A Family Adventure
With a blend of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure, Calgary offers plenty of family-friendly activities and attractions. Here’s a perfect 48-hour itinerary to ensure your family enjoys every moment in this dynamic city.
Day 1: Discovering Downtown and Beyond
Morning: Calgary Zoo
Start your day with a visit to the Calgary Zoo, one of the top-rated zoos in North America. Home to over 1,000 animals, the zoo offers a fun and educational experience for kids and adults alike. Don’t miss the Penguin Plunge and the Prehistoric Park, where you can step back in time and encounter life-sized dinosaur replicas.
Lunch: Lunchbox Theatre
Head downtown for a unique dining and entertainment experience at Lunchbox Theatre. Enjoy a delightful meal while watching a family-friendly one-act play. It’s a perfect way to immerse yourself in Calgary’s vibrant arts scene.
Afternoon: TELUS Spark Science Centre
After lunch, explore the TELUS Spark Science Centre. With interactive exhibits, a creative kids’ museum, and an outdoor park, this science center is designed to ignite curiosity and inspire a love for learning in visitors of all ages. Check out the Brainasium, an outdoor adventure park with a giant climbing structure and other fun activities.
Evening: Dinner at The Old Spaghetti Factory
For dinner, head to The Old Spaghetti Factory, a family favorite located in the heart of Eau Claire Market. With its whimsical decor and diverse menu, it offers something for everyone, including gluten-free and vegetarian options.
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures and Local Culture
Morning: Heritage Park Historical Village
Start your second day with a trip to Heritage Park Historical Village, Canada’s largest living history museum. Step back in time as you explore historic buildings, ride an antique steam train, and even take a paddlewheel boat cruise on the Glenmore Reservoir. The park offers interactive exhibits and live demonstrations, making it a fun and educational experience for the whole family.
Lunch: Railway Cafe
Enjoy the casual elegance of a 1930s café reminiscent of lunch counters popular during the depression. With a boardwalk overlooking the beautiful Glenmore Reservoir, you can enjoy baked goods, hot and cold beverages, specialty coffees, soups, sandwiches and salads.
Afternoon: The Calgary Tower
No trip to Calgary is complete without a visit to the iconic Calgary Tower. Take the elevator to the top for breathtaking 360-degree views of the city and the surrounding Rocky Mountains. The glass floor offers an exhilarating experience, especially for the kids!
Evening: Explore Prince’s Island Park and Dinner at River Café
End your day with a leisurely stroll through Prince’s Island Park, an urban oasis in the middle of the Bow River. The park offers beautiful walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic spots. For dinner, visit the nearby River Café, known for its locally sourced, seasonal cuisine and stunning views of the park.
Optional Evening Activity: Calgary Flames Hockey Game
If you’re visiting during hockey season, consider catching a Calgary Flames game at the Scotiabank Saddledome. It’s a thrilling experience that the whole family will enjoy, complete with the excitement of the game and the lively atmosphere of the fans.
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Calgary is a city that offers a perfect blend of urban charm and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal destination for families. With this 48-hour itinerary, you’ll experience the best of what Calgary has to offer. Enjoy your stay! 
