Calgary 
Sometimes, all you have time for during the summer school holidays is a day trip!
Barney’s Adventure Park
Luckily, there are several, almost countless, activities for you and your family near Calgary.
These family day trip ideas from Calgary can get you out of the city and experience something new together.
Choose between thrilling adventures, relaxing family getaways, or a mix of both. The areas around Calgary offer something for everyone and all ages, all summer!
Explore the nearby National Park
Banff National Park is a big place! There are townsites and villages to visit with shopping, dining, and attractions. And, given the Rocky Mountain location, Banff offers a ton of outdoor recreation, and even more in the summer. Why is this important for your summer plans? The drive from west Calgary to the park gates is only an hour! Below are some of the many ways you can explore the park in a day with your family.
- Drive the Bow Valley Parkway through Banff instead of Highway 1. The speed limit is slower on the Parkway as the area is abundant with wildlife, and as there are many roadside turnouts with picnic spots, viewpoints, or trails. The Parkway is where you can hike to the famous Johnston Canyon or Inkpots.
- Spend the day in the town of Banff to see local art, shop local, and eat local! The town has its attractions to check out, like the Banff Springs Hotel, Bow Falls, Banff Upper Gondola, the Upper Hot Springs, and the Cave & Basin National Historic Site.
- Embark on short hikes around Banff for family photos, picnics, and some fresh air overall.
- And if you get the time or opportunity, stop by Mt. Norquay in Banff to see the park from above the hills. The summer Sightseeing Chairlift rides at Mt. Norquay take you to the top of the mountain for great views and possibly views of wildlife.
Explore Kananaskis Country
A day trip through Kananaskis will bring you and your family through the gorgeous foothill countryside, followed by large valleys, lakes, and Rockies. The Provincial areas which make up Kananaskis Country follow the Banff park borders and are essential what separate Calgary and Cochrane from Banff. Visit on free days to save on admission fee.
- Drive the Smith Dorien Trail and see where the day takes you and your family! It is 150km in total, but with a slower speed limit. So you may not cover the entire Trail in a day, but there are several great destination points like the Spray Lake Reservoir, Blackshale Suspension Bridge and Spray Valley Provincial Park, Lower Kananaskis Lake, and multiple trailheads.
- Make Kananaskis Village your destination for access to dining, shopping, lookout trails, and waterfall trails. Here you can also find the Boundary Ranch who offer trails rides on horseback.
- K-Country is contains some of Alberta’s best hikes. Take advantage of your proximity to these locations with a day of family hiking around the Elbow Valley, the Spray Valley, or the Kananaskis Valley!
Explore the Badlands
Driving east of Calgary this summer will reveal just as many natural wonders, surprises, and things to do as driving west would reveal. Take your family on a memorable day trip to Alberta’s badlands and experience a history of all kinds.
- Having Drumheller as a final stop on your day trip will create about 1.5 hours of drive time one-way. In Drumheller, there are many photo opportunities, including those at the World’s Largest Dinosaur, central to town. Explore the local restaurants, find unique shops, and leave time for the nearby parks.
- Be sure to stop at Horseshoe Canyon on your way there or back for epic photos or easy hikes.
- To the east of the town of Drumheller, you can take time to explore the famous Hoodoos; west of town is Midland Provincial Park with a disc golf course, biking and hiking trails, and the Royal Tyrell Museum.
Fun Farms & Corn Mazes
What is a fun farm? These local Alberta farms are working businesses, but also welcome public visitors. These fun farms near Calgary offer activities for all ages themed on farm life, animals, or dinosaurs.
- Barney’s Adventure Park holds of the title of Drumheller’s largest outdoor playground; this makes it well worth a scenic 1.5-hour drive from Calgary, as do the several other family-friendly attractions. Ride the train or tube slide, meet with barnyard animals, and take a walk through the dino-filled trails.
- Cobb’s Adventure Park near Calgary is also part of the Cobb’s Exotic Animal Rescue & Education Foundation. Their aim is to provide a happy forever home to rescued exotic pets and farm animals. The park offers farm games and activities, and a chance to interact with select rescues: tortoises, pigs, bunnies, baby wallabies and kangaroos (the adults can be viewed on the Kangaroo drive-by), goats, and many more.
- The Calgary Farmyard’s corn maze will be open by late July and is sure to provide a fun challenge for everyone in your family. Plus, the Farmyard offers a plethora of other activities to keep kids entertained the whole day: a Lil’ Cowtown, playgrounds and giant slides, train and wagon rides, or a pony ride.
Wildlife Sanctuaries and Conservation Areas
Become one with nature again, but as a family! These locations near Calgary offer up-close wildlife viewing experiences through their rescue and conservation efforts. Meet wolfdogs, birds of prey, or see birds and small mammals in the wild.
