Best Nature and Parks (RV, National, Dog, etc) in Alberta

"Prince’s Island is a park that divides the Bow River and finds itself between the Peace Bridge on the west and Centre St Bridge on the east. The island is so immense that it is home to many seasonal events and festivals (such as Folk Fest), the River Cafe, the Enmax stage, playgrounds, picnic areas and bike/walk trails. Facing south, you can perfectly capture the office and residence towers in Eau Claire and perhaps catch the geese and ducks in view by the river."

"Calgary’s own version of Central Park, the locals refer to Prince’s Island Park as an urban oasis. Located in Downtown Calgary, you need to cross the bridge to gain access to this park. If you’re traveling with children, get them here for an evening of running around, tossing around Frisbees or just lounging about in the greenery."

"A favourite urban escape for Calgarians, Prince’s Island Park sprawls across 20 hectares on a northward bend in the Bow River. It’s a fantastic place for travellers to enjoy some of the city’s quieter moments. There’s plenty to do in Prince’s Island Park."

"This historical site chronicles Calgary's history between 1875 and the 1940s, allowing visitors to step back in time and explore the early days of the city through interactive exhibits, costumed interpreters,…"

"Just northwest of the city of Calgary is a beautiful expanse of grassland. Nose Hill Park covers 11 kilometers of ground, with several hiking trails for the outdoor adventurer in us all. While the park is relatively flat (Calgary is technically in the Canadian prairies even though it is a more westerly city), there is still a massive abundance of wildlife and flora to observe."

"This northwest Calgary park offers up both mountain and city views and has tons of paved pathways and grassy spaces to enjoy. Nose Hill Park also has designated off-leash areas, hiking trails, and native grasslands."

"The largest urban park in Canada, Fish Creek Provincial Park is situated in the southern area of the city, stretching from east to west over a distance of 19km. Fish Creek itself is an offshoot of the city’s Bow River and is a major feature of the park, alongside the man-made Sikome Lake, which is popular for swimming during the summer months. The eastern section of the park is also home to Artisan Gardens, as well as a visitor centre and the Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant, which is a great fine-dining option."

"Fish Creek Provincial Park is the second largest urban park in Canada, with more than 100 kilometres of hiking and biking trails. Birding enthusiasts can observe more than 200 bird species along with Great Blue Herons, ducks, geese, songbirds, and bald eagles that nest along the Bow River valley. The Provincial Park is so large it includes a boat launch, the McKenzie Meadows Golf Course, The Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant, and the Sikome Aquatic Facility for a family friendly day at the beach."

"Many people visit Fish Creek Park because of its natural forested condition. It houses several recreational activities throughout the year. Regardless of your age or physical ability, this park has something for you."

"Carburn Park is a vast natural area park along the Bow River with three man-made wetlands, a regional trail, and plenty of birds, waterfowl, and wildflowers to see. Senator Patrick Burns’ expansive prairie empire included Carburn Park, which was once the right-of-way for a train line that was to run between Calgary and Montana. Carburn Park was founded in the 1970s, and its name derives from “Carburn Aggregates,” the firm that purchased most of the land and built the ponds."

"It also has two man-made ponds, beautiful trees and really nice pathways all along the river. It is quaint and perfect for a short and sweet family photo session."

"Sue Higgins Park is home to the largest fenced off-leash area in Calgary along with public artwork Deux Chiens Assis, two bronze dog statues by artist Henri Jacquemart, crafted in the 1800s. Wander through 62 hectares of green space along the riverbanks and keep your eyes peeled for diving ducks, Canada Geese, gulls, red-winged blackbirds, woodpeckers, and warblers. Be sure to listen for the Boreal Chorus Frog, which sounds like someone running their finger along the teeth of a nylon comb."

"One of Calgary's newer parks, this is home to some great ponds, and dog parks all located at the end of Southland Drive and Deerfoot Trail. Learn more about Sue Higgins Park"

"North and South Glenmore Parks border the Glenmore Reservoir, making you feel like you’re lakeside. Weaselhead Flats links the two parks and provides natural areas, making you forget you are still within city limits. These parks feature a little bit of everything, from paved pathways to hiking trails through the trees, a waterpark, a new bike pump track, and a sailing club."

"As one of Calgary's largest parks, Weaselhead Flats has lots to offer visitors including:. Weaselhead Flats is easily reached via the Elbow River pathways from the inner city that span around the Glenmore Reservoir. This park is known for its wide diversity of plant and wildlife, a main attraction for many park goers."

"You can really see how big the area is and what an amazing job the city has done at preserving it. I love taking photos at the very top before going down the hill to access the waterfront. The trees, winding paths and bridges offer a huge variety of backdrops for portrait photography."

"This large botanical refuge is an indoor oasis located on the top floor of the CORE Shopping Centre.​​​ It is a relaxing indoor garden that you will want to come back to regularly. Learn more about Devonion Gardens"

"The Deerfoot location offers DoorDash delivery and the Beltline location offers Foodora and DoorDash delivery. 9 Heritage Gate S.E., 403-255-2586 and 1436 8 St. S.W., 403-453-3752, noodlebox.ca"

"This market specializes in providing local and organic produce as well as selling certified organic products. Meander around the shop and take in the aroma the Sidewalk Citizen Bakery’s freshly baked goods, conveniently connected to the market.10, 338 10 St. N.W., 403-270-7477, sunnysidemarket.ca"

"Sweet Home Bakery has been a beloved Bowness staple since opening its doors more than 50 years ago. Along with a selection of savoury pastries and other treats, the bakery serves classic doughnuts with chocolate or white icing and Piroshki (which are Bismarck doughnuts with custard) in two sizes. Sweet Home Bakery offers their full menu for both pickup and delivery through Skip the Dishes."

"An Italian grocery and deli, Lina’s Italian Market also features a sunny cafeteria serving hot and cold lunches. Panini bar sandwiches such as the Pescara with roasted pork and peppers can be eaten cold or crisply grilled. Further mains include daily pasta with mixed greens or salad du jour as well as mini focaccia pizzas."

"Angel’s Cafe offers herbal teas, espressos, and boozy drinks as well as burgers, sandwiches, and breakfast dishes. Angel’s Cafe also has a kids menu to cater to all types of customers within the community. They also have a lovely outdoor patio to provide guests with a breathtaking view of the Edworthy park and river."