Heritage Park

On a family trip from Ottawa, we stopped at heritage park, overall it was a good visit, well kept place and fun for kids and adults. The clear winner of the day was the pretzel at the wainwright hotel!!My kids devoured it and they don't normally like pretzels. Need to order more than one but not a concern the prices are very reasonable. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

We had a great day yesterday at Canada Day ---The weather was perfect and boy is this big sky country! We saw a parade, and many model t fords and antique cars, juggler on stilts, bagpipes and Scottish highland dancers, beautiful Clydesdale horses, fresh bread made the old fashion way, there was a free pancake breakfast with sausages, we saw the antique train but unfortunately it was not running for two hours, and also unfortunately the rodeo didn't start until five hours after we got there so we decided not to wait, wishing that the rodeo was earlier in the day and the high tea could accommodate walk ins- otherwise it was great ! !!!   Also - gorgeous gardens !!! PS If you are looking for a restaurant locally; Whatever you do, NEVER go to the Calgary restaurant The Guild. The insane manager literally called the police and tried to put me "under citizens arrest" for accidentally knocking over a glass of wine- see my full review here    yelp.ca/biz/the-guild-ca… More...

Reviewed on Yelp

If you like history brought to life, Heritage Park is well worth a visit despite its steep admission fee (CAD 26/adult). It is spread out into various areas so you can see how early settlers lived in log huts, teepees, etc... There is a also a "town" with wooden streets and a variety of shops, bank, post office, printers, pharmacy, etc... The people who work at Heritage Park are all dressed according to the time period and are extraordinarily friendly. Most try to strike up a conversation and tell you about the dwelling they are in. The only disappointing thing was the mediocre food offerings which, other than at the Hotel Wainright, is processed food like you would buy at a gas station (chips, hot dog, packaged ice cream bars, etc....).It was a very enjoyable way to spend an afternoon outside. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

One of the best historical experiences in Southern Alberta. Lots of interesting things to see and do. Restorations are very well done. Highly recommended.

Reviewed on Yelp

Wonderful place to spend a day with the family. Great attractions. The shopping is good too. Candy store and the bakery are always go to stops on our walk around this historic village.

Reviewed on Yelp

I hadn't been to Heritage Park since I was a kid until last summer. We had the niece and nephew for a week and took them here for the Heritage Day in August. They had a free pancake breakfast and all sorts of games and other things going on. Not only was it fun for the kids to do something new and different. It was also fun for my wife and I to revisit something we hadn't done in ages.Today we came back for the Christmas festivities. While most of the park is closed, the shops and some of the old buildings aren't and they're decorated for the holidays. With the great weather it was nice to wander around for a couple of hours to see what was going on and do a little shopping for things that aren't necessarily found at the mall. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

This historical park is amazingly cool if you love history, nature, walking, relaxing, and seeing beautiful sights. Unfortunately, we came on a weekday and the festival was closed, but we could still explore the museum and park. Basically it is a huge plot of land with historic buildings and exhibits, a little town, farmland and livestock, trains, and various trails. We had the place completely to ourselves! While there were some employees doing work, we did not see a single other visitor while walking outside for hours. We had a lot of fun and probably walked a few miles total.At the entrance to the park is the Gasoline Alley museum, and it's worth spending an hour or so browsing, especially if you like old cars. Every car had a story and it was amazing to discover what they had been through in their lives (being converted to trucks, working in mines, etc.) and what happened for them to finally end up at the museum. The docents are lovely and very willing to answer questions and tell stories. If I were an antique car, I'd want to be here!I feel like I learned a lot about Calgary's history at Heritage Park and I definitely want to return. Next time I'll make sure to come here on a weekend when the attractions are open. But honestly, experiencing it alone was pretty awesome and fun in its own right. Worth a visit! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Fresh breads at the bakery, a train ride, exhibits about living and travelling during 'Old West' times, a ferry and numerous shops. There's always something to do.The only issue I have is the high cost of entry. Over $26 per person. Next time I'll dress up as a cowboy and pretend I work there so I can avoid the pricey entrance fee. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

