Everything is more fun when you do it with friends. That includes travelling. My girlfriend Holly and I started a tradition a few years back to take a friend’s trip with our kids every summer. It’s honestly one of the highlights of the summer. Just two moms, four kids, one SUV, a hotel with a pool and a full weekend of activities. It’s loud, its a little chaotic sometimes, but it’s 100 per cent some of the best memories you’ll make.
This summer we were hosted by the Delta Calgary Downtown and it was the perfect hotel for our family. This renovated downtown hotel offers spacious and comfortable rooms, making it the ideal choice for families. Plus, its central location puts you within easy reach of all the must-see attractions in Calgary.
Pool Area
We always have one requirement when we stay at a hotel with kids and that is that it must have a pool. The kids had a blast at the hotel pool here. We were allowed to bring our floaties in, which was a hit, and there’s also a hot tub, sauna and gym.
Rooms
A second thing we look for in a hotel when we’re travelling with kids is if there’s suites available. We booked a corner suite for our stay this trip and it worked out perfect. The kids could pile into the giant king sized bed in the bedroom, and Holly and I could still hang out and enjoy the gorgeous views of the Calgary Tower while drinking some wine and chatting.
Here’s a tip if you’re travelling to Calgary this summer–book the road trip package with your stay.
Included in the Calgary Road Trip package is:
- a 25 CAD gas card per night
- road trip snacks (these were delicious and very welcome after a few hours in the car)
- a QR code that will provide an audio-guided tour introducing you to the Canadian Rocky Mountains and the townsite of Banff.
- This is a perfect orientation to Banff with all the must-do viewpoints included along the way.
Delta Elite Pantry
If you ask my kids, I think one of their favourite perks at the hotel was the Elite Pantry. Marriott Bonvoy Platinum, Titanium and Ambassador Elite Members can visit the Delta Pantry for a convenient, healthy, on-the-go continental breakfast, premium snacks and beverages. Open 24 hours, 7 days a week. This is so handy when you have kids — quick snacks for late-night munchies, basic breakfast items, a candy bar!!, and cold & hot drink options.
Shoe & Canoe Restaurant and Stargazer Patio
We had one dinner and one breakfast at the on-site restaurant, Shoe & Canoe. The food was delicious, service was excellent (seriously they were so great with our kids) and the restaurant vibe was so cute. If you’re there when it’s open be sure to check out the Stargazer Patio located on the roof. The downtown views are stunning!
What to do in Calgary with Kids
Day 1: Callaway Park
Start your day with excitement as you head to Callaway Park, located just outside of Calgary. This iconic amusement park offers a wide array of rides, games, and entertainment suitable for all ages. From thrilling roller coasters to family rides, Callaway Park has something for everyone. Be sure to try out the iconic log ride. It’s my favourite, but just a warning you will get soaked. This ride usually has a longer lineup, so grab and ice cream or snow cone for the kids while you wait…it’s the perfect way to pass the time. If your kids are young like mine, head to the back of the park for more rides suitable to young kids!
Day 2: Wildlife Encounters at Calgary Zoo
On the second day of your Calgary adventure, head to the Calgary Zoo. Wander through immersive exhibits, including the Penguin Plunge, Land of Lemurs, and the African Savannah, where you can see lions, giraffes and hippo’s up close. While real animals are obviously super cool, my youngest has always love the Prehistoric Park the best. Go figure haha, this kid is obsessed with dinosaurs. It really is a great section of the zoo though, with life-size animatronic dinosaurs, hoodoos and river valley.
When you have the time
We always love to take an evening walk though Prince’s Island Park. This beautiful urban park is located just steps away from the Marriott Downtown Calgary, making it a perfect destination for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic. It’s also a gorgeous spot to catch the sunset. We dropped our bags of at the hotel after the drive from Edmonton and headed right there to let the kids burn off some steam and to walk to dinner.
Pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and get ready to create lifelong memories in Calgary. While the days may be a little crazy, I promise you won’t regret a weekend getaway with friends!
