Heritage Park Historical Village
Step back in time at Canada's largest living history museum, exploring Western Canada from the 1860s to 1950s.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Heritage Park Historical Village
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Canada's largest living history museum, exploring Western Canada from the 1860s to 1950s.
"It's like Disneyland, but better, because you can actually learn something about actual frontier life."
🎯 Bring Your Own Food!
Save money by packing your own snacks and meals. Picnics are welcome!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Are Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking on historical streets, so wear comfy shoes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Working Steam Train
Throughout the park
Ride a vintage steam train and travel back in time through Western Canada's history. A must-do experience!
Historical Streets & Shops
Various historical districts
Wander through authentic 1860s-1950s streets, explore old shops, and feel history come alive.
Paddlewheeler Cruise
Glenmore Reservoir
Enjoy a peaceful cruise on the Glenmore Reservoir aboard a charming paddlewheeler ship.
Antique Midway
Midway area
Experience old-fashioned carnival fun with vintage rides and games for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Save
Plan Your Time Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Bring Your Own Food!
Save money by packing your own snacks and meals. Picnics are welcome!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Are Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking on historical streets, so wear comfy shoes.
⏰ Allow Ample Time
Dedicate at least 2-3 hours to truly explore and enjoy the village.
🚂 Don't Miss the Train!
The working steam train offers a unique way to see the park.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Bring Your Own Food!
Save money by packing your own snacks and meals. Picnics are welcome!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Are Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking on historical streets, so wear comfy shoes.
⏰ Allow Ample Time
Dedicate at least 2-3 hours to truly explore and enjoy the village.
🚂 Don't Miss the Train!
The working steam train offers a unique way to see the park.
🎃 Seasonal Events
Check for special events like 'Unsettled Fright Night' in October.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Heritage Park's immersive historical experience, calling it a 'huge historical museum' and 'like Disneyland, but better' for its educational value. The ability to bring your own food is a significant plus for families, and the staff are frequently praised for their professionalism and kindness. While tickets are on the pricier side, most feel the experience is well worth the cost.
"Heritage Park in Calgary is a fantastic destination for a family outing.
The park stands out for its welcoming policy on food and drinks, allowing visitors to bring their own and enjoy a picnic-like atmosphere—a rare perk that saves a lot on expenses compared to other parks where you can easily spend over $100 just on meals.
Though tickets are on the pricier side at $36 for adults and $26 for kids, the experience is worth every penny.
The park is meticulously managed, from parking to rides and everything in between. It’s incredibly clean, with free water fountains and spotless washrooms, ensuring a comfortable visit.
Highly recommended for a day of fun and relaxation!"
Abdul Sami
"A few months back our family had a wonderfully relaxing day at Heritage Park! It was the perfect spot to slow down, take in some history, and just enjoy being together. My 9-year-old son loved exploring the old-fashioned buildings, riding the vintage train, and seeing how people lived in the past.
One of the highlights was the paddlewheel boat ride on the Glenmore Reservoir. It was such a peaceful experience, giving us beautiful views and a chance to just sit back and enjoy the moment. The staff throughout the park were friendly and knowledgeable, making history come to life in such a fun way.
We also spent some time at the antique midway, where my son had a blast with the old-school rides. And of course, no visit would be complete without a stop at the bakery for some delicious homemade treats!
Heritage Park is a great place for families looking for a mix of education and relaxation. It was a perfect day—no rushing, just enjoying the sights, sounds, and experiences of the past. We’ll definitely be coming back!"
Issa Juco
"A fun, festive, and educational experience for everyone. The Park has an assortment of activities, rides, food, civic museums, and heritage architecture emphasizing the cultural significance of early Prairie settlement/life.
It's like taking a step back in time, and it's worth every dollar. 11/10 do recommend."
Will Flint
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Heritage Park is located at 1900 Heritage Dr SW, Calgary, AB T2V 2X3. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options also exist, with bus routes serving the area.
Yes, Heritage Park offers parking for visitors. It's generally well-managed, though it can get busy during peak times.
Yes, several Calgary Transit bus routes stop near Heritage Park, making it accessible via public transport. Check the Calgary Transit website for specific route information.
The park is generally accessible, with paved pathways in many areas. However, some historical buildings may have limited accessibility. Strollers are common and recommended for younger children.
