Bowness Park (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Bowness Park?
What makes it 93% Kids-Friendly: Playground, splash park, mini-train and safe lagoon skating give varied fun for ages 3-12; most activities are cheap, but children need close watch around water and firepits.
Positives:
- Free Kids’ Play Areas: Playgrounds, open turf and a spray park cost nothing to use.
- Stroller-Friendly Paths: Smooth paved loops around the lagoon suit strollers and toddlers.
- Scenic Family Photo Spots: Riverfront views offer easy backdrop for keepsake photos.
Challenges:
- No Lifeguard on Duty: Parents must supervise children at the wading pool and lagoon edge.
- Seasonal Facilities: Some washrooms and change rooms close after early fall.
- Weekend Crowds: Picnic areas and rentals fill up fast on sunny weekends.
What is Bowness Park?
- An urban riverfront park in northwest Calgary centered on a naturalized lagoon adjoining the Bow River
- A heritage landscape anchored by early 20th-century boathouse buildings, mature elm groves and expansive grassy meadows
- A multi-seasonal municipal park featuring boat docks, sheltered picnic areas, playground installations and a winter-flooded ice lagoon
What is so special about Bowness Park for with kids?
- Shallow wading pool and spray park keep kids busy.
- Vintage mini-train and boat rentals offer family rides.
- Free playgrounds and open fields let kids run and play.
- Paved paths make stroller access smooth around the lagoon.
- Seasonal skating and crokicurl add winter fun.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: This lets you enjoy the playground, wading pool and a boat or mini-train ride without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Bowness Park
Wading Pool & Spray Park:
Let kids splash safely in the shallow wading pool and water jets.
Tip: Bring towels and swim diapers; use nearby change rooms open 9 a.m.–9 p.m.
Mini-Train Ride:
Ride the vintage mini-train around the lagoon.
Tip: Buy the $10 family ticket for 2 adults + up to 3 kids; children under 3 ride free.
Boat Rentals:
Rent a pedal boat or canoe for the family to explore the lagoon.
Tip: Life jackets are provided; book a 1-hour slot ($30) to match kids’ energy levels.
Picnic & BBQ:
Use free firepits and picnic tables for a family meal.
Tip: Arrive early to secure a spot; bring charcoal, marshmallows and utensils.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Bowness Park
- Arrive Early: Get to the park by 9 a.m. to grab picnic spots and avoid rental queues.
- Pack Your Own Snacks: Bringing food cuts café lines and saves money.
- Reserve Picnic Shelters: Book a covered site online days ahead if you prefer guaranteed shade.
Reviews of Bowness Park
Rasgun
Great place to walk around, go for a picnic and BBQ if living in Calgary! There is a boathouse as well at a very reasonable price! You can book your picnic sites by calling 311. During the fall season the views are splendid, you can do fall photography at the best here. There is a cute tiny rail for the toy train as well. Benches, picnic tables are available all around the park. You can also bring...
miss_j
Bowness Park has always been our favorite Fall spot. It's so beautiful that we keep coming back every year to do our yearly fall photos. It's also a great park during summer as there is a waterpark free for kids. Also, lots of people enjoy the bow river rafting with their own rafts or rental. Some people actually go swimming too, although I'm sure the water will be too cold. Winter is also beautif...
Selin 赛琳
Went there with family, it was the best! Everyone enjoyed the peaceful bow river. Took a long walk and it was 100% worth it. BUT BRING SUNSCREEN AND BUG SPRAY! There are lots of mosquitoes in the season I went, so be prepared! Raft rental available! We went up a ramp and followed a trail. MUST GO ON THAT WALK! there are stairs too if you prefer. A little park with flowers and cute bear statue too!...
Faiz Hanafi
My favourite park in the city tied with Prince's Island! It's very pretty and a great place to come for a picnic, BBQ, with a boat, or just to hangout near the Bow river. I run here and it's always nice to see people having fun and existing. Great place for kids too, as there's plenty of playground areas, and even a little train for them to ride!
Summer
A park where you can experience a splendid summer. Despite recent issues, it's still a beautiful neighborhood. If I lived here, I would be so happy. I should come back for a barbecue later. Walking along the quiet paths, it felt like happiness would stay by my side forever. It's a great place to enjoy the leisure of everyday life. It has a different atmosphere from Bow River.
When is the best time to visit Bowness Park (Calgary, Canada)?
Mid-June to early September the wading pool and spray park run daily. In winter (mid Nov–mid Mar) ice skate free on the lagoon—rent skates for $12/hr.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Pedal boat rental (1 hr) | CAD 30 |
| Family mini-train ticket | CAD 10 |
| Ice skate rental (1 hr) | CAD 12 |
| Snacks & drinks | CAD 20 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 72 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Bowness Park
Address: 8900 48 Ave NW, Calgary, AB T3B 2B2, Canada
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About Bowness Park
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+1 403-268-248910 BEST nearby Activities
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