As a former little girl obsessed with Anne of Green Gables and Little House I'm biased but I loved this park.  I recommend taking the train all the way around first then getting off and wandering around each location.  Bring lots of water or buy some icecream because it can get hot!  I found there was ample shade from the trees and the buildings were interesting and cool.  Eat lunch there because you will end up spending the whole day.  It was so interesting and fun I can't wait to go back with my husband. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Spent entire Sunday here. You will really need about 5-6 hours to enjoy everything they had offered. We did a train  and ferry rides. It's like an old world meets nature kind of place. They also have wagon ride and ice cream making but need to check the time. Super enjoyable and would recommend everyone More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I am amazed. This place is huge. Expect to spend at least 3 hours. Don't make the same mistake I made, gave myself only 2 hours and I didn't even make it around the entire park. I kind of regret taking too much photos and browsing around. Should have zoomed through this giant park. There are so many sections. Also if you go on the weekend, lots of the stores are open and so you can walk in and check out each store. The people who work there talk as if you are back in the old days. Yes went into a candy store and there is cool, old looking candies (edible ones and are for sale). Just the packaging is old. Went into a cottage style hospital and the women there talked as if surgery has gotten so high tech and of course she is talking in the sense of 1900s. Also went into someone's house and the owner (lady who works there), talked about how great her husband was and spent $45 to buy this oven with thermostat attached to it ($45 was a lot back in the old days, she feel proud to have that oven). She made it sound like a big thing because she said her neighbor had to put their hand in into the oven in order to know how hot and she has this really high tech stuff. Interesting..... Talk...Everything was pretty amazing here. Also you get to ride the ferry here (sadly I didn't have time). There is also an amusement park here. The amusement park has a ferris wheel (I didn't get to ride that because again no time). Also there is the train and again no time. See how much I am missing out. So you need more then 2 hours here. Some other cool stuff here is that there is a bakery that sells real bread or baked goods. Also there is an ice cream parlour here as well. It's pretty cool. But the ice cream parlour doesn't serve fancy ice cream. Just a quick stop to bring down the heat on a hot day.So admission is $26.25 and I have to say, it is totally worth it. So much to see hereParking is not free unless you park really far. Overall, I really enjoyed this place and really highly recommend coming here and giving yourself enough time to walk around. Also I want to applaud the people who work here. They dress in the 90's props and act as if they are in the 90's. That is pretty cool. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I have to say this place is amazing!I wish I were here when I was a kid. So much fun and so much place worth visiting.Perfect spot for dating. We rode the boat and the steam train. It's like going back 100 years ago with all the staff dressed in ancient costume.Try the strawberry sorbet ice cream! It's on main street and it's amazing! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I love this place! However, I wouldn't recommend going on a weekend if you can help it. It gets quite busy, the best day to go is definitely a Monday. I take my three year old one Monday a week and she loves it! One of the few places in Calgary that is great for both kids and parents. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I've been to Heritage park a few times before with  my family, but today was the first time i went with just a friend and i haven't been there in 4 years. Going there without family in tow gives me a new perspective.the price is $26.25 per person, which is a bit high, but i think it's still better value than the zoo which is a similar price.  Many years ago they used to charge extra for rides but they don't anymore . All rides are unlimited and included in the price . This includes their major attractions such as the boat, train, and wagon and all the amusement park rides .Time wise if ur planning to go on every single ride and visit every exhibit , then 4 hrs isn't enough but we still did a lot during the 4 hrs . Rides: This isn't Calaway park so the lines for the rides are relatively short. The only long line was the Ferris wheel, which i didn't go on because there wasn't enough time after everything else. All other rides, basically just line up and when the ride stops you are guaranteed a spot on the next round . My favourite ride and one of the most popular rides is the Caterpillar. My friend and i rode it twice. The second time was right after we got off the boat( last boat tour of the day ) and they were closing in 10 min but offered one more ride which was awesome! Food: Cheapest place to eat is the Gunn Dairy Barn which sells the typical fast food. It was a bit pricy but hey , i come from China where fast food at tourist attractions is pretty much legal robbery . For example , they would sell a bottle of water for $10 and a meal for $40. Compared to that, the Dairy Barn prices weren't so high and it wasn't busy when we went.Best exhibit : Schoolhouse. Ok, if the teen girl dressed up as a teacher ( which back then she would actually be old enough to teach) actually wrote all that beautiful cursive writing , clap clap clap i give her credit. I told her than in grade 3 i had to learn that and it's just as enjoyable as being forced to play hot cross buns ( damn that song ) on the recorder . and she told me that she likes cursive because it's easier ( !) She wrote a few math and social studies questions on the blackboard , which if u are one of these geeks who likes to do homework even if ur on a day trip the weekend , then u can solve them on a slate .Best ways to cool down: Drinks ( no the saloon doesn't sell anything u can't get drunk at Heritage  park..sorry) but soft drinks, there are a few places including Dairy Barn  and the ice cream place .Ice cream place : This is a must visit . Ok, it's no DQ/ McKay's ice cream/ Any other big ice cream palour but who would pass up at stop there on a hot day slightly disappointed that they didn't have mint chocolate chip , which i was hoping they'd have . You see i work at a buffet two evenings per week, and the buffet has mint chocolate chip, but employees aren't allowed to have any ice cream .. yes that is very sad indeed. I saw some people walking out of the palour with green ice cream and thought it was mint , but i asked and it was bubble gum , sad ..so had to settle for cookies and cream ( regular cone with  1 scoop which was enough ) . Last time i went there they had mint , not this time . The train conductor joked that " don't drip any on the train otherwise u will need to clean the engine and they only have toothbrushes" . There was also a strawberry sobert for the non dairy fans .Swing and boat ride: Althrough simple and non thrilling , the swing ride is actually a great way to cool down with the breeze in your face. It goes fast but doesn't go nearly as high as the swing ride at Calaway park( that ride i must ride on a single chair  and hold onto both handles ,yes i know that it is safe to let go of the handles or ride in a 2 person chair with someone else , but i refuse because it doesn't make me feel safe )  or the even higher one at stampede( which i went on once and refused to open my eyes ) this one is quite tame . The boat ride has good scenery , clear waters, and a nice breeze. so nice that u don't want to sit down, just stand on the deck and feel the breeze . The boat ride lasts half hour so best to save it for last . More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Although we did not experience everything this place has to offer (due to off season), we experienced enough to know this place will be one of our first stops when we return. The staff are knowledgeable, friendly and inviting. There is so much to see, do and learn with the kids - every family with the kids should make a stop here. Two thumbs up!!! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

