Mad for Monkey Bars

You know you are truly in the thick of parenthood when your list of hot spots has shifted from your favourite downtown resto/bar to your favourite playgrounds in the city.

That’s just what we have for you today…. Beat the summer boredom blues and check them out. Definitely worth the drive, we say.

Eau Claire and Prince’s Island Park
4 Street & 1 Avenue S.W.
Why We Like It: The playground structure resembles a mini-Calgary. Kids can hop on the Heritage Park train, ride the Stampede swings or visit little Fort Calgary.
Don’t Miss: In the summer months, cool little toes in the wading pool on the Eau Claire market side.
Good to Know: Wear closed toe shoes. There are an abundance of Canada Geese walking, eating and well, you know.

Riley Park
800 12 St. N.W.
Why We Like It: Riley Park oozes community spirit. Nestled in Hillhurst between shops, homes and SAIT, Riley Park is a throwback to the good old days of playing catch or picnicking on a blanket.
Don’t Miss: The massive wading pool surrounded by shade-giving trees. The pool is open in the summer months.
Good to Know: The Hillhurst community hall offers a farmer’s market, open Wednesdays from 3:30 – 8:00 pm all summer. It’s right across the street (west) from the park at 1320 5th Ave NW.

Variety Children’s Park at North Glenmore Park
90 Ave. & 24 St. S.W.
Why We Like It: With over 900 hours of sunshine in an average Calgary summer, your kids will welcome a chance to beat the heat. Variety Park offers a lot of…you guessed it, variety. Attack the sprinklers and fountains or visit the surrounding dry land play areas.
Don’t Miss: Variety Children’s Park borders the Glenmore Reservoir. Post-soak, take a walk down the bike path or check out the neighbouring boats at the sailing school.
Good to Know: On a hot day, Variety Children’s Park is busy. So, to avoid the crowds, go early or go late but skip the afternoon rush.

Somerset Waterpark
Somerset Square S.W. (in the community of Somerset)
Why We Like It: It’s a community run playground and splash park set in a suburban oasis. It’s calm, quiet and frequented by locals. From water to sand to paved bike trails to picnic tables, you could spend an hour or an afternoon.
Don’t Miss: Bring your diggers, pails and sifters to explore the massive sand box. For older kids, take advantage of the basketball, tennis and beach volleyball courts.
Good to Know: There are flush toilets and warm water all year round.

The Alberta Children’s Hospital
2888 Shaganappi Trail N.W.
Why We Like It: The main playground has a panoramic view of the Rockies and COP. The park has a few different play options like reclining swings and a climbing mountain. 
Don’t Miss: Walk up the path to the wooden gazebo to take in a breathtaking view. It’s a great place for a picnic.
Good to Know: You can park close to the playground. Drive past the main doors to the south-west side of the hospital. All parking is metered so bring change.

Learn the lay of the kid-friendly land while tuckering out the kids and saving your couch (a.k.a trampoline). And the best part is they’re free.

Playgrounds really are the hottest spots going. We know you still got it goin’ on.

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