We tried all the ultimate adrenaline rush and aquatic adventures. Here’s our hot take on Calgary’s theme parks.
Growing up, I was obsessed with the line “Adventure is out there!” from Disney’s Up. It always sparked a sense of wonder in me. I can still remember the first time I rode a roller coaster; my heart raced as we climbed higher, and it was pure magic!
As an adrenaline junkie, I’ve made it my mission to conquer every theme park Calgary has to offer, from wild roller coasters to splash-fantastic water slides. If you’re looking for the ultimate thrill or just a fun day out, you’ll want to hear about my favorite spots in the city.
Join me as I share my personal adventures and hot takes on these exhilarating destinations—you might just find your next adventure waiting!
1. Calaway Park
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Website: http://www.calawaypark.com/
Address: 245033 Range Rd 33, Calgary, AB T3Z 2E9, Canada
Contact details: +14032403822
Calaway Park is the largest amusement park in Calgary, and let me tell you, it’s like a treasure chest of fun! There are over 30 rides, so whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just want something chill for the little ones, there’s something for everyone.
I love that the park is open from May to October, which gives us plenty of time to enjoy it. Can you believe it spans around 160 acres?
One ride that you have to try is the Vortex Roller Coaster. Seriously, it’s a rush! Standing at 70 feet tall with those two inversions—your heart will be racing, and you’ll probably find yourself screaming in delight!
But if you’re looking for something more relaxed, the Bumper Cars always bring a smile. And let me not forget about the Timber Falls Log Ride—it’s like a little water adventure filled with thrilling drops that leave you soaked but smiling from ear to ear.
Plus, the live entertainment is a blast! I had one unforgettable moment when I was enjoying a sweet treat while watching a show at the Celebration Square Stage. It was such a perfect blend of fun and flavors—just pure family joy!
Pro tip: Take advantage of their seasonal passes if you plan multiple summer trips. Not only does it save money, but it also allows you to explore every corner of this expansive amusement park without feeling rushed! |
2. Cobb’s Adventure Park
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Website: http://cobbsadventurepark.com/
Address: 1500 84 St NE, Calgary, AB T2A 7X4, Canada
Contact details: +14032102676
Operating hours: 11 AM–5 PM
Cobb’s Adventure Park is an exclusive kangaroo petting zoo. It’s the only one in Alberta, and getting up close with these adorable kangaroos is just too cool! I mean, who wouldn’t want to hang out with kangaroos?
But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. The park has many exotic animals—sloths, porcupines, and even alpacas! I can’t get enough of the wildlife petting zoo; interacting with animals like goats and ducks is just heartwarming.
The giant hill slides are a thrill! As you race down those slides, you feel like a kid again, wind in your hair, laughter echoing around you. Cobb’s also has this awesome black light mini-golf course—trust me, it adds a fun twist to the game!
Plus, there are pedal carts, archery tags, and gemstone mining for the little treasure hunters in your life. And if you get hungry, there’s this food concession truck with homemade fudge that you can’t skip.
Pro tip: Don’t miss out on the Kangaroo Drive-Bys! This unique experience allows you to interact with kangaroos in a special way you won’t find anywhere else in Alberta. It’s a fantastic opportunity to make your visit even more memorable! |
3. Calgary Farmyard
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Website: https://www.calgaryfarmyard.com/?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=GMB
Address: 284022 Township Rd 224, Rocky View, AB T1X 0J6, Canada
Contact details: +14036482719
Operating hours: Sunday, 9:30 AM–5 PM
Calgary Farmyard is like a little slice of rural paradise in the middle of the city. It’s a charming family-run amusement park and petting zoo that wraps you up in that wholesome, sunny vibe.
One of the highlights? The corn maze! Seriously, this thing is massive—over 13 acres! In the fall, it becomes a giant playground where you can get delightfully lost among the towering stalks.
And don’t even get me started on the sunflower fields that bloom in mid-August. They make for the perfect Instagram backdrop. You can’t miss the pumpkin patch in the autumn either; it’s such a joy for families to pick their own pumpkins.
The farm is all about creating unforgettable memories, and it shows. They’ve snagged a Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence and won Calgary’s Child Magazine Parent Choice Award for Best Family Fun Attraction—not too shabby, right?
