Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in Calgary, Alberta!

TELUS Spark

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Day at TELUS Spark, Calgary

Embark on a day filled with scientific discovery and innovation at TELUS Spark, Calgary"s premier science museum, perfectly tailored for visitors on wheelchear or mobile scooter. Located at 220 St. George"s Drive NE, the venue is accessible by car with ample disabled parking spaces, or by public transit using the route 24 bus which stops conveniently at the entrance.

Morning: Interactive Exhibits and Dome Theatre

Start your visit as soon as doors open at 9 AM to enjoy the array of wheelchair-accessible interactive exhibits. Explore the Energy and Innovation galleries where you can engage with hands-on activities designed to spark curiosity and inspire. Don’t miss the Being Human exhibit, which offers fascinating insights into human biology and allows you to interact through accessible touchscreens and audio descriptions.

Lunch: Social Eatery by Roger Mooking

Around noon, head to the Social Eatery, where celebrated chef Roger Mooking offers a menu of delicious, nutritious options. The restaurant is fully accessible, with table heights suitable for wheelchairs and clear pathways to ensure easy navigation.

Afternoon: Live Science Demonstrations and Creative Kids Museum

Post-lunch, catch a captivating live science demonstration at the open stage, featuring experiments that explain scientific phenomena in an accessible and engaging way. Later, if you’re visiting with family, the Creative Kids Museum is a must-see, offering accessible play areas that encourage younger visitors to learn through play.

Twilight: Stroll in the Brainasium Outdoor Park

Conclude your day with a relaxing visit to the Brainasium, a large outdoor park with wheelchair-friendly paths. Enjoy the serene environment and interactive installations like the giant sound-producing sculptures, which are accessible and can be enjoyed from your wheelchair or scooter.

Plan Your Visit

- Hours: Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.

- Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible, including washrooms and elevators.

- Tickets: Purchase online in advance for a smoother entry.

Experience a world of science without limits at TELUS Spark, where accessibility is as important as education and fun!

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Calaway Park

Why Visit?

Welcome to Calaway Park, Calgary"s vibrant outdoor family amusement park, where accessibility is prioritized to ensure everyone has a fantastic time! Nestled just 10 kilometers west of the city, this exciting destination promises a day filled with fun and adventure, fully accessible for wheelchair and mobile scooter users.

Getting There

Calaway Park is conveniently located off the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1), making it easily accessible by car. The park offers ample handicapped parking close to the main entrance, ensuring easy access for all visitors. If you’re using public transport, Calgary Transit provides routes that stop near the park entrance.

Navigating Calaway Park

Once inside, you"ll find that Calaway Park offers wide, well-paved pathways ideal for wheelchairs and scooters. The park layout is mostly flat with some gently sloping areas, making navigation smooth and comfortable.

Rides and Attractions

Many of the rides, including the crowd-favorite "Cinemagic 3D," are designed to be accessible. The staff are trained and ready to assist with boarding and exiting the rides. Before planning your ride adventures, stop by Guest Services to pick up an Accessibility Guide, outlining the ride entry procedures and accessibility options.

Dining and Relaxation

When it’s time to refuel, roll into one of the many accessible dining areas like the Calaway Café, which features an accessible counter. Relax in shaded seating areas or enjoy live shows at the Calaway Live Stage, where space is reserved for wheelchair users ensuring a great view and comfort.

Interesting Facts

Did you know that Calaway Park is Western Canada’s largest outdoor family amusement park? It has been delighting visitors of all ages and abilities since 1982, providing inclusive fun that’s just as thrilling today.

Wrap up your Day

Round off your visit with a peaceful roll through the beautifully landscaped gardens, specially designed to be enjoyed from a seated position, providing a serene end to an exciting day.

At Calaway Park, every path leads to an adventure accessible for everyone, making it a perfect destination for visitors on wheels!

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Heritage Park

Why Visit?

Discover Heritage Park: A Wheelchair-Friendly Adventure

Morning Arrival: Start your day at Heritage Park, easily accessible by car with ample accessible parking spots or via public transport with low-floor buses that ensure a smooth ride right to the park"s entrance. Upon arrival, head to the Visitor Center where you can rent a wheelchair or mobile scooter if you haven"t brought your own.

Historic Village Tour: Begin at the Historical Village, which opens its charming doors at 10 am. Wheelchair-accessible pathways guide you through the quaint streets. Don"t miss the fully operational steam train! The train features an accessible car that allows you to enjoy a scenic loop around the park. The staff are always ready to assist with boarding and alighting.

