You know you’ve hit that midlife crisis when you think you’ve just run out of things to do. Kids and a decade of marriage will teach you just that!
Fortunately, I live in a city where the fun just doesn’t seem to stop. So, oftentimes, I find myself bringing my buddies here to get a taste of local Calgarian stuff (and escape diaper-changing duties for a little while!).
Let me know what you think of them, and if you’ve already checked a few off your list!
Table of Contents
- Spend a night throwing axes
- Visit Calgary Zoo
- Kayak down the Bow River
- Check out adults-only night at Telus Spark
- Catch a flick at an adults-only theater
- Try a Friday night pottery class
- Play the arcades at The Rec Room
- Join the night shift at Youthlink
- Hit up the Calgary Stampede
- Cycle around town while drinking beer
- Ski at WinSport
- Strike up some fun at the Banquet
- Go on a brewery tour
- Enjoy a night at Cobb’s Adventure Park
- Spend a night with your partner at Butterfield Acres Petting Farm
- Join a perfume-making workshop
- Defeat Ms. Pac-Man at Greta Bar
- Escape the Locked Room
- Race downhill in karts at the Skyline Luge
Spend a night throwing axes
Website: http://www.axethrowingcalgary.ca/
Address: 5923 3 St SE, Calgary, AB T2H 0P3, Canada
Contact details: +1 844-403-2937
What’s a list of fun in Calgary without axe throwing, right? I still remember my first time – it was a blast, even though my kids weren’t allowed in (not that I’d want them around with axes flying!).
In case you didn’t know, axe throwing is a legit sport with leagues and clubs all around the world. If you’re up for it, check out AXE Throwing in Calgary. They’ll turn you from a newbie to a pro in a jiffy.
Besides being a good workout and a fun way to challenge your pals, axe throwing can be pretty therapeutic. Plus, it’s a social gig: AXE’s has a full menu and a bar to keep the fun going.
Visit Calgary Zoo
Website: https://www.calgaryzoo.com/
Address: 210 St. George’s Drive NE, Calgary, AB T2E 7V6, Canada
Contact details: +1 403-232-9300
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Who says going to the zoo is just for kids? Adults enjoy seeing the penguins too!
On a more serious note, it’s a delightful destination on a sunny day. Plus, they always have cool stuff going on, like after-hours events a few times a month. One highlight is “Locked Zoo,” which is a two-hour escape game where you wander around the zoo solving puzzles. How cool is that?
While there’s nothing quite like being surrounded by nature, there are some downsides too, like the pricey tickets ($36.45) and the crowds on weekends. But trust me, it’s totally worth it if you’re an animal lover like myself.
PS: Hit up the zoo in May for more chances to play “Locked Zoo” after hours!
Kayak down the Bow River
Website: https://www.lazydayraftrentals.com/bowyaks/
Address: 4320, Bow River Pathway, Calgary, AB T3L, Calgary, AB T2L 4C4, Canada
Contact details: +1 403-258-0575
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
If you’re up for a more physically demanding adventure and don’t mind getting a little wet, kayaking is a must-try (even if you’re a complete beginner!). And if the weather’s warm and sunny then – even better!
Now, if you need to rent a kayak, lifejackets, and other gear, there are plenty of shops along the Bow River to choose from.
One recommendation we have is Lazy Day Raft Rentals. They offer something called “bowyaks,” which are a mix of raft and kayak, and are available for rent for 2 to 4 hours for $39.
It’s a deluxe comfort package with perks like a cup holder, backrest, seat, and paddle. It basically has all the essentials you’ll need in one go. Feel free to try out other rentals though if you already have some of the gear.
Check out adults-only night at Telus Spark
Website: https://www.sparkscience.ca/
Address: 220 Saint George’s Drive Northeast, Calgary, AB T2E 5T2, Canada
Contact details: +1 403-817-6800
Telus Spark is a pretty awesome science museum, but it’s usually packed with kids having a blast. But what if you could enjoy it without all the noise and chaos? That’s exactly what Adults-Only Night at Telus Spark is all about!
Picture a full bar serving up themed cocktails, yummy snacks, and a cool show at the Infinity Dome. Plus the entire science center open for you to explore without having to dodge little ones left and right.
Finally, you can get up close and personal with all the exhibits without any interruptions. Of course, you’ll need a ticket to get in (no walk-ins), but it’s not a big deal. Just head over to their website and check out their calendar for upcoming events.
