CalgaryBest parks and gardens
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The 50 best parks and gardens in Calgary
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Wanderlog staff
Updated • updatedSep 10, 2025
Updated • updatedSep 10, 2025
Calgary is a city that beautifully blends urban life with nature, offering a plethora of parks and gardens that cater to every outdoor enthusiast. From the sprawling trails of Nose Hill Park, where you can catch breathtaking views of the downtown skyline, to the serene waters of Bowness Park, there's a green space for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're looking to hike, bike, or simply relax with a picnic, Calgary's parks provide the perfect backdrop for a day out in the fresh air.
As you explore these lush landscapes, you'll discover hidden gems like the tranquil Pearce Estate Park, where nature lovers can wander along scenic trails, or the vibrant Devonian Gardens, a tropical oasis nestled within the Core Shopping Centre. Each park has its own unique charm, making it easy to find your favorite spot to unwind. So grab your friends or family, and get ready to explore the best parks and gardens that Calgary has to offer!
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Park
Nature & Parks
Islands
Prince's Island Park, located in the heart of Calgary, is a former sawmill site transformed into an urban oasis. It offers picnic areas, winding trails, and regular major events. The park features historical landmarks like the Deane House and River Cafe, as well as sculptures and art pieces. Visitors can enjoy recreational activities such as canoeing in summer and cross-country skiing in winter.
It's such a beautiful park. Flower arrangements were very creative. The trees are great. Kids' play structure is newer and a lot of fun. The new black squirrels were neat to see for the first time. Only down side was the men's washroom. Two of the toilets were completely disgusting. The place needs an upgrade badly.
Dragos N — Google review
Came here for Folk Fest and it did not disappoint! It is an amazing venue to hold such a popular festival. There are multiple stages with remarkably good sound systems and plenty of natural grass to sit on.
The breeze from the river sure is welcome under the hot sun 🌞
There is a great big children's playground here that is quite popular. The benches around it are perfect for parents to sit at while letting their kids burn off their energy.
In the Spring there are plenty of Canada geese that nest 🪺 and prepare their goslings for life outside the nest. With all of the natural beauty it is a great escape from the urban jungle just across the bridge.
Amazing nice park in the middle of city. parking is free (limited spots) after 6pm. nice clean park. play area for kids. lot of beaches for barbeque. nice little ice cream shop. Must visit park
Super nice quiet park in the heart of downtown. Lots of space, large trees, benches, flower gardens. With the river on both sides it really is a quiet area. Everyone at the park is doing the same thing - just enjoying.
Can be super busy on summer weekends or holidays. So bicycling can be a slow process because of the crowds!
Excellent park with broad walkway, washrooms, great view of river and downtown, must visit this park if you are at peace bridge. You can even rent a neuron e bike/scooter to stroll around. Great place to spend a nice evening. Lots of picnic spots were available both shaded and unshaded. Public washrooms were at the River Cafe there is even a playground with lots of kids activity for kids to have fun. Highly recommended park in the heart of Calgary. Parking is mostly on streets on either side of the river. Check out the videos & imaged & follow for more detailed reviews.
Nice park, not far from downtown Calgary if you're on foot. It was cold and windy when we went there, but the parked seemed nice nonetheless. We saw many squirrels and there are beautiful flowers everywhere. Also a good spot to take some pictures of Bow River, but in a sunny day it must be much nicer.
I parked at the Crescent Heights scenic point and walked into the Prince’s Island Park via the connecting stairs. Pro: I did not need to worry about parking and could instead focus on how BEAUTIFUL the park was and how joyful the people were. Con: I had to walk up a gazillion stairs to get back to my car. Depending on your enthusiasm for cardio, this con can become your pro as I saw a bunch of people exercising by running up and down the stairs. I cannot relate. This may be an ignorant American viewpoint, but are Canadians just that much happier and healthier?? I went on a 2-mile (sorry I don’t know what that is in kilometers) walk around the park and not only did I see beautiful views, I also interacted with lovely people. There were many recreational enjoyers of the park and they took the time to look me in the eyes and smiled at me?? The camaraderie was off the charts. With that said, I feel for the homeowners who live right next to the park because they have to deal with very loud car pollution from the road (side facing Crescent Heights). While walking back to my car, I did have the thought that I should’ve brought my noise canceling headphones because it was so loud that I could not think. If the city of Calgary can invest in safer streets by converting that arterial road into bike and pedestrian paths instead, that would make the park experience that much better. It is my wishful thinking, and I think it could work since driving on that road didn’t seem all that stress-free either. It was clogged up with anxious drivers waiting to get the heck out of there, and it was where I heard the first loud horn during my stay in Canada.
Nice place to take a stroll. It is nice to see the park under every different seasons.
You will appreciate to sit on a bench and read a nice book while enjoying the scenery.
There is a cafe situated in the park if you want to enjoy a hot beverage.
Squirrels and ducks will be your companion in your journey.
698 Eau Claire Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 5N4, Canada•
Park
Nature & Parks
Nature preserve
Provincial park
Fish Creek Provincial Park is a vast outdoor space with extensive hiking and biking trails, as well as a man-made lake and diverse wildlife. It's an ideal spot for birdwatching near major cities like Calgary and Edmonton, offering opportunities to see swans at Frank Lake or explore various parks in northern Alberta. Situated along Fish Creek, the park spans about 12 miles and is the largest of its kind in Canada. The Bebo Grove Loop within the park provides a tranquil 4.
Fish Creek Provincial Park is one of the largest urban parks in Canada, located in the southern part of Calgary. It spans over 13.5 square kilometers (5.2 square miles) and offers a mix of forested areas, open grasslands, and the winding Fish Creek, which flows into the Bow River.
John S — Google review
Fish Creek Provincial Park is one of the largest urban parks in Canada, located in Calgary, Alberta. Spanning over 13.5 square miles (35 square kilometers), the park offers a mix of natural areas, picnic spots, and pathways for walking, biking, and birdwatching. The park follows the course of Fish Creek, which flows through the Bow River, and is known for its lush ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and meadows. Wildlife such as deer, beavers, and a variety of bird species can be seen in the park.
Fish Creek Provincial Park is also home to historical landmarks, including the Bow Valley Ranch, as well as visitor facilities such as the Sikome Aquatic Facility, which is a man-made lake open for swimming during the summer. The park’s extensive trail system makes it a popular destination for outdoor activities, nature enthusiasts, and families.
.:.Chat.G.P.T.:.
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.
I found the variety of landscapes refreshing. There are quiet spots by the river perfect for reflection or even a picnic, and more open areas where you can feel the breeze and soak in the sun. Wildlife is abundant here, making it easy to spot birds, deer, and even the occasional beaver.
For me, Fish Creek is more than just a park—it’s a place to relax, reset, and appreciate nature. If you’re in Calgary and looking for an outdoor adventure that doesn’t take you far from the city, this park is a must-visit!
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.
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.
I have visited the Fish Creek Provincial Park three times in a month time; nevertheless, I have not yet explored it completely, for it is the second largest urban protected natural area in Canada that sprawls in an area of over 13.4 square kms. The enormous park provides picturesque natural scenes of forest area, grassy lands, lots of hills of various heights, creek, ponds, lakes, and over hundred trails and roads.
I have yet to explore the southern side of the enormous park where Sikome Lake is situated. I intend to visit the park again to see some wild animals, birds, and the lake, soon.
The park has more than 100 km paths of paved and unpaved trails as well as plenty of beaten paths for activities such as walking, jogging, running, cycling, ascending and descending hills, and capturing natural scenes of wildlife's flora and fauna.
The creek that gives an impression of a mighty, long river is a prepossessing part of the park. There are some benches to relax and tables to enjoy picnic with your family and/or friends at several places and near the creek. Also, there are clean washrooms at different places in the park and along the creek.
Today, for the fourth time, I visited the park. I went to the Sikome Lake which was way more beautiful and bigger than I had thought after seeing some of the pictures. Although there is an entry fee and a weekday, there were hundreds of people on a Wednesday evening. Had I not gone to the lake, I wouldn't have been able to see the extremely beautiful part of the park.
Anyone visiting Calgary must add this park in their things to do in the beautiful city.
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Park
Nature & Parks
Nose Hill Park, located on the outskirts of the city, is a spacious and tranquil natural park known for its abundant wildlife and archeological finds. It offers a variety of recreational activities such as walking, hiking, and cycling along numerous trails. The park boasts diverse ecosystems including Rough Fescue grassland and native Canadian flora.
It's a wonderful park right on the edge of the city. No missed in sight tho.
..We absolutely loved walking the endless amount of trails and a very nice place to visit.
Scott R — Google review
Tons of trails, beautiful colors in the fall, some hidden treasures (archaeological indigenous history)to find that are apparently 1000’s of years old, an off leash dog park(dog must stay in leash till you find the off leash area-well marked), and just a great way to get out of the city within the city.
I decided to pop by here to explore Calgary's nature, and Nose Hill did not disappoint! What a huge and beautiful place, with so much open space and so many trails to follow around. The views and the sense of scale are fantastic, and there's a lot of interesting biodiversity if you look closely.
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
Gorgeous park with panoramic views over the city including downtown Calgary.
There’s a variety of trails from more technical mountain biking ones to easy gravel options. There’s multiple places of interest to stop including a rock maze, Glacier hill, rocks, ponds, etc.
Most trails are unshaded and requires uphill walking from the parking lot
I love this park, and I haven’t even had the opportunity (nor do I think I ever will fully) to explore the entire park!
I typically start out at the Shaganappi Trail NW entrance. My pup is able to be off leash as soon as we get to the entrance from the parking lot. I love how much off-leash space there is for the pups.
And it’s a great walk and view! I can’t wait to experience it in the summer.
I enjoyed a Saturday morning walk across Nose Hill Park. Its the perfect spot for a hike or just a leisurely stroll. The trails are extensive and well maintained, there are some signboards and maps to let you know where you are, and its dog-friendly - dogs are welcome everywhere with some off-leash areas too.
The park is enormous and even at the weekend it never feels busy. There's some great view points of downtown Calgary and some other great photo opportunities. Highly recommend for anyone looking to enjoy nature without even having to leave the city.
A stunning space right on the edge of the city. We absolutely loved walking the endless amount of trails. This is such a wonderful resource for anyone looking to walk, run, bike, dog walk, or just sit with nature for a bit.
6465 14 St NW, Calgary, AB T3K 2P6, Canada•
Park
Outdoor Activities
Hiking Trails
Edworthy Park is a serene natural oasis located along the Bow River in Calgary. It offers various amenities such as trails, fire pits, BBQ areas, playgrounds, and off-leash dog zones. The park is home to the famous Douglas Fir Trail, a 2.5 km path that winds through dense woods and showcases impressive Douglas-fir trees and diverse wildlife.
Is your dog wound up and in need of some exercise? Edworthy Park is the perfect spot to let em unwind! It’s my go-to off-leash dog walking destination in the city. The people are friendly, the dogs are happy, and the views are stunning. At times, it feels like you’re miles away from the city, especially on the east side of the park among the trees.
You can park in the first lot as you enter and enjoy pathways that extend all the way to the third parking lot. If you prefer not to stick to pathways, the main area usually has plenty of dogs for yours to socialize with.
The only drawback? There are no washrooms! So if nature calls, just remember: it’s not just your dog that might need to answer!
Ryan S — Google review
It's a huge park, but the area our GPS took us seemed like it took forever/ was convoluted.
Lots of open space. We seemed to be at the off leash dog park, which was fine because we love dogs. But we didn't have our furry friend with us at the time. Lots of paths and such. No paved areas. There were several benches in one area to have a rest. Beautiful view of parts of the city, especially with fall colour's.
Very nice place to visit, relax, take a walk, hike, bike or go with a group have picnics, barbecues and have a superb time. The Bow river flows bordering the park, which is absolutely great to get our feet wet, have a nice dip in hot weather and such. 😊
Very family friendly, must visit atleast once. The place is accessible by transit, has goo connectivity to bike paths and is right next to major roads. Recommend it for sure! 😃
Edworthy Park is an enormous picnic place with plenty of open and covered picnic areas, tables, children play grounds, a lot of unending paved and unpaved trails, and huge parking areas on either side of the river that is accessible by an over bridge on foot or by bicycles. In order to park my car on the other side of the river, I had to take a long route; I followed the phone GPS.
The popular picnic spot has hygienic, well- maintained washrooms and a cafeteria to cater to the needs of the visitors.
A very energetic, exhilarating, and mesmerizing place for people of all ages and kinds.
Spend splendid time with kids here and we loved the place. However it’s a busy place on weekends and difficult to find car parking slots near the railway crossing area. Peculiarly of the park is there are hills, cycling paths, kids play areas, many trees so we will get enough shades , good for gathering party, one railway line where trains often run, many washrooms, and moreover we can get into the bow river.
I was really impressed with this park. I have lived in Calgary for about 25 years but never came to this park for some reason. It's right on the Bow River, has lots of picnic sites and there are fields to play sports in. I hiked the Douglas Fir Trail and it was wonderful. If you go to Edworthy Park, definitely consider trying this trail. Note: it is not an easy hike and not very safe for kids since some parts are fairly steep/slippery. P.S. - Bring bug spray for the warmer months.
It nice yellowish view during fall. You can park here and ride a bike a long the bow river path to downtown. There are plenty of children playground and picnic area.
Great park offering everything from trails in the woods, paved trails, along the water, children's areas, picnic areas with fire pits. Walking along the south side you can go almost 6km! A great gem in the middle of the city. Highly recommended to check out as all the locals know how great it is.
5050 Spruce Dr SW, Calgary, AB T3C 3B2, Canada•
Park
Prairie Winds Park, located in Northeast Calgary, underwent a significant $11.9 million renovation completed in 2017, making it a must-visit destination for families. The park boasts an array of amenities including basketball courts, cricket pitch, fitness stations, and an impressive playscape with a zip line and water features like a lazy river, spray park, and wading pool.
I love to visit this spacious park whenever I find leisure time. It's best for walking and jogging. Kids also enjoy it. I will say, it's one of the best parks in Castleridge.
Rashda K — Google review
Had the most amazing experience at the park, the view from the top of the hill is just wow. I would really just want you to take a stroll and a hike around the park, you will feel the beauty of nature around you. The kids play area near the main hill is also very good. It's just great 😃
Prairie Winds Park is a fantastic spot for a fun day out, especially with its excellent splash pad that kids absolutely love. The park is clean, well-maintained, and offers plenty of space for families to relax and play. However, the pool was closed during our visit, which was a bit disappointing, especially on a very hot day when we expected a lot of people. Despite this, the splash pad and other amenities still made it an enjoyable experience. Overall, a great place to cool off and have fun, but it would be even better if the pool were open.
Great park, but can get busy on a weekend or when there are school events thats when I will avoid it as there can be a whole lot people especially in the paddlepool. The park also has a nice kids play zone which has slides, swings, zipline and more. There is a nice hill that you can climb for a good view of the city there are ice cream and food truck. The park is well maintained with nice flowers all around. Parking is enough but again can be limited on a busy day. Washrooms had change room & stand up showers and were well kempt again depending on the amount of people in the pool area. Ther is a splash park and outdoor shower zone. There are ample picnic benches both shaded and unshaded. Over all kids had a lot of fun. Prarie wind park has all that you need playground, splash park, paddle pool, basketball, soccer, cricket & tennis court, trails, hill with nice view, picnic benches, washrooms, parking & more. Check out videos & images & Follow for more.
We were only here for a short time, wow, what an amazing park. Cool large playground, cricket field, water park etc. Pathways are well maintained and you get a good view of the airport runway from the top of the hill. What a neat place. A little bit for almost everyone.
This park has it all for everyone in the family.
It has a huge wading pool, a tennis court, basketball courts, a zip line, a splash pad area.
Lots of walking trails and a hill that's a good work-out to walk up and down and is especially great for tobogganing in winter.
Has lots of benches to sit and relax and several gazebos with benches and tables. The kids love the park.
This is an amazing park to bring the kids on a hot day! The wading pool is clean and large enough to accommodate a crowd.
Get here early to assure a good spot on the grass in a shaded area.
I definitely will be bringing the kids back and recommend this area to others!
My family has spent fun time together in the park every summer since they opened. It is clean and has big capacity for about 200 people. But you should come early to claim the best space around the pool. There is a splash area, washrooms, and change rooms near the pools.
When done with swimming, the kids can play in the playground just beside the pool area.
We're so happy that we can enjoy this amazing experience for free. We can't wait to visit here again next summer!
223 Castleridge Blvd NE, Calgary, AB T3J 1P6, Canada•
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Park
Nature & Parks
In Northwest Calgary, Riley Park is a large and family-friendly green space complete with a wading pool, gardens, playground, and cricket pitch.
Great Park near downtown.
Has 2 cricket pitches, wading pool, kids play area and many picnic tables.
Full of flower bed in Summers. Kids playground ans jogging track.
