Free things to do in Calgary with Kids: Our go-to spots for easy fun

One thing I’ve learned is that you don’t need to spend a ton to have fun with kids, especially when you live in a city like Calgary. Over time, we’ve built up a small list of free spots in Calgary that have become our go-to for days when we just want to get outside, burn some energy, and make a few memories.

Baker Park, Calgary


Here are a few of our favourite easy and free things to do in Calgary with kids.

🛝 Neighbourhood Playgrounds and Community Libraries

Sometimes, simple really is best. We visit our community library a lot. It could be as simple as just going to the library to grab books, attend story time, or just chill in the kids’ section for a bit. On top of that, we sometimes just stop at the neighbourhood playground, and guess what? That’s already a full outing for us. It’s easy, close to home, and always a win.

Community Library in Calgary

Neighbourhood Playground in Calgary

🌳 Bowness Park and Baker Park
We recently went back to Bowness Park, and it reminded me why it’s such a favourite for families. It has a lovely riverside view, big open spaces, and a great playground. Just across the river is Baker Park, another beautiful spot that’s perfect for picnics, bike rides, and quiet walks. Both parks are great for a bring-your-own-snack kind of day. Even if we don’t stay long, it always feels like a nice little reset.


Bowness Park Calgary

💦 Splash Pads in the Summer

During the warmer months, splash parks are a lifesaver. The one at Prairie Winds Park is a favourite for us. The kids get to run around, cool off, and have the best time. It’s simple, free, and always a win. We usually bring towels, water bottles, and lots of snacks for a little picnic afterward. 

Prairie Winds Park

🎡 Spruce Meadows Events

Spruce Meadows hosts a few family-friendly events throughout the year that are free to attend. We’ve been to some of their seasonal festivals, and we absolutely love them. They usually have a lot of seasonal events that are worth checking out for a great family outing.

Spruce Meadows Event

Spruce Meadows Horse Ride Event

🥁 Free Community Events and Festivals

Calgary has so many seasonal and cultural events that families can enjoy without spending a dime, like the Chinook Blast in the winter, the Lilac Festival in the summer, community events, and even markets. These are simple and perfect events for kids to explore and spend the day

community event in Calgary


These are just a few out of the free activities we’ve actually done and enjoyed with the kids around Calgary. They might feel simple, but they’ve given us some of the sweetest, easiest memories. Proof that there are so many fun and free things to do in Calgary with kids


If you’re looking for even more ideas, check out my 20 free and fun things to do in and around Calgary with Kids

Your Turn: Which of these family-friendly spots have you explored with your little ones? I would love to hear your favourites. Share them in the comments or tag me on Instagram @adventures.with.wems

That will be all from me today. Thank you for stopping by my little corner of the internet. Until next time… Xoxo 💋

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