20+ Fun Things to Do With Kids in Calgary, Alberta

When considering moving to Calgary with kids, it's great to know a bit about the wealth of offerings for things to do with children in the city. Whether you're looking for educational experiences, outdoor adventures, or simple fun, there are plenty of things to do with kids in Calgary. The city offers a diverse array of kid-friendly activities, from hands-on museums to thrilling amusement parks. So, if you're wondering how to make the most of your time in Calgary with your little ones, there's a world of possibilities waiting for you to discover.

Zoos & Animal Encounters

Spotting adorable animals in Calgary can be an exciting adventure, especially at the Calgary Zoo and other animal encounter locations. The Calgary Zoo, located near downtown in the Bridgeland-Riverside neighbourhood, is a perfect choice for animal lovers of all ages. Kids can delight in exploring the Penguin Plunge and Canadian Wilds sections, where they can see various animals up close. Admission is free for children under 3, $24.95 for children, and $34.95 for adults.

For more animal encounters, consider visiting Horsin Around for pony rides, riding lessons, and bouncy castles. This spot is adjacent to the Evergreen neighbourhood in Calgary's southwest quadrant, offering a fun-filled experience for kids, with admission prices at $12 for adults and $10 for children. 

Finally, if you're interested in observing wildlife, head to Prince's Island Park during spring to witness Canada geese and their goslings. This wildlife viewing opportunity is free of charge, making it a budget-friendly option for those looking for things to do in Calgary with kids.

Museums & Historic Sites

Explore Calgary's rich history and cultural heritage through its diverse museums and historic sites, offering immersive experiences for visitors of all ages, including: 

• The Hangar Flight Museum in Northeast Calgary allows you to sit inside historical airplanes, providing a unique hands-on encounter with aviation history. 
• Fort Calgary, a significant historic site near the Bow River in the Downtown East Village area, offers educational tours and exhibits that delve into the city's past, providing valuable insights for children and adults. 
• Gasoline Alley Museum showcases Calgary's transportation history through captivating exhibits and artifacts, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in the evolution of transportation.

While the Glenbow Museum is undergoing a six-plus-year renovation that's slated to finish in 2026, it's worth mentioning. The museum is renowned for its focus on Western Canadian heritage and art, attracting cultural enthusiasts seeking to explore the region's rich history; the museum showcases certain off-campus exhibits during the renovation process. 

For a deeper look at Western Canada's life, Heritage Park offers an indoor and outdoor museum experience, complete with an antique steam train ride for a truly historical immersion.

Whether you're fascinated by transportation history or other aspects of Calgary's past, its museums and historic sites provide diverse, engaging educational activities for everyone to enjoy together.

Amusement Parks & Fun Centers

In Calgary, amusement parks and fun centers offer exciting activities for all ages. Calaway Park, a popular amusement park near the Harmony community, provides thrills for visitors at a general admission price of $41.95. Cobb's Adventure Park offers fun for all ages at an admission fee of $25, including a kangaroo petting zoo, an outdoor arcade, blacklight minigolf, mazes, tractor rides, and more. The park is located between Calgary and Chestermere. For more fun, Monster Mini Golf offers child admission for $11.

Whether you enjoy adrenaline-pumping rides or leisurely attractions, Calgary's amusement parks and fun centers have something for everyone. So gather your friends and get ready for a day of laughter, excitement, and unforgettable memories at these fantastic venues.

Nature & Outdoor Adventures

Nestled among Calgary's outdoor wonders and natural treasures, the Douglas Fir Trail beckons explorers to embark on an adventure through towering trees and wildlife sightings. Accessible from Edworthy Park in West Calgary, this trail is renowned for its giant Douglas fir trees, offering lookout points to admire panoramic views and opportunities to spot various wildlife species.

Calgary's bike paths provide an ideal setting for an exciting biking experience. Explore scenic areas like Glenmore Reservoir and Fish Creek Park while enjoying a leisurely ride.

Consider taking a relaxing float down the Bow River with boats, kayaks, or canoes during the summer months. This popular activity offers a unique perspective of the city and its surroundings while creating lasting memories.

For a more whimsical outdoor experience, head to Lindsay Park in the Erlton neighbourhood to encounter bunnies hopping around, adding a touch of magic to your day. Additionally, along the Bow River Pathway and Chevron Learning Pathway, keep an eye out for Canadian geese and beavers, providing free wildlife viewing opportunities that delight both kids and adults alike.

Family Events & Festivals

For a lively and enriching experience, immerse yourselves in the vibrant array of family-friendly events and top festivals in Calgary. Calgary is bustling with cultural festivals and events that cater to all ages. For example, Create Kids Fest, held annually, is an art festival showcasing theatre plays, music, storytelling, and dancing, providing a fun and engaging experience.

Calgary hosts various music festivals celebrating different genres and cultures throughout the summer:

• Enjoy the lively Calgary Ukrainian Festival
• Mexifest, Expo Latino, and Fiestaval offer tastes of Latin music, dance, and cuisine
• Experience the Arab culture through music and food at the Arab Festival 

Dive into the diverse cultural scene of Calgary by exploring these friendly events and venues that will create lasting memories for you and your loved ones.

Educational & Cultural Activities

Discover engaging education in Calgary for a memorable and enriching experience. Explore the Early Learning Centre at the Calgary Library, available at 12 locations, providing educational activities for children. 

Granary Road in Foothills County offers an active learning park and farmers market, allowing visitors to engage in hands-on experiences. For a creative and educational experience, visit the Creative Kids Museum at Telus Spark Science Centre just outside of Calgary's City Centre, where a variety of indoor activities promote learning and creativity.

These educational activities in Calgary provide diverse experiences for those to enjoy while learning and exploring together.

Indoor Play & Recreation

With many indoor play places spread throughout Calgary's best neighbourhoods, everyone can enjoy various activities suitable for kids. These indoor playgrounds provide a fun and safe environment for children to play and interact, making them ideal for those looking for indoor entertainment options. From play structures to ball pits, Calgary's indoor play areas cater to various age groups, ensuring that there is something for everyone.

These indoor play areas are designed for entertainment and serve as valuable spaces for kids to socialize, exercise, and unleash their creativity. With different themes, interactive games, and engaging activities, children can spend hours exploring and having fun in these indoor environments. Adults can also relax knowing the kids are in a safe and supervised setting.

If you're looking for entertainment venues suitable for kids and adults, check out B-Line Indoor Bike Park, which features pump tracks and jumps and is perfect for adrenaline-filled fun. For a unique experience, visit The Beach YYC, an indoor sandy beach offering activities like volleyball and soccer.

Make Lasting Memories in Calgary

So, remember all the exciting options available next time you're looking for fun things to do with kids in Calgary. From exploring the Calgary Zoo to enjoying outdoor adventures along the Bow River, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Make memories, learn something new, and bond through these diverse activities in Calgary. 

If you're interested in Calgary real estate, contact Justin Havre Real Estate Team with eXp Realty with Calgary Homes at (403) 217-0003 to get in touch with a local real estate agent who can help you find your Calgary dream home today.