I went when I was younger but revisited here due to a kdrama being filmed here. We got here 90 minutes before closing which meant the park was empty and all to ourselves. It was so relaxing walking around the different buildings and taking in all the nature. We all enjoyed the train ride and surprisingly, the free amusement rides. We didn't have time for food but it was just so peaceful, we left feeling rejuvenated. Plenty of parking and everyone we crossed paths with was so kind and told us so much about Heritage Park. read more

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I was more than a wee bit skeptical about Heritage Park. I'd been to similar parks, I thought, and there's a certain sameness about then. But my wife who grew up in Calgary insisted. And it was fun. We rode the train, rode in the wagon pulled by a tractor, went into houses, learned at the print shop and the oil well, and interacted with the actors. And of course we started at Gasoline Alley. Gasoline Alley has plenty of cars, but I was fascinated by the collection of work trucks and gasoline pumps. And there were plenty of volunteers there to explain the exhibited vehicles and ancillary items. We are an excellent lunch in the cafe. read more

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I was told to come here and didn't know what to expect. I thought it was a grassy type park not knowing it was an old town. it was OK to see it all but I thought it was expensive to get in. Not for me. read more

Returned to the park last year & this year, plus one for a sleepover. We went on the rides, train and boat. We called in advance to make sure the train and boat were running that day. Kids enjoyed the rides, ice cream, candy store & shops. Lines were short for the rides, longer for bakery, train and boat. Take the tractor trailer from the front gate - it has a few drop off points. Very glad to see this addition. Strollers can ride but need to be folded up. The bus is still available but for those with mobility concerns. Beautiful views of the Reservoir. Wish the rides were open at night. Disclaimer: One guest had a complimentary ticket. Once Upon A Christmas are weekends in December. We have attended this event several times over the years. Safeway (pre-Covid) had a coupon for inexpensive admission. The buildings are decorated inside and out. Fun shop that only allows kids inside to shop. A nice way to get into the Christmas spirit, whether you celebrate or not. read more

This was a pretty cool and interesting park. We started out reading about the classic car collection. The outdoor area is set up like a Wild West town, but they were very clear that this was not a lawless place like you would have found further south in America. If you are a history buff you will love this part. The amusement park is where my kids wanted to go. There are some fun rides but be prepared to wait in some long lines. We were really hungry afterwards and I'll say that the food is certainly not gourmet but it will hit the spot. We went to the cafe which had sandwiches and soups, read more

An awesome place to visit in Calgary! I've gone there so many times but this time was the first time in winter! It has a nice Christmas atmosphere and beautiful! Santa on a vintage car! Live Christmas music And so many other things! I love the bakery! They have some Christmas specials like candy cane cookies! Overall it was a god experience and I'm glad I did that too. If you read this around Christmas time, definitely give it a shot! You'll enjoy it a lot! read more

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This place was super cool and family friendly. Having lived in Calgary for 10 years on and off throughout my life, I am a little embarrassed to say that I have never checked out Heritage Park until just recently when we decided to have a staycation and to Calgary "touristy" things. I was super impressed and in awe upon arriving at Heritage Park. There is so much to do there and the mesh of entertainment and educational is great. We were only there for about 2.5 hours, so we didn't get to check out all the attractions, but we easily could have spent 4 or 5 hours there. The park has a Marina with a paddlewheeler you can ride on, a small midway with rides and treats, cute little old shops with ice cream, food and drinks, daily shows on various streets, the gasoline alley museum (filled with old and antique cars, several indoor and outdoor playgrounds for kids and a train that circles the park. There is also an abundance of green space so if you wanna have a picnic or a break you can. We will definitely be going back with kids next time as there is something for everyone. read more

If you like history brought to life, Heritage Park is well worth a visit despite its steep admission fee (CAD 26/adult). It is spread out into various areas so you can see how early settlers lived in log huts, teepees, etc... There is a also a "town" with wooden streets and a variety of shops, bank, post office, printers, pharmacy, etc... The people who work at Heritage Park are all dressed according to the time period and are extraordinarily friendly. Most try to strike up a conversation and tell you about the dwelling they are in. The only disappointing thing was the mediocre food offerings which, other than at the Hotel Wainright, is processed food like you would buy at a gas station (chips, hot dog, packaged ice cream bars, etc....). It was a very enjoyable way to spend an afternoon outside. read more

I am amazed. This place is huge. Expect to spend at least 3 hours. Don't make the same mistake I made, gave myself only 2 hours and I didn't even make it around the entire park. I kind of regret taking too much photos and browsing around. Should have zoomed through this giant park. There are so many sections. Also if you go on the weekend, lots of the stores are open and so you can walk in and check out each store. The people who work there talk as if you are back in the old days. Yes went into a candy store and there is cool, old looking candies (edible ones and are for sale). Just the packaging is old. Went into a cottage style hospital and the women there talked as if surgery has gotten so high tech and of course she is talking in the sense of 1900s. Also went into someone's house and the owner (lady who works there), talked about how great her husband was and spent $45 to buy this oven with thermostat attached to it ($45 was a lot back in the old days, she feel proud to have that oven). She made it sound like a big thing because she said her neighbor had to put their hand in into the oven in order to know how hot and she has this really high tech stuff. Interesting..... Talk... Everything was pretty amazing here. Also you get to ride the ferry here (sadly I didn't have time). There is also an amusement park here. The amusement park has a ferris wheel (I didn't get to ride that because again no time). Also there is the train and again no time. See how much I am missing out. So you need more then 2 hours here. Some other cool stuff here is that there is a bakery that sells real bread or baked goods. Also there is an ice cream parlour here as well. It's pretty cool. But the ice cream parlour doesn't serve fancy ice cream. Just a quick stop to bring down the heat on a hot day. So admission is $26.25 and I have to say, it is totally worth it. So much to see here Parking is not free unless you park really far. Overall, I really enjoyed this place and really highly recommend coming here and giving yourself enough time to walk around. Also I want to applaud the people who work here. They dress in the 90's props and act as if they are in the 90's. That is pretty cool. read more

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Save your time and money. Poorly laid out, requires long walks between attractions and the day we went most exhibits were closed apparently due to heat (it was 28 degrees Celsius I think). This is a park that depicts Canada's history with bldgs and rides. There's a train ride circa 1890, folks dressed in period costumes, a paddle boat that takes you around a lake, a mini amusement park geared to the under 8 crowd. But everything is so spread out- it requires a lot of walking. And like I said the day we went in July every exhibit we tried to attend was cancelled without notice. When I complained to the lady at the park entrance she said there was a sign out front announcing closures due to the heat. But that sign mentioned only 2 shows cancelled, not the ones we went to see. So it was obvious to me that the whole park is a ripoff. Not worth the money at all. read more

I hadn't been to Heritage Park since I was a kid until last summer. We had the niece and nephew for a week and took them here for the Heritage Day in August. They had a free pancake breakfast and all sorts of games and other things going on. Not only was it fun for the kids to do something new and different. It was also fun for my wife and I to revisit something we hadn't done in ages. Today we came back for the Christmas festivities. While most of the park is closed, the shops and some of the old buildings aren't and they're decorated for the holidays. With the great weather it was nice to wander around for a couple of hours to see what was going on and do a little shopping for things that aren't necessarily found at the mall. read more

Heritage Park - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Calgary, Alberta

It is not the usual step back in time amusement park. This vast property has houses and buildings from all over the region coalesced with their stories of why the west is what it is. The workers are excellent. They are all within their time period and very knowledgeable of their positions. Spent 5 hours there and didn't feel it was enough time. read more

Yup, this is Calgary's best year-round playground (when the rides are closed down, there's still Gasoline Alley Museum). Quaint and old-fashioned, you don't even have to pay admission to get into the park if you'd rather enjoy the Town Square at the front. There's all sorts of souvenir shoppes and even a couple of restaurants. Admission into the park may be almost $30/person (with ride bracelet) but that's very reasonable considering all the features of the park. It really IS for everyone! If you are reading this review, I highly reccommend reading the other ones too, because you won't find more neat things to do anywhere else ;) The Christmases they put on there are awesome, with horse-drawn carol singing and hot chocolate at the bakery. Isn't it cool how the staff dresses to match the era? I reccommend the S.S. Moyie Ferry that goes around the Glenmore Reservoir as well as the steam train, complete with a guided tour from an old-school conductor :) Oh and if you like rides, you'll love the Tilt-a-Whirl on the Antique Midway, it doesn't slow down just as you're getting into it, and with your ride bracelet on, you can go on everything 3 times if you wanted to! This place also does stunning weddings, I would know, ours was there. We got married in August of last year at the Wainright Hotel. Our reception was at the Canmore Opera House, which we've heard was haunted by a ghostly visitor named Sam. Also, the Prince House is said to have a nursing mum in a white gown who looks out the third floor window. What're waiting for? Go check it out! read more

Heritage Park - Rob & Daryl's wedding at Heritage Park, August 11 2011. Photography by MIchael S. Vincent - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Calgary, Alberta

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I have to say this place is amazing! I wish I were here when I was a kid. So much fun and so much place worth visiting. Perfect spot for dating. We rode the boat and the steam train. It's like going back 100 years ago with all the staff dressed in ancient costume. Try the strawberry sorbet ice cream! It's on main street and it's amazing! read more

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Revisit Heritage Park. Do it. Go. It had been years since I had stepped through the gates of Heritage Park. After telling people about all the fun I had here the other day, I got a similar response from pretty much everyone I talked to: "Heritage Park... I haven't been there in years! I don't really know why, I just haven't considered it." It's like it's a place we tell people about, but never visit ourselves. Sure, It's a great place to bring the kids, but this actually might be why all the childless adults I talk to forget that it's a fun place for them as well. Looking back, it would be easy for me to say that I actually appreciate it more as an adult! There's an antique midway, authentic steam train, working printing press, blacksmith shop and...BORING! Well, when I was a kid I kind of remember thinking so, but now that I'm growed up all big, this stuff is AWESOME! I had a great time all the old technology of everything from midway rides to drilling rigs and realizing how so many things have advanced but how so many of the basic designs are still the same. How cool is that?! Not very cool, I know - but if you're not very cool in the super cool way that I'm not very cool, you'll love it. Remember when your parents would read those boring plaques to you when all you wanted to do is climb on what ever it is they were trying to educate you about? Well I still want to climb all over everything, but now I find the plaques interesting as well. As a kid I drastically over looked the beauty of this place just as a park - it's wonderful! There are benches with incredible views over looking Glenmore Reservoir and if you need a little for a little more fun than a bench, you take take a ride on the steam engine, paddle boat, ferris wheel, or swing ride to get a good view. The rides aren't as EXTREEEME as you remember as a kid, but they have a certain charm and character that's easy to love. You already know it's a cool thing to have in Calgary so check it out again. Do it. Go. read more

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Like any other long time Calgarian, I haven't spent a lot of time being a really big tourist in my own city. Shame on me for that. It's this practice in particular that keeps me from enjoying places like Heritage Park. And it takes a couple of out-of-towners to get me there. Yet, I always learn so much about my city whenever the out-of-towners are in town! Today, my stepdad and my mom were in from up yonder in the province and decided a visit to Heritage Park was in order. Besides a pretty fantastic bloggers event that the Calgary Herald hosted at Heritage Park sometime last year, I hadn't really spent any time here since the last time I was a real tourist in C-town. We parked towards the back of the parking lot and took the streetcar on over to the entrance. Fun way to start to trip! Tip: It's $1 per person to ride the streetcar and they take cash only. The conductor passed on another little tip to my stepdad, if there's an uber long line up at the admission gate, try heading into Gasoline Alley. It's the same as the gate admission, just often with a shorter line... and then you start in the museum (FYI - it's in Gasoline Alley that there's a really great private room for functions). I only had a couple of hours on my hands to explore everything with them, but we took in a lot! I didn't realize Heritage Park was so big! If you didn't grab the streetcar from the parking lot, you could also take the steam engine around the park. $3 for one ride or an unlimited bracelet for $10. We didn't do that part, but we did get a ride on the paddle boat around the Glenmore Reservoir. The ride lasts about 30 minutes and is also a $3 cost per person. Most impressive: All the people in costumes! And just how much they know about whatever house, family, etc. that they're supposed to be telling you about. Also, the really gigantic train engines. They were massive! And the sandstone house.... oh, and the Prince House. Beautiful! I only wish I would've had more time to peruse the grounds, but that's my own doing, it has nothing to do with the park. I also see a lot of the events posted here and there for Heritage Park and some of them sound like a lot of fun! I just haven't gone so far as to partake yet. Time to look into a membership, because I'm pretty sure I'm going to need to go back. read more

Heritage Park - Riding the streetcar! $1 per person and cash only - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Calgary, Alberta

