traveltowith

Find the Best Activities & Hotels for Families, Couples, and Solo Travelers

About UsContactTerms & ConditionsPrivacy Policy
© 2026 Traveltowith. All rights reserved.
t
Search...
Canada/Things to Do in Calgary, with kids

Scotsman's Hill (with kids)

with kidswith babycouple tripsolo trip

How Kids-Friendly is Scotsman's Hill?

71%Kids-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 71% Kids-Friendly: School-age children like the stair climb, small playground, and fireworks shows. Parents must watch cliff edges and plan for no permanent toilets or food vendors.

Google
Reviews4.8/ 5
(from 1,898 reviews)

Positives:

  • Free Admission: No entry fee lets families enjoy views, play, and picnic on a budget.
  • Panoramic City View: The hilltop platform gives unobstructed views of Calgary Tower and Saddledome.
  • Play Area on Site: Small playground keeps kids entertained after the climb.

Challenges:

  • Limited Facilities: No permanent restrooms or water fountains; bring water and wipes.
  • Steep Stairs: Main access involves 159 stairs; younger kids may need help.
  • No Shade: The hilltop lacks shade; bring hats and sunscreen on sunny days.
Scotsman's Hill image 1
Scotsman's Hill image 2
Scotsman's Hill image 3
Scotsman's Hill image 4
Scotsman's Hill image 5
🏖️ Explore Scotsman's Hill with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Scotsman's Hill. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Scotsman's Hill?

  • A natural sandstone promontory rising above the Elbow River valley in Calgary’s Ramsay neighbourhood
  • An elevated urban lookout providing unobstructed lines of sight to downtown skyscrapers, the Saddledome and surrounding river valleys
  • A city park site featuring a paved viewing platform atop a 159-step staircase connecting Ramsay Street to Stampede Park

What is so special about Scotsman's Hill for with kids?

  1. Climb 159 stairs to a secure hilltop overlooking downtown
  2. Enjoy panoramic views of Calgary Tower and Saddledome
  3. Relax at picnic benches with grassy play areas for kids
  4. Let children play on the on-site playground and meet friendly dogs
  5. Watch seasonal fireworks during Stampede and Canada Day

Recommended visit duration: 2–3 hours

Why 2–3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time to climb, picnic, play, and enjoy views without rushing children.

(View Scotsman's Hill on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in Scotsman's Hill

Stair Climb & View:

Ascend 159 stairs to reach the hilltop platform overlooking downtown Calgary.

Tip: Bring water and take breaks on benches along the way.

Picnic & Play:

Set up a picnic near the hilltop benches and let kids explore grassy paths.

Tip: Pack snacks and a blanket; remind kids to stay away from the edge.

Kids' Playground:

Enjoy swings and slides in the small unfenced playground below the viewing area.

Tip: Watch younger children closely on wood-chip surfacing.

Fireworks Viewing:

Watch Calgary Stampede or Canada Day fireworks from the hilltop.

Tip: Bring ear protection, water, and arrive one hour early to claim a spot.

Off-Leash Dog Park:

Visit the Ramsay off-leash area at the hill’s base to meet friendly dogs.

Tip: Always ask owners before petting and supervise kids around dogs.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Scotsman's Hill

  1. Use Paved Path: Drive to the Ramsay St lot and take the paved ramp for stroller access.
  2. Visit Early: Arrive before noon to avoid crowds and secure a picnic table.
  3. Pack Light Snacks: Bring easy-to-carry snacks to refuel on the climb and at the top.
🏖️ Tour Scotsman's Hill like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Scotsman's Hill. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Scotsman's Hill

Powered by Google
Víctor Farias

Víctor Farias

Sep 2025

Absolutely loved this spot! Scotsman’s Hill gives you one of the best skyline views in Calgary, with the Saddledome front and center—perfect for photos at sunset or blue hour. It’s an easy, short walk up, and the view is totally worth it. I went on a clear evening and could see the whole downtown glowing; it felt peaceful and safe, with a friendly neighborhood vibe. Do note it’s a residential area...

