Calgary Layover With Kids — A Survival Guide

Calgary guide: kid-friendly stops near the airport. Real, specific, no fluff.

Exploring Calgary with Kids: Top Indoor Stops Near the Airport

Family Fun at the Aero Space Museum

Located just 3 kilometers from Calgary International Airport, the Aero Space Museum is an excellent choice for families with kids. The museum features a vast collection of aircraft and spacecraft, including a replica of a World War II bomber. You can explore the exhibits at your own pace, and the museum also offers interactive displays and a flight simulator for kids to enjoy.

• Address: 4629 McCall Way NE, Calgary, AB T2E 7V8
• Phone: (403) 248-1121
• Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (April to September), 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (October to March)

Nap Time at the Calgary Public Library

Just 10 kilometers from the airport, the Calgary Public Library is a great place to take a break and let your kids relax. The library features a spacious children's section with a cozy reading area, where you can sit and read a book or simply take a nap. You can also explore the library's collection of children's books and audiobooks, or attend one of their many family-friendly events.

• Address: 800 3 St SE, Calgary, AB T2G 2S1
• Phone: (403) 260-2600
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Monday to Thursday), 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Friday to Saturday), 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Sunday)

Indoor Playgrounds and Play Zones

Playtime at the Calgary Children's Museum

Located in downtown Calgary, the Calgary Children's Museum is a 10-minute drive from the airport. The museum features a variety of interactive exhibits and play zones, including a mini-grocery store, a construction zone, and a pirate ship. Your kids can explore and learn through play, and you can relax in the museum's café or take a break in the adjacent park.

• Address: 5120 1 St SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0G7
• Phone: (403) 268-8700
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Monday to Saturday), 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Sunday)

Get Moving at the Telus Spark Science Centre

Located 15 kilometers from the airport, the Telus Spark Science Centre features a variety of interactive exhibits and play zones, including a mini-golf course, a climbing wall, and a giant slide. Your kids can explore and learn through play, and you can relax in the centre's café or take a break in the adjacent park.

• Address: 220 St George's Dr NE, Calgary, AB T2E 5T2
• Phone: (403) 817-6800
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Monday to Thursday), 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Friday to Sunday)

Rest and Relaxation Near the Airport

Nap Time at the Hampton Inn & Suites Calgary-Airport

Located just 2 kilometers from the airport, the Hampton Inn & Suites Calgary-Airport offers comfortable rooms and suites, as well as a relaxing indoor pool and hot tub. You can take a break and let your kids nap in the hotel's spacious rooms, or relax in the hotel's lounge area with a cup of coffee or tea.

• Address: 2420 37 St NE, Calgary, AB T1Y 6B8
• Phone: (403) 250-4444
• Hours: 24/7

Grab a Bite to Eat at the Calgary International Airport

If you're looking for a quick bite to eat, you can grab a snack or meal at one of the many restaurants and cafes located within the Calgary International Airport. Some popular options include the Avis Car Rental Café, the Tim Hortons, and the Starbucks.

• Avis Car Rental Café: located in the airport's main terminal, near the Avis Car Rental counter
• Tim Hortons: located in the airport's main terminal, near the food court
• Starbucks: located in the airport's main terminal, near the food court

Getting Around Calgary

Using Public Transit

You can use Calgary's public transit system to get around the city. The Calgary Transit system features a variety of buses and trains, including the C-Train, which runs from the airport to downtown Calgary. You can purchase a transit pass or use a credit card to pay for your fare.

• Calgary Transit website: https://www.calgarytransit.com
• Transit app: Transit (available for iOS and Android)

When exploring Calgary, remember to exchange your currency for Canadian dollars at a reputable exchange like the Portability App for the best rates and convenience.