One of the great things about Alberta is that we have so many destinations that are perfect for Summer Road Trips! From young to old there is something on this list for everyone!
Fun Summer Road Trips to take around Alberta with Kids
Sylvan Lake Aqua Splash Park – Open for its second season, the Aqua Splash Park will be expanding for the 2017 season. Climb on the 15-foot tower and overhanging foot tower, jump on an oversized trampoline, and try out the wiggle bridge. All participants must be at least 3’6″ and 6 yrs old.
Jurassic Forrest – Explore the 40-acres of this prehistoric preserve and explore, discover and learn about the world of the dinosaurs and the ancient creatures that live in Jurassic Forest. Located just 45 minutes North of Edmonton.
Devonshire Beach – Whether you’re camping at Lesser Slave Lake Provincial Park, other surrounding campsites or planning a day trip (just under 3 hours from Edmonton) this hidden gem of a beach will soon become a favourite destination for you.
Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum – Located in Grande Prarie you will see dinosaur skeletons to the recreated bonebed to the real palaeontologists working in the lab to ‘a walk through time.’ Eat at the Dine-O-Saur restaurant and watch dinosaur movies, documentaries, short films and more in the museum’s theatre. (Canada’s first National Geographic theatre)
Iron Horse Park – Take the 1.6km interpretive journey aboard one of the 1/8th scale diesel or steam locomotives at the park and get a feeling of what the railway was like in Western Canada during the pioneer days. You’ll find this fun attraction in Airdrie, Alberta.
Sulphur Mountain – Located in Banff, Alberta you can take a ride up Sulphur mountain on the Gondola ($) or hike it (be sure to check the trail report before hiking to ensure the trails aren’t slippery). Bring your bathing suit after you’ve checked out the mountain and check out the Banff Upper Hot Springs ($).
Em-Te Town – An authentic western frontier town tourist attraction and resort located near Alder Flats, Alberta. Experience the life of the old west for the day (admission $4-$7), dine at the Drifter’s Diner, go horseback riding, or stay a day or two and rent a room in their motel.
Sundance Lodges – Book a campsite, trappers tent, or a Tipi and explore everything that Kananaskis has to offer! Activities around Sundance lodgers include horseback riding, swimming at Barrier Lake (though it’s cold!), sport equipment rentals onsite and more. Free hot showers are included and there are even supply rentals of pots, pans, bedding, utensils and more.
White Court River Slides – A fun and free activity for the whole family, spend the day on the River Slides, Spray Park and Playground all located at Rotary Park!
Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village – Located 30 minutes East of Edmonton take a step back in time and experience this outdoor living history museum where costumed role-players recreate the life of early Ukrainian pioneers.
Calaway Park – Just outside Calgary is where you will find Western Canada’s Largest Outdoor Amusement Park! With something for everyone, this is one of our family’s favourite summertime stops for fun! *Tip – If you’re planning to visit Calaway Park more than once this season you can buy a season’s pass for $49.95 until May 23rd!
WinSport – Located in Calgary there is something for the whole family to try! Take a ride on a summer bobs sleigh, skyline luge, zip line, play a round of mini golf and check out the activity centre.
Discovery Canyon – Great for children of any age Discovery Canyon was closed for renovations in 2016. The water is never deeper than 45cm (18″), on inflatable tubes and there is a spray pool at the bottom. Bring your own tube or rent one for $5 with a $15 deposit! See other locations around Alberta where you can float & tube here!
Discovery Wildlife Park – Located in Innisfail this Alberta conservation park that is home to many animals such as bears, tigers, racoons, wolves, jaguars, camels, and even an alligator.
Trekcetera Museum – Recently relocated to Drumheller this museum features authentic, original costumes, props and set pieces from various Star Trek series and movies as well as other movies and TV shows such as Hell On Wheels, Magnificent Seven, Harry Potter, Thunderbirds, Titanic, Superman, Pirates of the Caribbean and more.
What are some fun summer road trips that you suggest when travelling with kids? Leave a comment so I can add it to the list!
Photo credit: Skyline Luge Calgary