What’s Open for Kids in Calgary, Canmore and Banff

Anyone with small children knows that the show must go on. Here is a list of places that are open for business and are looking forward to welcoming you and your brood with open arms.

Tykes under 48” tall can scramble over rope bridges, pretend to drive a tractor and swish down the twisty slide at Barnyard Kids, a small-scale indoor play space. Fuel up afterwards with fresh food from the many vendors at the market and browse through the stalls for high quality artisanal goods, including Montessori approved wooden toys from Andy's Toys.

You'll find hands-on activities to ignite the imaginations of kids of all ages, including interactive exhibits at the Creative Kids Museum. This spectacular science centre is accepting donations of hygiene items and non-perishable food for the Alberta Flood relief efforts, and is offering 50% off admission for all Calgary Zoo members during the zoo's closure.

Step into the past at this old fashioned village laced with historic homes, outdoor amusement rides and play structures perfect for petite pioneers to burn off their energy. As a bonus, meandering through Canada's largest living history museum exposes the tots to an unobtrusive history lesson on aboriginal culture and pioneering ways of life. Calgary Zoo members receive 50% off ticket prices until the zoo reopens.

Head here for an adrenaline fueled day, guaranteed to take your mind off things. Western Canada's largest outdoor amusement park is open full time until September 7, and boasts plenty of spills, chills and thrills for all ages. Calgary Zoo members receive 50% off ticket prices until the zoo reopens.

Drawing a blank when thinking of creative outlets for your mini-Monet? All three Calgary studios are open, and some are offering additional classes to support families in need. Sample a workshop or develop those fine motor skills further through summer camps (yes, there's still space), at this top-notch art studio dedicated to introducing age appropriate art history and techniques.

Kick cabin fever to the curb, and make a play for these indoor activity facilities: Tommy K Play Stir Crazy Family Fun Centre Kids Play All Day Coffee & S'creamMany offer separate toddler areas and sweet treats for well behaved rascals.

Yes, Banff is open for (and needs our) business! Take in cultural performances until the end of August during the Summer Arts Festival. Many campgrounds remain open and we like the new oTENTik glamping cabins for urbanites who like the idea of getting back to nature, without having to rough it.

The town's brand spanking new indoor playground, Elevation Place sports a water slide and lazy river in it's pool area, but the big deal is its climbing surfaces. They don't just have a climbing wall, they've got a rock climbing gym brimming with bouldering space for young children. You can while away half a day on quaint Main Street, strolling down the boardwalk path along Policeman's Creek and stopping into the Old School Bus for ice cream, a visit to the Olde Tyme Candy Shoppe and HiJinx, a delightful independent toy shop.

If ever there was a year to introduce the concept of true grit to our little wranglers, this would be it. Despite being several feet under water, Stampede Park has been drained, sanitized and check by inspectors to ensure the grounds are in mint condition. No changes have been made to kiddie favourites including the parade, midway and SuperDogs performances. What are you waitin' for pardner?

Got a pro on your hands? Several Calgary courses are offering the opportunity to hit the links with your kids from July 8 to 14. Designed to encourage families to take up the game together, kids sixteen and under golf free when accompanied by a paying adult. Check their Facebook page to see which courses near you are participating.