- The Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary is about from Calgary. The organization works to protect Canada’s wolfdogs, and they offer public tours! Choose from either their Sanctuary Walk (for 6 years and older), the Intro Tour (for 10 and older), or their Interactive Tour (for 15 and older).
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Discovery Wildlife Park, near Innisfail, Red Deer, and Highway 2, offers thrilling family adventures. It serves as a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, promoting bear safety and hosting educational workshops. Visit for an unforgettable experience in animal rehabilitation and conservation.
- Drive north of the city to visit the Medicine River Wildlife Centre. You can watch the regularly scheduled fundraising or events or stop by to enjoy the nature trails and picnic spaces. The Visitor’s Centre is open seasonally for summers and offers a viewing window into part of the treatment area. There are also souvenirs and gifts for sale.
- The public tours hosted by the Alice Sanctuary are released month by month and are available to book online in advance. The Alice Sanctuary is a farm animal rescue society who offer tours to socialize with the animals (and always on the animals’ terms).
Swimming
This summer weather easily demands a beach day with the kids or family. Luckily, Calgarians have a few options, all with drastically different beach scenery. All of these locations do share the similarity, however of offering washrooms, picnic areas, and other beach activities.
- Johnson Lake has one of the prettiest beaches you can find within a day trip from Calgary. The lake is within Banff National Park and is along the scenic Lake Minnewanka Road. Heads up: it might be cold!
- Park Lake Provincial Park is south of Calgary near Lethbridge. You’ll want to leave early as this is more of a drive than other beaches. But once you’re here, you’ll have all you need for a perfect day in the sun.
- The Lake McGregor PRA, southeast of Calgary, is a perfect place for the hottest days of summer. The lake is large and therefore quite cold. So, on a 30+ day, this might be the best place to relax. The Little Bow PRA is a short drive south of here and may offer a slightly warmer swimming experience.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Ch8sWvCsPQx/
Make it an Outdoor Movie Night
Family movie nights can look a little different during summers in Calgary thanks to these nearby outdoor theatres and pop-up theatres. There is a permanent and authentic drive-in theater near Calgary, and a few unique viewing opportunities.
- The High River Sunset Drive In offers an authentic drive-in movie experience, which is hard to come by in Alberta. Take advantage with your family and plan for a classic or modern movie night.
- Genesis Land in Airdrie will host one of their several summer drive-in movies
- Families can float together on Sylvan’s waters while watching the Shallows, on a large inflatable screen.
Lazy Floating in Red Deer
Fortunately for those in Calgary, Red Deer offers two ways to do a lazy float afternoon. These two lazy float experiences cover all ages, with one better for older kids and one better for younger kids.
- The city of Red Deer boat launches offers the perfect places to get in and out and park two vehicles for a river float. Float through the city on the Red Deer River, beginning at Fort Normandeau and ending at the Bower Ponds (6.4km); or travel from the Bower Ponds to the McKenzie Bridge (4.8km).
- Red Deer is also home to Discovery Canyon Park, where kids can learn all about what a lazy river float entails. The park has a small manmade beach and a manmade lazy river.
Guide to River Tubing, Floating and Guided Raft Trips in and Around Calgary
Cycling
If you’re able to transport your bikes along with your family on a day trip from Calgary, then there are a few places to take advantage of for their paved trails and extra amenities.
- There are paved trails which follow the Bow River as it flows through Cochrane. You can follow the trails for 12+km and explore Cochrane’s handful of riverside parks.
- Tour the city of Okotoks on bikes, and you will come across several trails that follow the Sheep River shoreline.
- The Banff Legacy Trail is only 20km from Canmore to Banff. This bike ride (all on paved trails) is scenic, and simple enough for older kids to try.
Ways to Explore History
Explore history as a family this summer and make several different day trips from Calgary to explore history in unique ways. These could include guided tours, roadside stops, museum visits, and general sightseeing.
- The Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park (Siksika), east of Calgary, is also a National Heritage Site. The park offers self-guided experiences and guided tours.
- The Stettler Town & Country Museum, northeast of Calgary, is a historical village and museum with preserved buildings you can explore inside and out. On the way there/back is a unique abandoned structure with interpretive signage and picnic tables. Just look for the Roundhouse in Big Valley.
- There are a few museum stops to make on a day trip towards eastern Alberta and the badlands: the Kneehill Historic Museum, the Trochu & District Museum, the Trochu Arboretum, and the Gopher Hole Museum!
Torrington Gopher Hole Museum
Planes, and Trains
Whether your family is interested in one, or all of the above categories, there are places to enjoy these interests near Calgary. The plane, and train activities near Calgary this summer will involve relaxing experiences, to more thrilling and adventurous experiences.