Pro tip: Consider purchasing your tickets online to save over $4 per ticket! This ensures you get a better deal and helps you skip the lines when you arrive, maximizing your time for fun. |
4. Downhill Karting by Skyline Luge
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Website: https://www.downhillkarting.ca/
Address: Winsport Canada Olympic Park, 88 Canada Olympic Rd SW, Calgary, AB T3B 5R5, Canada
Downhill Karting by Skyline Luge is the world’s longest track at over 1,800 meters (about 5,905 feet) long and has more than 50 twists and turns.
Safety is a priority, which is super comforting. Each kart has this awesome braking system. Just pull back on the handlebars to slow down or stop. It gives you the freedom to control your speed!
You can take it easy if you’re not too adventurous or hit that throttle if you’re ready to feel the wind in your hair. I went full throttle, and let me tell you, the adrenaline was next level. Plus, what about the views of the park while speeding down? Just a cherry on top.
Kids aged six and older can ride solo, and anyone younger can hop in tandem with an adult. There’s this height requirement of 110 cm (about 43 inches) for solo riders, so even the little ones can join in on the fun without a worry.
Pro tip: Buy a multi-ride package! Not only does this save you money per ride, but trust me—you’ll want to go down more than once. The rush is addictive, and each run feels like a new adventure! |
5. Heritage Park
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Website: http://www.heritagepark.ca/
Address: 1900 Heritage Dr. SW, Calgary, AB T2V 2X3, Canada
Contact details: +14032688500
Heritage Park brings history to life while also being a lot of fun. I mean, it’s 127 acres of sheer delight! You get to step back in time and explore the rich cultural heritage of Western Canada—how cool is that?
One of my favorite parts is the vintage rides! There’s even a working steam train and an authentic paddle wheeler that uniquely lletsyou enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Heritage Park opened its doors in 1964, and it’s still one of Calgary’s top spots to visit. Over 200 exhibits showcase different eras of our history, from the fur trade in the 1860s to the towns of the early 20th century.
It’s set up for a great day out. The Ferris Wheel offers jaw-dropping views, and the Bowness Carousel is perfect for families with little ones.
You have to check out the Gasoline Alley Museum. It has one of the largest collections of antique vehicles. Plus, the costumed interpreters—they’re like living history! They share fascinating tales that make everything come alive.
Pro tip: Don’t miss out on trying the fresh cinnamon rolls from the bakery! They’re a local favorite and make a perfect treat as you wander through this enchanting historical village. |
6. Laser City Laser Tag
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Website: https://www.lasercity.ca/calgary
Address: 572 Aero Dr NE #125, Calgary, AB T2E 7Y4, Canada
Contact details: +14037444121
Operating hours: 11 AM–7 PM
Laser City is one of the newest attractions in the city, just off the Deerfoot Trail. Each game lasts about 15 minutes, and it’s set up for everyone aged six and up, so no worries about being left out!
The phasers and vests are super lightweight, making it easy for everyone to get in on the action. Laser City has something for everyone, whether you’re planning a drop-in session or a big event, like a birthday party or a corporate team-building outing.
One of my favorite things about them is the dedicated party tables—perfect for celebrations! If you have kids, there are arcade games to keep them entertained while they wait.
You can even watch from a second-level viewing room, so you don’t miss any action below. And if you’re looking for something different, check out the Mini Paintball option for younger kids aged 8 to 12 – it adds another layer of fun on top of the laser tag!
Pro tip: Take advantage of their special pricing on weekdays—specifically Wednesdays and Thursdays—when games are only $5 each! This can reduce costs if you’re planning a group outing or just want to enjoy multiple rounds of laser tag. |
7. Discovery Canyon
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Website: http://www.rbgra.ca/discovery-canyon/
Address: 3800 River Bend Dr, Red Deer County, AB T4P 0Y4, Canada
Contact details: +14033436341
Operating hours: 11 AM–7 PM
Discovery Canyon has a river-fed water pool. They’ve created this fantastic lazy river experience perfect for all ages. You can spend hours floating on a tube, gliding down gentle slopes, splashing around in the bubbling pools.
And if you’ve got kids in tow, there’s a nature-themed playground that’s super fun. They can explore and play while you take a breather. Plus, they’ve got informative signs scattered throughout the park that teach the little ones about the water cycle.