The next cool event, Steampunk, is going down on April 13, 2024, at Telus Spark. And if you can’t make that one, there’s another one in June called Artificial Intelligence & Us. So, mark your calendars and plan your visit accordingly!
Catch a flick at an adults-only theater
Website: https://www.cineplex.com/Theatre/cineplex-vip-cinemas-university-district-age-restricted-18
Address: 3953 University Ave NW #250, Calgary, AB T3B 6K3, Canada
Contact details: +1 587-315-6410
Did you know there’s a luxury theatre exclusively for adults in Calgary? University District VIP Cineplex, specifically.
The location is awesome, with free parking and tons of great dining spots nearby for a bite before or after the show. The place is always spotless, so major kudos to the staff. Plus, the seats have heating and cooling options for extra comfort!
Once you’re settled in, they’ll scan your ticket, and you’ll find a menu waiting for you at your seat. This is a full-on menu similar to what you’d find at places like Canadian Brewhouse, which offers a wide selection of alcoholic beverages.
Sure, it might be a bit pricey, but it’s worth it for one of the best child-free experiences in Calgary – even if you only treat yourself a couple of times a year.
Try a Friday night pottery class
Website: https://www.mudpotters.ca/
Address: 4111 13a St SE, Calgary, AB T2G 4N9, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-506-7707
Operating hours: Friday: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Every Friday evening from 6:30 to 8:30 PM., you can dive into pottery-making at Mud Urban Potters. It’s a one-time, two-hour lesson for you and anyone you bring along.
Here’s how it works: each of you gets your own wheel and together you’ll learn the basics of wheel throwing in a group setting.
At the end of the session, you get to choose two of your favorite creations to keep. Then Mud Urban Potters will handle the finishing touches and firing for you.
Don’t worry if you’re a complete beginner when it comes to pottery – this class is friendly for newcomers! Plus, all materials are provided, so all you need to think about is who you’ll be bringing along for the fun.
Play the arcades at The Rec Room
— Media by aza1eqx_
Website: https://www.therecroom.com/?location=calgary-deerfoot
Address: 1180-901 64 Ave NE, Calgary, AB T2E 7P4, Canada
Contact details: +1 587-535-6077
Operating hours: Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM | Friday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Saturday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 AM | Sunday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Alright, heads up: The Rec Room doesn’t have strict adult-only nights anymore, which kinda sucks. But hey, they’re open late on Fridays and Saturdays, so that means it’s all fair game for the grown-ups to have some fun.
My advice is to try hitting it after 10:00 PM. By then, the little ones have usually cleared out, so you can enjoy a night of adult-friendly activities in Calgary.
There’s no shortage of fun here. You’ve got a whopping 80 TV screens, over 100 arcade games, a virtual reality room, and 16 beers on tap – not to mention plenty of snacks to munch on.
Plus, the DJ usually sets the vibe just right, adding to the whole memorable night out experience.
Seriously, just come and see for yourself. You’ll thank us later!
Join the night shift at Youthlink
Website: https://youthlinkcalgary.com/
Address: 5111 47 St NE, Calgary, AB T3J 3R2, Canada
Contact details: +1 403-428-4530
Operating hours: Friday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
If you’re curious about Calgary’s crime history, don’t miss out on the Adult Nights at Youthlink. The Youthlink Calgary Police Interpretive Centre often hosts adult-only events called “night shift,” perfect for anyone interested in Canada’s past.
Past events have featured fascinating stories about old Calgary’s shady side, with attendees even having the chance to check out the museum’s historic mugshot collection in themed costumes.
There was also “A Date with Death,” where a real homicide detective shared some gripping homicide cases.
What’s even great is that this one is a fun and affordable activity, with entrance to the museum by donation.
PS: Arrive a bit early for the Night Shift and make sure to explore the CSI room. Ever wondered what it’s like to hold a handful of maggots? Now’s your chance to find out!
Hit up the Calgary Stampede
Website: https://www.calgarystampede.com/
Address: 1410 Stampede Trail SE, Calgary, AB T2G 2W1, Canada
Contact details: +1 403-261-0101
When talking about adult fun in Calgary, you can’t skip the Calgary Stampede. This ten-day bash in July is one of the biggest events worldwide and is worth a visit at least once in your life.
Rightfully so, the rodeo steals the show, but there’s so much more to enjoy. From live music and races to nightly fireworks, beer gardens, and enough fried goodies to make your head spin – think frog’s legs, Oreos, and giant squid – you’re in for a wild time!