My 2-year-old daughter and I enjoyed a really fun day at Heritage Park. I thought the price was a little bit high, but once we were inside and everything (except for food) was included: train ride, boat ride, horse drawn carriage, games, amusement park rides. .. I thought the price was good for all the fun that was to be had. We spent a good deal of time at the amusement park rides: mini and large ferris wheels, carousel, caterpillar, and several others. There are also two playgrounds. We went during a weekend where there were dancers performing, a petting zoo, sheep shearing, and more games. It was a lot of family fun and I think it's an attraction that had something for everyone from baby to grandparents. Definitely worth the time and money. Go for it! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

We didn't plan for enough time at Heritage Park. The employees were all knowledgable about their areas. Our sons could have ridden the train and boat all day. Time can be wasted waiting for the train too often. Be sure to visit the bakery, where day-old baked goods sell for 2 for 1. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Love this place.Seriously, when I realized I haven't yet written a review for Heritage Park, after being there more than a few times, I was surprised by myself. ..I have been to a number of similar places around the world, and in comparison, Calgary Heritage Park stands strong.Exhibits in the museums? Awesome. Quality of restoration, quantity of exhibits, the way collections are organized for the visitors - everything shines.Do you wish to see how Ford T transmission works? Have your little ones play around with authentic vintage toys in a totally awesome playground? Discover the magic of railway travel in a posh restaurant rail car? Just walk around the streets of a late XIX - early XX town?And these countless hidden treasures you can discover all around the territory... Oh my, just love that - you can literally spend days wondering around and discovering thing after thing!Child-friendly? You betcha - my little son loves this place! Hard to pull them away without much protest, even though he ends up sleeping in the car - being so tired of playing and exploring.Most importantly, I love the atmosphere. Such a great slice of Industrial Revolution in its prime, steam-punk, Victorian to Roaring Twenties, style.All these folks working in the park, busily wondering around like they literally live there? Waving hands to the steam train carrying crowds of happy kids? Ancient delivery trucks cautiously negotiating the winding gravel corners? So cool.Personally, I have my hands full with my own life - otherwise I would feel privileged to spend some of it there, in Heritage Park, helping it to be so great.Absolutely loved, respected, and recommended! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

What a neat place. My girlfriend and I really liked it. I'm a big fan of trains, especially steam trains and the town part was really cool. It's a little pricey to get in but we had 2 for 1 coupons which helps. Pretty big place too overlooking the elbow river and the rockies way off in the distance. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

A Day with Thomas the Train.  My three year old didn't stop running once he figured out it was "Thomas land". Great day and will be back to the park on a normal day during the summer to check out all it has to offer. Great for family

Reviewed on Yelp

Heritage park calls for a fun day full of excitement and wonder with all of the neat attractions.

Reviewed on Yelp

First time I've ever been there and was not expecting much and wasn't excited about $25 entry fee but it was completely worth it as it included train, boat & all rides. Ate at the hotel restaurant, Joshua was our server, he was lovely. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Great place to learn about heritage, ride 100 year old carousel, steam train and a steam boat. Lots to do and you won't be disappointed.