Bharat V — Google review
Love this park, we visited while in Calgary. Awesome for kids of all ages, you can picnic, swim or play on sldes just to name a few. There are also benches and lifeguards on duty. The changing rooms and washrooms were also clean.
No dogs are allowed, the place is also well maintained, with free parking on Sundays and holidays. That's always a welcomed plus.
This is somewhere i will definately visit again.
A beautiful walk in the summer, great bike paths, and amazing view in the winter months. I watched the sunrise in the winter leaving work on my night shift. The full moon was amazing as I heard to work.
Pretty good park, they've cleaned up a lot in recent years. Great place to bring a family. Pretty flower gardens.
This is a beautiful park in the vicinity of downtown, Calgary. It has plenty of trees, grassy ground, benches to enjoy shade or sun, and a paved trail to enjoy walking, jogging, or cycling.
The park has a children play ground with lots of equipment to amuse children of diverse interests, and It is always buzzling with children.
The park has a city and district cricket league established in 1908, a well-built pitch, net practice area, and a lot of cricketers of different age groups and genders exercising, stretching, running, practicing, or playing tournament matches. The league has many teams, and anyone can join a team and practice or play there.
The park is popular for its wadding pool for all ages of people. Currently it is closed to the public. I have never wadded in a pool, so I look forward to visit the park once the pool is made available to the public.
Street parking is available on the streets for which you have to pay, but after 6:00 pm and on Sundays, you may park for free.
I cannot agree more with one of the reviewers who said this park was an oasis.
A smaller park not too far from downtown in the NW. It is perfect for families and anyone who wants to relax in the sun, but it's not big enough for biking or going for a walk. It's quite pretty. There are flowers, a wading pool, The Calgary & District Cricket League (founded 1908) and now the Riley Park Bandshell. I definitely recommend it (as long as you're okay with lots of people).
A nice and cozy park close to DT. It has lots of open space to spend some good family time. There is a splash pad as well during the summer. Children play ground area is also nice.
Free access to a wading pool, a cricket pitch, a lovely flower garden, and a playground. It can get pretty busy, and you will need to be aware of the occasional bandaid in the water, but overall a fantastic inner Calgary spot to enjoy a summer day. Highly recommend.
When you are done, check out Another Dimension Comics, just across the street. And if you are hungry, Sidewalk Citizen is a minute past AD, a great market/bakery.
Aug 7 2022 update: Still awesome. Bring water guns, camping chairs, grub and good company. Now you've got a stew going.
800 12 St NW, Calgary, AB T2N 0S2, Canada•
Park
Shouldice Park, located in Northwest Calgary and named after the generous James Shouldice, is a delightful blend of athletic facilities and serene green spaces. Spanning an impressive 28 hectares, this park offers a plethora of activities for visitors to enjoy. From picnic areas to an aquatic center and even a boat ramp, there's something for everyone. The inclusive playground within Shouldice Park features accessible flooring and ramps that cater to children of all abilities, ensuring that playtime is fun for every little one.
Shouldice park is big park. To many thing to do there once you in, u can boating , biking,basketball,many picnic tables and also beautiful play ground for the kids. the place clean. Peoples can bike or walk the old bridge made by the wood. It’s amazing. Kids can play the side of lake.
Johnnalyn M — Google review
It is a nice place for kids and adults. I took my family in July. I feel that it has good options for kids, but not that awesome place. I would rather be in edworthy park. If you are a bow river fan than it has nice spots to sit and enjoy the river. I loved that it has tennis courts open to public and really well maintained
Probably the best and the safest playground I've ever seen in Alberta. My kids love this playground; they can spend up to 3 hours nonstop playing until we ask them to stop. The design, the colour, the variety, and some educational parts, such as the Braille alphabet, are unique. Highly recommended!!
Gorgeous park! Great playground for the kids, lot's of walking paths with tones of trees, shade and easy access to the river!
Review for Tennis/Pickleball court (May 21, 2023)
The location is beautiful but the Tennis court (all 4 of them) needs urgent repair. It seems maintenance hasn’t been done for past few years, there are cracks all over the place.
Parking closer to the Tennis court is limited but there’s more parking at the entrance.
We had a church BBQ here and it was a blast. Great view of the Bow river and rafts, a basketball court, a playground for the kids with several fun things to do. If you want to do a family picnic, this is a good place to come. Lots of parking also.
Lovely park. Great place to visit with kids or to just relax. There's plenty of picnic tables to rest at right next to the river.
Great park with things to do from toddler to teen! Also has sections that are wheelchair acessable so thats a plus. Loved the musical chimes and drums. Go before 10am if you dont want it to be too busy
4900 Monserrat Dr NW, Calgary, AB T3B 1H9, Canada•
Island
Nature & Parks
Parks
St. Patrick's Island, located next to the Calgary Zoo, is a picturesque urban park that offers a variety of recreational activities for both locals and visitors. The park features hiking and biking trails, a public plaza, an amphitheater, playgrounds, and restored river channels. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of downtown Calgary from the western edge of the island or take a leisurely stroll to The Rise, a grassy knoll used for community events and outdoor entertainment.
Accessible by a bridge. Has a lovely pond and seating. Green+Blue=Serene
Anddddd it is an everchanging island.😮
Saba A — Google review
We had a brief pit stop while rafting on inflatable boat , sharing several photos taken here.
One reason we stopped here is it’s just unique. Accessed by a little bridge via a big bridge, it has a little pond (which is connected to the river) for the kids to splash in and throw rocks. My girls enjoyed the minnows nibbling their feet. It wasn’t busy on a weekday but not quiet either, lots of families with their kids as well as people biking by. It also has a few picnic tables and lots of seating.
Scenic and lovely place. Although the water was a bit gunky I believe it was because the water level is low, once it rises a lot of that will be washed away.
Welcome to my Island! St. Patrick’s Island is a peaceful green escape right in the middle of Calgary. With scenic trails, cozy picnic spots, and great views of the Bow River, it’s the perfect place to relax, explore, or just enjoy the sunshine. Quiet, clean, and full of charm—my kind of island getaway!
Calm and relaxing park away from too much people (mostly they are in Prince’s Island Park)
There’s a pond where you can have a picnic, chill on a blanket, throw stones on the water or just look at the calm canopy of trees.
St. Patrick Island is a bit long, connected to Calgary Zoo. There’s a really good trail for running, fireplace/grill, clean washrooms and parking lot.
The island is wonderful but right now the weather is quite sad
The city has really cleaned the park up and made it a wonderful addition to the Bow walk and to downtown. Lots of events going on during the summer and fall there. An enjoyable way to get to Inglewood, Bridgeland, or downtown.
Very beautiful and peaceful. See lots of birds and a great view of downtown.
Park
Nature & Parks
Historic Walking Areas
Bowness Park, a 74-acre park in Calgary, offers a serene escape with its lagoon, boat rentals, and winter ice skating. The park features mature trees, picnic areas with fire pits and BBQ stands, a boathouse, train rides, a tea house, and two playgrounds. Families can enjoy pathways for exploration and access to the Bow River. The park also includes a wading pool with in-ground spray fountains for kids to splash around in on the pool deck.
An ideal destination for families and couples. You can enjoy a cup of coffee and ski across the expansive area or simply stroll through the park. Additionally, skiing equipment is available for rent, and a free ski helper is provided.
Sveta K — Google review
Bowness Park has always been our favorite Fall spot. It's so beautiful that we keep coming back every year to do our yearly fall photos. It's also a great park during summer as there is a waterpark free for kids. Also, lots of people enjoy the bow river rafting with their own rafts or rental. Some people actually go swimming too, although I'm sure the water will be too cold. Winter is also beautiful as people can ice skate along the park. You can do a walking/biking loop trail from here to Baker Park, which is very easy. You will have to pass a nice bridge that connects the river. Path is open all season. There is also a path at the end (close to the green bridge) going up to the community residential area. People walk or even bike going up there. It is now fully developed. There is a lot of squirrel in the area, which is a treat for the kids. If you need to get drinks, there's a small shop that sells beverages, which is great, especially during the winter season. I love this park as it's very spacious and has a lot to offer. Also summer time if you get lucky, there's a guy that plays music and collects donations for a few charities.
Went there with family, it was the best! Everyone enjoyed the peaceful bow river. Took a long walk and it was 100% worth it. BUT BRING SUNSCREEN AND BUG SPRAY! There are lots of mosquitoes in the season I went, so be prepared! Raft rental available! We went up a ramp and followed a trail. MUST GO ON THAT WALK! there are stairs too if you prefer. A little park with flowers and cute bear statue too! Brings back memories when I went as a kid!!!
Great place to walk around, go for a picnic and BBQ if living in Calgary!
There is a boathouse as well at a very reasonable price!
You can book your picnic sites by calling 311.
During the fall season the views are splendid, you can do fall photography at the best here.
There is a cute tiny rail for the toy train as well.
Benches, picnic tables are available all around the park.
You can also bring your own portable stove and cook at any available picnic table.
If you are booking picnic sites then you have your own shed and fire pit to enjoy
The view there was really mesmerizing and one of the best place to witness sunset near Riverside and also a great place. Can calm your mind and also has a damn scenery in fall.
A park where you can experience a splendid summer. Despite recent issues, it's still a beautiful neighborhood. If I lived here, I would be so happy. I should come back for a barbecue later. Walking along the quiet paths, it felt like happiness would stay by my side forever. It's a great place to enjoy the leisure of everyday life. It has a different atmosphere from Bow River.
My favourite park in the city tied with Prince's Island! It's very pretty and a great place to come for a picnic, BBQ, with a boat, or just to hangout near the Bow river. I run here and it's always nice to see people having fun and existing.
Great place for kids too, as there's plenty of playground areas, and even a little train for them to ride!
Bowness Park is a delightful oasis in Calgary, offering a blend of natural beauty and recreational amenities. The lagoon is perfect for paddle boating in the summer, and the park's walking paths provide scenic views year-round. With picnic areas, playgrounds, and a charming tea house, it's a fantastic destination for families, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful day by the water.
8900 48 Ave NW, Calgary, AB T3B 2B2, Canada•
Park
Nature & Parks
Nestled in Calgary's southwest, South Glenmore Park is a vibrant waterfront oasis that beckons families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This expansive green space features a stunning 15.3 km loop trail around the Glenmore Reservoir, perfect for hiking or biking year-round. The park is not just about trails; it also offers an aquatic playground with a massive spray pad to help you cool off during those hot summer days.
The beautiful scenery is peaceful, and you get to breathe in the fresh air. I walked around the lake and ended up taking over 20,000 steps without even realizing it. It's a fantastic place for social gatherings and for nature lovers.
Terry U — Google review
Not as many trees as the North Glenmore Park. Quite abeautiful riverside walking trail & cycling lane, once you pass the Private Boat Parking area. Follow it and you will reach Heritage Park.
South Glenmore Park is an absolute gem in Calgary! I love the scenic walking trails that offer stunning views of the reservoir. The park features a well-maintained bike path that stretches over 16 kilometers, perfect for cycling enthusiasts. The highlight for families is the fantastic water park, which provides endless fun for kids on hot summer days. The only downside is that in the summer the parking lot can get quite full.
I like to walk the entire loop, and if you arrive early in the morning it’s super quiet, not busy and the wildlife is very active. Everyone you do end up passing is always super friendly!
My favourite place to chill on my day off, whether I just want to sit by the water or trek along the path around the perimeter of the reservoir.
I have had the opportunity to kayak from here and I recommend it, well done and beautiful 🙏
Our favorite walking path. It is about 15-16 kilometers if you walk the whole thing. Lots of great views, picnic areas and fishing too. If you go earlier in the day there is a good chance to see wildlife. Lots of photo opportunities. Paths are well maintained and marked for activity for walking and cycling. If you are walking stay on the correct side of the path to avoid run ins with cyclists. Most people on bikes let you know they are behind you. Fantastic place to observe lots of sailboats.l
South Glenmore Park is a hidden gem in Calgary! With stunning reservoir views, well-maintained trails, and great picnic spots, it's perfect for family outings. The playgrounds and splash park keep kids entertained, while birdwatching and off-leash areas cater to nature lovers and pet owners. Don't miss the beautiful sunrises and sunsets! A must-visit for a peaceful escape in the city.
The Glenmore Reservoir is absolutely beautiful. Nice bike and walking paths around it, a variety of birds, a boat launch, there used to be a water park there too, not sure if it's still there or not. Oh and tennis courts too I'm pretty sure, as well as a washroom and drinking fountain. Just a really nice place to walk your dog, go fishing, boating, running, biking, or just to visit with friends and family in a beautiful area. Oh and if you're lucky later on in the day you might spot the local bats :D
24 St SW, Calgary, AB T2V 3N8, Canada•
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Park
Nature & Parks
Carburn Park, situated along the Bow River, is a sprawling natural area with three man-made ponds that attract a diverse range of wildlife and offer opportunities for recreational activities. Originally part of Senator Patrick Burns' prairie empire, the park features trails for hiking and picnicking areas set amidst picturesque surroundings. Visitors can enjoy non-motorized water sports like canoeing and paddle boating in the summer, as well as ice skating in the winter.
Very nice park, so much natural greenery. Great walking trails by the Bow river.
You can go for a nice walk or sit on the bench and relax.
Halina B — Google review
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.
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.
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 🙏❤️
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.
This is an amazing park if you enjoy hiking, walking, biking or adventures. It's like a forest but with hiking trails. You can walk around the water spots and even kayaking there. It's better to visit the park with a group as it will be a great adventure and you should save each others backs from bugs. Yes, bugs is the only problem in this place as you will find tons of then every where, so be prepared for that. There is washing room next to the entrance, and I think that you should use it at the beginning as it will be a long walk if you want to see every spot of this park. I recommend visiting it with family, friends and relatives and bigger groups is better than few members.
Amazing park lots of benches to sit. Two ponds with boating and canoeing. Rental services available but was closed when we visited, but you can bring your own as there is a nice launching station as shown in pics. Nice trails around both ponds and few unpaved trails leading to bee hotel kids loved it. Nice view of river looking over Ikea and ample parking space. One unique thing about this park was wild life lots of birds, ducks, deers, sparrows etc plus few of them were labled so kids can easily identify. Lots of shaded and unshaded picnic benches. Over all great park must visit. Check out videos and images and follow for more.
It's an awesome park! One day, we met with a few deers, geese, duckling, and even a bald eagle. It's a really special place close to wildlife.
67 Riverview Dr S E, Calgary, AB T2C 4H8, Canada•
Park
Nature & Parks
Sue Higgins Park, formerly known as Southland Park, is a sprawling 62-hectare riverside park located in the southeast corner of Calgary. It boasts the city's largest fenced off-leash area, making it a popular destination for dog owners. The park features walking paths, picnic tables, and abundant green space along the Bow River.
"Step into a paradise tailored for our four-legged companions and their devoted owners! This dog park is a testament to the joy and camaraderie shared between dogs and humans alike. As you enter, a sense of excitement fills the air as pups of all breeds and sizes romp freely across lush green fields, their tails wagging with boundless enthusiasm.
The attention to detail is evident in every corner, from the meticulously maintained grounds to the thoughtfully placed amenities. Water stations strategically dot the landscape, providing refreshment for both canines and their caregivers. Shaded seating areas offer respite from the sun, allowing for moments of relaxation and socialization amidst the lively atmosphere.
But it's not just the physical space that makes this park exceptional—it's the sense of community that thrives within its boundaries. Here, friendships are forged, both furry and otherwise, as dog owners come together to share stories, tips, and laughter. Whether it's a game of fetch, a leisurely stroll along the designated paths, or simply basking in the joy of watching our canine companions revel in their freedom, every moment spent here is infused with warmth and camaraderie.
And let's not forget the thoughtful segregation of play areas, ensuring that dogs of all sizes can enjoy their time without worry. From the pint-sized pups to the gentle giants, each one finds their place to frolic and explore in safety and comfort.
In conclusion, this dog park isn't just a place—it's an experience. It's a celebration of the bond between humans and dogs, a sanctuary where tails wag, hearts swell, and memories are made. Whether you're a seasoned dog owner or simply looking to bask in the joy of canine companionship, this park promises an unforgettable adventure for all who enter its gates."
Mahmoud K — Google review
There are over 160 off-leash dog areas in multi used parks for Calgarians and their dogs to play and enjoy. Among all those, Sue Higgins Park, that lies in 62-hectare natural area at the banks of Bow River in Calgary South East, is the largest.
In this fenced park, there are a couple of main areas and a number of smaller fenced areas for hundreds of dogs and their human companions.
There is a 4 km loop trail that runs along the Bow River; nonetheless, it is at a significant distance from the river and is barricaded, so it does not provide any exciting and pleasing views and enjoyment to those who want to enjoy a river front-walk. There are a few benches, but my wife and I did not see anyone walking on the trail or sitting on the benches.
You may go to the other side of the river by crossing the Eric Harvey Bridge that is not far from the entrance. On this side, there are a couple of picnic tables, and the best thing is that you may go to the river and do all sorts of water activities. Walk along the river and in just 400 meters, there is a beautiful lakefront park named Carburn Park which is for families and people with children.