The heritage park village offers quite a few services including a café, bakery, toy store and a new ice cream shop! Pandemic safe :) The village is free for anyone to access and surrounds a lovely town square. In non pandemic summers they offer free weekly concerts by local bands, all family friendly. Free skating in the winter. The access is easy and there is plenty of free 90 min city parking. It's a great way to have a beautiful walk at the reservoir followed by a steaming cup of tea and some treats. During Covid times they have offered curb side pickup for goods such as freshly baked bread, and they've opened a great ice cream shop and candy store. You can also eat all fresco at the Selkirk Grill which has always been socially distanced on a roomy patio. Be sure to check out the small, but lovely garden tucked behind the cafe in the summer. read more

I hadn't been to Heritage Park in about 15 years, and yesterday I decided it was time I take a trip down memory lane. Heritage Park is celebrating Christmas early right now with it's 'Once Upon A Christmas' event. It's a month-long celebration to get everyone into the spirit of Christmas. Here is a summary of what I absolutely LOVED about Heritage Park: - Brand Spankin' new, Heritage Park now has a FREE zone for all to enjoy. They have created a skating rink out front and anyone and everyone is welcome to come and skate around the rink while Christmas music plays. - Also brand spankin' new, Gasoline Alley Museum is now open for all to see. It's got loads of cool vintage cars and gas pumps and it's awesome. - The Mercantile plaza has got a slew of stores in which you can purchase Christmas ornaments, old-school collectibles, children's toys, clothing, jewellery, books, Christmas gifts and fudge!!! - There are a slew of houses and shops on the grounds that you can visit and at different hours, there will be performances. IE: We went into the Church and there was Christmas caroling! - Also brand spankin' new is Candy Cane Corral in which you can actually see real, live reindeer! Check out the pictures I uploaded to the Heritage Park profile. - The Alberta Bakery in Heritage Park makes the most delicious bread EVER! We bought sausage rolls and cheese buns. YUM. - The entire downtown strip at Heritage Park is fascinating. You go from one store to the next and check out how things used to be. There's even a candy store, an interactive train display, a kids only store and a dairy barn! As you can see, there is a TONNE of things to see and do at Heritage Park. I've only listed a mere few things and it's a great way to spend a few hours with the family. What's even more amazing about Heritage Park is that ALL of the above and then some can be experienced by purchasing a ticket that costs ONLY around $10. $10?!?!?!? That's less than it costs to see a movie!!! It's one of the cheapest ways, yet one of more fascinating ways to spend a few hours with the ones you love. read more

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I've yet to visit the museum part of Heritage Park, but I've been here a few times for an afternoon of ladyposin', engagement shoots, wedding party shoots and as of late: skipping rocks at the nearby Glenmore Reservoir (I got one to skip three times! Ask Sarah Louise, she was there!). Lots of people come here, especially tourists, but it's always peaceful. You also get a great view of it from the hospital rooms in Rockyview. It's never boring, because there's always something new to explore or watch. In our case on Sunday, there were Canada Geese swimming underneath a beam of sun rays, like a spotlight from God. And a man farcically trying to navigate the waters, in a kayak that looked way too small for him. Streetcar?! I'll have to come back with someone soon! read more

Heritage Park - Swimmin under God's spotlight. - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Calgary, Alberta

What an amazing place for adults and children! Took my grandson here pre covid and we so thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. Went on the railroad train which he absolutely enjoyed as well as visiting all the interesting shops. Watched a blacksmith working with metal at the harness shop and saw all kinds of animals. Went on children's rides and walked around the different stores in the downtown. Lots of parking and eating facilities. Ate chips, popcorn, ice cream and healthy salad and hamburgers. My grandson was sure tired after this full day. Slept all the way home. Always wants to go back when I show him the pictures of us. Had a wonderful time. Can hardly wait to go back. Watched a demonstration by the RCMP and learned so much about Alberta's Heritage. The staff all over were very friendly, helpful and full of information. I, personally can't wait to go back. read more

A great place to spend an afternoon on a sunny day! I recently attended a wedding in the new area they built out front (gasoline alley I think). Absolutely awesome staff and a well run event - great food too. In terms of the park itself, it is a great place to spent a sunny day. With a mixture of historical buildings and tours - as well as some rides, snacks, and a ferry boat too. read more

Relaxing afternoon, friendly workers. Good way to learn about history and culture of Calgary. Two good places for lunch--at the hotel in town and at the restaurant in Gasoline Alley at entrance. Definitely recommend for a visit; no regrets. Overall customer service is kinda pre-historic. Few workers at gate and in ice cream shop, tho crowded. Don't bother with the "musical" at the opera house unless you want to snooze, which is hard to do on the wood chairs. But, I did. read more

