Calgary Chronicles: A Kid-Approved Itinerary

After landing, kickstart your Calgary experience with a classic Canadian treat – Tim Bits from Tim Hortons for an extra energy boost. Then, it's time to check into your hotel and drop off your bags.

With newfound energy, set out to explore the vibrant downtown. For an adrenaline rush and some family-friendly fun, consider a visit to Winsport Calgary Olympic Park. Here, you can try your hand at bobsledding or luge, take on a thrilling zipline, and enjoy a round of mini golf.

As the day turns to dusk, make your way to the iconic Calgary Tower. Not only does it offer incredible panoramic views of the city, but it's also home to a revolving restaurant where you can savor a delightful dinner. Imagine the perfect start to your journey, with the sun setting over the city's skyline as you dine in style.

Prepare for a day of adventure at the renowned Calgary Zoo. As one of my all-time favorite zoos, it's an absolute must for families. Especially if you have a little dinosaur enthusiast in tow, you're in for a treat. The star of the show here is the extraordinary dinosaur exhibit known as Prehistoric Park, a real gem that will leave your child (and you!) in awe. My son was down to spend the entire day just in the dinosaur area.

The zoo is divided into four captivating themed areas, each showcasing a unique array of animals, and the lush gardens add an extra layer of charm. With so much to see and do, it's easy to spend the entire day exploring the animal kingdom.

Don't miss the penguins, the undeniable highlight of the day – unless, of course, your kids are still raving about the dinosaurs!

If you find yourself with some spare time (and energy), make your way to the nearby TELUS Spark Science Center. This hands-on museum promises a fun and interactive learning experience for curious minds.

As the day winds down, head back to your hotel, but not before making a pit stop at Peter's Drive-In. There, you can savor delicious burgers and milkshakes, the perfect way to wrap up your day of family fun at the zoo.

A visit to Calgary wouldn't be complete without a day trip to the breathtaking Banff. This charming mountain town is an absolute jewel and a must-see on your family adventure.

I recommend starting your day with a visit to the iconic Lake Louise, an absolute showstopper. While it's a bit further from Banff, the trip is undoubtedly worth it and then you can hit Banff on your way back toward the city. The vivid turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop make for an unforgettable sight.

After taking in the splendor of Lake Louise, return to the heart of Banff and immerse yourself in the town's delightful ambiance. It's the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch, where you can savor local cuisine in this quaint alpine setting.

For a dose of adventure, consider hiking Sulphur Mountain or taking the Gondola. With little ones in tow, I often opt for the Gondola to save time and minimize the challenges of hiking. Whichever route you choose, the reward is the same – breathtaking views from the mountaintop that will leave you and your family in awe.

Wrap up your Banff excursion with a relaxing dip in the natural hot springs. It's the ideal way to unwind before heading back to Calgary.

If your visit coincides with the Calgary Stampede (which I highly recommend), it's time to immerse yourselves in the thrilling events. Grab tickets for some Stampede action, available in daytime and evening slots. The evening tickets treat you to chuckwagon races and a dazzling night show, while the daytime tickets offer a taste of the rodeo events. Even without event tickets, you can still have a blast wandering the Stampede grounds. Each year, they roll out an array of unique and delicious foods to try, and the place is bustling with vendors and games.

But if your visit doesn't align with the Stampede, there's no need to worry. Explore the fascinating Heritage Park, dedicated to connecting you with the rich history of Western Canada. Here, you'll find a treasure trove of exhibits, including the largest collection of antique cars. While I haven't personally visited this spot, it's a highly recommended attraction by many. The only reason I haven't explored it myself is because I'm usually in town during Stampede, and the festivities are simply irresistible.

Cap off your day with some mouthwatering desserts at the Fairmont, a sweet ending to an action-packed day.

Drumheller is about an hour outside of Calgary and is home to the World's Largest Dinosaur and the Royal Tyrell Museum.

The Royal Tyrrell Museum is nothing short of extraordinary. The vast collection of dinosaurs and the immersive exhibits make it one of the coolest museums I've ever had the pleasure of exploring. It's not just about looking at fossils; they offer exciting excursions where you can hunt for fossils and even participate in fossil digs. It's an educational and hands-on experience your kids will adore.

The dining options in Drumheller are sparse, so we grabbed lunch at the A&W in town so my kids could enjoy a delicious Root beer float and then climbed up the World's Largest Dinosaur.

For a delightful ending to your Calgary journey, enjoy some delicious Chinese food. I highly recommend trying Ginger Beef, a local specialty that you won't find just anywhere. The Ginger Beef House is my top pick for this dish.