Reviewed on Yelp

My family and I go here almost every year on Heritage Day. We always get the ride bracelets - but I'll come back to that later. On heritage day there's a free breakfast as long as you get the ticket for it at the front gates! But before that, you have to walk up the long sidewalk that shows the decades & has a few statues of Canadian wildlife, then either take the train (which is really cool!) or walk towards the Gunn Dairy Farm. It's a free breakfast, kind of mirroring those Stampede breakfasts in early July, but there is seating indoor and stroller parking outside. However, they can only seat so many people. Which is why they have tickets for the first x amount of people to show up at the front gates.Moving on, the rides are really spectacular. Right outside the entrance is an ice cream parlour and we always stop by there. It's actually really cheap stuff! Anyways, my favourite rides in no particular order are: the caterpillar, the Ferris wheel (obviously), the ferrie ride on the Glenmore reservoir, and my little sister likes the ride right behind the Ferris wheel (can't remember the name)... The horse carriage rides are really exciting too, they give you a tour around the whole park and come back where they dropped you off so leaving all your stuff by the picnic benches isn't a bad idea. (Just be sensible about it...)The Prince House is really beautiful, as is the children's park by the opera house. I actually go on the teeter-totter (see-saw) on it with my sister to this day! Lol. The food is pretty good. As I mentioned, there's ice cream and also a pretty good bakery... Plus they've renovated to include the new restaurants at the front (Selsrik Grill or something along the lines of that). We like to stop at the Wainwright hotel. The sandwiches are tasty, but if you want bigger portions I would recommend to bring your own lunch as there are many good shady picnic areas on a hot summery day. The candy shop is a classic as well! Gasoline alley is pretty much what it sounds like - a museum and collection of old cars, engines, and gas stations. Pretty cool, my dad raved about it, lol. We usually visit it on our way out so we don't miss the other stuff. Last year, we got to make our own butter and keep it! It was pretty cool, and the staff is really nice and attentive and knowledgeable. I think they've brought in a few new buildings and are always reconstructing.From what I've heard, the Prince House (3rd floor window), Wainwright Hotel (upstairs), and Opera House are all haunted. Never quite seen it, but maybe this year.Overall, I'd say the ride bracelets are totally worth it and the prices are actually quite decent for the entire park. It's huge, trying to fit everything into one day is quite hard, but possible. My family and most others love this place! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I have lived in Alberta my whole life and have never been here. I was always told how it's not as impressive as Fort Edmonton but was still a great visit. Well I think I had more fun here then I ever have at the fort! I didn't think we could possibly spend all day here on a Saturday but the time sure flies. Admission is very reasonable considering once you enter the park all the attractions are free. We took the train which of course is always a fun novelty. The paddleboat was a wonderful and refreshing break and lasted a lot longer than I would have thought and does a full tour around the lake. The staff are very dedicated to character and are very knowledgeable. I loved all the stories and never felt like I was getting a boring, scripted performance. The food on site is fresh and home made everyday. I haven't had a sandwich that good in ages! They are very strict on no food or drink when entering anywhere, even water. Which I can understand to a point but makes it very difficult when trying to stay hydrated on a hot day. The space is beautiful and well cared for. It was the perfect way to spend a Saturday for any ages. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Revisit Heritage Park. Do it. Go.It had been years since I had stepped through the gates of Heritage Park. After telling people about all the fun I had here the other day, I got a similar response from pretty much everyone I talked to: "Heritage Park. .. I haven't been there in years! I don't really know why, I just haven't considered it." It's like it's a place we tell people about, but never visit ourselves.Sure, It's a great place to bring the kids, but this actually might be why all the childless adults I talk to forget that it's a fun place for them as well. Looking back, it would be easy for me to say that I actually appreciate it more as an adult! There's an antique midway, authentic steam train, working printing press, blacksmith shop and...BORING! Well, when I was a kid I kind of remember thinking so, but now that I'm growed up all big, this stuff is AWESOME! I had a great time all the old technology of everything from midway rides to drilling rigs and realizing how so many things have advanced but how so many of the basic designs are still the same. How cool is that?! Not very cool, I know - but if you're not very cool in the super cool way that I'm not very cool, you'll love it. Remember when your parents would read those boring plaques to you when all you wanted to do is climb on what ever it is they were trying to educate you about? Well I still want to climb all over everything, but now I find the plaques interesting as well.As a kid I drastically over looked the beauty of this place just as a park - it's wonderful! There are benches with incredible views over looking Glenmore Reservoir and if you need a little for a little more fun than a bench, you take take a ride on the steam engine, paddle boat, ferris wheel, or swing ride to get a good view. The rides aren't as EXTREEEME as you remember as a kid, but they have a certain charm and character that's easy to love. You already know it's a cool thing to have in Calgary so check it out again. Do it. Go. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I'm not sure about Canadians, but for Americans, Heritage Park is like a cross between Colonial Williamsburg and Disney's Magic Kingdom. A family friendly attraction, it focuses on presenting realistic historical vignettes from the history of Calgary and Alberta, while still having enough things of interest to the younger set, like wagon rides, animals, and a small area with a carousel and other rides for little ones.Like the Magic Kingdom, one approaches Heritage Park with a long walk from the parking lot (not so long that it involves public transportation, however). As you approach the admissions booth, there a few things you can see for free: small shops, a restaurant, and Gasoline Alley, a small museum devoted to automobile history.After paying the $25 entrance fee, most people go straight to the Midnapore train station (Just as an aside, Midnapore sounds to me like the name of a town in India, not Canada. I suppose it could be a Commonwealth coincidence.)  The tracks loop around the park and the central lake, and most of the time the train stops at each of the three stations along the way.I visited the park with a friend, and my interests were mostly historical. Also, we were only going to be spending a couple of hours there, so rather than see the whole park, we devoted most of our time to the station that led to the First Nations tepee and the representation of the earliest European colonists. We spent about an hour visiting the old schoolhouse, meeting room, trader's shops and saloon, all from roughly the 18th and 19th century. Ordinarily we would have come back to the train station and taken the next train to the next stop, but it so happened that the conductor was on a lunch break, so rather than wait for the train, we walked through a slightly more modern area, with farm animals and people in historical costumes representing townspeople from perhaps a hundred years ago. When I first looked at the map we were given at the gate, I was concerned that the distances would be too far to walk, but it turned out that the map made the park look rather larger than it was, and we were able to walk back the whole distance that the train had brought us in about 20 minutes.I enjoyed seeing what the Calgary area might have looked like a couple hundred years ago. I had a nice chat with the young lady in historical costume in the old schoolhouse, turns out she's studying to be a teacher and we talked a bit about how education has changed. We also saw a group of young girls in historical costumes going into one building. We were curious about whether they had any connection to the park employees, or maybe they were on a field trip during summer vacation. If I'm ever in the Calgary area again, I'd like to go back and see more of the park. I'm glad Calgary is making this effort to preserve and represent its history. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Awesome for family fun or with a Group or a loved one!!!!!!!  I remember going here when I was like 8 super fascinating to learn about what it was like back in the old days! ! yee haw.  Id come back again for sure!! Very clean and friendly staff! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Fantastic place to spend holidays with family and friends for the Once Upon a Christmas theme that runs during December but is on weekends only. Make sure you go by any Safeway to get 50% off coupons for admissions to the park. Kids under 2 are free! Friendly staff and lots to see of how Calgary citizens lived back when it was a small town. Five star if the Christmas theme was daily not weekend only. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Ok let's get the bad stuff out the way first. This place is EXPENSIVE, be sure to pick up a 50% off coupon. It's like $20 each.  The place operates on add-ons. Once you've parted with your entire paycheck just to get in, you then have to pay extra for the train/rides/snooker/boat/etcA lot of the buildings are turned into shops which sell very little period themed stuff and mostly candy from 2013. The good stuff:It's easy to get to as the bus from heritage station stops right outside.This place is BIG, so there's plenty to see. There's free tours which are good. People are dressed in period clothes and as well as being very friendly and saying hello to everyone they see, they are actually able to answer questions too!All in all I really enjoyed my day, but the need to charge extra for things after such a high entrance fee spoilt it slightly. Also some areas were closed due to two different weddings that were taking place which wasn't really fair on the paying public. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

