11 Activities Under $10 in Calgary

With summer upon us, keeping the kids entertained can feel like an expensive ordeal. Don't fret: you don't need to break the bank to enjoy this beautiful city. These 11 spots for under $10 are not only fabulous the first time around, but are great go-to spots when you're in a pinch to keep the kids occupied.

This quaint little café is more than just a spot to grab a snack. Located at the bottom of Bow Bottom Trail SE in Fish Creek Park, Annie's is a great spot to sit, sip, and enjoy some ice cream or yummy snacks in a natural setting. The parkette next to the café is filled with fun including statues, a gazebo, and a native arts display. It's a favourite for folks who are just finishing or starting a bike ride (read: come with bikes or good walking shoes). The street lantern-lined walkway adds a lovely ambiance as well. The kids' cones are under $3 and blue bubble gum ice cream is a favourite. On a hot day, take advantage of the nearby river to paddle in the pond, or bike over from Annie's to Sikome Lake for a swim. Whether you're out for serious exercise, a leisurely nature walk or a simple snack, Annie's is a seasonal must-see.

While the area itself is a beautiful spot for a picnic, or just to walk around, what we love is that seeing the horse shows is actually completely affordable—and something different for the kids. The show jumping is a show stopper for the small set. Tournaments like the Continental (June 15-19) and Pan American (June 28-July 3) are free of charge, while other tournaments offer rush seating in the East and West Grandstand, or on the grass in front, for $5 (children under 12 are free). For those events, be sure to bring a blanket, snacks (food is available there, but more expensive), hats and lots of water, and be warned that seating is on a first come, first serve basis. Be sure to enjoy wandering around afterwards and explore the seasonal shopping in the Gallery on the Green Shops, Vendors Village and other tents in the plaza. We love that the events continue into the fall (read: something to do on a sunny weekend once back at school).

Put away the bikes and groove with a new set of wheels—skateboards or in-line skates. Shaw Millennium Park is the largest free skate park in North America, and worth a visit. If you're looking for something a little more local, you can find free action at a variety of Mobile Skate Park locations. During scheduled hours, first-aid trained skate park staff will be on hand to help supervise but note, helmets, pads and a signed waiver are required to participate. Waivers can be found on the city website.

Located up in the NW, this popular park was under repair due to the floods, but is finally back and running. There's even a spray park opening this year! With fire pits, playgrounds, the Tea House, Boat House and the lagoon to enjoy, it's worth revisiting the park now that it's all patched up!

If things are heating up and you need some cool-down time, head over to Canyon Meadows Cinema where all films are $5 at all times. It's a great way to catch a kids' feature without forking out all sorts of cash. Movies are all across the board so if you need a quick break, it's guaranteed to have something for mom as well. Keep your eyes peeled for local community ‘movie in the park' programs as well that are often advertised in your local grocery store or in community newsletters.

If your kids are itching for a train ride, take them on a journey up to Airdrie's Iron Horse Park. Owned and operated by the Alberta Model Engineering Society, these mini 1/8 scale trains take you on a journey that models the CPR run from the prairies to the west coast. Open on Sundays, admission is free and tickets are $3 (though bundles can be bought as well) and children under 3 are free (when riding with an adult). There are picnic areas but bring a blanket because tables can be reserved for birthday parties.

Explore a different type of ‘wet' environment at this popular spot. Your future fishermen can try the Kids Can Catch Trout Pond (catch and release only) with rod rentals available for $5 per rod. The Discovery Centre cost for adults is $10 with kids 4-7 being $6, but if you want to spend a little less, the Fish Hatchery tour is only $5 (kids $3) or simply feed the fish for $2.

If your army is in need of a little boot camp, why not take a visit to The Military Museums? Adults are $10, while children under 7 are free. The museums display items from the army, navy, air force, and much more. There are even youth programs and birthday parties offered if you find your soldiers want to spend more time exploring.

We love that every year the library offers a summer reading program to keep kids excited about reading all year around. The libraries offer more than books however. There are extensive events to explore all through the summer. Fish Creek Library even offers a giant chess set and fabulous play area for little ones. So if you need an impromptu activity, bring your bookworms to a local library. Best part is: it's free!

While this spot is for the birds—literally—it's more than just a spot for our beaked friends. While there are over 270 species of birds, there are also 21 species of mammals and 347 plant species to check out. Enjoy nature trails, picnic areas, and the exhibits in the Nature Centre… free of charge.

Get out of town and go check out the seasonal market in Millarville. You'll find fresh veggies, bakers, artisans and more in an outdoor venue. At a cost of only $3 per car to visit, it's up to you whether or not to spend any more money, or just browse and enjoy the outdoor atmosphere.