- View southern Alberta from the cars of a passenger train this summer and enjoy some extra perks with the ride. Aspen Crossing, southeast of Calgary, offer a variety of train excursions all summer. Plus, the site has dining, a greenhouse, more shopping, and camping.
- Get on an actual plane as part of your day trip! Quick Way Air Inc. offer plane tours over the best and prettiest parts of southern Alberta for up to three people.
- The Bomber Command Museum of Canada in Nanton, safeguards and refurbishes the legendary Avro Lancaster FM159—one of just 17 remaining globally. The museum proudly showcases a captivating history, housing WWII artifacts, vehicles, and becoming a renowned center for restoring significant historical aircraft.
Aspen Crossing
Family-friendly Music Festivals
Make the most of the later days of summer with these family-friendly music festivals near Calgary. Both festivals offer day passes, as well as an eclectic lineup of musical acts.
- Enjoy some music in the mountains this summer at the Canmore Folk Music Festival, held in Canmore’s Centennial Park. Day passes are available for each day of the weekend (August 5-7, 2023).
- The Southern Alberta Music Fest (August 11-12) takes place at Aspen Crossing southeast of Calgary. Day passes are available, and proceeds go to support STARS.
Ferry Rides
There are three ferry crossings within a day trip from Calgary. These are unique experiences that can add some excitement to the drive for any youngster. These ferry crossings are close to other attractions, parks, and picnic areas, too.
- The Bleriot Ferry to cross the Red Deer River on the north side of Drumheller and is part of Highway 838.
- The Finnegan Ferry crosses the river about a half hour southeast of Drumheller. The ferry is part of Highway 862.
- The Crowfoot Ferry is also east of Calgary and takes passengers across the Bow River. This provides faster access to the Trans Canada Highway.
Farmers’ Markets & Picnics
One tasty way to cater for a family picnic is by stopping by a local farmers’ market beforehand and filling your picnic basket with locally made and sourced treats. These can range from sweet to savoury, light to filling, raw, cooked, or pre-heated. Below are some farmers’ markets happening outside Calgary this summer, and nearby picnic locations.
- Stop by the Cochrane Farmers’ Market (Saturdays 9am-3pm) before heading out on a scenic picnic adventure toward the Ghost Reservoir PRA, or the Glenbow Ranch PP.
- The Millarville Farmers’ Market (Saturdays 9am-2pm) can cater to all your picnic needs before heading to a spot like Sheep River Provincial Park
- Travel east to Strathmore for the local Farmers’ Market (Fridays 3pm-6:30pm) before taking your food and family on an evening picnic at Wyndham-Carseland PP. Along with a riverside picnic, you and your family can enjoy hiking, fishing, or paddling on the Bow River.
Provincial Park Picnic Spots
Calgary is surrounded by naturally beautiful places for a picnic. But if you head to a provincial park specifically (or recreation area), you are granted access to amenities like tables, washrooms, cook stoves, shelters, and recreational activities.
- Little Bow Provincial Park is also a short drive southeast of the city. During a picnic day here, your family can enjoy river swimming, relaxing on the sand, paddling, and access to a concession.
- Chain Lakes Provincial Park has all you need for a memorable day away from home with a picnic. Take advantage of the park’s foothill views, wildlife views, and concession.
Take a Food Tour
One way to explore Alberta and southern Alberta is through your tastebuds. Take your family on a casual culinary tour of southern Alberta and areas around Calgary for new local treats.
- Start at a café in Cochrane like the Cochrane Coffee Traders or Sunny Side Up, and continue to Canmore for some local Grizzly Paw sodas. And for dinner, find a scenic patio in the Kananaskis Village. Alternatively, you can visit the area for the Cochrane Food Fest (August 13).
- Take your tour south of Calgary to Okotoks and High River. Some local places to start with in Okotoks for breakfast include French 50 Bakery, or Home Ground. Detour to Diamond Valley for local breweries, or snacks and sweets at Marv’s Classic Soda Shop. End your trip with dinner at one of High River’s local restaurants, many of which are located near Lions Park.
Pond Fishing
A family fishing day can be more relaxing with less distractions and noise. So instead of fishing at the lakes near Calgary, try some of the small fishing ponds. These quiet places can make it a little easier for young ones to learn how to cast and catch.
- Keep in mind that many of Banff’s regular fishing spots are closed for the moment. However, you can still take advantage of fishing at the Beaver Ponds beside the Vermillion Lakes. Or take your family fishing at both locations!
- Use the McLean Creek PRA to access a scenic fishing pond in the foothills; the pond is behind the campground.
- The Sibbald Meadows Pond Provincial Recreation Area is a quiet little place to unwind with some fishing, a picnic, and short walks around the shores.
Hiking
Family hiking can mean bringing the dog on a leash, strollers, or small children who can’t make as far of a hike as adults. But fear not, as there are many short, simple, and overall scenic hikes near Calgary.