Heritage Park - Good place for a cold drink (I liked the vanilla cream soda; beer, water and soft drinks available). - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Calgary, Alberta

Not the best experience. While it is a very interesting place to go, the staff are obviously not trained to recognize when someone is in line. The staff routinely just serve whoever they choose who are near them, despite a line up in front of them eg the concession stand in summer or the bakery or the candy store. Poor training by management...I do not blame the staff, as they are still young and learning and friendly. The place has went downhill a little the past few years in terms of value for the dollar in my view. Very disappointing. read more

Fantastic place to spend holidays with family and friends for the Once Upon a Christmas theme that runs during December but is on weekends only. Make sure you go by any Safeway to get 50% off coupons for admissions to the park. Kids under 2 are free! Friendly staff and lots to see of how Calgary citizens lived back when it was a small town. Five star if the Christmas theme was daily not weekend only. read more

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One of the best historical experiences in Southern Alberta. Lots of interesting things to see and do. Restorations are very well done. Highly recommended. read more

Wainwright Hotel Having lunch at the Wainwright Hotel and it's nothing special except expensive. Returned the poutine 2 times and gave up. Fries are freezer burnt and cold both times. Not even warm enough to take the chill off of the cheese curds. My wife is having a slightly better lunch with the clam chowder however it is very smelly so not sure about it. read more

This historical park is amazingly cool if you love history, nature, walking, relaxing, and seeing beautiful sights. Unfortunately, we came on a weekday and the festival was closed, but we could still explore the museum and park. Basically it is a huge plot of land with historic buildings and exhibits, a little town, farmland and livestock, trains, and various trails. We had the place completely to ourselves! While there were some employees doing work, we did not see a single other visitor while walking outside for hours. We had a lot of fun and probably walked a few miles total. At the entrance to the park is the Gasoline Alley museum, and it's worth spending an hour or so browsing, especially if you like old cars. Every car had a story and it was amazing to discover what they had been through in their lives (being converted to trucks, working in mines, etc.) and what happened for them to finally end up at the museum. The docents are lovely and very willing to answer questions and tell stories. If I were an antique car, I'd want to be here! I feel like I learned a lot about Calgary's history at Heritage Park and I definitely want to return. Next time I'll make sure to come here on a weekend when the attractions are open. But honestly, experiencing it alone was pretty awesome and fun in its own right. Worth a visit! read more

Fresh breads at the bakery, a train ride, exhibits about living and travelling during 'Old West' times, a ferry and numerous shops. There's always something to do. The only issue I have is the high cost of entry. Over $26 per person. Next time I'll dress up as a cowboy and pretend I work there so I can avoid the pricey entrance fee. read more

There was a young lady with brown hair that day working the gate. She let a group from our tour in without tickets (they were white), but was aggressive and rude to my party (non-white) when she stopped us saying we needed tickets. read more

http://www.heritagepark.ca/ If you live in or around the city of Calgary, I'd recommend getting a family annual pass. In just two visits the pass will already be paid for. I've been coming to this park for decades now, and I enjoy it very much. The park has gone through extensive renovations as well. This is most evident at the front of the park, where the two restaurants are located (Railway Cafe, Selkirk grill). in between the two are some nice little stores. When arriving at the park, drive through and around until you get to the front. There you will be able to drop off any guests or family members, then find yourself a parking spot. Parking during the week, is never an issue but the weekends can be quite busy. If you do find yourself going on the weekend, you can park at the far east end of the parking lot. (closest to 14th street) A trolley car can take you to the front admission gate. The trolley costs $1.00, or if you're an annual pass holder its free to ride. (Also a parking lot as you first drive up just past the lights off 14th and Heritage) This is mainly overflow parking, and is a bit of a walk. (Trolley does stop here though). Upon entry Gasoline Alley, will be on your right hand side. My recommendation would be to stop in on the way our of the park. If its been a long hot afternoon, its a good place to cool a bit and use the restrooms before heading home. After passing the Gasoline Alley, and garage you head up this long sidewalk which is dated starting in the present decade and as you get closer to the park you will find the numbers slowly getting closer to the period of time in which the park is representing. If you have children or are a kid at heart head straight to the rides. They're easy to spot. Just look west after the railway crossing, and you'll spot the Ferris Wheel. They have a few rides here including the Wheel, Caterpillar, Swings, The Whip, and a swing. They even have a mini ferris wheel for toddlers. In trying to keep this review a little more on the short side, I'm going to highlight more of the things most people miss while visiting the park. Try to walk the perimeter of the park, they have some neat little buildings and machines on display. (also some park benches to relax and look out onto the Glenmore Reservoir. Also when catching a train at one of the various train stations, read where the train sops next before catching it. Certain trains do a full circle around the park, and others will stop at every station. It can either be a nice full circle train ride, or a slow boring ride, if you stop at every station to let passengers off then to load more on. Also don't miss the Indian village, and as you go past the Hudson's Bay company down the dirt road are more buildings to look in and a store as well. Then walk around the more inner parts of the park, there you will find the Wainwright Hotel, candy store, pool hall, bakery etc. The bakery is a very busy place, most times is lined up on weekends. have a butter tart, gingerbread man, or a sausage roll. Also if you do a little research before going to the park, you'll find out about certain houses being haunted. The Prince house, Opera house and Sam Livingston to name a few. Hope this helps. Also, you may be the type to bring a lunch to the park. They're are plenty of places to picnic at Heritage as well. read more

