A Guide to Calgary’s WinSport Facilities That’ll Make You Wonder If It’s Too Late to Be an Olympian
Considering how obsessed Calgary is with sports, it’s a miracle that I grew up totally unathletic. Even though I tried hockey, baseball, and skiing, none of them really stuck with me, so I pretty much just gave up.
It wasn’t until the most recent Olympics that I felt the same jealousy I always had while watching my athletic friends. That’s when I decided that maybe it was time to try again.
Fortunately, I knew there was one place I could go to. I’ve heard that WinSport is a sports park that’s open all year round and provides coaching for both kids and adults.
So I got a pass and spent a whole day exploring the grounds to decide on which sport I should try. Below, I wrote down everything I saw while I was going around Calgary’s famous WinSport facilities.
Where is WinSport?
WinSport is located at 88 Olympic Rd S W. It can be found along the TransCanada Highway in western Calgary.
How to Get to WinSport
Via Bus: You can get to WinSport by taking bus lines 53 and 108. The closest bus stop is at Wb Canada Olympic Dr @ W. Of Canada Olympic Rd SW, which is a 2-minute walk away.
Via Private Car: Use your car’s GPS or a navigation app like Waze to find the best route to get there. There are plenty of parking lots near WinSport’s main buildings.
What to Do in WinSport
Conquer the slopes with a snowboard or skis
– Media credit: winsportcanada
As the home of the 1988 Winter Olympics, where we won several skiing medals, skiing is a must-try activity here at WinSports. Though you can opt to go snowboarding too if that’s more your speed.
You’ll see two types of skiers and snowboarders on these slopes: beginners having fun with their friends and families, or high-performance athletes who serve as inspiration for the other guests.
No matter where you fall on the spectrum, you can expect a lot of support from your fellow snowriders. At the end of the day, everyone is just here to enjoy and get better at the sport anyway.
Advanced riders will be interested to know that there’s a superpipe provided. Here, you can improve your freestyle skiing skills, as well as show off a little bit in front of your peers.
Hop on a snow tube
– Media credit: winsportcanada
Those who are looking for a fun family activity are going to enjoy snow tubing at Servus Tube Park. This is a nine-lane park where people can have the time of their lives while sliding down a hill.
Sadly, this park is only open during winter. Plus, its operating hours are dependent on weather conditions.
It’s also required to wear proper winter clothing, especially insulated winter boots with sufficient grip. Although helmets aren’t mandatory, they’re highly recommended for children. Families can rent these from the park or bring their own.
Once all of these safety precautions are met, you and your family can then make the most of what winter has to offer.
Go on the zipline
– Media credit: winsportcanada
If you feel like getting your heart rate up, the Monster Zipline is the way to go. This is the fastest zipline in North America, with speeds that can reach up to 140 km/h.
But before you can get to the actual zipline, you’ll have to go through an extensive orientation session first. They take safety seriously here at WinSports, so it’s a must that you listen and follow everything down to a T.
Keep in mind that only people above the age of 13 are allowed to go on this zipline since it’s quite extreme.
Once you finish all the prerequisites, you’ll be faced with a 500-meter cable that has a 100-meter vertical drop.
It might seem insane at first, but it’ll be more exhilarating than anything you’ve ever done. On top of that, you’ll be treated to a beautiful panoramic view of the Olympic Park and Bow River Valley.
Try riding a mountain bike
– Media credit: winsportcanada
You don’t have to be a pro to try mountain biking at WinSports. Their bike park has a variety of trails for a wide range of skill levels.
Intermediate bikers can further develop their skills here as well. WinSports has a dedicated team of instructors who can help you gain more confidence and control when riding.
The park even has trails that are only accessible by chairlift for the more advanced riders. These provide downhill biking challenges that professional bikers are definitely going to have fun overcoming.
Whichever level you’re at, you won’t have to worry about safety at all. They’ve got patrol services that you can easily call in case you need assistance or first aid.