Although Sue Higgins Park is a good natural area with plenty of trees, bushes, marshy areas, grasslands, a paved trail along the river bank, it is created for dogs and dog owners; you may see lots of dogs at one place.
If you do not have a dog, it is a good idea to visit it once just to see the city’s largest dog park, but I do not recommend it for outings for fun and picnics with or without families. If you are scared of dogs, please do not visit this park, for you may encounter unleashed, aggressive dogs at several places.
What a great place to just let your dog roam free and wild!
Secure gates ensure your pet is always safe and secure within the confines of the park.
I let my Lab Ruby run free here for the first time, she had a blast!
She always had a huge smile on her face and the other dogs were well behaved.
If it's summer time and it's hot outside, let your dog run in the river and cool off. 😎
A great place to stretch your legs as well! We will be going back for sure. 10☆ !
Huge park with a good variety of adventure in open fields, small hills, scrub, trees and multiple (4 to be exact) places to swim along the river. All fenced. Only thing that would really improve this park (removing people and other dogs from the equation) would be to add poop bag dispensers.
Our girl (@lookandyoumacey) loves it here.
This is such a fantastic place to bring your dog for a walk and much needed socialization. Absolutely love this place and thank the city for providing this space for walker and dogs.
Having access to the river for a swim is awesome too, especially after discovering the only mud in the park.
Fantastic off-leash park with a lot of space, including down by the water. If you have a dog like mine who doesn’t care for fetch very much, this park has a lot for your pup to explore and sniff.
My dog and I really like this dog park! It is large and spacious. It has multiple paths to access the Bow river. It has plenty of garbage bins around the park so it is very easy to pick up after your dog and make the appropriate deposit. It is fully fenced in! Cheers all, and dont forget to treat your dog to a walk at Sue Higgins off leash park!!!
Great, fully fenced dog park. This is a giant dog park with three sections and river access for the dogs. There is so much room for everybody the only drawback is the tiny parking lot. My boarder Collie has so much room to run, play and socialize, it's great really good.
Southland Drive SE &, Deerfoot Trl, Calgary, AB T2J 1S1, Canada•
13Confederation Park
Mentioned on
Park
Confederation Park is a delightful urban oasis that offers convenient access for visitors. With several parking options available, including lots at 30th Avenue and 7th Street NW, as well as another at 3009 10th Street NW, getting to the park is a breeze. Additionally, there's ample access from nearby neighborhoods, making it an ideal spot for both locals and tourists looking to enjoy some fresh air and beautiful scenery.
2807 10 St NW, Calgary, AB T2M 1Y3, Canada
Park
Nature & Parks
North Glenmore Park, a 208-acre waterfront park located southwest of the Lakeview Golf Course and north of the Elbow River and Glenmore Reservoir in Calgary, offers a variety of outdoor activities. Despite its smaller size, the park is home to native wildlife and provides a peaceful escape from city life. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, playgrounds, fire pits, BBQ areas, and picnic spots.
We love this huge park! You can have a walk and enjoy the beautiful view, ride a bike, have a picnic, and so much more. It is so well maintained and has access to public washrooms.
We recently visited this park to enjoy the Monster Colour 5k event and it was a great experience.
We love to visit this park during Fall season, as the colors are amazing! 🍁🍂😌
Easy parking!
Dany V — Google review
This place is really big! We love visiting for long walks in nature, and the views are stunning in both summer and winter. There are plenty of picnic areas, playgrounds and benches to relax on. It's a fantastic spot for meditation and simply appreciating the surroundings. Plus, it's one of my dog's favorite parks
Amazing place to walk, run and have picnic on.
Lots of parking spaces, nice view of sunset. Hopefully can see it in the morning too.
Canoe club is just nearby and the rear side of Heritage park is visible too.
Just OMG! It’s a hidden gem of the city, where you can have access to breathtaking views just for FREE! LOTS of free parking lots, resting bench viewing the mountains and the river! I wanted to stay here more and watch the northern lights but the gray weather didn’t allow me to go through this experience 😞 the picnic area is beautiful and a hot spot for family event photo shoots! Definitely will be coming back here again when coming to Calgary!
Seriously, a gem! Great walking and biking paths. No swimming allowed. Kayaking, canoeing, sailing etc. Is allowed however - no air filled boats/kayaks allowed. Excellent bird watching opportunities and youth might see the odd deer too.
My recent park visit, with a focus on biking, was a fantastic experience. Glenmore Park (North & South) offers a cyclist’s paradise with its well-paved trails and scenic routes. The combination of lush greenery with touches of fall colour and well-maintained paths made for an exhilarating ride. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or just looking for some outdoor adventure, Glenmore Park provides the perfect setting. I highly recommend bringing your bike and exploring this beautiful park for a day of two-wheeled fun and nature appreciation.
Nice park. They have bbqs and some covered tables. Great for families or friends get togethers.
Very nice area to run and enjoy nature as well. You can enjoy the view of the river. As you walk by you can read on signs about the different types of birds in the area and if you look closer you might even see those species. It is indeed a nice park. From time to time you will see police cars checking the area for safety, which is nice.
The few times I have been there it has been clean and very well maintained.
Very beautiful park. Clean open spaces with swing set area for kids. Places to hang out and make a fire or have a pick-nick. Nice spot to meditate and take on the views. As of June 2018, some big parts are closed off for construction and repaving of path. I am sure it will soon be better than ever! Would recommend a visit.
7305 Crowchild Trl SW, Calgary, AB T3E 5N5, Canada•
Park
Nature & Parks
Stanley Park, located along the Elbow River in Calgary, is a 21-hectare inner city park offering a variety of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy outdoor BBQ areas, a baseball diamond, swimming and wading pools, as well as access to the river for canoeing and rafting. The park also features tennis courts, a sports field, lawn bowling, and a natural playground. Additionally, it is popular for winter tobogganing.
The parking lot has a clean washroom nearby. 25 min walk until Rideau Park Pedestrian bridge. Large lawns. Playground. Table tennis. Some barbecue and picnic along the skating rink area (which has its own parking lot)
Ly C — Google review
The park is very large, provides a perfect opportunity to witness the beautiful foliage, if you go in the autumn. In addition to the walking paths and the bike route circling the park by the sea, the scenery is self-evident. If you have the time, I highly recommend coming here for a half-day stroll and taking in the beauty of Vancouver. This time, I rented a bike to go around the park, and the ocean view and the beautiful maple leaves created a picturesque scene. After cycling around, I not only didn't feel tired, but my body and mind were very relaxed. One thing to note is that when cycling, whether stopping or starting, please be mindful of whether there are people behind you!
I recently visited Stanley Park and had a fantastic experience! One of the highlights was its proximity to the river, which provided beautiful scenic views and a serene atmosphere for a relaxing day out. The park also offers excellent amenities, including well-maintained tennis courts and an inviting outdoor pool. The $6 fee for access is quite reasonable considering the quality and range of facilities available. Overall, Stanley Park is a wonderful place for outdoor activities and enjoying nature. Highly recommended!
Great park in the heart of Calgary very scenic and calm. On weekend there can be a lot of people and hard to find parking but otherwise there is lots of free parking. There is a river which can be used like lazy river and a great spot for kids to get in water as its shallow and the playground is in front of it which has all that kids will need. There is a baseball court, tennis court, swimming pool and garden. There are even two table tennis tables free to use. There is a nice green trail for walking. Over all great place to spend a nice evening. Highly recommended. Check out videos and follow for more.
Beautiful and has lots of amenities. I can't wait for summer. If you're looking for a nice place to bring the family or just go take in Calgary's beauty, this is the place!
Beautiful park. Lots of baby geese now. A great place to spend some time with nature in our beautiful city.
This is a beautiful park along the elbow river. It has an outdoor pool in the summer months. The parking is free but can get a little diffucult to find. There are amazing flower gardens and sometimes an ice cream truck in the parking lot. Many people come here to picnic in the park or go for a leisurely tube ride in the river.
It was a great experience visiting this park today. It's full of trees and flowers, but I don't think that they are taking care of trees and plants here as I hope so, but maybe because it's fall.
The park is huge, but with few seats only, so it's a better place for walking and jogging rather than sitting and enjoying a meal.
Too many families come here to enjoy their time, and I recommend it to everyone.
4011 1a St SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2P5, Canada•
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Playground
Nestled in Calgary's East Village, the East Village Playground offers a delightful play experience for kids of all ages. The playground boasts an array of engaging features such as roller slides, rope and log climbers, drums, and a musical xylophone. Younger toddlers can safely explore the area with its accessible flooring and climb on stumps. Visitors can also enjoy stunning downtown views and nearby community gardens.
The kids really enjoy this playground. There are lots of paths around that you can take if you want to walk as well. It's a very nice area with views of the cityscape and river. Beware of homeless people in the area. I have never had any issues with them, but they are definitely around these parts.
Émilie P — Google review
We went here during Canada Day, it was so sunny and I remember that tornado warning for Didsbury. You might want to bring sunscreen in Summer as the sun is very strong and hot in this area. This place has a nice view of the Bow River and Downtown. Recommend!
We enjoyed the Canada Day 2025 fireworks from this park, such a nice experience, also the event was great, nice music and atmosphere.
Fun playground in the east village. Love that there is a natural playground as well. Kids had a great time running around and it is great that it is built for a wide range of ages.
This playground is best suited for pre-schoolers and up, but my toddler still had some fun here. The playground floor is rubber, which is better for a toddler who is still learning to walk.
There are plenty of tables and chairs available. I brought a coffee and a sandwich from the nearby coffee shop and enjoyed a nice picnic with my child.
Dog park is next to the children playground and I saw big dogs passing through next to children playground, kind of scary.
Beautiful scenery near the river. Playground made from natural materials. A beautiful community garden near. Lots of fun by the water.
Excellent!
NB 6 St SE @, 8 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2E 4E2, Canada•
Botanical garden
Nature & Parks
Garden
Playground
Devonian Gardens is a lush indoor botanical garden nestled within the Toronto Dominion Square in Calgary, Alberta. This hidden gem features over 20,000 plants, meandering walkways, and a captivating sculpture court under a vast roof garden. Visitors can admire fishponds teeming with rainbow trout, koi carp, goldfish, and turtles while enjoying art exhibitions and performances.
Okay, this is not an extensive Botanical Garden, but it's still a lovely place, in the middle of a shopping center. They have a nice selection of different plants. Love the different textures and blooms. Signage is available to let you know what you are looking at. Some excellent spots for taking photos or selfies.
The many people I saw, individuals, couples and families were all enjoying the chance to spend some time indoors (it was a little chilly outside) but still be in nature.
Nice :)
Scott W — Google review
A really relaxing setting, I love it! Great to sit solo or with someone and catch up! I grabbed some food and a brew from the food court to the right of the gardens and then found a table within the gardens to eat and relax. The gardens are made up of water features, plants and usually fish in the deeper ponds too, however none this time. There is renovation work going on and has been for years one way or another as I was last here 8 years ago and the gardens were closed!
A great little indoor oasis, good for an especially hot or rainy day. Sadly when we visited the koi pond was closed for renovations, but all of the beautiful plants and flowers and water features were enjoyable. Grab some grub at the food court nearby and soak in the ambience of the greenery.
Beautiful place to spend time. Whenever I come to shop at Simon's, I always stop in the gardens. The koi fish pond was closed due to renovations (sad) but they have updated it so much! Very relaxing atmosphere. Great little indoor park for small kids, very close to the food court. Sitting at the tables inside the gardens even though a public area, still felt very private. Always have a lovely time when I go!
A beautiful, peaceful spot in the heart of downtown ,perfect for lunch breaks or a quiet escape, especially on cold days. The greenery is lush, and seeing little sparrows fly around made it feel extra special. There’s also a small playground for kids.
That said, a couple of things could be improved. The garden is located on the 4th floor of a mall, but there weren’t any clear signs or directions to find it ,I had trouble locating it, especially since I was in a bit of a rush. Also, the washrooms in the garden lacked basic supplies like hand soap and paper towels, which was disappointing. Still, a great place to unwind!
An absolute must visit, it's on the 4th floor of the CORE mall, an absolute oasis, just beautiful space, even a playground for the kids. Water features, endless spots with tables, eating areas. Great place to come to relax in indoor nature for free.
Beautiful space in the downtown core. Must visit. I went for an event,and explored the place. Plenty of places to sit, relax and for an informal meetings. A good place for visitors 😃. I guess it would be great to visit in winter 🥶 cold outside and warm tropic inside. Variety of plants.
This is a botanical garden on the top floor of the shopping centre. It has a large food court. The area was clean and good access to toilets. The ambience was pleasant and refreshing. There are skywalk links to avoid the busy roads below.
in the CORE Shopping Centre, 317 7 Ave SW 4 floor, Calgary, AB T2P 0W4, Canada•
Park
Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Inglewood Bird Sanctuary, located in Calgary, is a peaceful haven for birds and people alike. Established over 80 years ago, it's a favorite spot for birdwatchers with 270 different species of birds recorded here. The sanctuary offers picnic facilities, walking trails through forests and open grasslands, an outdoor classroom, and a learning center. Visitors can also explore the fishing pond and learn about local wildlife at the Nature Centre.
Fantastic walk with the family, enjoying God's beautiful scenery.
Small museum at the front, side gate on the side of the museum which allows access to the sanctuary.
Birds, deer, porcupines, beavers have been seen here.
Best time to go, in my opinion, is Fall!
See photos.
L. S — Google review
We took a beautiful walk along the river, where we saw lots of wood ducks, magpies, northern flickers, two sharp shinned hawks and both a juvenile and adult bald eagle. There are benches along the trail that provide peaceful places to sit and watch the river flow by. This sanctuary is close to downtown Calgary with plenty of parking and a very nice visitor center with washrooms. I’d love to visit during the peak of spring and fall migration. I’m sure it’s teeming with birds then!
Inglewood Bird Sanctuary in Calgary, Canada, is a delightful haven for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers alike. My visit was thoroughly enjoyable, as the sanctuary offered a serene and picturesque environment. The well-maintained trails are clearly marked, making it easy to navigate through the lush greenery and various habitats that attract a diverse array of bird species.
The sanctuary is home to numerous bird species, and I was fortunate to spot several during my visit, including some rare finds. Each trail is designed to enhance the viewing experience, with strategically placed benches and viewing platforms that allow for unobstructed observation of the birds in their natural surroundings.
The reception center is impressively designed, providing a welcoming atmosphere with a wealth of information about the sanctuary and its inhabitants. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, offering insights and answering questions with enthusiasm. The center also features clean and well-maintained washrooms, which are a much-appreciated convenience.
Overall, Inglewood Bird Sanctuary is a gem in Calgary, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're a seasoned bird watcher or just looking for a tranquil place to enjoy nature, this sanctuary is well worth a visit. Highly recommended for its beautiful trails, abundant bird life, and excellent facilities.
It’s a nice place to visit with family and kids. My kiddo enjoyed the walk over those bridges and finding new birds. There is a small but beautiful museum through which we start the bird watching walk. It’s a free entry and with beautiful views and so many words.
Lovely area. Fairly large walking path with excellent bridges. Lots of birds, also ran into deer chasing a coyote which was exciting. Birds and thrills.
The Colonel Walker House was a neat viewing, historical sight. Lots of nice river areas. In general a beautiful spot and hidden gem in Calgary. Must visit.
Nice and quiet, close to downtown, sufficient parking area, free entrance fee, many benches and some tables with roof over head. A couple of looping routes to follow along (see map). Good spot for relaxing, walking, reading, and wild bird photography hobbyists.
Perfect place for birdwatching and other river inhabitants. There are a lot of quiet corners where you can hide from city rush. In the enterece section, you can get acquainted with the current situation in a bird sanctuary and observe sculls of different animals.
Beautiful place to walk around. Enjoy wildlife and nature ! We walked 2 loops 3km .
2425 9 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 4T4, Canada•
Park
Nature & Parks
Sandy Beach Park is a beloved spot in Calgary, offering 33 hectares of space along the Elbow River. It's a popular destination for barbecuing, with numerous picnic sites and BBQ stands available. The park features amenities such as a playground, dog park, and rafting access for those seeking adventure. Visitors can enjoy the scenic surroundings while grilling on-site or taking advantage of the nearby COBS Bread Gourmet Hamburger Buns.
Great park. There are several locations where you can cook bbq, big location for kids and pet friendly area. Toilet is present.
Ilya D — Google review
Nice area within the city to decompress. Go for a walk by the river, exercise(bicycling or skating on paved trails- connects to the athletic park), family and friends gathering ( day use areas - bbqing and alcohol is allowed) , or just to read a book. There is also a kids' playground and designated off leashe areas. You can also go for a coffee or an ice cream to the Britannia Plaza located uphill on the west side of the river. Lots of options for parking
This is a wonderful place to bring the family for a walk or ride a bike. Beautiful riverside location. It has many picnic sites, bbq stand, fire pits, playgrounds, pathways, seasonal washrooms and water fountain. There are plenty of green space and tall trees. It has off-leash area for dogs to enjoy too. Only four stars because we didn’t expect that the new play ground will get crowded on a Monday morning.