Heritage Park - The shops ! - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Calgary, Alberta

My 2-year-old daughter and I enjoyed a really fun day at Heritage Park. I thought the price was a little bit high, but once we were inside and everything (except for food) was included: train ride, boat ride, horse drawn carriage, games, amusement park rides... I thought the price was good for all the fun that was to be had. We spent a good deal of time at the amusement park rides: mini and large ferris wheels, carousel, caterpillar, and several others. There are also two playgrounds. We went during a weekend where there were dancers performing, a petting zoo, sheep shearing, and more games. It was a lot of family fun and I think it's an attraction that had something for everyone from baby to grandparents. Definitely worth the time and money. Go for it! read more

One word to start with .. Awesome place to visit. I happened to visit this place on heritage day. Didn't have a clue on what activities were planned in. Got to download a coupon from calgary attractions and got a little discount on the entry fee which was less than $20. First entered into gasoline museum which has all the old motor vehicles, pertol pumps, car engines etc. Just an incredible place where we can see the cars of different generations. Don't forget to grab a map before heading into the park. First glimpse was to wind mill in the park. And there was a rail track that runs through the park. A horse cart, old fashioned houses,musicians, ferry, some rides, food stalls .. everything were just so organised. They have the houses that depicts the history of canada, a very well maintained place. The best thing was, the people in here were also dressed up like the old generation and also there was a school, ofcourse with a teacher teaching too, a printing press, billiards room,bank w/o a bank manager :P , what not everything that could depict well about canada's history. I was really happy to visit this place and to know the canada's history. Also we had a chance to taste the snow cones and bought a newspaper for 25cents from the printing press. Walked through every house in there, and surprisingly we came across a music band of vetrans, the music was so delightful that I couldn't move away from listening their music. Also there was a restaurant inside and a small bakery, and icecream shop. Now that we were done with all sight seeing and decided to try the rides. Don't miss to try the train, ferry ride and a horse cart ride. We had a band for $10 using which we could go for all the rides out there. And there were some activities going on as well in the park like tug-of-war, games for children etc; I can say that the day spent at heritage was the day well spent. Yelp's 30 day challenge : 10/30 and my 50th review too !!! read more

I'm not sure about Canadians, but for Americans, Heritage Park is like a cross between Colonial Williamsburg and Disney's Magic Kingdom. A family friendly attraction, it focuses on presenting realistic historical vignettes from the history of Calgary and Alberta, while still having enough things of interest to the younger set, like wagon rides, animals, and a small area with a carousel and other rides for little ones. Like the Magic Kingdom, one approaches Heritage Park with a long walk from the parking lot (not so long that it involves public transportation, however). As you approach the admissions booth, there a few things you can see for free: small shops, a restaurant, and Gasoline Alley, a small museum devoted to automobile history. After paying the $25 entrance fee, most people go straight to the Midnapore train station (Just as an aside, Midnapore sounds to me like the name of a town in India, not Canada. I suppose it could be a Commonwealth coincidence.) The tracks loop around the park and the central lake, and most of the time the train stops at each of the three stations along the way. I visited the park with a friend, and my interests were mostly historical. Also, we were only going to be spending a couple of hours there, so rather than see the whole park, we devoted most of our time to the station that led to the First Nations tepee and the representation of the earliest European colonists. We spent about an hour visiting the old schoolhouse, meeting room, trader's shops and saloon, all from roughly the 18th and 19th century. Ordinarily we would have come back to the train station and taken the next train to the next stop, but it so happened that the conductor was on a lunch break, so rather than wait for the train, we walked through a slightly more modern area, with farm animals and people in historical costumes representing townspeople from perhaps a hundred years ago. When I first looked at the map we were given at the gate, I was concerned that the distances would be too far to walk, but it turned out that the map made the park look rather larger than it was, and we were able to walk back the whole distance that the train had brought us in about 20 minutes. I enjoyed seeing what the Calgary area might have looked like a couple hundred years ago. I had a nice chat with the young lady in historical costume in the old schoolhouse, turns out she's studying to be a teacher and we talked a bit about how education has changed. We also saw a group of young girls in historical costumes going into one building. We were curious about whether they had any connection to the park employees, or maybe they were on a field trip during summer vacation. If I'm ever in the Calgary area again, I'd like to go back and see more of the park. I'm glad Calgary is making this effort to preserve and represent its history. read more

