Calaway Park, located just 10 kilometers west of Calgary, Alberta, is Western Canada's largest outdoor family amusement park. Known for its variety of thrilling rides, live entertainment, and picturesque surroundings, the park has been a go-to destination for families, tourists, and thrill-seekers since it opened in 1982. Calaway Park covers 160 acres and offers a broad range of experiences, from adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to family-friendly attractions and delicious food options. Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, Calaway Park has something for everyone.
Location and Accessibility
Calaway Park is conveniently located along the Trans-Canada Highway, offering easy access for visitors traveling from Calgary or other nearby locations. The address is 245033 Range Road 33, Calgary, AB, T3Z 2E9. If you’re coming from Calgary, it’s only a short 20-minute drive, making it a perfect day trip. The park is open seasonally, typically from May to October, so be sure to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on hours of operation.
Parking is available on-site for a fee, and the park is designed to be accessible to all guests, with accessible facilities and ride options for visitors with disabilities. Stroller and wheelchair rentals are also available at the entrance, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their day at the park.
Rides and Attractions
Calaway Park features over 30 rides that cater to a wide range of thrill levels, from gentle family-friendly attractions to intense, heart-pounding rides.
Thrill Rides
The Vortex: This steel roller coaster is one of the park's most popular attractions. It features high-speed loops, tight turns, and steep drops, making it perfect for adrenaline junkies.
Chaos: A spinning ride that rotates riders at various angles, creating a feeling of weightlessness. The unpredictable movements make this a favorite for thrill-seekers.
Timber Falls: This log ride combines the tranquility of a river float with the excitement of two big drops, including a final plunge that’s sure to leave riders soaked.
Storm: This ride takes you on a high-speed, spinning adventure, twisting and turning as you rotate through the air.
Family Rides
The Dream Machine: This large Ferris wheel offers breathtaking views of the park and the surrounding landscape, making it a relaxing yet enjoyable ride for all ages.
Bumble Blast: A fun spinning coaster that’s great for younger children, Bumble Blast offers excitement without the intensity of the bigger coasters.
Bumper Boats: Located in the park's lake area, this interactive water ride allows guests to bump and splash their way to fun.
SuperJet: A family-friendly roller coaster that provides thrills but is designed for younger riders who might not yet be ready for bigger rides like The Vortex.
Kiddie Rides
For the younger crowd, Calaway Park offers several rides that cater specifically to kids, ensuring they have just as much fun as the grown-ups.
U Drive: A gentle car ride where little ones can take control of their own vehicle as they travel along a guided track.
Choo Choo Train: This charming train ride is perfect for young children, offering a relaxing journey around a miniature track.
Airplanes: Kids can soar through the sky on this airplane-themed ride, giving them the sensation of flying.
Live Entertainment
Calaway Park is not just about the rides—visitors can enjoy a variety of live shows and street performances that add to the fun atmosphere. The park’s entertainment lineup changes throughout the season, offering something new with each visit. Expect to see:
Stage Shows: These can range from musical performances and dance numbers to magic shows and character performances that are perfect for families.
Street Performers: Keep an eye out for magicians, clowns, and balloon artists as they roam the park, interacting with guests.
Themed Events: Throughout the season, the park hosts special events, such as Halloween-themed weekends in the fall, complete with costume contests, haunted houses, and spooky entertainment.
Food and Dining Options
Calaway Park offers a wide selection of food options to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a full meal, the park’s food vendors have you covered. Some of the popular options include:
Pizza & Burgers: Several kiosks and restaurants serve classic theme park fare like burgers, hot dogs, and pizza.
Ice Cream & Treats: Cool off with a scoop of ice cream, or indulge in treats like funnel cakes, cotton candy, and slushies.
Healthy & Vegetarian Options: For those seeking healthier choices, the park offers salads, fruit cups, and vegetarian-friendly meals at select locations.
Guests are also welcome to bring their own food and enjoy a picnic in the designated picnic area, which is equipped with plenty of tables and shady spots.
Ticket Information and Passes
Calaway Park offers several ticket options to suit different needs, including:
Single Day Admission: This ticket grants access to all of the park’s rides, attractions, and live entertainment for a single day.
Season Passes: A great option for frequent visitors, season passes offer unlimited access throughout the park's operational season.
Group Discounts: If you’re visiting with a large group, the park offers discounted rates for groups of 15 or more.
Online Discounts: Be sure to check the park’s website for special online-only discounts and promotions.
Season pass holders also receive exclusive benefits, such as discounts on food and merchandise, as well as early access to new attractions.
Special Amenities and Services
To ensure that your visit is as enjoyable and convenient as possible, Calaway Park offers several amenities and services:
Gift Shops: Browse a variety of souvenirs, from plush toys to branded apparel, at the park’s gift shops.
Locker Rentals: Secure your belongings while you enjoy the rides by renting a locker for the day.
First Aid: A staffed first aid station is available in case of minor injuries or emergencies.
Stroller and Wheelchair Rentals: Available near the park entrance, these rentals make it easy for everyone to get around the park.
Safety and Guidelines
Calaway Park takes safety very seriously, and they have several measures in place to ensure the well-being of all guests:
Ride Safety: Each ride has specific height and weight restrictions, and ride operators are trained to enforce these guidelines for guest safety.
Cleanliness: The park is committed to maintaining a clean environment, with hand sanitizing stations placed throughout and frequent cleaning of common areas.
Lost & Found: If you misplace an item during your visit, the Lost & Found office is located near the main entrance.
Nearby Accommodations
If you’re planning to make a weekend of your visit to Calaway Park, there are several nearby hotels and campgrounds that cater to families:
Calaway RV Park & Campground: Located adjacent to the amusement park, this campground offers full-service RV sites, tent camping, and even cabin rentals. Staying here allows you to easily walk to the park.
Hotels in Calgary: A wide variety of hotels are available in Calgary, ranging from budget options to more luxurious accommodations. Many of these hotels offer family-friendly amenities and are just a short drive from Calaway Park.
Tips for a Great Visit
Arrive Early: Beat the crowds by arriving when the park opens. This gives you a head start on the most popular rides.
Plan Ahead: Study the park map and prioritize the attractions you want to experience, especially if you’re visiting for just one day.
Stay Hydrated: Bring a refillable water bottle, as there are several water fountains throughout the park.
Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as you’ll be walking and standing in line for much of the day.
Final Thoughts
Calaway Park is a fantastic destination for families, thrill-seekers, and anyone looking for a fun day out in the sun. With its wide range of rides, live entertainment, and family-friendly atmosphere, it’s easy to see why the park has remained a favorite in Alberta for over 30 years. Whether you're a local or just visiting, a trip to Calaway Park is sure to provide lasting memories for visitors of all ages.
For more details, ticket prices, or to plan your visit, check out the official website at www.calawaypark.com.
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