I really like this place ❤️ This is a wonderful place to bring the family for a walk or ride a bike. Beautiful riverside location. It has many picnic sites, bbq stand, fire pits, playgrounds, pathways, seasonal washrooms and water fountain. There are plenty of green space and tall trees. It has off-leash area for dogs to enjoy too.
What a beautiful hidden gem of a place!
We had picked up some ice cream at Village Ice Cream, and while looking at Google Maps, we spotted this area. We are so happy that we decided to check this place out.
There's a nice playground at this park, but that's not the drawing point. You can easily walk onto the Rocky Beach area next to the river. The river is very shallow, so there's no worry about being caught by any currents. People still launch their little rafts and float down the river.
It's a great place to bring your family. There's plenty of grassy areas for bbqs and picnics. Kids can frolic in the water or skip some stones.
What a wonderful little place in Calgary!
This park was awesome and the scenery was beautiful from every path taken. Excellent for all ages including pets to enjoy the scenery, trails, play ground, picnic areas or the river itself.
What a gorgeous place to spend the day with family and friends!
Be sure to bring a towel and change of clothes to enjoy the river with the kids.
This is a very nice place to visit especially in summertime where you bring dog and enjoy the clear water of elbow river. Picnic tables are plenty and some are covered. Playground for children is amazingly wide. River is so clear and good for boating and swimming too. The area is so clean and a lot of trees to rest upon a sunny day.
4500 14a St SW, Calgary, AB T2T 3Y4, Canada•
Park
Rotary Park is a spacious and picturesque inner-city park located in Calgary's Crescent Heights neighborhood. Families frequent the park during warmer months to enjoy its off-leash area, expansive green space, children's playground, and refreshing water spray park. The park also offers picnic tables, seasonal washrooms, and water fountains for visitors' convenience. Additionally, there are tennis and lawn bowling clubs within the vicinity.
Quaint park north of Downtown Calgary. This location is within walking distance and offers a great view of the city and Bow River. There are also diverse tree, grass, and clover species (mostly introduced).
Hector M — Google review
One of my favorite parks in the city. Great views, good playground, tennis courts, art walk. Definitely a must in Calgary.
Such a beautiful park with an incredible downtown view, some hidden trails, tennis court, and off leash areas for dogs. There’s something about fall that just makes it even prettier and not to forget the lion overlooking the city!!!! 👌🏽👌🏽There are some fruit trees around but I don’t know if they’re safe to eat.
Offers an amazing view of downtown with tons of open space for walking your dog, picnicking, or just relaxing. There's a playground nearby for kids and a tennis club as well. Good parking if you're okay with walking into downtown.
3 hours free parking on street, dog park, splash park, playground, great views of downtown and Prince's Island. Shortcut for commute downtown or stairs to workout. Nice benches to relax and enjoy the view. Now home to one of the original Centre street bridge lions.
When i first moved to Calgary in 2019, Rotary Park was one of the first few places I discovered and fell in love with. Though very cliche, the benches remind me of the movie 500 Days of Summer. But cliches are cliches for a reason, and this spot is well worth it. A great spot if you want to read a book, or share a picnic with a date.
Doesn’t matter when your going. Always pretty (Christmas/summer/winter etc) nice place to walk your dogs, yourself or with someone. And great place to take photo of downtown, calgary. 언제와도 백만불짜리 뷰 :) 사진찍기에도 산책할때도 최고인 곳!
This is a nice park with lots of green space for a gathering or picnic. I also loved that it is a great starting place for many pathways. There are benches to look out over downtown Calgary and the Bow River. Historic markers there tell about early Calgary.
617 1 St NE, Calgary, AB T2E 6W4, Canada•
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Playground
Nestled in the heart of Calgary, Prince's Island Park Playground is a delightful destination for families seeking fun and adventure. This charming playground boasts a cowboy and train theme, making it an exciting spot for children of all ages. With play structures that cater to toddlers as well as older kids, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The area features slides, swings, monkey bars, and even a pretend-play booth that sparks creativity.
Amazing kids playground I am sure kids will have fun at this playgroud as it has all that kids will need like slides, swings, monkey bars, ljttle kids trains & slides. There is a lot of open area for kids to run around, play freesbee, soccer etc. There are a bunch of gardens with well maintained flowers. Grass was well mowed and maintained. Not much bugs even in summer. Tons of shaded & unshaded picnic benches. The entire playground was cushioned with graveled pebbles. Over all quite safe with many play aminities. The Jaipur bridge is very short walk from playground and it has some amazing scenic downtown photogenic spots. Over all this playground is amazing kids will love it. Washroom are at the River Cafe. Check out videos & images & follow for more detailed reviews.
Vids T — Google review
Nice playground for toddlers and little kids. There are some cowboy swings, but the swings themselves could use replacing. There is a little tot section and then bigger kids section. It is located near a couple of pedestrian bridges and there is a lot of greenery around. There are bathrooms at the River Cafe. There are some homeless folks around there sometimes. It’s a nice walk through the island. There is a cute train structure as well.
You could park at CPA Lot 59 - 200-286 Memorial Dr NW Parking if you’re not walking. It was about $1 an hour February 2025midweek midday.
Favorite park. October is the most beautifu month. Big trees with golden leaves under the sunshine which is the best view in the whole year. Want sit here enjoy the view all day long.
One of the favorite places at any time of the year. Kids are happy to be here. There are a lot of squirrels 🐿️ now - admirable view!
Washrooms are available beside the playground (in the building of River cafe).
It's a great place for children and families to have a great time. It's calm and safe for kids.
There are many different games for kids here and many seats and tables for families to sit and enjoy together having a great time.
It's a great place to bring your kids and have fun as a big family.
My favourite park in Calgary, this photos were taken during spring/summer and now it is totally cover with snow.
Nice little park to play for kids.
Some benches for adults and picnic tables.
Great playground on Prince’s Island Park for the kids. Has all the standard playground stuff,
swings, monkey bars and other amenities.
Prince's Island Park, Calgary, AB T2P 0R1, Canada•
Mentioned on
Park
Confederation Park, nestled in Calgary's vibrant Beltline district, is a serene escape with a delightful secret. Ascend the unassuming hill within the park to uncover breathtaking vistas of downtown Calgary, the meandering Bow River, and the majestic mountain range in the distance.
Canada, Alberta, Calgary, Roselawn Crescent NW, 邮政编码: T2K 1K7•
Park
Nature & Parks
Gardens
Nestled in the heart of Calgary, Reader Rock Garden is a historic and picturesque site that offers a stunning backdrop for weddings and elopements. The garden features charming gazebos, little waterfalls, and intricately designed landscapes that make it perfect for capturing memorable moments. As a designated provincial historic site, it pays tribute to William Roland Reader's legacy as the superintendent for Calgary Parks.
Beautiful to walk through on an early autumn afternoon. Lots of little pathways with stepping stones amongst the trees that feels like a secret garden.
A favourite and quiet spot just south of busy downtown. You can access it from Union Cemetery, and Union Cemetery is accessible from it.
Noela B — Google review
Beautiful serene place nested in the heart of the city. Rocky stones well maintained tracks brings so much joy to walk around. unique Flowers and plants adds to the beautiful park. This park also has lovely views of the downtown calgary skyline
What a stunning little location! Ideal for small to mid sized weddings and quiet! The locations offers amazing variety of spots to photograph formals and ceremony.
Nice little garden. Some flowers look dry probably have suffered from the recent water restrictions in Calgary. The parking lot is small. I liked the benches around the park where you can seat around the flowers. I would totally visit again!
Easily one of the most stunning and peaceful spots to visit in inner city Calgary in the summer time. An absolute must for plant and flower lovers. The space is very scenic and historic, next to a very beautiful and also historic Calgary cemetery. Also convenient being next to the stampede grounds.
Visited the location this time for an outdoor photo shoot.
The photographer was great and had a good eye for creating a story.
We paused the session a couple of times to watch the butterflies, appreciate some beautiful flowers in bloom and sit when we climbed up hill to get a particular (and well worth it) view.
I liked the movable benches located in some areas, the calming sound of water flowing over rocks and the tiny signs describing either the plants or history of different areas in the park.
I stayed behind after the session to enjoy the park a little more and came across some hikers and a couple that looked to be on a date.
Wonderful and peaceful alpine slide with many colorful species of plants. We were there in June, and the park was full of blooming flowers. Unfortunately, it's a really small place.
Lovely little garden in inner city and it's FREE! It suggests an hour to walk through the entire grounds which is relatively accurate depending on how much time you sit and rest or scrutinize over the type of flowers planted. Great place to get away while not leaving the city or for someone who loves gardens.
325 25 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2A 7H8, Canada•
Park
Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Nestled along the serene Bow River in southeast Calgary, Pearce Estate Park is a delightful oasis that beautifully combines nature and recreation. This expansive park features lush wetlands, inviting picnic spots, and a vibrant playground for families to enjoy. As you wander through its scenic trails—both forested and riverside—you'll discover the charm of this urban retreat.
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!
Lisa C — Google review
Marshy wetland, beautiful nature walk, but make sure you bring mosquito repellant.
Beautiful park with water sounds and peaceful.
Planning to go again to BBQ
Really enjoyed walking, saw people kayaking, riding bicycles, jogging
Situated adjacent the Bow river where one can swim or go kayaking and boating, weather permitting, of course. Beautiful walking paths and off path walking. Dogs are permitted on leash. There is a good children's playground. Plenty of picnic tables,
and of course there are facilities.
This park is so beautiful all year round! They have some picnic tables each one with it's own grill they have a number were you can call and reserve a table for a specific day and hours and I think there is a small fee. I love this park because it has a decent size parking lot and the park is big enough to keep a safe distant from everybody else. There are paved paths so you can ride your bike too. They have a trout pond for kids and an information centre but they are temporarly closed due COVID. The park also has washrooms
An amazing place to explore so take your water and snacks. Lots and lots of little pathways. If you like to chill right next to river water this is a place to be. We came across so much nature on our walk. Good memories. 👍🏼🙏🏻
Beautiful park by the river. There’s also playground and picnic area where you can bbq.
I prefer coming here in the fall season to see the colour changes. It’s wheelchair and stroller friendly.
Beautiful park with terraces that you can walk down to get to the fast flowing river. A launch for kayaks. A beach area for swimming if you dare, calm water but cold! Bird sanctuary with a board walk so you can get close to marsh wildlife. Beautiful birds.
One of my favourite park, you feel close to the nature being inside the city. Lots of birds, greenery, trees. It has plenty of seating benches and space to hangout. Must visit place to enjoy the nature
1440 17a St SE, Calgary, AB T2G 4T9, Canada•
Playground
Park
Nestled in the Currie Barracks area, the Airport Playground is a delightful destination for families, especially those with little aviation enthusiasts. While its official addresses can be a bit confusing due to ongoing development, you'll find it easily accessible from Dieppe Avenue. This playground boasts an imaginative airport theme complete with a towering control tower slide and unique airplane climbers that spark joy in children of all ages.
Fairly large airplane themed playground. There is quite a wide variety of play structures that should keep the kids busy for a long while. Picnic tables are also available and there even appears to be a solar charging station.
All-in-all a really great playground to take the kids to.
T F — Google review
Great playground. Friendly for the 3 year old but lots of stuff to play on for the five year old. Splash park beside it was a nice addition.
Very modern and contemporary, a great place for kids. The night markets are great as well. Love the lights on the trees.
Amazing airport themed playground for kids of any age. Picnic tables, benches.
Clean and very quiet area.
Really worth spending time at 👌
Fun airplane themed park with slides, swings, airplane looking rocking horses, a teeter totter, and even a merry go round. Rubber squishy ground which is soft in case of a fall. Plenty of seating with some of it in the shade. Sign says for ages 5 to 12, but younger kids have a great time too.
One of Calgary's better playgrounds. Lots of older kid structures, lots of jiggly stuff for toddlers. Lots of free on street parking. Plenty of mature trees and benches for shade as well. Currently in a construction zone. Really recommend.
Beautiful park located in Currie Barracks. Lots of open area for kids to run around and the whole park is on a soft rubber floor, no gravel or wood chips. There are several play structures; the aircraft control tower, climbing structure, airplane, and a lot of smaller play items like a 4 person teeter totter, small airplane rockers and a spinning platform. All of which are pretty easy to use, even for little tots.
There are also 2 large swing sets and los of nice benches surrounding the park to sit on. There are also a few shaded areas because of the beautiful trees in the park itself.
Parking is streetside and there is plenty of parking. There are no washroom facilities however.
Overall a great place to spend a few hours with the family.
I use to take the kids here often. It is more suitable, and fun for my 4 year old. Not alot of options for older kids.
At the moment there is alot of construction looks like they are expanding 🤞🤞Limited parking near the park. You can find parking down the road .
3951 Trasimene Crescent SW, Calgary, AB T3E 7J6, Canada•
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Playground
Helicopter Playground is a delightful destination that truly embodies its name with an imaginative helicopter-themed play structure. This vibrant playground offers a diverse range of activities, including slides, swings, and climbing equipment suitable for children of all ages. The layout features separate areas for younger kids with accessible flooring, ensuring everyone can join in on the fun. Nestled away from the hustle and bustle of city life, it boasts both rubberized and pea gravel surfaces for safe play.
Very nice and spacious playground located in a beautiful area. It has a lot of different playground areas and devices to keep kids entertained and safe. It also has a softball field and a large open grass area suitable for any outdoor sport. In addition there are trails to walk or ride your bicycle.
Hector F — Google review
What a wonderful experience we had at this playground. There are variety equipment options the your different age kids. It also offers the unique “helicopter” your kids can climb. It’s a very spacious green grass area that you can play sports with your team or family. It also provides with picnic tables and bike or waking path. We came here before the sunset. With the yellow leaves and perfect temperature and quiet community around , it was great.
Such a great park sort of tucked away from the hussle and bussel of 29th and memorial.
The park has a double playground setup with a soft rubber ground and a pea gravel ground. The swing set has a full harness locking system for your kiddos or adults if you fit! Helicopter park has a nice variety of easy old school kiddo play zones and more big kiddo play/climbing gyms. Bring your bikes the playground has a path system and even ramps for your kiddos to take jumps. The path system is a loop with wiggles in it so it makes the kids swerve around.
As a realtor I'm fortunate that i get to see a lot of places and visit a ton of parks as my dog travels with me. This is a beautiful park in a stunning neighborhood. We just helped a client buy near here and they love it!
Great playground and super creative!
My 2 year old loves this place. Usually Lora of kids to play with
This playground kept a 7 and 9 year old entertained for 2 hours and they still didn't want to leave!
Great playground for climbers and active kids.
Park
Applestone Park is a fantastic destination for families, boasting an expansive and accessible playground that caters to children of all ages and abilities. With two distinct climbing structures—one designed specifically for toddlers featuring ramps, slides, and interactive panels—there's something for everyone. The park also offers a variety of swings situated centrally, making it easy for kids to enjoy their time together. Parents rave about the park’s inclusive design, which makes it especially welcoming for children with special needs.
Several large play areas including a really nice toddler zone. All the nice poured in place rubber surface except for the swings. Hugely varied levels, including some really difficult to climb stuff. Very easy to get there off Stoney. Lots of free parking, though I could see it being a gong show some weekends. Lots of locals using, with some seating Areal destination park. Recommend going there for sure.
Tony S — Google review
It's kinda filthy lots of discarded trash.
Some kids are without guardian, they are riding their bike around where there's toddles running. I just find it unsafe.
It's a busy playground. There's a section for smaller kids and there are for bigger kids which is nice.
I just wish that it's cleaner and no bikes at the playground.
Great quite playground with a big climbing structure for small toddlers, a pretend play booth, lots of swings, and another giant climber for older kids.
Lovely playground and huge play structures for all ages but it was covered in litter. Plastic straws and broken cups everywhere. Other garbage found included sparklers, disposable masks and a condom. Come on, folks, respect public spaces and put trash where it belongs. If one bin is full, use the other one.
Great for parents with multiple kids. Two different options for the kids, ranging from toddler to teenager. Only 4 stars due to standing water issues. It may need to be graded a bit different as the swings often hold water near the south end.
Beautiful little park with lots of playground equipment but too far away from other amenities to go to very often if you don't live in the neighbourhood.
Love this park, it is great for all ages. We’ve been going to this park for a couple years and has been our go to park since we found it with my now 10 and 3 year old children.
2 complaints that I’m writing only in hopes someone will see and fix it.
- when it rains the park gets flooded in the swing area... really bad. The children still enjoy playing in the huge puddle though lol, you just can’t use the swings at the time it’s flooded.
