10 Things to Do in Calgary with Kids

Calaway Park is one of the largest amusement parks in Western Canada. Located 20 km northwest of Downtown Calgary, it’s home to over 30 rides and 25 games displayed on its 36-hectare of land. From the old-fashioned Carousel to the thrilling Vortex roller coaster, children of all ages can have a blast. Safety is Calaway Park’s primary concern, so there are height restrictions in operation for many of the rides. Many restaurants and food stands are located throughout the park and you can also attend magic, dancing, and juggling shows on scheduled days. 

One of the most visited zoos in Canada, Calgary Zoo is home to over 1,000 animals. Comprising more than 270 species, the animals are housed in 6 sections according to their origins. Giant pandas, Amur tigers, and gorillas are amongst the most popular animals to see here. A good choice of lunch options, as well as kid’s playgrounds, allow you and your family to spend a pleasant day at Calgary Zoo. Easily accessible by C-Train light rail, the zoo sits only a short journey east of the city centre. 

Originally known as Calgary Centennial Planetarium, Telus Spark is a science centre which houses interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations. Learn about our universe in the Dome Theatre, build something with real tools in the Open Studio Workshop, discover the connections between various energies in the Energy & Innovation section. The focus here is on learning through hands-on experience. Telus Spark also hosts a restaurant. It sits 2.5 km east northeast of downtown Calgary.

Take a breath of fresh air in the Canadian Prairies, 25 km southeast of Calgary city centre. As its name implies, Calgary Corn Maze & Fun Farm is a themed park dedicated to the agricultural culture of Western Canada. Covering almost 50,000 sq m, the main corn maze the park is named after will certainly keep your children occupied for a while. The maze isn’t the only attraction here. From petting farm animals to sliding in potato sacks, there’s a wide range of fun games and activities to keep the family entertained while visiting Calgary Corn Maze & Fun Farm.

Sat on the south-eastern outskirts of Calgary, Shakers Fun Centre is a 2-hectare indoor and outdoor entertainment park filled with activities for children of all ages. Your little ones will enjoy themselves in the Inflatable Village, while older kids will have fun rock climbing or battling each other in the Laser Tag Galaxy. Shakers Fun Centre hosts 7 attractions in total. Hearty snacks and drinks are also available.

Stretching along the Bow River 15 km south of the city centre, Fish Creek Provincial Park is one of the largest urban parks in North America. Here, you’ll find an extensive trail system for hiking or cycling, a large artificial lake bordered with beaches, and many caves to explore. The park is home to an abundant wildlife including beavers, deer, and coyote that are frequently spotted. You’ll find 2 restaurants next to the park’s headquarters, but bringing a picnic is an even better idea as tables are available throughout the park. 

A First Nation and former-European cross-cultural hot spot, Fort Calgary is the historic birthplace of the city. Founded in 1875 at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow Rivers, it’s at once a museum and an educational and entertainment centre. Children can dress up as Mounties – constables of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police – and discover their major role in the establishment of Canada. Located on a 16-hectare plot of land, a 10 minute walk from the city centre, Fort Calgary offers an insight into the area’s rich history. 

High chairs, a kids’ menu, and change tables are 3 of the must-have items that ensure a restaurant is family-friendly. Calgary doesn’t lack such establishments and we’ve selected some of the best and most popular of these here. Clive Burger on 17 Avenue SW is a casual and affordable venue serving classic Canadian favourites crowned by its yummy Alberta beef. Phil's belongs to a popular restaurant chain and features a dedicated menu, activity books, and brain teasers for the children. To treat the sweet-toothed, delicious frozen desserts are available at any of the 3 Village Ice Cream branches in Calgary.

Located right to the south of Calgary Airport, The Hangar Flight Museum takes you for a journey through the history of aviation in Canada via its exhibit of over 20 aircraft and over 50 aeronautical engines. This museum houses well-preserved vintage aeroplanes and helicopters and may well inspire dreams of flight in its visitors, especially children.

Speeders Indoor ProKarts is the right place if you’re looking for some speed-based excitement. Located just west of the airport, in a well-maintained and modern venue, Speeders Indoor ProKarts is equipped with first-class electric karts. Children must be at least 150 cm tall to join the races, which each last roughly 10 minutes. Expect an adrenaline rush as these electric-powered karts are really fast. Snacks and drinks are available on site.