heritagepark.caIf you live in or around the city of Calgary, I'd recommend getting a family annual pass. In just two visits the pass will already be paid for. I've been coming to this park for decades now, and I enjoy it very much. The park has gone through extensive renovations as well. This is most evident at the front of the park, where the two restaurants are located (Railway Cafe, Selkirk grill). in between the two are some nice little stores.When arriving at the park, drive through and around until you get to the front. There you will be able to drop off any guests or family members, then find yourself a parking spot. Parking during the week, is never an issue but the weekends can be quite busy. If you do find yourself going on the weekend, you can park at the far east end of the parking lot. (closest to 14th street) A trolley car can take you to the front admission gate. The trolley costs $1.00, or if you're an annual pass holder its free to ride. (Also a parking lot as you first drive up just past the lights off 14th and Heritage) This is mainly overflow parking, and is a bit of a walk. (Trolley does stop here though).Upon entry Gasoline Alley, will be on your right hand side. My recommendation would be to stop in on the way our of the park. If its been a long hot afternoon, its a good place to cool a bit and use the restrooms before heading home.After passing the Gasoline Alley, and garage you head up this long sidewalk which is dated starting in the present decade and as you get closer to the park you will find the   numbers slowly getting closer to the period of time in which the park is representing.If you have children or  are a kid at heart head straight to the rides. They're easy to spot. Just look west after the railway crossing, and you'll spot the Ferris Wheel. They have a few rides here including the Wheel, Caterpillar, Swings, The Whip, and a swing. They even have a mini ferris wheel for toddlers.In trying to keep this review a little more on the short side, I'm going to highlight more of the things most people miss while visiting the park. Try to walk the perimeter of the park, they have some neat little buildings and machines on display. (also some park benches to relax and look out onto the Glenmore Reservoir. Also when catching a train at one of the various train stations, read where the train sops next before catching it. Certain trains do a full circle around the park, and others will stop at every station. It can either be a nice full circle train ride, or a slow boring ride, if you stop at every station to let passengers off then to load more on.Also don't miss the Indian village, and as you go past the Hudson's Bay company down the dirt road are more buildings to look in and a store as well. Then walk around the more inner parts of the park, there you will find the Wainwright Hotel, candy store, pool hall, bakery etc.  The bakery is a very busy place, most times is lined up on weekends. have a butter tart, gingerbread man, or a sausage roll.Also if you do a little research before going to the park, you'll find out about certain houses being haunted. The Prince house, Opera house and Sam Livingston to name a few.Hope this helps.Also, you may be the type to bring a lunch to the park. They're are plenty of places to picnic at Heritage as well. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