And even if it’s not Stampede season, you can still have a blast. Outside the Stampede grounds, various communities host free pancake breakfasts daily.
Plus, nearby patios, clubs, and country bars offer up Stampede specials and keep the good times rolling late into the night.
Cycle around town while drinking beer
Website: http://pedalpubcalgary.com/
Address: 1417 9 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0T4, Canada
Contact details: +1 403-472-5697
Operating hours: Monday – Friday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Ever dreamt of cruising through a city on a bike with friends while sipping on ice-cold beer? Us too! Well, here’s the good news: you can do just that with Calgary’s Pedal Pub.
It’s a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city and one of the best things to do in Calgary during the summer. It’s also perfect for private group events like birthdays, bachelor or bachelorette parties, or even a small company outing (8 to 15 people).
During this 2-hour tour, you’ll make 2 to 3 stops at your favorite local spots, giving you and your crew more time to soak up the beauty of Calgary.
It’s quite pricey, honestly, at $619 per bike. But hey, you’ll get to enjoy the fun-filled activity with drink specials.
Ski at WinSport
Website: https://www.winsport.ca/
Address: 88 Canada Olympic Rd SW, Calgary, AB T3B 5R5, Canada
Contact details: +1 403-247-5452
Operating hours: Monday and Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
You probably won’t want to skip your chance to ski when you’re in Calgary during the winter season. And guess what? You don’t have to trek all the way to Lake Louise, Nakiska, or Sunshine to hit the slopes – WinSport is a great option too.
While it may not be as extensive as the ski resorts in Banff, WinSport does offer an impressive terrain park and night skiing.
Grab a daytime or nighttime winter ticket for access to the facility. If you’re a pro, go for the advanced terrain park access. Equipment isn’t included, so bring your own or rent some (we suggest bringing your own to save some cash).
WinSport also boasts a hockey rink and tube park, making it the perfect addition for a fun-filled day trip to the arena.
Strike up some fun at the Banquet
— Media by imagesbyerykah
Website: https://thebanquetbar.com/
Address: 3953 University Ave NW #220, Calgary, AB T3B 6K3, Canada
Contact details: +1 587-943-4726
Operating hours: Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM | Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM
The Banquet’s bowling alley caters to all ages but it transitions to an adult-only venue from 8:00 or 9:00 PM every night.
Plus, the place doubles as a fun gastropub, so you won’t leave hungry. Must-tries include the Big Banquet Burger and the Steak Sandwich.
It’s $10 per person per hour of bowling here, but if you visit on Mondays, the price drops to $2.
And here’s more good news: with the place open until around 1:00 to 2:00 AM, there’s more than just bowling to enjoy. You’ll find a mysterious “Price is Right” wheel up front, along with arcade machines, pool tables in the back, and sports on all the TVs.
Go on a brewery tour
Website: https://www.canadiancrafttours.ca/products/calgary-brewery-tour
Address: 8284 Sherbrooke St, Vancouver, BC V5X 4R6, Canada
Contact details: +1 778-320-3409
Operating hours: Monday – Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
If you’re a beer lover, you have to check out the coolest brewery tours in Calgary. Canadian Craft Tours offers some amazing options.
Our advice? Jump on their public tours, where you’ll see their top picks for the “Beers of the Month” at various breweries around Calgary.
First off, you’ll visit three awesome Calgary craft breweries, giving you the chance to taste a whole bunch of different beers, including some fresh releases.
Plus, you’ll get to enjoy fun and informative presentations from your beer tour guide, go behind the scenes at one of the breweries, and dig into lots of tasty food.
Enjoy a night at Cobb’s Adventure Park
Website: http://cobbsadventurepark.com/
Address: 1500 84 St NE, Calgary, AB T2A 7X4, Canada
Contact details: +1 403-210-2676
This place has adults-only events. I’ll never forget when my friends and I attended one of their 80s night ones – needless to say, it was a blast! Dressing up, feeding baby goats, and hanging out with kangaroos made for an unforgettable experience.
Every event here has a different theme, so you never know what to expect, but that’s part of the excitement. But generally, you’ll have access to all of Cobb’s Adventure Park’s attractions, including mini-golf, archery, puzzles, mazes, games, slides, and pedal carts. Some events may even feature activities like axe throwing!
Just so you know, adult nights don’t happen all the time. They’re more like special occasions, popping up a few times a year. But don’t worry, you can stay in the loop by checking their website for updates on upcoming events.
