. A simple walk along the river, a picnic in a neighborhood park, or a slow bike ride through Fish Creek Provincial Park can be just as rewarding as a summit attempt in the Rockies.
The best way to experience Calgary is to treat the outdoors as part of your daily routine, not a special occasion. Pick one activity from the list above, head out, and let the city’s landscape surprise you. The mountains will still be there tomorrow, but today, there is plenty of adventure waiting right outside your door.