Yodaman Solo

Yodaman Solo

Aug 2025

Great scenic vantage point here. You get a great view of the skyline of Calgary. It’s pleasant in the early morning sunrise and at night you have the night lit skyline. 👍😎

Ammar Zia

Ammar Zia

Aug 2025

Rising from the historic neighborhood of Ramsay, Scotsman's Hill commands one of Calgary’s most iconic vistas, unfolding a stunning panorama that captures the city's dynamic heart. Before you, the downtown skyline stretches across the horizon, its glittering towers anchored by the iconic silhouette of the Saddledome and the vibrant expanse of the Stampede Grounds. This cherished viewpoint becomes ...

Anjal Patel

Anjal Patel

Jun 2025

To get a beautiful view of the Calgary skyline, you must visit this spot! There's a nice green space perfect for sitting with friends while kids play. The benches offer an amazing vantage point for the skyline. Just be aware of small flies. You'll find plenty of street parking, and you'll also notice the beautifully built houses in the area.

Yusuf Taherali

Yusuf Taherali

May 2025

Scotsman’s Hill has such a cool view of the city, especially at night. You can see the whole downtown lit up and the Saddledome right in front—it looks pretty amazing. It’s a quiet spot, great for taking some nice photos. The view feels kind of magical when all the city lights are on. Definitely worth checking out if you’re in Calgary!

When is the best time to visit Scotsman's Hill (Calgary, Canada)?

Spring to fall offers portable toilets on site. Visit in early July for Stampede and Canada Day fireworks. In winter the stairs can be icy—wear boots or avoid if snow-covered.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Calgary on Trip.com

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Park entryCAD 0
ParkingCAD 0
Total EstimatedCAD 0

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 Scotsman's Hill

Address: Ramsay, Calgary, AB T2G 4K2, Canada

Map will load when you scroll here

Scroll down to view the interactive map

Looking for other Things to Do besides Scotsman's Hill (Calgary)?

← See other Things to Do in Calgary (with kids)

About Scotsman's Hill

Opening Hours

Monday:Open 24 hours
Tuesday:Open 24 hours
Wednesday:Open 24 hours
Thursday:Open 24 hours
Friday:Open 24 hours
Saturday:Open 24 hours
Sunday:Open 24 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 Website

10 BEST nearby Activities

Book on GetYourGuide

Explore Popular Things to Do

🇨🇦 Canada, with kids

Things to Do in Vancouver, with kids
Vancouver
Things to Do in Toronto, with kids
Toronto
Things to Do in Montreal, with kids
Montreal
VictoriaCalgaryQuebec CityOttawaNiagara Falls

🇺🇸 United States, with kids

Things to Do in Hawaii, with kids
Hawaii
Things to Do in New York, with kids
New York
Los AngelesSan FranciscoLas VegasSeattleAustinNiagara Falls

🇮🇪 Ireland, with kids

Things to Do in Dublin, with kids
Dublin
Things to Do in Cork, with kids
Cork
Things to Do in Galway, with kids
Galway

🇬🇧 United Kingdom, with kids

Things to Do in London, with kids
London
Things to Do in Edinburgh, with kids
Edinburgh
Things to Do in Manchester, with kids
Manchester

🇮🇹 Italy, with kids

Things to Do in Rome, with kids
Rome
Things to Do in Florence, with kids
Florence
Things to Do in Milan, with kids
Milan

🇫🇷 France, with kids

Things to Do in Paris, with kids
Paris
Things to Do in Nice, with kids
Nice
Things to Do in Lyon, with kids
Lyon

How You Can Support Us

If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!

It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!

10 BEST nearby Activities

Book on GetYourGuide
traveltowith
HomeDestinationsAbout
Calgary, Canada

searching for