Weekend in Calgary
This weekend itinerary balances free, engaging outdoor and indoor activities with worthwhile ticketed attractions that children aged 3-12 will adore. We've focused on convenience, age-appropriateness, and value, ensuring a mix of active play, educational fun, and relaxation for the whole family.
Friday Evening - Family Fun Night
Friday, September 26Library Story Time
Start the weekend with a cozy and engaging Story Time at a Calgary Public Library branch.
These free sessions often include stories, songs, and rhymes, perfect for younger children (3-6) but enjoyable for all. Check specific branch schedules for age-appropriate offerings.
Great for winding down after school/work. Offers a quiet, engaging start to the weekend. Most libraries have family washrooms and stroller access. Session duration is typically 30-45 minutes. Arrive a bit early to get a good spot. Age suitability varies by program, but many are tailored for preschool and early elementary kids.
Central Library is easily accessible via C-Train (City Hall Station). Limited paid street parking and nearby parkades are available. For local branches, parking is often free or metered. Stroller-friendly inside.
Pizza & Play
Enjoy a casual, budget-friendly family pizza dinner followed by some outdoor play at a nearby park or playground.
Many Calgary pizzerias offer family deals. Pick up a pizza to go or dine in at a family-friendly spot close to a great playground like Riley Park.
Kids love pizza, and a playground after dinner lets them burn off energy before bed. Riley Park has a large playground, wading pool (seasonal, but good space for running), and plenty of open grass. Consider ordering ahead for takeout pizza for a picnic in the park if weather permits. Family washrooms are available at most dine-in pizza restaurants, and public washrooms are at larger parks like Riley Park.
Riley Park has free street parking nearby, but it can be busy. Without Papers Pizza is in Inglewood with paid street parking. Public transit (bus routes) serves both areas. Stroller-friendly paths within the park.
Saturday - Family Adventure Day
Saturday, September 27Calgary Zoo Discovery
Spend the morning at the Calgary Zoo, a beloved family attraction with diverse animal habitats from around the world.
Kids will love seeing the penguins, bears, tigers, and more. The Canadian Wilds and Prehistoric Park are particularly engaging for different age groups.
Perfect for energetic kids, offering a blend of animal encounters, interactive exhibits, and extensive walking paths. Stroller-friendly, with plenty of washrooms, change tables, and snack kiosks throughout. Allow at least 3-4 hours to explore. Don't miss the Land of Lemurs and Penguin Plunge. Consider bringing snacks and water bottles to save on costs.
The Calgary Zoo has ample paid parking. It's also easily accessible via C-Train (Zoo Station). The C-Train is stroller-friendly. Paths within the zoo are paved and accessible.
Picnic & Playground
After a morning at the zoo, head to St.
Patrick's Island Park, located just across the Bow River. It's a fantastic spot for a picnic lunch (bring your own or grab something from a nearby deli) and features the 'Curious Cone' playground, a natural play area that kids adore.
Offers a beautiful urban natural space for kids to run and explore. The playground encourages creative play with unique structures. There are ample picnic spots, open lawns for games, and paved pathways for biking or scootering. Public washrooms are available. This is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and save on lunch costs.
Easily walkable from the Calgary Zoo via the George C. King Bridge. Limited paid street parking around the periphery of the island. Accessible by various city bus routes. Entire park is stroller-friendly.
Telus Spark Explore
Dive into an afternoon of interactive learning and discovery at Telus Spark Science Centre.
This center offers hands-on exhibits designed to ignite curiosity in children of all ages, from the Creative Kids Museum for younger ones to the Open Studio and Earth & Sky exhibits.
An excellent indoor option, perfect for any weather. The Creative Kids Museum is specifically tailored for ages 0-8, with plenty of sensory and imaginative play. Older kids will enjoy the science demonstrations and larger exhibits. Washrooms with changing stations are plentiful. Plan for 2-3 hours. Parking is available.
Located adjacent to the Calgary Zoo, making it convenient if you visit both. Paid parking is available on-site. Easily accessible by C-Train (Zoo Station), a short walk from the station. Stroller-friendly throughout.
Ice Cream Treat
Cap off your active day with a well-deserved ice cream treat.
Village Ice Cream is a local favorite with multiple locations, known for its creative flavors and quality ingredients.
A perfect wind-down activity and a sweet reward for a day of adventures. Kids will love choosing their own flavors. All locations are family-friendly. Bathrooms typically available.
Depends on the chosen location. The 49 Ave SW location has street parking. The 10 Ave SE location is walkable from downtown or accessible by C-Train (Centre Street Station) and a short walk. Stroller access is generally good.
Sunday - Relaxed Family Day
Sunday, September 28Farmers Market Visit
Enjoy a leisurely Sunday morning at the Calgary Farmers' Market (South).
Browse local produce, artisanal goods, and grab a delicious and affordable brunch or snack from one of the many food vendors. There's often live music and a vibrant atmosphere.
A great sensory experience for kids, with colorful displays and delicious smells. Plenty of open space, and often kid-friendly activities or entertainers. Family washrooms and stroller access are available. You can find everything from pastries and coffee to full brunch meals. A wonderful way to support local businesses.
Ample free parking is available on-site. Easily accessible by car. Some bus routes also service the area. The market is very stroller-friendly.
Fish Creek Exploration
Spend the afternoon exploring Fish Creek Provincial Park, one of North America's largest urban parks. Opt for an easy, paved path walk or bike ride, focusing on a specific area like the Bow Valley Ranche Area with its historic buildings and beautiful scenery, or the Sikome Lake area (note: Sikome Lake itself will be closed for swimming in late September, but the surrounding pathways are still lovely).
Perfect for burning off energy and connecting with nature. Choose a paved path for strollers or bikes suitable for young riders. Look for wildlife like deer and birds. Pack water and snacks. Public washrooms are available at various points in the park. The Ranche area offers a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll.
Multiple free parking lots throughout the park, depending on the access point chosen. Accessible by car. Some C-Train stations (e.g., Fish Creek-Lacombe) are near park entrances but require a bit of a walk. Park pathways are generally stroller and bike-friendly.
Park Playground Fun
Wrap up the weekend with a final burst of energy at a local community playground.
Many Calgary neighborhoods boast excellent, modern playgrounds perfect for diverse age ranges.
A classic way to let kids play freely and wind down before the school week. Look for playgrounds with swings, slides, and climbing structures suitable for ages 3-12. Bring a ball for added fun. Public washrooms may be available at larger parks like Edworthy. Great for a last dose of fresh air.
Typically free street parking or dedicated parking lots at community parks. Easily accessible by car or local bus routes. Most playgrounds are situated on flat, accessible ground for strollers.
This weekend itinerary for Calgary can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.