- there is no washrooms anywhere close to the park, this is a perfect park to stay at for hours because of its size but you have to leave & hope the circle K down the street will allow you to use their bathroom. I’ve seen many kids go behind the trees... this park really needs a portable bathroom.
When me and my visually impaired daughter arrived at the park to use the swings the kids at the park were trying to get physical with a parent so we did not leave the vehicle and had to call the police to deter the situation. Would not recommend to ever let your kids go unattended
188 Applewood Dr SE, Calgary, AB T2A 7P8, Canada•
Playground
Nestled in the scenic Confederation Park, the Playground - Confederation Park offers a refreshing twist on traditional play spaces. Unlike typical playgrounds filled with plastic and bright colors, this natural playground is beautifully integrated into its surroundings, featuring wood chips and landscaped hills that create a serene atmosphere. Kids can enjoy various activities such as climbing on natural elements, sliding down long slides, or playing in the sand with an engaging water pump. The addition of a wooden canoe adds to its charm.
Great to have so much space central in the city. Lots of pathways, good tree coverage, beautiful playground. It's extra helpful that it is connected to several bikeable pathways.
Matthew G — Google review
Great playground but very busy and limited parking down at that end of the park, better to go mid week instead of the weekend. Lots of picnic tables and great pathways to walk and explore.
Nice little playground, has potential in an amazing city park. City needs to replace some items. Large slide missing with city sign stating repair underway. Could use more playground items for the kids to play on.
Awesome slide for kids. Close to the parking lot. Away from traffic so safe for kids. Sandbox area. Swings.
Lots of green areas and a beautiful Playground very popular in all seasons
Kids love the tunnel
Lovely community park. Nice to have public bathrooms available with running water facilities. Playground is large and spread over a good section for kids to run and play about. Nice area to walk your dogs, take a stroll or bike along the pathways
Great park, we came for the slide but it's gone for some reason. Still amazing park and green space!
It's a lovely park in general, great place to explore the river with kids (lots of rocks and sticks to throw). Plenty of places to walk dogs. The playground itself is currently under repair (the slide is not there and the climbing tower is marked as do not enter) which is too bad- my kids were quite disappointed. The sand could use a top up. But otherwise a great place.
651-905 30 Ave NW, Calgary, AB T2M 2L3, Canada•
Playground
Ramsay Inclusive Playground is a groundbreaking play area that caters to children of all abilities, featuring ramps, adaptive swings, and sensory equipment. The playground also includes traditional play structures to ensure an enjoyable experience for all kids. Situated just a short walk from Skyline View Point, the park offers a colorful and vibrant space with ample equipment to entertain children, including features like braille alphabets.
I’ve been playground hopping with my toddler during our visit to Calgary, and this was hands down the best one we’ve found.
Positives:
- The rubberized floor - safer for a tumbling toddler.
- Lots of equipment - a slide, different swings, a merry-go-round. All best suitable for older kids, but my toddler still had fun.
- A few picnic tables and benches.
- A coffee and an ice cream shop nearby
- Best of all, an absolutely amazing view of the Calgary skyline. I could sit there for hours in awe of the view.
Negatives:
- No restrooms available nearby.
- The playground is built on a hill with two levels — a bit tricky to navigate with a stroller and a toddler.
Jen S — Google review
When I visited the Skyline View Point, I climbed down the wooden staircase. It took me to the Bow River, Bow River Pathway, Scotiabank Saddletowne, and Stampede Park that could be viewed from the hill.
This beautiful park is situated just a five minute walk in the east.
Although the children play area is not humongous, there are lots of equipment to amuse children and a board to teach brail alphabets. The park looks bright and colorful. It was bustling with small children and their guardians when I went there.
If you go to the Skyline View Point or Scotsman hill observation deck with your children, you may consider visiting this park. It, definitely, does not have enough substance to qualify to be a tourist attraction, and it is nor a must visit place.
I love this inclusive playground. Wheelchair accessible merry - go - round, secure swings for those with low motor skills or balance, and a ramp to get up to the top of the climbing structure, just to name a few.
Though I find the location of this playground a little odd, it’s clean and well-maintained. And I also don’t understand why it’s called an inclusive playground. Why call it that?
Excellent inclusive playground which is comfortable for kids up to 12 years old as it is stated. Interesting and safe items, accurately made. Children were excited to play here.
Great playground for kids. Beautiful view. Right next to the river and right down from the Calgary Stampede. Nice spot to let the kids have fun!
Nice little playground with breathtaking view of the downtown
Cute park, but the photos are very deceiving. The park is split into 2 sections that aren't near each other and the play structure is really small.
811 MacDonald Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 4M3, Canada•
Wildlife park
Nature & Parks
Park
Weaselhead Flats Natural Environment Park is a 585.6-acre natural river delta park located at the west end of Glenmore Reservoir in Calgary. It features spruce forests, wetlands, and meadows, making it rich in biodiversity. The park offers hiking trails that lead hikers around the reservoir and through the woods along the Elbow River. Visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing, sailing, canoeing, and kayaking during the summer months.
Weaselhead was weaselfantastic! Beautiful scenery, lush paths! After a long day at the coal factory, I gotta say, I’m beat! But a walk through here filled me with the burning hot energy of a thousand suns being punched into basketball hoop. Swish. Nothing but PARK! It’s amazing. I saw a deer. That was nice. I saw a WATER SOMETHING I don’t know. It was in water, there’s lots of water! And don’t be afraid of the forest. The trees are trees. And if your spicy you’ll walk around the entire reservoir because you’re awesome and have legs made of thunder and a soul gleaming with ruby tinted lasers!
Brian A — Google review
A fantastic place to teach children to love wildlife! A dense, magnificent forest, oxbow lakes, and a fast-flowing river create a sense of complete immersion in nature.
Beautiful green space here in the city of Calgary. Nice off the main path trails which are nice to get off the busy bike path. The river is beautiful and clean. Great spot for pretty much any outdoor activity!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Weaselhead Flats is a hidden Calgary treasure! On our visit we saw woodpeckers, beavers, muskrats, plenty of squirrels and chipmunks — and even a whitetail deer that quietly approached and walked right past our group. Absolutely magical.
The area has wide, accessible paths for all abilities, plus more rugged trails if you want a true hike. It’s peaceful, full of wildlife, and feels like an escape from the city without ever leaving it.
I honestly didn’t even know this existed — and now I highly, highly recommend it for anyone who wants to connect with nature right in Calgary.
It is my favorite park in Calgary. It's a really huge piece of forest full of birds, animals, and other wildlife inhabitants. Despite the past history of this territory (it was an old military area), it's a truly unique place with fascinating landscapes views towards the river. You can use main trails with hard cover goods for bicycles or choose small paths. Each visit here is a special story, that's why I so love this park.
It's one of my favorite places to walk/run/bike.
Great trails some wildlife.
You can start at weaslehead and do the loop it's about 16km , walking ittook my 2½ hours non-stop. Biking with a couple of stops took 1½ hours.
A beautiful place for a walk on a nice day! At some spots the river is great for wadding in.
Great place to fish. Best time is at sunrise. Afternoons can have small crowds of people here. Easy access via bicycle with a couple big hills if you are coming from South Glenmore Park.
37 St SW & 66 Avenue Southwest, Calgary, AB, Canada•
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Park
Nature & Parks
Gardens
Bodies of Water
Baker Park, located on the Bow River in Calgary, spans 12 hectares and offers various attractions for visitors. The park features walking paths along the river, a grass amphitheater, and a disc golf course. It is also known as a popular spot for weddings due to its archways and promenades. Additionally, the park's well-maintained grounds make it a favorite location for photo sessions such as couple, family, maternity, or branding portraits.
Baker parks is absolutely beautiful at sunset. Over by one of the structure was a owls near . Definitely super cool to see. On the east side they have a large area for frisbee games.
Shelbie L — Google review
Baker Park has an excellent disc golf course on it. The disc golf course is good for beginners and intermediate players alike. The park sits along the Bow River in Calgary on the opposite side from the 1988 ski jumps. There's tons of walking paths and picnic areas with the river and ski jumps as a backdrop. It's beautifully landscaped and well maintained with public washrooms available as well.
This place is absolutely stunning 😍 and is located right at the banks of the bow river.
I always like to come here after a long day and just take a walk and unwind. The flowing water always seems to have a calming effect on me. It really doesn't get better than this.
I'm looking forward to continuing to come to this place.
Love this park. It's really big. You can rent paddle boats, kayaks etc... Lots of spots for BBQ, with the river views. Kids playground with swings and etc. Bike pathways as well
Great place!!
In the banks of bow river stunning views, lots of parking space, very less crowded.
It is just beside Bowness park.
A must visit place in NW Calgary with friends and family.
I went to Baker’s Park for a work function where we played disc golf and had a catered lunch. This was the first time I had been and overall, I am impressed.
The park was perfectly manicured, clean, and there was ample parking. The park was so huge, there was plenty of room for everything the 50 people in attendance wanted to do.
most impressive was the clean restrooms and diabetic sharpie containers. Well done!
Can't believe I've lived here seven years and this is my first time visiting. The park is small but serene, clean, crowd-free and gorgeous views by the river. Truly an underrated gem in the NW and hope it stays that way.
Baker Park and Bowness park are opposite each other on two sides of Bow River. There are two Bridges allowing pedestrians to walk around the river through two parks. Parking in each park. Visit both parks in one trip. See my review on Bowness park for details and pics. No entry fee no parking fee. Bring your own drinks and snacks.
Calgary, AB T3L 1S5, Canada•
Park
Nature & Parks
Bowmont Park, nestled between Silver Springs and the Bow River, offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors. The park boasts 27 kilometers of primarily cross-country trails, including popular ones like Sideshow Bob and Bowmont Singletrack. Additionally, there are grassland trails and paved pathways perfect for leisurely walks or hikes. Families can enjoy the boardwalk leading to Waterfall Valley, where kids can have fun while admiring the small yet charming waterfall.
Quick, quiet 20-minute loop around a pond. You can leave the path across the bike path and venture into hills with pathways. Great for active dogs.
Joe B — Google review
Looking for hilly walk with stunning views? Check out Bowmont Natural Environment Park. This dog-friendly park can give you a gentle to moderate workout should you stay on the paved pathways and plenty of benches to enjoy the view.
Feeling a little more adventurous? Walk along one of the natural paths but be prepared for switchbacks and rocky terrain, plus keep a lookout for mountain bikers.
Will be back again soon.
My dog and I regularly visit Bowmont Park throughout the year as there are many trails to explore and various elevations that can suit various physical abilities.
You can stay on the regular paved path, just be careful of ice during the winter months, or explore some of the trails cut through the park.
The majority of the paths are shared with cyclists, so if you have your dog off-leash, just be prepared to move aside for the bikes.
Beautiful park for families where you can walk or push strollers or wheelchairs through easily. The path is shared with bikes so just be careful. There is a one way street to the parking lot which leads to the park. Benches are available along the path by the river. We saw so much wildlife and flora. This is also home to the osprey nest.
Beautiful place to walk and explore the nature!! Great place to walk your dog (off-leash park) but make sure you bring water and keep your fur baby on leash if need! :P Very peaceful and calm❤️
Excellent easy going nature walk!
The walk starts off a little boring and mostly boring hills but once you’re in the actual park it’s a very nice nature walk.
You can go to the pond first if you’d like but you can skip the pond and go straight to the river for more nature action. Staying on the paved path will lead you to the river. Explore mini trail walks in and around the park, it’s fairly easy to get back on track so don’t worry too much about getting lost.
We went here on May 2020 and the fences weren’t locked as well so you can explore more if you wanted to. Sunset walks are the best here!
You’ll see some wild life for sure like ducks, geese, birds and beavers! Definitely recommend going here and exploring for a couple of hours.
Gorgeous park!
You can wander in here for hours. Which is easy because there's no good wayfinding to help.
Watch out for cyclists where the trails are narrower. We saw people get clipped today, and were almost clipped ourselves. No one rings their bells.
Just another breathtaking dog park and natural environment Calgary has to offer. Just be warned that dogs should be excellent swimmers to get in the water deep. Lot's of rapids in the summer!
85 St NW, Calgary, AB T3B 3P5, Canada•
Park
Griffith Woods Park is a hidden gem located near the outskirts of Calgary, nestled along the Elbow River in the southwest community of Discovery Ridge. The park features small winding trails that are perfect for leisurely walks and nature exploration. It's a popular spot for dreamy portrait photo sessions and engagements, with its cozy and pristine wooded areas providing an ideal backdrop. The Outer Loop trail offers a 6.
Very good park with paved trail for running, biking and the whole trail is beside the Elbow river with crystal clear water. The whole trail is stroller and wheel chair accessible, however at the bridge shown in the attached video road was not paved well and was bumpy.
Ample parking spots with accessible one. The trail has little bifurcation to see the Elbow river and the water is very clear. In summer there can be bugs and mosquitoes. The trail had many benches to rest. The trail is very easy about 5.7km kids friendly however we did not find any parks but the entire trail was lush green with lots of flowers. On one end there is Discovery Ridge Pond where you will encounter wild life like ducks, beavers etc over all its fun and highly recommended. Check out videos & images amd follow for more detailed reviews.
Vids T — Google review
Good trail for all ages.
Family-friendly course. Easy trail.
Various routes depend on your condition. Pretty cold today. -15. But Great view.
Parking wasn't too bad today. Bathrooms are right at trail head, and as far as we saw those are the only ones. You can go off the paved path to lots of other trails, which is great if you want to go longer. Saw quite a few people, but it was Labor Day, so I'm not surprised. Originally, we saw lots of spots for the dog to go into the water. However, at the trail head, a sign said there was whirling disease and went longer felt comfortable letting our dog in the water. Although we did see several people in the water at different points. Maybe safe? Didn't want to test it, though. Area feels like you are deep in a forest, which is surprising as it's in a residential area. There were several fallen trees that we had to get over on the path we chose. Note- it was about 4 km, not 41. But it won't let me edit it.
It is one of the best parts of Calgary. There are a lot of trails for cycling and hiking. We found 2 giant beaver's 🦫 dum, and it was cool. There is a lot of room for playing with dogs. Some of the paths were closed because of the new rules. I should be the best place in Calgary for wildlife observation. Hundreds of birds were around us, and it was beautiful. Really recommend!
Beautiful park with nice trails. Parking and washroom are available at starting point. Lots of shades from the trees making it really pleasant for a walk (and any activities). The outer loop trail is about 6km. Please please please bring your kids here and pack rubber boots. There are shallow water bodies and I saw kids really enjoying them.
Amazing park, not off leash, feels like you are out of the city. Wheelchair accessible, and family friendly. Griffith has a public washroom, not during the winter though, and picnic tables in a few spots around the park.
Great nature walk, not too busy. Bathroom near parking lot is only available at certain times during the season. Be warned there are many many dogs walked on these paths, so you may not see too many wild animals around aside from the odd angry squirrel. Many different paths to take, beautiful along the river.
Beautiful park with lots of trails. Wheelchair accessible. Large parking lot. Dogs allowed on leash! Beautiful autumn flora, didn't see a lot of wildlife at the time we went but it was lovely! The water is so clear in the river, and even the swampy areas. Looking forward to going often, and in the spring when everything is growing! My dog Charlie enjoyed it too.
160 Discovery Ridge Blvd SW, Calgary, AB T3H 5H3, Canada•
Park
Tom Campbell's Hill Natural Park, located in the historic Bridgeland neighborhood of Calgary, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm. The park features hiking trails with informative panels about the area's history and provides stunning skyline views of downtown Calgary and the Bow River. It is a popular spot for both nature lovers and dog owners, with a large off-leash area for pets to roam freely.
Large off leash dog park with beautiful city views. You can see Deerfoot Trail, Memorial Drive and downtown skyline. Nice and open with paved and unpacked pathways and benches for you to rest and take in the views. This park is walkable to Bridgeland, Calgary Zoo, Telus Science Centre and downtown Calgary. Great in any season with lots of friendly people and their dogs. Small free parking lot.
Lisa C — Google review
It's just a small neighborhood park, nothing special. People use it for an off-leash dog park or drink coffee enijoying beautiful city views.The park isn't very accessible by transit. As you get close to downtown, you're required to have a parking permit for your car. The park does have limited parking that doesn't require a permit.
360 photo for 2015 March 24.
I love this park. Always friendly dogs! My girls just love it, great view. Great little walk. Close to lots of stuff and central!
Nice place for dog walk, casual walk, book reading and watching Calgary skyline.. visited first time and going to visit again and again in summer.
I lived in Forest Lawn for five years, and never knew this park was here. While searching around recently for some of the best views in Calgary for some content, i discovered this park! The reviews did not lie. Definitely in the top three for views of the downtown skyline that i have seen!
Amazing vast expanse of dog park so close to the inner city. Come at 9 am or 3:30pm any day to catch the regulars and the busier time here to give your doggo a real good run for your time. Park also has a great view of downtown through a loop that walks around the plateau. The park isn’t fully fenced but the ridge of the hill seems to form a sort of barrier.