Heritage Park - Flags flying near the entrance. An exciting place. - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Calgary, Alberta

Heritage park is a true testament to Calgary's old west culture. And it has GHOSTS! Seriously, guys this place is awesome. I love that there are new things for me to love, and I've been visiting on a fairly regular basis for twenty years! And there are the old things too. I will love the candy store forever. When I have grandkids, even though I probably won't live in Calgary anymore, I will take them there and then buy them a bunch of candy (old and new!) and sneak in a bunch for myself. The paddleboat is awesome, but you have to time it right to catch it. I really think the best ways to see the park are by steam locomotive or by horse-drawn cart. The horse carriages are the best in the winter. There is a small town, as well as outer-lying businesses and a funpark made of antique rides. All of the buildings are as authentic as possible: many were removed from their original location and painstakingly restored on the park grounds. That's why they come with ghosts! I've been here many times in many capacities: with family during Once upon a Christmas, where I would delight in buying gifts for my parents from the "Kids Only" store (their money, of course). Then I visited as a University student, where we had a tour with one of the Communications managers and learned about the more intricate elements of the park. I attended a work party in the barn, which was a roaring good time (though I could have gone without the square dancing). Summer, winter, whenever: Heritage Park has a lot to offer in terms of fun and education on Alberta's heritage. I'm really proud that we have a park of this caliber in our city limits. read more

We didn't plan for enough time at Heritage Park. The employees were all knowledgable about their areas. Our sons could have ridden the train and boat all day. Time can be wasted waiting for the train too often. Be sure to visit the bakery, where day-old baked goods sell for 2 for 1. read more

Heritage Park - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Calgary, Alberta

I went to Heritage Park for a family outing September 5 2021... I was extremely disappointed there is nothing that is wheelchair accessible. All of the entries to the stores and pretty much everything wasn't ramped... they did have a shuttle to get to the boat and to the gate. The shuttle driver was a very sweet funny elderly gentleman. Even if you're in a wheelchair and have an AISH ID attached to the name on the handicap registration they don't have any assistance or Aid entry. You must purchase the March of Dimes Access card to access their program. They do not understand that most disabled people don't have $120 to get the Dr note and the fee for the card. So no SN access and half(we were unaware how inaccessible this area really was) the activities can't be done via wheelchair(even if you can transfer, so nothing to do with being able to get there, just a simple too bad we have no disabled persons in our train only passengers that can walk and blend in). Then we get into the park and rather than shale they used baluster rock so there was no way to push our chair anywhere. I had to drag it backwards through most of the park. Also the train wouldn't accommodate any sort of Wheelchair. They wouldn't even let us fold it and bring it with us in case we had an issue(my daughter has uncontrolled epilepsy and her chair is smaller and foldable so it would pass through the train entrances). I in my entire life have never seen a disabled person in a wheelchair get declined from attractions, where there is clearly room to accommodate. Calgary Heritage Park needs to better to be inclusive. Very very sad. Throw down some shale paths and place a few ramps around the park so families can visit your park and make family memories, rather than family nightmares. read more