- The Little Elbow PRA has some beautiful day use areas and hiking trails; the Forgetmenot Pond day use area trails range from 2-4km.
- Explore Bragg Creek Provincial Park via short loops that travel through forest, alongside the Elbow River, and beside small ponds.
- The Middle Lake day use area of the Bow Valley Provincial Park is a convenient place for a hike with trails leading through the forests to the Bow River.
Scenic Spots for Family Photos
Whether these family photos are mean to be in the moment, posed, or with a professional photographer, Calgary has many gorgeous places to go near the city. This includes all the mountain scenery to the west, but also the prairies, badlands, and foothills.
- Horseshoe Canyon off of Highway AB-9 offers incredible picnic views along with washrooms, and access to trails. These trails lead down into the Canyon to give you a closer look at the unique stretch of badlands scenery.
- Head to waterfalls near Calgary for scenic photos.
- Take a scenic drive south on the Cowboy Trail to find photo locations around the Lundbreck Falls Provincial Recreation Area. You may find more stops for photos along the southern highway.
- Stop by Parks Canada’s iconic Red Chairs for views and scenic family pictures.
Fairs & Rodeos
If you missed the Calgary Stampede as a family, then you can look forward to these local fairs and rodeos near the city. Find new food, shopping, and add some midway time to your day.
- Join in on the festivities at Sheppard Family Park in High River for Heritage Day. Activities and entertainment include live blacksmithing, a vintage book sale, carnival games and food.
- The Priddis & Millarville Fair takes place at the Millarville Racetrack with a promise of “country fun for everyone.”
- Lethbridge is about as far as a family may want to go on a day trip from Calgary. And luckily, this southern Alberta city has a big reason to visit in August: Lethbridge & District Pro Rodeo & Fort Whoop-Up Days.
- Plan a late summer visit to Taber and devour delcious corn and celbrate all things corn duing the annual cornfest.
Taber cornfest
Tour the Waters around Calgary
What type of water tour are you after? Slow-paced and calm, or full of speed and splashes? Additionally, you could ask your family what type of waters they want to explore: the nearby rivers, or the mountain lakes.
- Mukwah Rafting Tours operate on the Red Deer River with options for slow and relaxing raft float trips, or the more thrilling whitewater rafting choices.
- Banff Canoe Club Tours of guided experiences on the Bow as it travels through the eastern Rockies.
- Treat your family to a day on the Lake Minnewanka Cruise in Banff. For younger families, they offer a Junior Explorer Cruise package.
- Fun Water-Based Activities and Adventures Around Calgary
Amusement & Water Parks
Add thrills to your summer plans and organize a day trip around the amusement areas near Calgary. These include rollercoasters, and a massive inflatable water park.
- The Sylvan Lake Aqua Splash is a great way to spend some time together at the beach- and a great way to get the kids moving. The floating waterpark is the first of its kind in Alberta with features like a giant slide, a launch bag, climbing walls, and a trampoline.
- Calaway Park can easily take a full day to explore with the family. Make a day trip out of carnival games, rides for all ages and thrill-seeking levels, and tasting the midway snacks.
Kayaking, Canoeing, or SUPing
If you’re planning a paddle day trip with kids, or a large family, you’ll likely want a location with calm waters. These lakes near Calgary are the perfect place to bring the family on a soothing boat ride, weather permitting of course!
- Embark on a Rocky Mountain lake paddle in the scenic areas of Banff: Two Jack Lake, Bow, and Herbert, are among some of the smaller of these lakes.
- Barrier Lake in Peter Lougheed PP offers a beautiful mix of forested foothill, and mountain scenery. There is also a shoreline trail to explore after your paddle.
- Glennifer Lake is a large reservoir on the Red Deer River with one boat launch both the north and south side of the lake.
Explore a new Small Town
Pick somewhere that no one in the family has visited before and take a day to explore it! Take time to explore the towns’ shopping, recreation, restaurants, or local attractions.
- North of Calgary: Carstairs, Olds, or Sundre
- East of Calgary: Drumheller, Rosebud, Bassano and the Dam, Brooks
- South of Calgary: High River, Fort McLeod, Nanton, Vulcan
- West of Calgary: Cochrane, Bragg Creek, Millarville
Find a way to Celebrate Alberta Open Farm Days
Alberta Open Farm Days is a weekend that offers a unique open-house experience. Alberta Open Farm Days will see dozens of participating local farms across the province who will open their doors to the public. And each of these local farms near Calgary will celebrate in their own way. Below are some participating farms near Calgary:
- Your Local Ranch in Airdrie
- Glengarry Bison and Souto Farms Market in Rocky View County
- Happiness by the Acre in Didsbury
- And many more!