Best location to view Calgary skyline. Recommend for enjoying sunrises and sunsets.
It’s a really nice area and provides great views of the Calgary skyline downtown. There are a lot of benches to relax and there’s a lot of street parking around. It is an off leash dog park and not all people watch their dogs so for some people, like me, it’s not as relaxing but if people watch their dogs then it’s a nice park!
25 St Georges Dr NE, Calgary, AB T2E 4S1, Canada•
Community center
Arena
Bowling alley
Community garden
Nestled near Centre Street and Northmount Drive, the Thorncliffe Greenview Community Association & Recreation Centre is a hidden gem that offers a designated sledding area approved by the city. The large parking lot provides easy access to the hill for sledding, which is fenced in along 56th Avenue to ensure safety. Serving the Thorncliffe and Greenview areas, this community association extends membership and facility access to those in greater Calgary.
Lots of activities and classes for all ages. They even have good-priced restaurant ($15 steak sandwiches on weekday), bowling alley, and racket all court. Great community space.
Simon C — Google review
The seats here are extremely comfortable. They are individual cushion seats!
The arena itself is freezing as the heaters don't really work.
The hallway is quite narrow and the dressing rooms are pretty small too.
The ice itself is good quality 👌
It is an older arena so it is showing its age so the overall experience here I would say is average. It is not bad and not great.
It is centrally located and has easy access in and out.
Great place with lots of amenities and a great hidden bar and restaurant. Gotta try. Great prices and specials everyday of the week.
We booked the bowling lanes and 56 Lounge for our team event. The beef dip and fries were awesome! Everything was smooth! We had lots of fun. Staff are amazing and they went above and beyond to accommodate us. Thank you Wendy and team!!
I have not been here since 2015. Was here for an event over the weekend and it has completely changed. It’s been beautifully updated with ample parking space, washroom was modern and clean and the halls quite spacious. The outdoor space is huge and still well kept. Gave a 4 star because it was quite hot and the air conditioning was not on, otherwise a lovely place to host any event you may have coming up.
You need halls of different sizes, they're available. And there's a children's play ground just by the side of it. Please visit. There are other exciting activities lined up there weekly
My apologies I understand ping pong isn't there.
In summary it's a great place to be
An excellent facility. It has a wide array of activities that take place on a daily basis. In the basement is three lane five pin bowling, racquetball courts, and a tavern. There is plenty of free parking.
Great community facility! The lounge is a comfortable homey place where you can watch the game with great food (pizza is quite good).
5600 Centre St N, Calgary, AB T2K 0T3, Canada•
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Park
River Park is a sprawling riverside park that covers nearly 52 acres and features various amenities. It offers an off-leash zone for dogs, memorial areas, and native trees. While there isn't an official promenade, visitors can enjoy a one-kilometer pathway along the Elbow River escarpment, providing stunning views of the river below and the downtown Calgary skyline. The park is particularly popular on weekends, attracting numerous people and their dogs for a friendly community parade.
Such a great panoramic view of Elbow river.
TRVL_888 — Google review
My favorite park in Calgary to walk my dogs
Best park! Our boy will have a memorial tree there soon!!
Great for dogs with decent recall and some short walk to river access for the dogs.
I love going to this park! Has great views of the elbow river puls city, and just a nice place to relax and walk around with friends. Would recommend going here!
Great park, often busy but big enough you have your own space. Its quite icy right now but if you walk off the main path the snow is traction enough. The one side is not fenced next to the road so please drive slowly along there and leash your dog before you get near it to leave as well.
Fantastic park! Great for taking your dog off leash or just enjoying the beautiful city skyline.
A little piece of Heaven on earth. Morning walks are always the best no matter the weather.
Very peaceful, safe and beautiful park.
Riverview Park SE, Calgary, AB T2T 2L5, Canada•
Park
Haultain Park is a fantastic urban park located in a high-density residential area. It offers various amenities for visitors of all ages, including tennis courts, a large playground with rubber flooring, picnic tables, and open grass areas. The park's beautiful landscaping and historical Haultain School add to its charm. Families can enjoy the spacious playground for kids to play and run around while adults can engage in tennis matches.
It's an amazing park for family and everyone. There is a place for each person regardless of their ages.
There is a big playground for playing soccer, jogging or playing around. In addition to that, there is a tennis playground, so you can enjoy having a game with your friends there, but of course you should bring your tennis ball and bats with you.
There are games for kids as well, so they will enjoy playing together there.
Everyone can have fun here, so I recommend this park to individuals, families and groups.
Ehab K — Google review
Great little park. With a nice little green space. Tennis courts. The area seems to be dog friendly and quite busy with the residential buildings that are to the east of the green space. Two playgrounds were nice for little kids with some swing options as well. Parking was a little hard but not impossible a short walk might be accompanied with parking at this location.
The park is great for my 16 months old. It has many different parts that for older kids than it for younger (under 3). There are a basket swing for younger kids and open swing and a dis swing. Some of the slide is very steep.
This park is beautiful and that too it is in the centre of the city. It’s also well maintained. You can get good view of Calgary tower from here.
This is a great little park that is often not very busy. It does not have very much shade. Half of the park is currently under construction as they build the new tower and parkade on the other side. Lots of things to climb and play on for toddlers, preschoolers and school aged kids.
Great place to see graffiti art. In Kensington. Safeway and many coffee shops close by. Good place to eat outside in summer. Close to c train station and walkable to down town core and river patheays.
Great park for kids and a pretty good open field too. However the field is far from flat.
On another note, Personally I don’t have an issue with people experiencing homelessness, but there is a pretty solid private security presence around the park, I assume from the condos and businesses around, so the park also feels very safe.
Good for all age groups to engage themselfs for various activities.
225 13 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0K2, Canada•
Playground
Nestled in Calgary's vibrant Bridgeland neighborhood, Flyover Park Playground is a delightful gem that transforms an overlooked space beneath the 4th Ave flyover into a creative haven for both kids and adults. This unique playground features imaginative structures, including long roller slides and traditional slides surrounded by climbing ropes and nets, making it an exciting destination for play. The park boasts a blend of urban charm with bee-friendly gardens, offering visitors a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Cool little playground under an overpass. The play structure along the steep hill was pretty unique, with a slide that's like a conveyor belt, a suspension-like bridge, and some other climbing structures and slides. There were also swings and a bamboo forest climbing structure.
Because the hill is quite steep, it is largely for older kids, and younger kids/toddlers will find it hard to play on without a lot of support.
Most of the play structures were not shaded (a few things are underneath the overpass, but not most, so when it's really sunny and hot, the play areas can get hot.
April C — Google review
Great, really unique playground!
Having a hillside always allows for more creativity and when couple with the downtown view it’s 5*’s for sure!
We’ve found this spot at the map and decided to visit it. Really nice playground, worth coming and playing for any age. Spacious place with different options. Easy to reach from bus stop or even walking.
Really unique swings and slides in a unique location! An interesting mix of urban landscape and bee-friendly gardens as well. It is small but worth a visit and you can walk to St. Patrick’s Island bridge in about ten minutes.
My only wish would be for a picnic bench or seating under the overpass to get out of the sun. And the glass stucco is coming undone and laying around, however it doesn’t seem particularly sharp.
Great new park! A couple of really nice long slides (roller style & regular), and some fun swing sets (one is a tandem seat swing!). Rubbery flooring to soften falls. Games including ping pong, tetherball, ladder ball, & bocce. Climbing poles that look like bamboo, ropes & nets to climb up.
Several seating areas for parents in various parts of the playground.
Smaller kids (under ~ 5 or 6) will be thrilled by the swings and slides, but there isn’t as much for them to climb up and down as for bigger kids (6+). Would be a good park to visit if you have multiple kids of various ages.
Also, walking distance to Lukes Drug Mart, Village, Una, Phil & Seb’s, and many other locally owned businesses if you need a tasty treat!
The park was well maintained and clean when we were there.
The kids enjoyed it.
I found the '70s stucco style concrete, with embedded pieces of glass, at the bicycle parking spot and as a border throughout the park, rather unusual and a little concerning.
We *loved* this park! The roller slide was so fun, I went down it multiple times, until I was too tired to climb the hill again. Ping pong table which was in the shade was fun, too. What an amazing space!
Fun little play area, quiet yet urban feel!
651 McDougall Rd NE, Calgary, AB T2E 4Z7, Canada•
Playground
Bowness Park Playground is a beloved spot for families, featuring an excellent play area suitable for both toddlers and older kids. The playground includes a toddler climber with ramps and a training structure, as well as a larger climber with slides, catwalks, stairs, and a small rock wall. The park is also ideal for family gatherings and offers access to the river for swimming under the Stoney Trail bridge, known for its cleanliness and less crowded environment.
One of our favorite playgrounds in town.
Nathalie I — Google review
This park is very good, but very busy it takes a while to find an open parking spot, me and my siblings go every couple weeks and it's a fun time for everyone, theres loads of people you can talk to and it's very interactive in the playground, on slightly colder days theres barely anyone there but it's such a shame because me and my siblings don't mind but we can't make any friends on those days. the swings are always being hogged and whenever someone asks me to use the swing, I don't wanna be mean but at the same time I've been on the swing for 30 seconds like thats so annoying.. also, when theres older kids they're really cool and relatable unless they're mean which is both is half of the time they're either really nice or really mean, this is a lovely park for family gatherings, only if you're able to reserve it because during the summer months they get really busy, and during the weekend theres more people than during the week, so thats cool if you go then, or if you wanna go during the week or colder times so that theres less people and you can get to play with what you want. also theres a path around the playground I love biking on it! overall great park with it's little flaws.
Lovely park for family gatherings. For swimming in the river, I recommend using the end of the park under the Stoney Trail bridge due to its cleanliness and less crowded.
I love Bowness Park
Need to practice your roll, eddy turns, or just want to beat the heat? There are several man made eddies here, a local staple for whitewater kayaking newcomers.
Nice park but very busy. Took about 15 minutes to find an empty parking spot.
Almost perfect. I just wish the bathrooms were open.
Children love it
Bowness Skating Trail, Bow River Pathway, Calgary, AB T3B, Canada•
Park
Nestled in the northwest of Calgary, Canmore Park is a delightful destination that offers a variety of recreational facilities. Known for its spacious grassy areas, it's a popular spot for boot camp groups and outdoor activities. The park features tennis courts, ball diamonds, and an exciting water spray park that adds to its charm. With ample shade available both within the park and in surrounding areas, it’s an ideal place to relax or engage in sports.
Nice little park. Right in between SAIT and University of Calgary.
Derek M — Google review
There are no the mountains and river.. Some photos are wrong uploaded.
The picture associated with this location in incorrect.
3298 19 St NW, Calgary, AB T2L 2A8, Canada•
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Zoo
Outdoor Activities
Charity
Nature & Wildlife Areas
The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo, established in 1929, is a renowned zoo and park located on a 125-acre facility. It houses over 4,000 animals from more than 100 species and is celebrated for its exceptional animal care and habitat design. With an annual influx of over 1.3 million visitors, the institute aims to educate and inspire guests about wildlife conservation.
Had a wonderful time at the Calgary Zoo! The layout is great, lots of animals to see, and the whole place is really well maintained. It was a super hot day when we visited, so I totally understand that the polar bear was probably chilling indoors with the A/C — though I was a little bummed to miss seeing it.
That aside, it was still a fantastic experience — from the playful lemurs to the majestic tigers, there was so much to enjoy. Definitely a must-visit if you're in Calgary, and maybe I’ll catch the polar bear next time when it’s not sunbathing weather!
Preethy S — Google review
Had an amazing time at the zoo!
The staff were friendly and helpful, and we appreciated how clean and well-maintained everything was. There were also plenty of places to take a break, grab a snack, and just enjoy the surroundings.
Washroom available in every area.
The staff and volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and always willing to answer questions or share insights about the animals. The exhibits are engaging and informative, making it a great experience for kids and adults alike.
I would highly recommend for any age.
Great way to spend your day. Lots of parking fast lines, lots of animals. Most were pretty sleepy while we were there, except the wolves who were prancing around and coming right up to the glass. Tickets are cheaper if bought in advance. I took way too many photos and had a lovely day.
We had an absolutely wonderful time at the Calgary Zoo. The Penguin Plunge was a highlight, with so many different species of penguins to see up close. It was fascinating to watch them waddle and swim around.
The Prehistoric Park was a real treat and something I've never seen at a zoo before. My daughter loved "spotting" all the life-sized dinosaurs from afar, and it was so cool to see them in a realistic, life-sized setting.
Destination Africa was another standout. We got to see the hippos so incredibly close, and it was amazing to watch the giraffes peacefully grazing nearby. While we didn't get to see the Wild Canada exhibit on this trip, it gives us a great reason to come back again.
Overall, it was a fantastic and memorable day. The zoo is a must-do for families visiting Calgary!
The Calgary Zoo is one of the best family attractions we’ve visited! It’s well laid out, making it easy to explore different zones — from the African Savannah with giraffes and lions, to the Canadian Wilds where we saw bears and cougars up close. The Penguin Plunge was a highlight — the kids loved watching them swim and waddle right by the glass. Highlight was the Polar bear!
What really makes the zoo special is how educational it is. Each section has interactive displays, conservation stories, and plenty of opportunities for kids (and adults!) to learn about wildlife and habitats. The grounds are beautifully kept, with shaded areas, rest stops, and a variety of food options, making it very family-friendly.
We spent almost a whole day and still felt like there was more to see. It’s not just a zoo — it’s a mix of fun, learning, and adventure. A must-visit when in Calgary!
Amazing place for a family day out! We visited with kids and everyone had a great time. The grounds are very clean and well maintained, with lots of shade and beautifully designed animal enclosures. We were especially impressed by the penguins, tigers, and the dinosaur park — so realistic! My little one loved the kids’ zoo where you can feed the goats. Staff were friendly, and the café had a nice variety of food. A perfect spot to spend the whole day with family. We’ll definitely be back!
Lots of construction throughout areas of the park. The only food location opened was by the gift shop, when exiting the zoo; every other food location was closed. Tickets should be discounted during this time.
Parking was easy.
Staff working in the gift shop were exceptionally friendly.
I think the price of admission and parking was a bit steep. But there was lots to see. Our favorites were the penguins and butterfly sanctuary. The polar bear was hiding unfortunately. We also liked the grizzly bear, hippo, and flamingos. Lots of places to grab food, rest. The place can feel a bit Ike a maze if you're unfamiliar with it but we enjoyed the different themed exhibits. They have a quiet nursing room for those with babies!
210 St. George's Drive NE, Calgary, AB T2E 7V6, Canada•
Park
Nature & Parks
History museum
Historic Sites
Heritage Park, located in Calgary, is a captivating destination that showcases the rich tapestry of Western Canadian history. Spanning over 127 acres, this living heritage museum features the Heritage Park Historical Village, Gasoline Alley Museum, and Heritage Town Square. Visitors can immerse themselves in both indoor and outdoor experiences throughout the warmer months from May to Thanksgiving. The park comes alive with seasonal re-creations featuring actors who bring history to life through engaging performances.
A few months back our family had a wonderfully relaxing day at Heritage Park! It was the perfect spot to slow down, take in some history, and just enjoy being together. My 9-year-old son loved exploring the old-fashioned buildings, riding the vintage train, and seeing how people lived in the past.
One of the highlights was the paddlewheel boat ride on the Glenmore Reservoir. It was such a peaceful experience, giving us beautiful views and a chance to just sit back and enjoy the moment. The staff throughout the park were friendly and knowledgeable, making history come to life in such a fun way.
We also spent some time at the antique midway, where my son had a blast with the old-school rides. And of course, no visit would be complete without a stop at the bakery for some delicious homemade treats!
Heritage Park is a great place for families looking for a mix of education and relaxation. It was a perfect day—no rushing, just enjoying the sights, sounds, and experiences of the past. We’ll definitely be coming back!
Nerissa ( — Google review
A fun, festive, and educational experience for everyone. The Park has an assortment of activities, rides, food, civic museums, and heritage architecture emphasizing the cultural significance of early Prairie settlement/life.
It's like taking a step back in time, and it's worth every dollar. 11/10 do recommend.
Heritage Park in Calgary is a fantastic destination for a family outing.
The park stands out for its welcoming policy on food and drinks, allowing visitors to bring their own and enjoy a picnic-like atmosphere—a rare perk that saves a lot on expenses compared to other parks where you can easily spend over $100 just on meals.
Though tickets are on the pricier side at $36 for adults and $26 for kids, the experience is worth every penny.
The park is meticulously managed, from parking to rides and everything in between. It’s incredibly clean, with free water fountains and spotless washrooms, ensuring a comfortable visit.
Highly recommended for a day of fun and relaxation!
Really enjoyed coming here. It's like Disneyland, but better, because you can actually learn something about actual frontier life and how Alberta came about as opposed to some fantasized version of how things were. Plus, the Vaudevillian performances were really entertaining.