This review is specifically regarding the Once Upon a Christmas seasonal event at Heritage Park in #yyc I have wonderful memories of spending time at Heritage Park during the holidays. When i was younger my family would volunteer as carollers at the park. There was so much going on everywhere; there were restaurants full of great food, entertainment on the stage near the centre of town. Crafting workshops for kids at different buildings throughout the park. So many shoppes filled with various gifts to purchase or peruse. Fresh gingerbread cookies being sold out of the kitchens of the old town homes. It was easy to get caught up in the spirit of the season. After many years I decided to make a return trip with a special person to share in the festive spirit of the park. I was extremely disappointed. There was nothing going on there at all. No carollers in the park. The restaurants wouldn't allow walk-ins in-spite of being half empty. There were a few concessions but they were strewn with litter, lacked any signage or menu boards and only seemed to be serving water-logged hot dogs. There was no stage or programming going on in the main field as in the past. The few shoppes that were open were stuffed so completely with park-goers desperate for something entertaining to do that one could scarcely move. It seemed people had paid admission to mill about in the streets with dwindling enthusiasm. How could Heritage Park allow what was once such a great seasonal outing to become such a shadow of itself? If Once Upon a Christmas is to continue, Heritage Park needs to commit to the event, put some effort into coordinating entertainment and vendors and ensuring there is actually something for guests to do. There's no reason, considering the number of bored guests I saw, that the park couldn't be making a good profit and offering park visitors a unique experience. Until they reassess this event and put some actual effort into making it worthwhile for guests I wouldn't recommend a visit to anyone. read more

this park is great for visitors to walk through it has great things to do and look at the train is fun too read more

My family and I go here almost every year on Heritage Day. We always get the ride bracelets - but I'll come back to that later. On heritage day there's a free breakfast as long as you get the ticket for it at the front gates! But before that, you have to walk up the long sidewalk that shows the decades & has a few statues of Canadian wildlife, then either take the train (which is really cool!) or walk towards the Gunn Dairy Farm. It's a free breakfast, kind of mirroring those Stampede breakfasts in early July, but there is seating indoor and stroller parking outside. However, they can only seat so many people. Which is why they have tickets for the first x amount of people to show up at the front gates. Moving on, the rides are really spectacular. Right outside the entrance is an ice cream parlour and we always stop by there. It's actually really cheap stuff! Anyways, my favourite rides in no particular order are: the caterpillar, the Ferris wheel (obviously), the ferrie ride on the Glenmore reservoir, and my little sister likes the ride right behind the Ferris wheel (can't remember the name)... The horse carriage rides are really exciting too, they give you a tour around the whole park and come back where they dropped you off so leaving all your stuff by the picnic benches isn't a bad idea. (Just be sensible about it...) The Prince House is really beautiful, as is the children's park by the opera house. I actually go on the teeter-totter (see-saw) on it with my sister to this day! Lol. The food is pretty good. As I mentioned, there's ice cream and also a pretty good bakery... Plus they've renovated to include the new restaurants at the front (Selsrik Grill or something along the lines of that). We like to stop at the Wainwright hotel. The sandwiches are tasty, but if you want bigger portions I would recommend to bring your own lunch as there are many good shady picnic areas on a hot summery day. The candy shop is a classic as well! Gasoline alley is pretty much what it sounds like - a museum and collection of old cars, engines, and gas stations. Pretty cool, my dad raved about it, lol. We usually visit it on our way out so we don't miss the other stuff. Last year, we got to make our own butter and keep it! It was pretty cool, and the staff is really nice and attentive and knowledgeable. I think they've brought in a few new buildings and are always reconstructing. From what I've heard, the Prince House (3rd floor window), Wainwright Hotel (upstairs), and Opera House are all haunted. Never quite seen it, but maybe this year. Overall, I'd say the ride bracelets are totally worth it and the prices are actually quite decent for the entire park. It's huge, trying to fit everything into one day is quite hard, but possible. My family and most others love this place! read more

For the amount of time you spend in the parks, village, museum, etc., the price of admission is totally worth it. If you really want to see everything in one day, you'd also better rest up and leave early. 3.5hrs wasn't enough time with my mother, who was a very captive audience and has an average fitness level for a mid 50's woman. I won't lie, I was pooped when we were done. The next visit will have to involve better pacing and more time. I've only been here once before and just as I remembered, the village is well done, but much larger than I thought as I hadn't used a map before and didn't see it all the first time. I think they did well with the upgrades. I'm also glad I went hungry, as I really enjoyed the goods from the bakery, bannock samples in the Aboriginal Encampment and particularly the Boylan's Birch Beer/Vintage Soda Pop, served in Drew's Saloon & Stopping House (and possibly in other places on site, but I wouldn't have noticed). I think this is a great outing, especially if you have company visiting from out of town who appreciate a little history. read more