We'd been hearing rave reviews about the brunch at  Wainwright Hotel at Heritage Park so we finally decided to give it a try this weekend. Friends had told us that wait times could go up to an hour so reservations are recommended. My husband called at 10 am and booked a table for 5 for 11 am. We arrived on time and let the hostess know we were there. After waiting for 10 minutes, we reminded her again that we were waiting for our table. She was very apologetic and told us they were just cleaning up our table. At about 11:20 (20 minutes of waiting), the manager came up to us and profusely apologized about the wait and told us he'd give us a $25 gift card. We were then shown to our table and the manager actually turned up with a $50 gift card! We were pleasantly surprised and very impressed with the service. A lot of restaurants have made us wait 15-20 minutes even with a reservation but the fact that the manager apologized and even made it up with the gift card really made the service stand out.The buffet had a large variety of items - freshly baked goods, scrambled eggs, french toast, waffles, pancakes, breakfast potatoes, sausages, bacon, freshly churned butter, jam, a cheese platter, an omelette station and a decadent fruit and dessert station! Of special mention are the breakfast potatoes, waffles and to-order omelette station. To be honest, I was so stuffed by the time I'd finished breakfast I didn't get a chance to try any of the dessert! My husband however tried the mini tiramisu cup and the chocolate swiss roll and said both items were amazing and the swiss roll was out of this world!To the staff at the Wainwright hotel, thank you for the impeccable service and delicious food! We'll definitely be coming back and highly recommend the brunch! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I've yet to visit the museum part of Heritage Park, but I've been here a few times for an afternoon of ladyposin', engagement shoots, wedding party shoots and as of late: skipping rocks at the nearby Glenmore Reservoir (I got one to skip three times! Ask Sarah Louise, she was there!). Lots of people come here, especially tourists, but it's always peaceful. You also get a great view of it from the hospital rooms in Rockyview. It's never boring, because there's always something new to explore or watch. In our case on Sunday, there were Canada Geese swimming underneath a beam of sun rays, like a spotlight from God. And a man farcically trying to navigate the waters, in a kayak that looked way too small for him.Streetcar?! I'll have to come back with someone soon! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

If you come to Calgary, this is a must do!Don't be cheap, pay the man and go.. It's a very nice place with a lot to offer the whole family. I especially enjoyed the paddle wheeler ride and the salt water taffy. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Gingerbread man - if you want a great GBM - Heritage Park bakery is THE place to go. Its worth the drive down south to grab a bag full of the perfectly roasted baked goods - good flavour and always fresh. This past Monday the park was busy but a quick trip was well worth the effort.You needn't go into the park to retrieve them as there is a takeout area in the main entrance building. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Like any other long time Calgarian, I haven't spent a lot of time being a really big tourist in my own city. Shame on me for that. It's this practice in particular that keeps me from enjoying places like Heritage Park. And it takes a couple of out-of-towners to get me there. Yet, I always learn so much about my city whenever the out-of-towners are in town!Today, my stepdad and my mom were in from up yonder in the province and decided a visit to Heritage Park was in order. Besides a pretty fantastic bloggers event that the Calgary Herald hosted at Heritage Park sometime last year, I hadn't really spent any time here since the last time I was a real tourist in C-town.We parked towards the back of the parking lot and took the streetcar on over to the entrance. Fun way to start to trip! Tip: It's $1 per person to ride the streetcar and they take cash only. The conductor passed on another little tip to my stepdad, if there's an uber long line up at the admission gate, try heading into Gasoline Alley. It's the same as the gate admission, just often with a shorter line... and then you start in the museum (FYI - it's in Gasoline Alley that there's a really great private room for functions).I only had a couple of hours on my hands to explore everything with them, but we took in a lot! I didn't realize Heritage Park was so big! If you didn't grab the streetcar from the parking lot, you could also take the steam engine around the park. $3 for one ride or an unlimited bracelet for $10. We didn't do that part, but we did get a ride on the paddle boat around the Glenmore Reservoir. The ride lasts about 30 minutes and is also a $3 cost per person.Most impressive: All the people in costumes! And just how much they know about whatever house, family, etc. that they're supposed to be telling you about. Also, the really gigantic train engines. They were massive! And the sandstone house.... oh, and the Prince House. Beautiful!I only wish I would've had more time to peruse the grounds, but that's my own doing, it has nothing to do with the park. I also see a lot of the events posted here and there for Heritage Park and some of them sound like a lot of fun! I just haven't gone so far as to partake yet.  Time to look into a membership, because I'm pretty sure I'm going to need to go back. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

We planned our corporate BBQ and Family Day at Heritage Park for June 3, and thankfully, the weather cooperated.  I have to say, that from an event planners perspective, the staff at Heritage Park are fabulous!  Well organized, very attentive and responsive, knowledgeable about the equipment in the venue and right on time with serving food.  We booked the Celebration tent and had the Ranch buffet, which included BBQ chicken, baron of beef, potato salad, coleslaw and a variety of fresh baked rolls and buns.  They were able to provide a vegetarian option for our employees also, which was great.  Our tickets included park entrance and the meal, and we arranged for ride bracelets for those that wanted them.  We arranged independently for face painters and a juggling magician (more on them in a separate post) and the park called for shuttle buses to take them and all their gear right to the gate.  The feedback so far, is that everyone had a great time, enjoyed the food, and even more, enjoyed the beautiful, historic Heritage Park.Seriously, this is a great venue with great staff and great options for a variety of company functions.  Or just take friends and family and enjoy the park.  Either way, you can't lose. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Yup, this is Calgary's best year-round playground (when the rides are closed down, there's still Gasoline Alley Museum). Quaint and old-fashioned, you don't even have to pay admission to get into the park if you'd rather enjoy the Town Square at the front. There's all sorts of souvenir shoppes and even a couple of restaurants. Admission into the park may be almost $30/person (with ride bracelet) but that's very reasonable considering all the features of the park. It really IS for everyone!If you are reading this review, I highly reccommend reading the other ones too, because you won't find more neat things to do anywhere else ;)The Christmases they put on there are awesome, with horse-drawn carol singing and hot chocolate at the bakery. Isn't it cool how the staff dresses to match the era?I reccommend the S.S. Moyie Ferry that goes around the Glenmore Reservoir as well as the steam train, complete with a guided tour from an old-school conductor :)Oh and if you like rides, you'll love the Tilt-a-Whirl on the Antique Midway, it doesn't slow down just as you're getting into it, and with your ride bracelet on, you can go on everything 3 times if you wanted to! This place also does stunning weddings, I would know, ours was there. We got married in August of last year at the Wainright Hotel. Our reception was at the Canmore Opera House, which we've heard was haunted by a ghostly visitor named Sam. Also, the Prince House is said to have a nursing mum in a white gown who looks out the third floor window. What're waiting for? Go check it out! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

One word to start with .. Awesome place to visit.I happened to visit this place on heritage day. Didn't have a clue on what activities were planned in. Got to download a coupon from calgary attractions and got a little discount on the entry fee which was less than $20. First entered into gasoline museum which has all the old motor vehicles, pertol pumps, car engines etc. Just an incredible place where we can see the cars of different generations.Don't forget to grab a map before heading into the park. First glimpse was to wind mill in the park. And there was a rail track that runs through the park. A horse cart, old fashioned houses,musicians, ferry, some rides, food stalls .. everything were just so organised. They have the houses that depicts the history of canada, a very well maintained place. The best thing was, the people in here were also dressed up like the old generation and also there was a school, ofcourse with a teacher teaching too, a printing press, billiards room,bank w/o a bank manager :P , what not everything that could depict well about canada's history. I was really happy to visit this place and to know the canada's history.Also we had a chance to taste the snow cones and bought a newspaper for 25cents from the printing press. Walked through every house in there, and surprisingly we came across a music band of vetrans, the music was so delightful that I couldn't move away from listening their music. Also there was a restaurant inside and a small bakery, and icecream shop.Now that we were done with all sight seeing and decided to try the rides.Don't miss to try the train, ferry ride and a horse cart ride. We had a band for $10 using which we could go for all the rides out there. And there were some activities going on as well in the park like tug-of-war, games for children etc;I can say that the day spent at heritage was the day well spent.Yelp's 30 day challenge : 10/30 and my 50th review too !!! More...

