Calgary Tower (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Calgary Tower?
What makes it 80% Kids-Friendly: Children 4–12 pay a low rate, thrill at the glass floor and short films, but parents must supervise near windows, and the tower lacks playgrounds, live guides, or hands-on science stations.
Positives:
- Stroller-Friendly: Wide elevators and ramps make moving with a stroller easy.
- Free Wi-Fi: Complimentary Wi-Fi on the observation deck lets you stream or share photos instantly.
- Short Films: 10-minute theatre shows keep 4–12 year olds engaged without long waits.
Challenges:
- No Changing Tables: Washrooms lack baby-change tables; bring a travel mat or use nearby mall facilities.
- Wind Chill at Height: The observation deck can feel colder than ground level; pack extra layers for kids.
- Elevator Waits: Lines can reach 15 minutes during peak times around sunset; plan breaks around shows.
What is Calgary Tower?
- A 190.8-meter concrete and steel landmark defining Calgary’s downtown skyline
- A multi-purpose structure combining communications facilities with a public observation deck
- An iconic tower crowned by a revolving restaurant and glass-floored viewing platform
What is so special about Calgary Tower for with kids?
- Panoramic city and Rocky Mountain views from a glass floor 191 m high
- Engaging multimedia tour and 10-minute films perfect for kids
- Quick snacks and souvenir options keep the family fueled
- LED light shows at dusk create a fun evening spectacle
- Stroller-accessible with free Wi-Fi for photo sharing
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 2–3 hour visit lets your family enjoy the observation deck, glass floor, theatre and snack break without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Calgary Tower
Observation Deck & Glass Floor:
Stand 191 m above Calgary on a transparent platform for sweeping city and Rocky Mountain views.
Tip: Visit midday for clear skies; hold kids’ hands near the glass floor and remove street shoes for grip.
Multimedia Tour:
Use your phone for a free audio-visual tour that tells Calgary’s history in kid-friendly segments.
Tip: Scan the QR code at the lobby; bring shared earphones to keep noise low for other visitors.
Theatre Room:
Watch a 10-minute short film on the Tower’s build and Alberta scenery in a seated mini-theatre.
Tip: Shows run every 15 minutes; use this break to rest or move between deck sections.
Tops Snack Bar:
Grab mini-donuts, hot chocolate or coffee on the mezzanine for quick refuel.
Tip: Try the hot mini-donuts; lines are shortest before 12 pm and after 2 pm.
LED Light Shows:
Watch the Tower’s LED façade light up in themed colours at dusk.
Tip: Head to Stephen Avenue Mall or the outdoor plaza after sunset for the best viewing spots.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Calgary Tower
- Buy Tickets Online: Reserve tickets online to skip the ticket line and save a small fee.
- Visit Off-Peak: Arrive before 10 am or after 4 pm to avoid elevator queues.
- Use the Multimedia Tour: Download the free tour on your phone for extra kid-friendly stories.
Reviews of Calgary Tower
Jeremie Misquitta
My visit to the Calgary Tower during a day trip to Calgary was a memorable highlight, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the city that truly showcased its charm. On a cloudless, sunny day, the conditions were ideal, revealing the distant Rocky Mountains and the urban expanse in stunning clarity. The observation deck, enriched with informative displays identifying key buildings, added an edu...
Vishaka Pillai
The Calgary Tower is worth visiting once, but it feels underwhelming compared to other iconic towers like the CN Tower in Toronto. The glass floor section is neat, but much smaller than expected, and the viewing deck gives a decent view of downtown Calgary — though the surrounding skyline isn’t as dramatic. The CN Tower, by contrast, offers a far more immersive experience, with multiple observati...
Denika Degazio
Wow stunning views. And going at sunset is highly recommended! The mountains are a perfect with the sun setting behind them! Food was fantastic! It's so beautiful to see the lights of the city light up below! We went after a long day of travelling and sightseeing so we were casually dressed, but you can dress up super fancy too! It was great!
Kenneth Green
The Calgary Tower turned out to be an excellent stop on our trip. Admission is roughly half the price of Toronto’s CN Tower, and since the Calgary Tower is about half the height, it feels like a perfect trade-off—great value without compromising the experience. We timed our visit for around sunset and it couldn’t have been better. The views of downtown Calgary, the Bow River, and the Rockies glow...
Fayaz M Khan
The Calgary Tower is a great way to get a full view of the city. The observation deck gives you a 360° look at Calgary and the Rocky Mountains on a clear day. The glass floor is a fun experience and makes for some great photos. The staff are friendly, and the elevator ride to the top is smooth and quick. The visit itself doesn’t take too long unless you plan to eat at the restaurant, but it’s sti...
When is the best time to visit Calgary Tower (Calgary, Canada)?
Winter evenings are cold on the outdoor plaza; bundle up for the LED light show. Summer sunsets last late—arrive before dusk for warmer views. Spring and fall can bring rain; pack lightweight rain gear.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Observation Deck Tickets (2 adults, 2 kids) | CAD 66 |
| Snacks at Tops Snack Bar | CAD 20 |
| Souvenirs at Gift Shop | CAD 15 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 101 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Calgary Tower
Address: 101 9 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 1J9, Canada
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About Calgary Tower
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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