Operating hours vary by season. The Historical Village is typically open daily during the summer and on weekends in the fall until mid-October. Always check the official Heritage Park website for the most up-to-date hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission is around $34.95+GST for adults and $22.95+GST for youth. Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official Heritage Park website for current pricing and any potential discounts.
While not always advertised, sometimes there are special promotions or events that offer reduced or free admission. It's worth checking their website or social media for announcements.
Yes, a major perk is that you can bring your own food and drinks, making it a great option for budget-conscious families.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak season or for special events, to ensure entry and potentially save time.
General admission typically includes access to the Historical Village, exhibits, and many of the attractions like the steam train and antique midway. Some special events or activities may have an additional cost.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the working steam train, exploring the historical streets and shops, the paddlewheeler cruise on Glenmore Reservoir, and the antique midway for some old-fashioned fun.
Absolutely! Kids love the midway rides, the steam train, the candy store, and the farm animals. It's a very family-friendly destination.
To fully experience the park, it's recommended to allocate at least 2 to 3 hours. Some visitors spend an entire day exploring everything.
Yes, the park features historical interpreters who bring the past to life by portraying characters from different eras.
The exhibits span Western Canadian history from the 1860s to the 1950s, showcasing different eras and aspects of life.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several dining options within the park, including cafes and bakeries. However, bringing your own food is a popular and cost-effective choice.
You can find treats at the bakery, enjoy a meal at the Railway Cafe, or explore other food vendors. The variety caters to different tastes.
Dining within the park can add up, which is why many visitors opt to bring their own food. This significantly reduces overall costs.
While specific options can vary, most food establishments offer a range of choices. It's advisable to check with individual vendors for current menus.
The bakery is a popular spot for homemade treats, and ice cream cones are also a hit, especially on a warm day.
📸 📸 Photography
The historical streets, vintage train, and the paddlewheeler offer fantastic photo opportunities. The park's architecture and natural setting provide many picturesque scenes.
Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout the park for personal use. Be mindful of any specific restrictions in certain exhibits or during live performances.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a golden glow.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks and historical sites. It's best to check Heritage Park's specific drone policy before flying.
Capture the charm of the old-fashioned shops, the steam train in action, or the scenic views from the paddlewheeler for unique shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the rides, kids will love exploring the historical buildings, visiting the farm animals, and interacting with the costumed interpreters who make history come alive. The paddlewheeler cruise offers a relaxing break with beautiful views. Plan for at least half a day to let the little ones explore at their own pace.
💰 Budget Travelers
While admission has a cost, the sheer amount of activities and the immersive historical experience make it worthwhile. The steam train and exploring the various historical districts are included in the general admission, offering plenty of entertainment without extra fees.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For the best light, aim for early mornings or late afternoons when the sun is softer. The fall season also offers beautiful colors for your shots. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and any specific photography guidelines within certain exhibits.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: Exploring Heritage Park's Eras
Visitors can wander through authentic streets, interact with historical interpreters, and explore a variety of buildings, including homes, businesses, and public institutions. Each area is designed to immerse you in the daily life, challenges, and triumphs of the people who shaped Western Canada. The attention to detail in the architecture, artifacts, and costumed staff truly makes history come alive.
Key eras include the Fur Trade era, the early settlement period, and the early 20th century. The park also features Gasoline Alley, showcasing vintage automobiles, and the Plaza, offering a more modern historical perspective. This chronological approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of the region's development.
Getting Around and Experiencing the Park
Another delightful way to experience the park is via the paddlewheeler cruise on the Glenmore Reservoir. This offers a tranquil escape and beautiful vistas of the surrounding landscape. The antique midway provides a dose of old-fashioned fun with classic rides and games, perfect for families.
Beyond these major attractions, the park is filled with smaller details. You can explore various shops selling historical goods, visit a working farm, and even enjoy Vaudevillian performances that add to the immersive atmosphere.
Family Fun and Budget-Friendly Tips
A significant advantage for families is the park's generous policy on bringing outside food and drinks. This is a major cost-saver, allowing families to enjoy picnics and avoid expensive park concessions. Free water fountains are also available throughout the park, helping to keep everyone hydrated and on budget.
With its interactive exhibits, historical characters, and engaging activities, Heritage Park provides an enriching experience for all ages. It's a place where kids can learn about history in a fun, hands-on way while parents can relax and enjoy the charming atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit