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.
The Loose Moose Theatre company has garnered international acclaim for the pioneering work it has done in the field of improvisational comedy. Established in 1977, this theater company puts up some wonderful productions for children, a repertoire which includes stories like The Ugly Duckling and Aesop's Fables. The shows are always hilarious, and make for fantastic entertainment for the entire family. They also offer improv classes for adults.
Pumphouse Theatre has been in existence for many decades and has a rich cultural heritage. Situated in Downtown Calgary, this venue has proved to be extremely valuable for struggling artists and theater groups who can't afford many of the city's other rental venues. All year round, a number of festivals are held here for adults as well as children, ranging from 8 to 80 years! Drama camps are held every year during summer time for the kids of Calgary.
Stage West is a famous dinner theater located in Southeast Calgary. It stages plays, comedies and dramas on a regular basis. Some of the most well-known artists of the city perform here regularly. Besides standard plays, the establishment also stages kids' specials for the younger generation which include child oriented shows and full buffet dinners. Alongside stellar performances, audiences can also sample some delightful delicacies off the extensive menu offered here.
This beautiful wildlife reserve is located in the Inglewood area of Calgary, covering 36 hectares (88 acres) and is popular for bird watching. The reserve is home to over 270 species of birds, various plant life and 27 species of butterflies. The flat and relatively easy walking trails are ideal for families or school outings and wind around a peaceful lagoon with lush foliage. Be on the look out for some of Calgary's captivating bird life, including Yellow-headed Blackbirds and Mountain Bluebirds. Be aware that dogs, bicycles and bird food are not permitted, so plan your trip accordingly.
Featuring an indoor pool and hot tub, Sheraton Cavalier Hotel Calgary, offers a free airport shuttle. Calgary Stampede and Prince’s Island Park are 10 km away. A coffee machine, small refrigerator, and a work desk are offered in all guest rooms at Calgary Sheraton Cavalier Hotel. A sofa is provided. An en suite bathroom includes free toiletries. Carver's Steakhouse and Colors Bistro offer dining options for guests at this Calgary hotel. Henry’s Pub features micro brews and sporting events, while the Lobby Lounge provides a relaxed atmosphere. Starbucks coffee shop is also available on site. A fitness centre is located on site at Hotel Sheraton Cavalier Calgary. This pet friendly also features a business centre and a 24 hour reception. Calgary Zoo is 10 minutes’ drive from this hotel. Calgary Tower is 10 km away.
Offering free access to the on-site pool and waterpark, this Calgary property provides free Wi-Fi. Free underground heated parking is included. Calgary International Airport is 10 minutes’ drive away. A flat-screen TV and a desk are offered in rooms at Best Western PLUS Port O'Call Hotel. A refrigerator, a microwave and coffee-making facilities are provided. Each air-conditioned room features a balcony. Boasting mountain views, the Sky Harbour Restaurant offers all day dining options. Jetz Bar and Lounge features a light menu and large screen TVs to enjoy sporting events. A fitness centre, hot tub and a sauna are offered for guest use. A business centre is available. A free airport shuttle is offered. Calgary Zoo Botanical Garden & Prehistoric Park is 11km away. Aero Space Museum is 5 minutes’ walk from Port O'Call Best Western PLUS.
The Aero Space Museum Of Calgary offers an up-close look at Calgary's place in aviation history through aviation memorabilia and military aircraft displays, including a Lancaster, a Sopwith Tri-Plane and a Harvard Mark. Visitors can participate in interesting quizzes which challenge their knowledge about the museum. Children can participate in these or engage themselves in materials that can e enlightening. On Thursdays, this museum sees an influx of guests for their 'ASMAC Movie Night' where they broadcast documentaries like 'Real Stuff', 'Snowbirds 25th Anniversary' and 'The Dam Busters (1954)'.
For those interested in war trivia and collectibles, visit this museum, one of the largest military museum in Western Canada. Stocked with artillery, planes and fine examples of the Canadian war effort, it includes many interesting rarities and artifacts. Stop by the gift shop and purchase a memento after a tour through the comfortable and well-appointed rooms. In 2007, new construction added a range of attractions, such as the relocated Naval Museum of Alberta, Air Force Museum, expanded archives, an art gallery, and Military History and Strategic Studies Center of Excellence. The museum also offers research facilities in cooperation with the University of Calgary as well as a range of lectures and educational programs. The museum relies heavily on community support to keep in operation, so cash donations can be placed in the drum located at the front entrance.
Heritage Park Historical Village, one of Canada's largest historical villages, is divided into a pioneer Northwest Mounted Police outpost and a Main Street from 1910. The latter has a working antique amusement park, with rides that are safe even for small children. Other attractions include a working full-scale locomotive thundering through the park, and on the nearby Glenmore Reservoir, a vintage double-decker sternwheeler ship that takes visitors on lake cruises. Shops and restaurants are plentiful in the park, including a turn-of-the-century bakery. All park staff work in costume and character. Entertaining events for the whole family are scheduled year-round, including September's Fall Fair. The opening timing may vary for different experiences at the park.
Delve into history and explore the impact that the automobile industry had on Canada's social and cultural progress at the Gasoline Alley Museum, located within Heritage Park. Children can enjoy the simulated driving experience with the 'road trip games' or listen to the fantastic tales of their favorite cartoon characters at the 'Story Time' session held every Tuesday. The museum also houses various attractions like a 'drive-in theater' from the 1970s or a service station straight from the 1930s, that will be enjoyed by children and adults alike. Car aficionados will love the museum's vintage collection which has been restored to look as good as new. Entrance to the museum is included with admission to Heritage Park.
This vibrant community space for dance, music, and theater performances is home to two resident theater companies, Front Row Centre Players and Storybook Theatre. The mid-sized black box theater tends to showcase performances that enrich the local art community and foster appreciation for theater arts. The resident Storybook Theatre is the largest volunteer-driven theatre for young audiences in Calgary, and puts on performances for families and children in particular. The theater is also available for rent for rehearsals and community events.