The wintery weather is definitely on the horizon as the fall season progresses. This may have you thinking about what there is to do as a family in the city. I’m happy to say that Calgary has a wealth of wonderful family-oriented activities! Here are some of my best picks.
Calgary Zoo
If you’ve never visited our zoo in the winter, you’re in for a treat. While a few of the animals might be in hibernation mode, there are many that love frolicking in the snow. For example, you can take in the penguin walk if you’re there mid-morning. This is a chance to follow the penguins on their daily walk around the zoo.
From the Western Painted Turtle to the Wood Bison, the facility has over 100 different species of animals. And, don’t forget to return for the Christmas light display called Zoolights.
Outdoor ice skating
Skating is a popular Canadian winter pastime and Calgary boasts some of the best outdoor rinks around. There’s the downtown Olympic Plaza, North Glenmore Park on the north side of Glenmore Reservoir and Bowness Park along the Bow River between Stoney Tr. and 85 St. N.W.
Skates can be rented right at the rinks for a small fee. Review the hours of operation as the daytime and evening hours do vary a bit.
Museums
A visit to one of Calgary’s many museums is another great option in the winter. One of my favourites is Heritage Park. With over 127 acres, this is the largest living heritage museum in the country. Features include the Heritage Park Historical Village, Heritage Town Square and Gasoline Alley Museum.
During the colder months the Historical Village comes alive for special events including Ghouls’ Night Out and Once Upon a Christmas. Not to be missed is the Winter CARnival at Gasoline Alley where visitors can build a snow fort or play games like Pin the Heart on the Grinch.
Plus, check out two other great Calgary facilities − the National Music Centre and the Spark Science Centre.
Wolf sanctuary
Who doesn’t like seeing Canadian wildlife up close? The Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary is a fascinating place to go. Granted, you’ll have to drive about an hour outside Calgary but it’s well worth the trip. This non-profit compound is where rescued wolves are brought to be rehabilitated.
There are different tours available to the public where you’ll learn all about this marvelous creature. Be aware that it’s not an appropriate outing for little ones under six years old so these youngsters won’t be admitted.
Sledding
Winter is not complete without experiencing the thrill of sledding down a snowy hill. Our city has enough splendid slopes that chances are good you can find one not too far from your neighbourhood.
Pick your sledding location based on the age and skill of family members. You might want to start out on the gentle incline at Turtle Hill at the Optimist Athletic Park, then progress to faster hills at Stanley Park by the Elbow River or Elgin Hill on Mckenzie Towne Drive.
Hiking
Enjoying the crisp winter air on a hike through one of the many lovely parks in the city is another idea. Depending on the age of your offspring you might try a short walk on the trails or pull the little ones along on a sled. If your children are old enough, you can rent snowshoes cheaply for the whole family at Bow Habitat Station in Pearce Estate Park.
Plan to experience other parks like Fish Creek, Carburn, Edworthy, North Glenmore, Nose Hill, Weaselhead and more. There are definitely enough to keep your family entertained throughout the season.
Cafes
Calgary has a few unique cafes perfect for indoor family fun. The Regal Cat Cafe fosters cats until they’re adopted. They sleep and play in a separate room and can be seen through a plexiglass window. If you or your children are ready for a cat cuddle you can book a spot to join the cats for a short time.
The Hexagon Board Game Cafe is a venue where you can spend a few hours playing board games while you have a snack. They have an amazing variety of games to borrow.
Finally
I’d love to hear what you think after trying out one of these adventures!