If you want to pack a lunch, there are picnic tables and a concession stand for those in-the-mood-for-snacks moments. Plus, there’s no need to worry about restrooms—they’re accessible too!
You can also bring your own tube if you’d like! Just make sure it’s round and 30 to 50 inches long. Kids can get lost in the playground and experience the thrill of that lazy river, while adults can kick back and absorb the sun.
Pro tip: Arrive early in the season—this not only helps you avoid crowds but also gives you access to the freshest conditions in the natural pools. Plus, it’s a great time to enjoy the park’s educational programs before they get busy! |
8. Galaxyland
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Website: https://www.wem.ca/play/attractions/galaxyland
Address: 8882 170 St NW #2784, Edmonton, AB T5T 4J2, Canada
Contact details: +17804445300
Operating hours: 11 AM–6 PM
Galaxyland is tucked away inside the West Edmonton Mall; believe it or not, it’s the biggest indoor amusement park in the world! There are over 27 rides and attractions for thrill-seekers or anyone looking for family fun.
One of the coolest things about Galaxyland is its Hasbro-themed vibe, which means you can see characters and themes from shows like My Little Pony and Monopoly everywhere.
If you’ve got little ones, you can start with gentle options like the Carousel or the Dragon Wagon—perfect for the younger crowd. But if you’re ready for something more thrilling, you must try the Galaxy Orbiter. It’s Canada’s first spinning roller coaster.
And for the ultimate adrenaline rush, don’t miss the Space Shot; it’s like a heart-stopping free fall that will have you screaming with delight!
Pro tip: Take advantage of the quieter hours early in the day or during weekdays. This way, you can enjoy shorter ride wait times and maximize your fun without feeling rushed! |
9. Sylvan Lake Aqua Splash
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Website: http://www.sylvanlakeaquasplash.ca/
Address: 5104 LAKESHORE DR SYLVAN, Sylvan Lake, AB T4S 1E3, Canada
Contact details: +15873774386
Operating hours: 11 AM–8 PM
Sylvan Lake Aqua Splash is Alberta’s first open-water adventure park. One of the standout attractions is this wild 15-foot climbing tower. I tried it, and let me tell you, it’s a thrilling challenge!
Then there are these giant trampolines that just beg you to jump on them. Safety is definitely a focus here, though, so they make sure everyone wears life jackets and signs waivers before getting into the action.
Honestly, I found that an hour of bouncing around was just enough to leave me feeling exhilarated, but if you want to keep the fun going, you can grab half-day and full-day passes.
There are picnic tables for when you want to kick back and relax, and flush toilets, which is always a plus! They even provide storage for your stuff—so you don’t have to worry about your belongings while bouncing around and having the time of your life.
Pro tip: Bring water shoes. The inflatable surfaces can get slippery, and having that extra grip will enhance your experience while keeping you safe as you navigate the park’s exciting challenges! |
10. World Waterpark
– Media credit: official_wem
Website: http://www.wem.ca/play/attractions/world-waterpark/
Address: 8882 170 Street Northwest, Edmonton, AB T5T 4M2, Canada
Contact details: +17804445300
World Waterpark at the West Edmonton Mall is like stepping into a tropical paradise, and it’s all indoors! It’s home to the world’s largest indoor wave pool. The waves can get up to about 1.5 meters (4.9 feet) high, which is just wild!
If you love a good thrill, you’re in for a treat. They’ve got over 17 different waterslides. I’m talking about the heart-pounding Sky Screamer that drops from a dizzying 83 feet—it gets your adrenaline pumping!
And if you’re with family or little ones, the Caribbean Cove is perfect. It’s super fun, with slides and water buckets splashing everywhere. You’ll love that the park stays at a cozy 31°C (88°F) year-round.
Speaking of fun, the amenities are awesome too. You won’t have to worry about a thing—they’ve got changing rooms, lockers, and places to grab a bite, which is perfect because you’ll need some energy for all the fun you’ll have.
Pro tip: Take advantage of the evening sessions when the park hosts special events like surfing and kayaking in the wave pool. It’s less crowded and offers a different vibe—perfect for those who enjoy quieter moments. |