Voted as one of the most fun outdoor sites in the country, Calgary Zoo features more than 1,100 animals from around the world and an ever-growing portfolio of innovative exhibitions. The fascinating programs put on by the zoo, allow guests to get up close and personal with its less ferocious animals through the Creature Features Program. Life-sized dinosaur models lurk in the badlands of the Prehistoric Park, and the more genteel setting of the Botanical Park includes a butterfly garden that is sure to delight visitors of all ages.
Fish Creek Provincial Park is Canada's largest urban park, covering much of the south side of the city and dividing established and newer suburbs. The park features no organized recreational grounds, with daily usage intended for walking, cycling, and picnics, although tobogganing is popular in the winter. At the far east and south end are the man-made Lake Sikome beach and swimming area. The Fish Creek Environmental Learning Center, at the west end of the park, is intended primarily for school groups. At the east end, the Bow Valley Ranch Visitor Center, a small bakery cafe, and a more upscale sit-down restaurant, dubbed The Ranch, greet visitors.
The Naval Museum of Alberta exists to "perpetuate the memory of men and women who have served in the Royal Canadian Navy" since its inception in 1910. The facility is Canada's largest naval museum and has been operating in Calgary since 1988. A number of interesting and exciting artifacts are on exhibition, including three beautifully restored 'Second World War wheelhouse', intricate ship models, several gun mountings and a periscope, which is always popular with the kids. Unique gifts are available in the gift shop; books, pins, badges and clothing. The museum offers special tours for schools, groups or individuals at exceptional rates.
Statistics say that Prince's Island is one of the most used urban parks in North Canada. Come here on a sunny day and you will not doubt it. Originally, the island was used to catch felled trees floating down the Bow River from logging projects upstream. Now this bit of serenity in downtown serves as a favorite venue for joggers, football tossers, family picnics, flocks of Canadian Geese, buskers, Shakespearean actors and nearly every major festival that Calgary hosts. This is also a great place for a quiet paddle down the river.
A local service offered by the city council, the Calgary Public Library is open to all. The library is run by its organizing foundation and has a number of branches all over the city. Catering to a larger community, the library houses a varied range of titles and boasts of an equally vast collection. Serving members of all age groups, the place frequently conducts book exhibitions and book release events. Call for further details.
The Contemporary Calgary aims at promoting contemporary art, craft, design and architecture. The museum's decor is kept simple, thus focusing mainly on the showcased art. Visitors can enjoy unique exhibits like Marcel Van Eden's 'The Lone Lake Murders'. Art enthusiasts also get an opportunity to participate in the lectures and discussions held by prominent personalities. Besides the art shows, guests are entertained by musical performances and other. To sum it up, the gallery ensures a thorough visual treat!