Lunch at the Wainwright Hotel: By noon, roll into the Wainwright Hotel. This 1920s-style establishment offers a wheelchair-friendly dining area. Enjoy traditional dishes that bring the past back to life, while soaking in the ambiance of a bygone era.

Stroll by the Reservoir: Post-lunch, navigate your way to the serene reservoir. The paved paths around this area are perfect for wheelchairs and scooters, offering picturesque views and plenty of shaded benches for restful breaks.

Afternoon at Heritage Town Square: Conclude your visit at the Heritage Town Square, located outside the admission gates, making it accessible to all visitors, free of charge. Explore the quaint shops and check out the art displays, all accessible via smooth, flat surfaces ideal for wheelchairs and scooters.

Departure: As your day winds down, the park’s exit pathways are clearly marked and slope gently toward the parking areas and bus stops, ensuring a safe and convenient departure by 5 pm.

Interesting Fact: Did you know Heritage Park opened its gates in 1964 and has since been dedicated to preserving the Western Canadian heritage, with many of its buildings being historical originals or replicas constructed with accessibility in mind?

Heritage Park promises an enriching and accessible day out, ensuring all visitors, regardless of mobility, can immerse themselves in Canada"s vibrant past.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Calgary Tower

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Day at Calgary Tower and Surroundings

Start your day at the iconic Calgary Tower, a must-visit landmark offering panoramic views of the city skyline and the Rocky Mountains. Arrive early to beat the crowds, taking advantage of accessible parking spots available near the entrance on 9th Avenue. The Tower is fully equipped for wheelchair and mobile scooter access, with elevators that whisk you up to the observation deck.

Once at the top, leisurely explore the observation area. The deck is spacious and easy to navigate, ensuring unobstructed city views. Don’t miss the thrill of standing on the glass floor, which is also wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to experience the dizzying sight of the streets directly beneath.

After descending from the Tower, head to nearby Stephen Avenue, just a short roll away. This pedestrian street is lined with historic buildings, shops, and eateries, all accessible via smooth pathways. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the accessible restaurants – many offer ramps and ADA-compliant restrooms.

Post-lunch, consider visiting the Glenbow Museum, about a five-minute journey from Stephen Avenue. The museum offers exhibits on Western Canadian culture, and it"s completely accessible, providing ramps, elevators, and wheelchair-friendly restrooms. Check out their website beforehand to learn about any special exhibitions.

Finish your day with a stroll along the scenic RiverWalk in East Village. Fully paved and flat, it’s perfect for wheelchair users and offers beautiful views of the Bow River. If you visit during summer, you might catch sight of various public art installations and performances.

Each site on this itinerary highlights Calgary’s commitment to accessibility, ensuring a fulfilling and barrier-free experience for all visitors. Enjoy your adventure in one of Canada’s most welcoming cities!

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Calgary Zoo

Why Visit?

Embark on an accessible and fascinating journey through the wonders of the natural world at Calgary Zoo, perfectly tailored for visitors using wheelchairs or mobility scooters. As one of Canada’s top tourist attractions, the zoo ensures a seamless experience for everyone, with well-paved pathways, ample ramps, and accessible facilities.

### Getting There

Calgary Zoo is located at 210 St. George"s Drive NE, Calgary, easily accessible via Memorial Drive. If you’re using public transport, the Calgary C-Train offers an accessible route; disembark at the Zoo Station. Those driving will find ample accessible parking spaces available near the North entrance.

### Start Your Tour at the Penguin Plunge

Begin your adventure at the Penguin Plunge as soon as you enter. This indoor exhibit is a hit, featuring playful Humboldt and adorable King Penguins. The viewing areas are thoughtfully designed to provide excellent sightlines for those at a seated height.

### Explore the Canadian Wilds

Next, navigate to the Canadian Wilds. Here, pathways are broad and flat, suitable for wheels. Along the trail, encounter majestic animals like bison, grizzly bears, and wolves, reminiscent of Canada’s rugged wilderness.

### Lunch Break at Kitamba Café

Refuel at the Kitamba Café, which is accessible and offers a variety of meal options. The large windows provide a scenic view of the zoo grounds—an ideal backdrop for a relaxing lunch.

### Rainforest Adventure

Post-lunch, head to the Dorothy Harvie Gardens, leading you into the ENMAX Conservatory where lush tropical plants and butterflies await. The conservatory is fully accessible, offering a close encounter with nature’s vibrant colors and delicate creatures.

### End with Prehistoric Park

Conclude your tour with a roll through the Prehistoric Park, featuring dinosaur models amidst ancient plants. The paths are smooth, ensuring a comfortable ride through this throwback in time.

Remember, the zoo provides wheelchair rentals at the North Entrance, ensuring every visitor can fully enjoy their experience.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.