Reviewed on Yelp

For the amount of time you spend in the parks, village, museum, etc., the price of admission is totally worth it.  If you really want to see everything in one day, you'd also better rest up and leave early.  3.5hrs wasn't enough time with my mother, who was a very captive audience and has an average fitness level for a mid 50's woman.  I won't lie, I was pooped when we were done.  The next visit will have to involve better pacing and more time.I've only been here once before and just as I remembered, the village is well done, but much larger than I thought as I hadn't used a map before and didn't see it all the first time.  I think they did well with the upgrades.  I'm also glad I went hungry, as I really enjoyed the goods from the bakery, bannock samples in the Aboriginal Encampment and particularly the Boylan's Birch Beer/Vintage Soda Pop, served in Drew's Saloon & Stopping House (and possibly in other places on site, but I wouldn't have noticed).  I think this is a great outing, especially if you have company visiting from out of town who appreciate a little history. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

A great place to spend an afternoon on a sunny day! I recently attended a wedding in the new area they built out front (gasoline alley I think). Absolutely awesome staff and a well run event - great food too.In terms of the park itself, it is a great place to spent a sunny day. With a mixture of historical buildings and tours - as well as some rides, snacks, and a ferry boat too. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

Heritage park is a true testament to Calgary's old west culture. And it has GHOSTS! Seriously, guys this place is awesome. I love that there are new things for me to love, and I've been visiting on a fairly regular basis for twenty years! And there are the old things too. I will love the candy store forever. When I have grandkids, even though I probably won't live in Calgary anymore, I will take them there and then buy them a bunch of candy (old and new!) and sneak in a bunch for myself. The paddleboat is awesome, but you have to time it right to catch it. I really think the best ways to see the park are by steam locomotive or by horse-drawn cart. The horse carriages are the best in the winter. There is a small town, as well as outer-lying businesses and a funpark made of antique rides. All of the buildings are as authentic as possible: many were removed from their original location and painstakingly restored on the park grounds. That's why they come with ghosts! I've been here many times in many capacities: with family during Once upon a Christmas, where I would delight in buying gifts for my parents from the "Kids Only" store (their money, of course). Then I visited as a University student, where we had a tour with one of the Communications managers and learned about the more intricate elements of the park. I attended a work party in the barn, which was a roaring good time (though I could have gone without the square dancing). Summer, winter, whenever: Heritage Park has a lot to offer in terms of fun and education on Alberta's heritage. I'm really proud that we have a park of this caliber in our city limits. More...

Reviewed on Yelp

I hadn't been to Heritage Park in about 15 years, and yesterday I decided it was time I take a trip down memory lane. Heritage Park is celebrating Christmas early right now with it's 'Once Upon A Christmas' event. It's a month-long celebration to get everyone into the spirit of Christmas. Here is a summary of what I absolutely LOVED about Heritage Park: - Brand Spankin' new, Heritage Park now has a FREE zone for all to enjoy. They have created a skating rink out front and anyone and everyone is welcome to come and skate around the rink while Christmas music plays. - Also brand spankin' new, Gasoline Alley Museum is now open for all to see. It's got loads of cool vintage cars and gas pumps and it's awesome. - The Mercantile plaza has got a slew of stores in which you can purchase Christmas ornaments, old-school collectibles, children's toys, clothing, jewellery, books, Christmas gifts and fudge!!! - There are a slew of houses and shops on the grounds that you can visit and at different hours, there will be performances. IE: We went into the Church and there was Christmas caroling! - Also brand spankin' new is Candy Cane Corral in which you can actually see real, live reindeer! Check out the pictures I uploaded to the Heritage Park profile. - The Alberta Bakery in Heritage Park makes the most delicious bread EVER! We bought sausage rolls and cheese buns. YUM. - The entire downtown strip at Heritage Park is fascinating. You go from one store to the next and check out how things used to be. There's even a candy store, an interactive train display, a kids only store and a dairy barn! As you can see, there is a TONNE of things to see and do at Heritage Park. I've only listed a mere few things and it's a great way to spend a few hours with the family. What's even more amazing about Heritage Park is that ALL of the above and then some can be experienced by purchasing a ticket that costs ONLY around $10. $10?!?!?!? That's less than it costs to see a movie!!! It's one of the cheapest ways, yet one of more fascinating ways to spend a few hours with the ones you love. More...

Reviewed on Yelp