Prince's Island Park (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Prince's Island Park?
What makes it 89% Couple-Friendly: Couples can picnic by the river, rent a two-person kayak, dine at River Café, and watch open-air theatre at sunset, creating varied, romantic, low-cost dates in a safe setting.
Positives:
- Free Admission: No entry fee gives flexibility to extend your visit without extra cost.
- Downtown Location: Short walk from Eau Claire Market and downtown hotels for easy access.
Challenges:
- Limited Parking: Nearby lots fill quickly on weekends; consider transit or rideshare.
- Washroom Hours: Public restrooms under the café close earlier in winter; carry tissues.
- Crowds During Festivals: The park gets busy in summer; arrive early for quieter sections.
What is Prince's Island Park?
- A 20-hectare urban park occupying Prince’s Island in the Bow River at downtown Calgary
- A landscaped setting of mature woodlands, open meadows and meandering river channels connected by paved pathways
- A public venue equipped with picnic shelters, a children’s playground and an outdoor stage for seasonal cultural events
What is so special about Prince's Island Park for couple trip?
- Riverside picnic spots with skyline views
- Colourful gardens and flat walking paths
- Double kayak rentals for shared water fun
- On-site River Café for dining and coffee
- Seasonal events like folk music festival and Shakespeare shows
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Leisurely stroll, riverside picnic and quick kayak ride fit comfortably within this time.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Prince's Island Park
Bow River Picnic:
Spread a blanket on the grass by the lagoon for river and skyline views.
Tip: Bring snacks and a small cooler; use picnic tables near the lagoon if grass is damp.
Sunset Flower Garden Walk:
Stroll paved paths through colourful flower beds at dusk.
Tip: Start 30 minutes before sunset for best light and cooler temperatures.
Couples Kayak Rental:
Rent a double kayak from Riverway Rentals to paddle the river channel.
Tip: Reserve online in advance; arrive 15 minutes early to sign waiver.
River Café Dining:
Enjoy local dishes or coffee right in the park.
Tip: Book a table on weekends; ask for a riverside seat when you arrive.
Shakespeare by the Bow:
Watch free summer theatre performances on a grassy hill.
Tip: Bring a blanket and foldable chairs; arrive early to claim a spot close to the stage.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Prince's Island Park
- Early Start: Visit before 10 a.m. on weekdays for quieter trails and picnic spots.
- Online Reservations: Book kayak rentals and café tables online to save wait time.
- Pack Light: Carry a small daypack with water, snacks and a park map for easy navigation.
Reviews of Prince's Island Park
Dragos Nina
It's such a beautiful park. Flower arrangements were very creative. The trees are great. Kids' play structure is newer and a lot of fun. The new black squirrels were neat to see for the first time. Only down side was the men's washroom. Two of the toilets were completely disgusting. The place needs an upgrade badly.
kazumi makwana
Amazing nice park in the middle of city. parking is free (limited spots) after 6pm. nice clean park. play area for kids. lot of beaches for barbeque. nice little ice cream shop. Must visit park
John William Wade
Came here for Folk Fest and it did not disappoint! It is an amazing venue to hold such a popular festival. There are multiple stages with remarkably good sound systems and plenty of natural grass to sit on. The breeze from the river sure is welcome under the hot sun 🌞 There is a great big children's playground here that is quite popular. The benches around it are perfect for parents to sit at w...
Jon Cole
Super nice quiet park in the heart of downtown. Lots of space, large trees, benches, flower gardens. With the river on both sides it really is a quiet area. Everyone at the park is doing the same thing - just enjoying. Can be super busy on summer weekends or holidays. So bicycling can be a slow process because of the crowds!
Vids Tube
Excellent park with broad walkway, washrooms, great view of river and downtown, must visit this park if you are at peace bridge. You can even rent a neuron e bike/scooter to stroll around. Great place to spend a nice evening. Lots of picnic spots were available both shaded and unshaded. Public washrooms were at the River Cafe there is even a playground with lots of kids activity for kids to have f...
When is the best time to visit Prince's Island Park (Calgary, Canada)?
Late July hosts the Calgary Folk Music Festival nearby. In autumn, walk under orange and red leaves. Winter trails can be icy—bring traction cleats and dress in layers.
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Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Picnic snacks | CAD 0 |
| 1 hr double kayak rental | CAD 25 |
| Coffee or snack at River Café (2 people) | CAD 20 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 45 |
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 Prince's Island Park
Address: 698 Eau Claire Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 5N4, Canada
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About Prince's Island 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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