There was something that happened, I don't want to go into the details, but I want to take a chance to thank the staff for handling the incident professionally and being very kind to me and my party.
An absolutely wonderful place! The ticket price is well worth it, as it covers more than just a visit to a village—it's an immersive experience. During your visit, you'll watch over five short theater performances, each lasting at least 30 minutes, depicting the rich history of the area. The actors and actresses are incredibly talented, making the stories come to life. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and felt that one day isn't enough to fully appreciate everything this place has to offer. The staff members are all kind and helpful, providing excellent explanations about the site, especially the lady in the mine. You can begin your journey from the parking lot by taking a charming streetcar ride.Unfortunately, the gift shops didn’t have any magnets from this village, which was a bit disappointing.
This is such a wonderful place to visit. Everyone here always makes sure that you are having a good time. Everyone is in costume and stays true to the character they are portraying. There is a steam engine train you can ride as well at the steam ship that goes out along the reservoir. There are tractor rides and horse-drawn wagon rides, all of which are free with admission. There are midway rides for people of all ages. The general store and ice cream shop sell delicious treats, and the bakery is always making fresh baked items for sale. Every exhibit is authentic and has a plaque to describe its original location. There is so much to do that you can easily spend a full day here and not see everything there is to see.
I really enjoyed this place. Wow! If you have children, they will enjoy it as well. I recommend going on the steam locomotive at Shepard Station or riding the S.S. Moyie first (in the same area) then do the other after. After experiencing these attractions, wander the property. Cool off with a local brew at the Wainwright Hotel & Bar Room.
I recently attended an organizational event at Heritage Park, and even though the park was closed to the general public, it was a fantastic experience. I was pleasantly surprised by the sheer size of the park—it spans an extremely large area with realistic setups that depict life in Calgary many generations ago. It’s essentially an entire town set up in a historical format, making it a fascinating place to explore.
One highlight of my visit was the veterinary area, where I got to see how veterinary medicine was practiced back in the day. Our event was set up in the amusement park section, and I had the opportunity to try several rides, including the Ferris wheel. The staff were incredibly kind, polite, and gracious, ensuring we had a memorable experience.
I also noticed a train track that circles the park and regretted not having the chance to ride the trains. I’ll definitely have to come back to Heritage Park next time I’m in Calgary. I highly recommend this park for families and anyone with an interest in history.
1900 Heritage Dr SW, Calgary, AB T2V 2X3, Canada•
Science museum
Museums
Book store
Children's museum
TELUS Spark Science Centre in Calgary offers an immersive experience with interactive museum exhibits, a children's play area, and an HD planetarium theatre. One of its highlights is the digital immersion gallery featuring an exhibit on quantum physics, turning this complex subject into a visually captivating adventure for all visitors. The center also provides stunning views of the city and opportunities for romantic moments in downtown Calgary.
We visited Spark during the week with 4 kids ages 13-6 and every kid was busy with activities. Absolutely fantastic place to spend the day. From play areas, through science experiments, movie theater, interactive "sandbox" and outdoor play structure, everything was a great experience for our family. The food court offers a variety of delicious food. Plenty of parking. The only thing is that it was crowded with school/daycare groups during the day, but overall it's a 5 star adventure!
Dana N — Google review
Attended the Mother's Day Brunch, and it was terrific. There was a great spread with tons of options for the whole family. Very delicious. There were activities for the kids inside the room, allowing us to enjoy our meal while live shows entertained them. We also loved the photo booth and bead bracelet station. We'll do this again next year.
This is around my 3rd time going to Telus Spark and my thoughts are now Confirmed, I had went to the Infinity Dome, The Snack Shop, and others! The Snack Shop had some cool stuff to eat but some were a bit… overpriced. But the movie, Me and my Friend-group went to watch Hazelnuts (A 25 Minute Animated Show) Then we explored the Areas (I had initially forgotten the category names) We tried the Bed with nails (It was more uncomfortable than Scary, My friend said “I did it with out the pillow do not recommend”) They also have a Sensory test, where they have you taste gummy bears and ask you questions on what you taste! And there was a Booth where you take photos! (Doesn’t Print it out) but since I don’t remember if it has a name or not, I’ll be calling it the “Digital Photo Machine”
Visited on a Friday.
Despite some good reviews, not worth the cost.
So many of the activities and exhibits were "closed for repair " or simply closed with no explanation.
(Photos of some of many that were closed. The VR zone sould have been open when we were there. We were told it was closed and summarily dismissed. )
Plenty of staff around who were uninterested in engaging with clients.
The displays that were functional were unimpressive.
The cafeteria wouldn't serve us at 2pm although it said it was open until 3pm.
The toilets were filthy. The toddler toilet was "closed for repair".
Handicap buttons for doors were worn so that identification paint wasn't visible.
Doubtful this place could pass a fire inspection.
I recommend the zoo or Heritage Park or Bell Media Centre.
This place needs an overhaul of its management, board of directors, and basic priorities.
We had such a fantastic time at the Telus Spark Science Centre! This place is truly a five-star experience, thoughtfully designed with something for everyone, regardless of age or ability. It's the perfect blend of a science center and a children's museum, making it ideal for toddlers and young kids.
The Creative Kids Museum was a definite highlight. It felt like a traditional children's museum with all the climbing spaces and water feature area you'd expect, but with a clever scientific twist. We especially loved the simple machines with adjustable ramps and the building tubes. They even had a soft play area for non-walkers, which was a huge plus. We also really enjoyed the opportunity to use a tool to cut cardboard—it was a unique and engaging activity.
Even though a few spaces were closed for updates, we honestly didn't feel like we were missing a thing. There was still so much to see and do that we didn't get to explore everything! We saw a live demonstration and got to work in Steven's Lab, a hands-on opportunity to tinker and form scientific hypotheses. There was so much to do, I actually felt bad having to pull my daughter away to try and see as much as we could before nap time.
The outdoor space was another highlight. It offered a great chance for kids to run, jump, and explore in a different environment. We went on a great day—it wasn't packed, though I imagine it might be during holidays or later in the school year with school trips.
I even declared to my husband that if we lived in Calgary, I would get a membership. There is just so much to see and do here that it's worth coming back for again and again. Overall, Telus Spark is a must-visit. It's an incredibly well-designed space that seamlessly combines fun and learning.
Super place! Even though it was a busy day with lots of school kids visiting, it was still absolutely fantastic. Loved the hands-on experiments you can join anytime, the VR experience, and the robot dog was awesome!
My daughter loved the place a lot. Since we visited on a weekend, line ups were a bit long; however, things were worth the wait. Rosie was the best part of our visit. We enjoyed a treat before leaving☺️
Plenty of parking!
Seems to have a lot of very outdated areas and ideas. Could make this centre so much more interesting and engaging. It was pretty much boring chaos. Telus spend some money on this centre ! Make it fun and more relevant. Wld not go back or bring out of town visitors.
They do have a few interesting areas but Very expensive for a subpar experience.
So many kids touching everything which is great but few sanitizing stations. Bring your own. Some instructions difficult to figure out or area is too basic to be interesting or learn something or too complex with no assistance or the area is not working at all. The computer 'take apart ' area had no small tools to take them apart only 3 huge screwdrivers that fit nothing. No instruction of what to do or what the parts were. Kids were prying and stabbing at the boards with the large screwdrivers! The whole area was a disaster of pieces. Several other areas were out of order. The welding kept jumping back to the computer to reload. Staff not available to help reset. VR had one person setting up for 4 ppl. It took at least 5 min to attached everything and prob 5 to take away items after, sanitize them and get next group for a experience that was 3 min long. Such a long wait >45 min for a 3 min experience. Did see a show. It was OK. Theatre itself is nice.
The robodog was the hit. Bed of nails and the toilet. 3 things really. Disappointing for the cost for 2 people. Yes parking is 12$ no choices. Not walkable from the LRT. Wanted it to be fun 😏
220 Saint George's Drive Northeast, 220 St Georges Dr NE, Calgary, AB T2E 5T2, Canada•
Temporarily Closed
Amusement park
Water & Amusement Parks
Amusement park ride
Theme park
Calaway Park is a seasonal amusement park located in Western Canada, offering over 30 rides, stage shows, a 3D theatre, and midway games. It has been providing affordable and family-friendly entertainment for more than thirty years. The park's one-pay gate system allows unlimited access to rides, attractions, live shows, and street performers like stilt walkers and jugglers.
Calaway Park is a fantastic family destination! I've visited multiple times with my wife and our kids (ages 6 and 3), and each trip has been a joy. While some rides are age-specific and not suitable for younger children, there's still plenty to enjoy. The atmosphere is vibrant, the staff are friendly, and the park offers a wholesome experience for all ages. From gentle rides to engaging shows and play areas, our kids were entertained throughout. It's a great spot for creating lasting family memories.
We will definitely be back!
Ifedapo A — Google review
Great amusement park for kids and parents/families, and lots of stuff for teens too. So many rides toddlers can go on if they are tall enough. Even when the parking is packed it is not too big of a wait for a lot of the smaller rides. The water rides are a long wait and close an hour before closing time. Lots of bathrooms around. Lots of food options. Shaved ice and pineapple dole whip is vegan.
Cool Halloween vibes when summer season is over. Decorated all throughout the park.
Coming into the parking lot, everyone was parking to the left as it looks like they are building something on the right. They have lots of people waving you in telling you where to park. They have many booths to pay for your tickets as you go in. I do recommend buying your ticket online before going in. When you went to the park you can go to the left or to the right. I recommend going to the roller coaster first. The lineups can get quite long. The roller coaster and the log ride usually get the longest lines. The staff is very friendly and the park is very clean. I do find the water is expensive there so bring your own water to drink. They do have an area with lots of picnic tables for you to have a lunch. I have a 2 year old and he could go on about nine rides. When my daughter was 9 she could go on every single ride. Overall I do like this park. I do believe it is time to add some new rides. We went September 14th and they had Halloween days starting. They had parades and they had people dressed up everywhere.
The park is great, especially for kids and probably some teenagers up to around 14 years old. There are lots of fun rides for children, bright swings, and a Parade of Fairy-Tale Characters (they were handing out delicious candies). We also bought some food — the fries were very tasty. There are small lines for the restrooms. We’ll definitely visit this place again!
I visited Calaway Park and had a fantastic time! The park was spotless, the staff were super friendly, and the atmosphere was full of energy. It’s clearly a perfect spot for families—so many smiling kids and parents enjoying the day. Whether you’re with a group or on your own, it’s a fun, well-run park that’s worth the visit!
IF YOU WANT A GREAT PLACE TO TAKE THE WHOLE FAMILY, THIS IS IT!
Amazing experience!
They have rides for kids rides for adults, add rides for really small kids as well!
There are lineups and that long. The most
We ever waited was about half an hour.
It is $52 to get in the dollars to get in the door if you are 13 to 65 years of age.
Great value. Lots of rides and activities for my 5 and 7 year old kids. Did not have to wait more than 5-10 minutes for the rides. We would come back for sure. We liked the magic show.
Fun lil park. Definitely for kids - we had fun for maybe 2 hours and that’s all there is to do as an adult. It’s closer to Calgary - the only perk. There were some rides that charge you additional $2-$5 on top of the entry ticket. Haunted house was a joke. Extremely long queues. Overpriced snacks and drinks. Meh!
If you want to visit on a weekend, plan ahead cos parking is going to take you a long time.
245033 Range Rd 33, Calgary, AB T3Z 2E9, Canada•
Temporarily Closed
City park
Sights & Landmarks
Ice skating rink
Park
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Olympic Plaza, a former venue for the 1988 Olympic Winter Games in Calgary, has been transformed into a vibrant park with a pond and an amphitheater. The plaza is particularly popular for its seasonal ice skating rink, which becomes enchanting at night when illuminated, especially during the holiday season with a Christmas tree on display.
This is a really nice public space. Enjoy it while is still available for the public.
There are events every weekend on December but not skating rink this winter.
It’s a great spot in the heart of downtown and it’s a shame that they will be close it in place of an extension of another building like don't we have buildings enough already?!
Karina S — Google review
“A Magical First Theater Experience!”
Attending my first theater performance was truly unforgettable. The ambiance was captivating, with the dim lighting and the sense of anticipation in the air. The performers were absolutely phenomenal—each expression, gesture, and word brought the story to life in a way I had never experienced before.
This is a fantastic public space.
The events all summer, the skating rink in the winter.
It’s a gorgeous spot in the heart of downtown and it’s a shame to hear they will be scrapping it in place of an extension of another building.
Hopefully the plan for design somehow preserves some of this spot and doesn’t erase it entirely.
This is a city that spent a fortune on a blue ring on the outskirts of town though so who knows.
Hoping for the best!
A beautiful park next to the city hall with multiple events throughout the different seasons from gathering to show respect, concerts, art display to staking. This also allows for some landscape viewing in between busy downtown towers. Also next to LRT and convenient to visit. Recommended to visit at day time despite the crowed.
Pretty cool the city has a park dedicated to the Olympics. Some cuties boast that they will have hosted the Olympics three times, yet don't have any parks for her local constituents to enjoy. Honestly any city that plans on sending people to the Olympics should have Olympic-sized facilities for people to train in.
We were pleased that the rink was still open! Visited 3-17-24.
⛸️ Experience Calgary's Olympic Plaza Ice Rink:
Nestled in the heart of downtown Calgary, this rink exudes a captivating charm that's hard to resist.
We were pleased to find that the rink was still open, offering a unique sunny skating experience. Despite the warmth and a few puddles near the edges, the opportunity to skate comfortably in t-shirts was a refreshing surprise, adding to the allure of our visit.
The sheer size of the rink struck me immediately, spanning over 17,000 square feet, offering ample space for skaters of all ages and skill levels.
Surrounded by towering skyscrapers and framed by the majestic backdrop of the Calgary Tower, skating at Olympic Plaza provided unparalleled city views that were simply epic. It's a fantastic way to experience the vibrant spirit of Calgary while gliding across the ice.
The facilities at the rink are top-notch, with rental skates available for those who don't have their own. There are also benches and seating areas where skaters can take a break and warm up with a hot beverage from the nearby concessions.
One of the highlights of our visit was discovering the rich history behind the rink. As the site of the medal ceremonies during the 1988 Winter Olympics, the Olympic Plaza Ice Rink holds a special place in Calgary's sporting legacy. It's a testament to the city's enduring passion for winter sports and its commitment to fostering a vibrant community spirit.
The groundhog wall was a hit with the kids, who gleefully posed with many of them, adding an extra layer of fun and whimsy to our outing.
Overall, our experience at Calgary's Olympic Plaza Ice Rink was nothing short of enchanting. Whether you're a seasoned skater or just looking for a fun outing with friends and family, this iconic rink is a must-visit destination. With its picturesque setting, excellent facilities, warm hospitality, and sunny adventures, it's no wonder that the Olympic Plaza Ice Rink remains a beloved winter oasis in the heart of Calgary. 🇨🇦
@kidstravelCanada facebook for more kid friendly outings!
There are quite a few free events at this Plaza during summertime. Also, it is a good place for your kids to run around and have fun at the wading pool when it is filled. The same area transforms into a skating ring during winter. Just be aware that you may see impaired people around.
I was here for my first ice skating in Canada. I loved it. It is a nice place to spend quality family time. Skates on rental are also available at a very reasonable rates and the opening and closing hours are good. Everything is managed by City of Calgary. 👍🏻
228 8 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2P 2M5, Canada•
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Memorial park
Nature & Parks
Parks
Central Memorial Park, situated in the heart of the Beltline in downtown Calgary, is a charming and historic city park. It offers beautifully landscaped gardens, war memorial statues, and a serene fountain that provides an ideal backdrop for photos. The park's well-maintained pathways lead visitors through lush green spaces and past old trees, creating a picturesque setting for relaxation and leisurely strolls.
Central Memorial Park is Calgary’s oldest park, offering a beautifully landscaped green space in the heart of downtown. Established in 1912, this historic park features elegant pathways, lush flower beds, a stunning central fountain, and the stately Memorial Park Library, one of the city’s most iconic heritage buildings. With its European-style gardens, seasonal blooms, and peaceful atmosphere, the park serves as a perfect spot for relaxation, reading, or a quiet stroll. A tribute to Canada’s veterans, it also houses several war memorials, making it both a scenic and meaningful destination.
John S — Google review
Beautifully decorated with colorful flowers. There are a couple of nice statues and water fountains. It's not too big but there are a bunch of gravel trails for walking. Beautiful downtown spot!
Central Memorial Park is right in downtown Calgary and easy to get to. The park is clean and well-kept, with plenty of benches and walking paths. The monuments and historical markers add some character, making it an interesting spot to explore. It’s a nice place to take a break, enjoy a quick stroll, or take some photos while downtown. Can get a bit busy at peak times, but overall, it’s a convenient and pleasant green space in the heart of the city.