Improve your skills
– Media credit: winsportcanada
One of the best things about the park is that it’s a great place for learning. Plenty of adults come here to get out of their comfort zone and master a new skill.
There are so many lessons to choose from, such as hockey, skating, skiing, mountain biking, and more.
As for the kids, there are several camps available during their school holidays. They’ll get to meet new friends and try out activities like archery, basketball, beginner mountain biking, and even basic wilderness survival training.
Lastly, there are freestyle clubs for passionate sports enthusiasts. This is where you can hone your skills and meet like-minded people who can help you achieve your goals. It’s a great way to find a community that’s also dedicated to the activities you love.
Where to Eat near WinSport
JOEY Crowfoot
– Media credit: joeyrestaurants
Address: 50 Crowfoot Way NW
Phone: +1 403 547 5639
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday – 11:00 AM to 1:00 AM
Diners often associate JOEY restaurants with good food and good times. This is where people celebrate milestones, share good news, and reunite with old friends.
We think it has a lot to do with the inviting atmosphere and the attentive service. The cozy lighting and pleasant music put people at ease, while the staff makes sure that all requests are heard.
Of course, the menu plays a huge part as well. The diverse food selection — inspired by different cuisines including Italian, Japanese, and Indian — caters to all types of palates and cravings.
Whatever main you go with, make sure to end your meal with their delectable apple pie. It’s perfectly sweet, and the maple ice cream on top is to die for.
Fortuna’s Row
– Media credit: fortunas.row
Address: 421 Riverfront Ave SE
Phone: +1 403 243 0069
Pricing: $$$
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Friday – 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Saturday – 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Sunday – 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Monday – Closed
Fortuna’s row is an elevated dining experience focused on Latin American food from Brazil, Peru, Mexico, and more. They combine modern techniques with traditional recipes to create dishes that are new but still close to the flavors you grew up with.
Their sampling plates are ideal for families and big groups of friends. Everyone is encouraged to share as a form of bonding.
Although people recommend trying as many appetizers as possible, everyone agrees that you shouldn’t miss the Pincho. This is a tender and savory charcoal-grilled sirloin that comes with satisfyingly crunchy toppings.
As for the mains, the Pato deserves your attention. This is a Peruvian dish that consists of confit duck leg, grilled duck breast, foie gras, duck sausage, and green rice. Each component is silky, flavorful, and completely unforgettable.
Where to Stay near WinSport
Sandman Hotel & Suites Calgary West
– Media credit: sandmanhotels
Address: 125 Bowridge Dr NW
Phone: +1 403 288 6033
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- 24-hour front desk
Sandman Hotel & Suites Calgary West is conveniently located next to the beautiful Canadian Rockies. It’s meant to be your home after a full day of exploring.
The pool and fitness centre are right there for you when you want to take a break from the outdoors. They even have a toasty and relaxing hot tub that you’ll want to sink into.
We’re confident that the whole family is going to love the place too, especially the children. There are plenty of on-site dining options, including a Denny’s Restaurant with an impressive kids’ menu. And did we mention you’re allowed to bring pets?
This is why people who stay here can’t wait to come back. At this point, the hotel has a nice little community of regular guests, and you just might end up being part of it too.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Calgary NW
– Media credit: holidayinnexpress
Address: 2373 Banff Trail NW
Phone: +1 587 390 6100
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- 24-hour front desk
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Calgary has all the bases covered. They’ve made sure that you won’t have to worry about a thing when you’re here, regardless of the purpose of your stay.
Those who are visiting the area for work are going to appreciate the ergonomic workspace in every room and the business centre that’s open 24 hours. They also provide all-day coffee that can give you a much-needed energy boost.
On the other hand, families on vacation are sure to love the complimentary breakfast buffet and the kitchenette in their accommodation. Plus, there’s a whirlpool with a waterslide for the kids.
Meanwhile, guests looking to relax and rejuvenate will enjoy all the entertainment options and the fitness center. There’s a heated indoor pool, too, for when you want to unwind.
Whatever type of traveler you are, you’ll definitely find what you’re looking for in this hotel.