With the August long weekend just around the corner (summer is almost 1/2 over!? Eeeek!), we thought we would share some ideas for fun things to do in and around Calgary with your friends and family. Despite the current COVID pandemic, a lot of attractions are still open and have adapted to ensure an enjoyable and safe time!
Heritage Park
Stop by Heritage Park to enjoy a selection of exhibits and food outlets. The park is running revised hours of Wednesday to Sunday from 10AM – 5PM. Train rides are running from Shepard station, and you can enjoy their live outdoor theatre! Our very own Karen Sandeman spends many of her weekends volunteering at the park, so you’re likely to see her there. She would love for you to stop by and say hello!
The Calgary Zoo
The Calgary Zoo is always a great place to visit, from the Canadian Wilds, to the Penguin Plunge, to the Conservatory (the butterflies are my personal favorite!). If you haven’t visited the zoo in a while, check out the Land of Lemurs exhibit and the Giant Pandas. The Zoo is currently requiring time tickets to be purchased in advance, and reduced capacity and physical distancing measures are in place.
Telus Spark Centre
There are some great events happening at the Telus Spark Centre this summer:
- NEW! Tuponia Trail: A collection of outdoor inflatables and art installations
- NEW! A 360 Trip to Berlin: Digital experience by Dan Hudson
- NEW! Superpower Dogs Dome Movie: Narrated by Chris Evans
- Return of BODY WORLDS: ANIMAL INSIDE OUT (for a limited time)
- Access to the Brainasium Outdoor Park: Calgary’s largest physics-based outdoor playground
All indoor galleries are currently closed, and time tickets are required to be purchased in advance. Telus Spark also requires all visitors over the age of 2 to wear a mask while indoors.
Camping
Camping is always a great way to spend the long weekend, especially during a pandemic and when the sun is shining! Fingers crossed for some great long weekend weather!
Here are some great campgrounds nearby:
- Bow Valley Campground
- Power and water sites available, showers and flush toilets and a great amphitheatre!
- Mount Kidd RV Park and Campground
- A little more expensive, but a lot of great amenities and walking/hiking paths!
- Ghost Lake Campground
- Inexpensive, really close to Calgary, and on the lake!
- Rafter Six Ranch
- Camping, trail rides and so much more!
- And so many more! Check out Alberta Parks online to find one near you!
If you are planning on going camping this August long weekend (or any other weekend), it is a good idea to check the Alberta Parks website for up-to-date information on fire bans or other restrictions. It’s also recommended to check for ticks after spending time outdoors.
If you are camping with your RV or trailer, check out our post from earlier this spring on Trailer Camping 101 for some great tips!
If you are planning to travel outside of your home province, Travel Insurance can help protect you and your family from unexpected costs due to a medical emergency. As a Broker, we represent numerous different Travel Insurance providers and are able to provide you with competitive rates and coverage specific to your needs.
As a friendly reminder, our will be CLOSED on Monday, August 3rd.
We wish you all a fun and safe long weekend!
Thank you,
The Costen Insurance Team