What a nice park in downtown Calgary. We came for the 4th Street Night Market. The vendors were unique and interesting. The selection of food trucks was wide range, so there's something for everyone.
The park has a beautiful walkway around with nicely fixed flower arrangements.
Parking is the biggest issue as it took us a couple of loops to find a spot.
Went for a night market. It was great, there was live music and lots of tables to buy from even sweets if you have a sweet tooth.
Nice and relaxing spot for a quick walk or a quick glance at the city. Not extremely hard to find street parking across the block but be aware the place is usually a hangover spot for a lot of homeless people. Although they never seem to bother any visitors. Usually security keeps an eye close by (sometimes)
Taxpayer dollars allocated to maintaining the park are not an efficient use of funds if the park’s primary users are people without homes and the general public feels unsafe using it. The public investment in a community amenity is undermined when its intended purpose—providing a recreational space for all citizens—is not being met due to social issues.
The placement of a government-funded harm reduction facility across street, while intended to be a public health measure, may have unintended consequences for the surrounding community. Such facilities can draw a population of drug users to a specific area, potentially leading to increased public drug use and safety concerns in that neighborhood. While harm reduction is a valid public health strategy, its location and integration into the community should be carefully considered to avoid negatively impacting the quality of life for residents and visitors.
It is beautiful park! Nestled in between huge buildings, it’s a good place to sit and relax. Lot of food joints are around ( at walking distance) so you can grab! Water fountains for kids is a good addition.
1221 2 St SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0W9, Canada•
Neighborhoods
Granary Road is a family-friendly destination located southwest of Calgary, offering an array of activities for visitors. The Active Learning Park features 11 themed exhibits with obstacles like a giant spider web climber, in-ground lily pad trampolines, a 4-story ant farm, and zip-lines. Additionally, there's a petting zoo where you can interact with goats and other animals.
This is a wonderful stop for people of all ages including young families:
➡️ If you would like to purchase freshly milled flour there is a Scottish Mill right on the premises. Contact the mill online prior to visiting due to milling hours and staff availability.
➡️ Plan for several hours to visit and tour this facility.
➡️ Food kiosks and restrooms are available.
➡️ Since so much time is spent outdoors, try to schedule your visit when the weather is accommodating. Enjoy your visit!
Annie W.
Master Reviewer
Local Guide / Google Maps
Annie W — Google review
Granary Road is such a fun place to visit with kids! 🐐🍓 The play areas are amazing — creative, clean, and full of things to explore. My kids loved the animals at the petting zoo and had a great time running around the outdoor playgrounds. The market was closed when we went on Wednesday, so we didn’t get to try the food or local products this time. Still, it’s a beautiful family spot, and we’ll definitely come back on a weekend to experience the full market!
Such a cute way to spend a morning or afternoon with the kids. It's like a walking path with lots of playgrounds, zip lines, petting zoo and more. I thought there would be more opportunities to buy treats around the park and I disliked the tractor ride going on the same path where kids are walking and running but the staff were very attentive and cautious. We had a fun time.
We have always loved going to Granary Road but today (August 29, 2025) was extra special. We had a lovely chat with the owners, who are such kind and caring people. The dad picked leaves and handed them out to all the children feeding the goats. We talked about the importance of family and their plan to make it an even better experience for families to come and have a magical time there. It was just such a sweet experience to meet the family behind the business. We will keep visiting granary road for years to come.
Visited for Goat yoga but we also had access to the entire park including mini golf! Fun for adults and children. I love that they have zip lines all over the park so everyone can enjoy them. Super friendly staff. Food from the market was delicious!! Highly recommend.
It was a beautiful place to visit for all ages. Scenery is amazing, outdoor activities are fantastic, interaction with the goat is so much fun, golfing, zipline there is a restaurant you can eat, and you can buy lots of healthy stuffs like fruits, vegetables, spices; honey and a lot more.
Highly recommended.
It's well-designed to let kids burn energy while sparking their imaginations.
The animals part was nice, petting the goats was a nice expirience for our little one.
One thing we really appreciated was that it wasn’t overly crowded. Even on a nice day, it felt spacious and calm, which made the whole experience more enjoyable.
There were plenty of food and drink options on-site too. We were able to grab snacks and drinks without long waits, and the quality was good. The gift shop at the end was a nice surprise—lots of cute, thoughtful items and souvenirs.
Overall, Granary Road is a hidden gem for families. It’s clean, well-organized, and full of fun, interactive things to do. We’ll definitely be back!
This is a family favourite and such a fun learning experience for children. The farm is expansive, the staff very friendly, the outdoor shade options at each different ‘station’ is wonderful for a break from the sun for parents and children alike.
Great food options inside, along with greenhouse and their new indoor discovery centre. Best to purchase tickets online in advance. Plan to go early and spend a large duration of time walking the different areas. Highly recommend bringing a wagon or stroller for the little ones and to hold food/drinks and all the necessities.
226066 112 St W, Foothills County, AB T1S 5S5, Canada•
4.7
(229)
4.3
(30)
Mentioned on
Reservoir
Nature & Parks
Bodies of Water
Glenmore Reservoir, located in Calgary, is a popular destination offering a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Boating, sailing lessons, and fishing are among the water-based activities available. The reservoir is surrounded by well-maintained pathways that cater to both walkers and cyclists. The scenic route encompasses bridges, marshes, and viewpoints, providing an engaging experience for visitors.
I like coming for a bike ride here with my wife sometimes. Beautifully maintained and low elevation gain paved paths. Gorgeous views of the water. But in the summer, boy are those bugs vicious closer to the water. It was terrible getting bitten by mosquitoes.
Martin M — Google review
I'm just interested why personal canoes and kayaks are allowed here but paddleboards are not? Is this a business or what? If someone drowns ( hopefully not), that possibility is just as possible from any type of small boat. There's really nowhere to board in Calgary. And it's extremely unpleasant. I feel like a dog on a leash: I can see the water, but I'm not allowed in. And the restrictions are ONLY for supboards. Where is the logic?
I love this place: there are lots of birds and even frogs that sing. I just don't understand these restrictions on boards. It's easier to flip over from a kayak and harder to climb back up than from a board. Isn't it?
On our short trip to Calgary, the Missus and I enjoyed cycling around the Glenmore Reservoir. The asphalt trail was in excellent condition that made for easy pedalling. There were a few elevation changes but the trail was generally flat. There were many free parking lots and the Heritage Park made for a great pit stop to refuel or enjoy a leisurely coffee. Highly recommend for a nice and scenic bike ride.
Beautiful place for the walk! So many nice trails and views!!!
Very nice trail along the reservoir located in the middle of the city. Great for biking, running or walking. Although there are lots and lots of bugs currently.
Beautiful spot to spend an evening walking. The park has breathtaking view of the reservoir and I am really short of words to describe how beautiful 😍 it was.
The park has a dedicated bike path and a walking path which is always great and has a dog on leash policy.
I really wish I lived closer to this park as I would have loved to come here for a walk on a daily basis, but I am sure I will be driving here often.
Beautiful oasis within the city. There are various parking lots so it doesn’t feel too crowded. Bike and pedestrian paths are separated which is really nice, many spots for bbq and fire pits, and there’s also a playground for kids. From the north side you can look down to the reservoir and down the south side with all the fall foliage. Definitely a lovely outdoor spot for a stroll anytime of the year.
The fact the reservoir is man-made is pretty incredible. It's not just our drinking water, it's a wonderful place to walk, bike, run, fish, sail and more! You gotta check it out.
Equestrian facility
Business center
Conference center
Horse breeder
Spruce Meadows is a renowned equestrian facility that hosts various annual events and tournaments, including the indoor 'Nakoda Series' and the outdoor 'Summer Series'. The venue also breeds, trains, and sells Hanoverian horses and runs the popular Name the Foal contest. Additionally, it offers educational programs for children covering topics like agriculture, horse anatomy, and wetland ecosystems.
This was my seventh or eighth visit but my first time for The National and first time purely as a spectator. As always, there was top show jumping, beautiful immaculate grounds, free parking. The ticket prices are affordable, too. We had a great day out. Will be back again. Happy 50th Spruce Meadows and thank you!
Sandi H — Google review
I met some Brits in the hot tub of my hotel & they told me they are in town to do "horse jumping" at Spruce Meadows. I've never heard of that, so I went to check it out. From the parking lot attendants, to tickets, to ushers, everyone was welcoming, warm & friendly! Parking was free, admission was $25, it's clean, has beautiful decor, ample shopping & places to eat, two rings to see shows. I saw my hotel friends at the international ring. Got to see the "musical ride" from the Canadian Mounted Police. See 2 main competitions and it was wonderful! 50th Anniversary, and the 'Masters". I got to see the world Blacksmith competition make horse shoes. At the end see the English Royal Guards, a military band, play at the final ceremony! This was a picture perfect day! To my hot tub pals, it was a pleasure to see you perform! I highly recommend you give this a try! Love everything about this place! ❤️
My review of "The Masters" at Spruce Meadows. It was a fantastic family fun day with so much to see and do. The highlight for us was definitely the kids' area. The face painting, button making, petting zoo, and bounce house were a real treat for my toddler, and she absolutely loved it.
She also had a blast watching the dogs on the obstacle course and, of course, enjoyed all the delicious food and treats available throughout the grounds. The train ride was a bit underwhelming for the adults, as it was a little hard to see and had to stop to avoid scaring the horses, but it was nice to see a few horses in their stalls and get a close-up view.
Always such a fun experience. Horse jumping is truly an under appreciated sport. The team work between rider and horse is beautiful to watch. Whether you know the sport or not it’s something to experience . Spruce meadows is always so beautiful, lots of fun things to do.
Great experience, lots of different events from Masters tournament to corgi rase, as well as the Christmas market with Christmas lights.
There is something happening every year here. If a tourist, it’s a must place to visit while in Calgary
Great facility, lots of activities for families and kids aside from watching the show jumping: Prairie Dogs, pony rides, wallk through the stables, food trucks and fair games. Covered and uncovered/grass seating available. Show jumping is always incredible!
Spacious and well organized places with lots of food trucks and food choices. Ample of parking and facilities. Whether you come for the horses shows, sport or other events, we enjoyed the facilities.
Recommended
A world class facility and stunningly beautiful grounds for equestrian events, soccer, and markets. Always well organized and meticulously kept. A pleasure to attend events there.
18011 Spruce Meadows Way SW, Calgary, AB T2X 4B7, Canada•
4.3
(2206)
4.0
(465)
Historical landmark
Nature & Parks
Event venue
Museum
The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland is a must-see destination located at the original site of Fort Calgary, which was built in 1875 by the North West Mounted Police. This historic park offers visitors a chance to explore the birthplace of Calgary and learn about its rich history through comprehensive exhibitions and guided tours. The replica fort and adjacent barracks have been reconstructed using tools and techniques from the 1880s, providing an authentic experience for visitors.
Visited as part of a school field trip, the staff did a great job keeping the kids busy and engaged while teaching them about our local history.
The practice archeology bins were a hit with the students and taught them to think critically about the artifacts they uncovered. The indigenous games gave everyone a chance to connect with the kinds of activities that people their age would have done centuries ago. The scavenger hunt through the museum was a great way to ensure the students examined every nook and cranny of the exhibits.
We will be sure to visit again when the upgrades are complete!
Angela S — Google review
I recently went on a private trip with students that turned out to be an incredible experience. We had the opportunity to explore significant historical sites, uncovering captivating narratives that underscored the links between our past and present. This journey deepened our understanding of the region's heritage. Throughout the trip, the knowledgeable workers were helpful, answering our questions and enriching our experience.
The historic house wasn’t very big, and when we visited, it was quite crowded due to a festival. It was interesting to see, but definitely not something you’d spend a lot of time in. Parking was available but quite expensive. There’s a lovely park right next to it, which made the visit more enjoyable. The area is nice for a short walk and some photos. It’s a decent place to visit once if you’re nearby. Overall, a one-time experience—not something I’d return to.
Strictly not a tone to do here if you have a young one. But this place is situated in a good location with access to parks and downtown. Excellent green fields. Lots of places to run around or play with the river.
Formerly known as Fort Calgary, this is a quaint museum showcasing not just the city's history but also Alberta. It's a different take from the Glenbow as it's more niche so will be enjoyable for history buffs, tourists and homegrown Calgarians alike. The movie theatre experience is a must-see for any flick during their special event showcases as it has an old-timey vibe allowing for an immersive experience. Overall I would recommend it!
Transparency: 5/5
Accountability: 5/5
Authenticity: 4/5
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After 20 years, The Confluence finally got an indigenous art exhibition curator, Star Crop Eared Wolf, for the opening of Kípaitápiiyssinnooni [Our Way of Life]. When we visited the space for the art opening, it was quite exciting to see the different works of art on display. The film showing during the weekday was also very thoughtful-- I wish more people would come and watch!
The only points of improvement for me would be the following:
1. Food vendors (I had 4 hungry kids with me and they kept bugging me to leave so we can go grab proper meals, which were not available on site); and
2. Paving the gravel parking lot a bit more because holy cow, those things destroyed my stiletto heels when I had to run to my car whilst hail was pummeling the ground 😑
Overall, it's an amazing venue for cultural experiences but make sure you have a big meal prior to the visit. Cheers!
I just watched We are all treaty people at the confluence and it was a wonderful performance. It was done really well, especially for such a hard topic. I was surprised how they managed to pack so much into an hour but it didn't feel rushed and it didn't feel like it was missing anything. Wonderful job to the team! I hope there will be more events like this in the future. This truly is such a meaningful show.
Went there on Canaday Day.
Free admission and exhibits.
Lots to read in description of exhibits which was tiresome for me😀 so i enjoyed the vibe only and cool stalls outside.
750 9 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 5E1, Canada•
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- Glacier National Park
- Nakusp
- Edmonton
- Jasper National Park
- Crowsnest Pass
- West Glacier
- Nelson
- St. Albert
- Revelstoke
- Whitefish
- Libby
All related maps of Calgary
- Map of Calgary
- Map of Balzac
- Map of Canmore
- Map of Drumheller
- Map of Banff
- Map of Red Deer
- Map of Banff National Park
- Map of Radium Hot Springs
- Map of Fairmont Hot Springs
- Map of Lake Louise
- Map of Fort Macleod
- Map of Panorama
- Map of Yoho National Park
- Map of Field
- Map of Lethbridge
- Map of Fernie
- Map of Golden
- Map of Kimberley
- Map of Waterton Lakes National Park
- Map of Medicine Hat
- Map of Glacier National Park
- Map of Nakusp
- Map of Edmonton
- Map of Jasper National Park
- Map of Crowsnest Pass
- Map of West Glacier
- Map of Nelson
- Map of St. Albert
- Map of Revelstoke
- Map of Whitefish
- Map of Libby
Calgary throughout the year
Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Calgary?
Get inspired for your trip to Calgary with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:
Best parks and gardens in nearby cities
- The best parks and gardens in Edmonton
- The best parks and gardens in Banff National Park
- The best parks and gardens in Jasper National Park
- The best parks and gardens in Lethbridge
- The best parks and gardens in Red Deer
- The best parks and gardens in Revelstoke
- The best parks and gardens in Whitefish
- The best parks and gardens in Drumheller
- The best parks and gardens in Waterton Lakes National Park
- The best parks and gardens in Radium Hot Springs
- The best parks and gardens in Yoho National Park
Best attractions in nearby cities
- Top things to do and attractions in Edmonton
- Top things to do and attractions in Banff National Park
- Top things to do and attractions in Banff
- Top things to do and attractions in Canmore
- Top things to do and attractions in Jasper National Park
- Top things to do and attractions in Golden
- Top things to do and attractions in Lethbridge
- Top things to do and attractions in Red Deer
- Top things to do and attractions in Jasper
- Top things to do and attractions in Revelstoke
- Top things to do and attractions in Medicine Hat
- Top things to do and attractions in Whitefish
- Top things to do and attractions in Glacier National Park
- Top things to do and attractions in Nelson
- Top things to do and attractions in Fernie
- Top things to do and attractions in Drumheller
- Top things to do and attractions in St. Albert
- Top things to do and attractions in Waterton Lakes National Park
- Top things to do and attractions in Lake Louise
- Top things to do and attractions in Kimberley
- Top things to do and attractions in Crowsnest Pass
- Top things to do and attractions in Radium Hot Springs
- Top things to do and attractions in Yoho National Park
- Top things to do and attractions in Nakusp
Best restaurants in nearby cities
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Edmonton
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Banff National Park
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Banff
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Canmore
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Jasper National Park
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Golden
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Lethbridge
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Red Deer
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Jasper
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Revelstoke
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Medicine Hat
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Whitefish
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Glacier National Park
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in West Glacier
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Nelson
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Fernie
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Drumheller
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in St. Albert
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Waterton Lakes National Park
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Lake Louise
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Kimberley
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Crowsnest Pass
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Radium Hot Springs
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Fairmont Hot Springs
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Fort Macleod
- Where to eat: the best restaurants in Balzac
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