Spend a night with your partner at Butterfield Acres Petting Farm
Website: https://www.butterfieldacres.com/date-night/
Address: 254077 Rocky Ridge Rd NW, Calgary, AB T3R 1A6, Canada
Contact details: +1 403-239-0638
Operating hours: Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Want to spend more time with animals? How about a date night with barnyard babies at Butterfield Acres Petting Farm? Yes, they offer this activity for animal lovers aged 18 and over who are looking for a unique date idea with their partners!
Here, you and your partner can cuddle with adorable baby bunnies and chicks, help groom the horses by brushing their winter coats, and even try your hand at bottle-feeding the little lambs and goats.
On top of that, you can do all of this while sipping on hot chocolate – now that’s quite romantic!
Just a heads up: this adult-only activity at Butterfield Acres Petting Farm is only available in the spring. So, make sure to mark it on your calendars if you’ve already missed this year’s date night.
Join a perfume-making workshop
Website: https://olfacto.space/
Address: 319 10 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0A5, Canada
Contact details: +1 587-581-8389
Operating hours: Wednesday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Ever wanted to create your own signature scent? At ol.facto, you can make that happen! With a bunch of scents to pick from, you’ll spend an evening mixing and matching to find your perfect blend while learning all about aroma chemistry.
I’ve always found perfume-making fascinating, and if you’re like me, you’ll have fun at this workshop. Not only is it a unique activity in Calgary, but it’s also perfect for a night out with friends or even a solo date.
They really take care of you here, ensuring you have access to a variety of raw ingredients, a notebook to document your unique formula, and a vial or two of your crafted fragrance to take home.
To book, simply sign up on their website!
Defeat Ms. Pac-Man at Greta Bar
Website: https://www.gretabar.com/yyc
Address: 213 10 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0A4, Canada
Contact details: +1 403-984-6405
Operating hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 3:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Sometimes, I just want to go back in time to relive my childhood and play all those awesome arcade games. Thank goodness for Greta Bar because now I can do just that, but with a twist!
This time, you can enjoy those games along with some delicious street-style food and beer. You’ll feel a hit of nostalgia when you see classic games like The Simpsons, Pac-Man, Super Mario, and Donkey Kong.
They’re open every day except Monday and stay open until the wee hours of the morning, meaning you can battle Ms. Pac-Man until around 2:00 AM.
In case you’re wondering, the food here is really good – you can either grab something from the food truck window or sit down for a more restaurant-style experience/
The drinks are pretty great too! If you’re not into beers, I’d suggest trying one of their fruity drinks.
Escape the Locked Room
Website: https://www.thelockedroom.ca/
Address: 2015 32 Ave NE #15, Calgary | 5330 72 Ave SE #191, Calgary | 9937 Fairmount Dr SE, Calgary
Contact details: (587) 387-2337
Operating hours:
Still love the thrill of escape rooms? Head over to the Locked Room for an hour or two of excitement. Each room is just for you and your crew, so feel free to get a little wild while solving puzzles with your buddies.
With 12 rooms spread across their three locations – northeast, southeast, and Fairmount Dr. – offering a mix of easy and challenging experiences, there’s something for everyone’s skill level to enjoy.
Favorites like Prison Break, Forbidden Temple, Mission: Antarctica, Mythical Creatures, Game Over, and The Big Picture are sure to keep you entertained.
It’s great for big groups, but even if it’s just you and a friend, you’re still in for a good time as they welcome pairs for some challenges. However, having fewer people means there’s less brainpower to escape, though!
Race downhill in karts at the Skyline Luge
Website: https://www.downhillkarting.ca
Address: Winsport Canada Olympic Park, 88 Canada Olympic Road SW, Calgary, AB T3B 5R5, Canada
Ask any local and they’ll tell you that one of the most thrilling things to do in Calgary during the summer months is go downhill karting at the Skyline Luge. We’re talking about you hopping into a purpose-built go-kart that relies on gravity alone to propel you to the finish line.
With over 50 turns on a 1,800-meter-long track, this challenging karting track is loads of fun. And to get to the racetrack on top of the hill, you must ride a chairlift, which is also a lot of fun!
Once you’re downhill, you’ll soon realize once is not enough (we sure did). For that, try getting their extreme packages, which start at $99 and give you 9 rides to share with 3 people.
It’s not pricey if you think of splitting the rate with them, plus it already includes chairlift access.
