12-Day Family Adventure Itinerary in Alberta

Day 1: Arrive in Calgary

Calgary, Canada

9:00AM

Breakfast at a local café

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Egg & I, known for its family-friendly atmosphere.
Located in downtown Calgary, easily accessible by walking.
CAD15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Calgary Zoo

Explore the Calgary Zoo, where your family can see over 1,000 animals from around the world, perfect for kids of all ages!
Driving from downtown Calgary, approximately 10 minutes.
CAD76, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Charcut Roast House

Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring locally-sourced ingredients at Charcut Roast House.
Drive back to downtown Calgary, about 10 minutes.
CAD60, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Heritage Park Historical Village

Step back in time at Heritage Park, Canada’s largest living history museum, where you can ride a steam train and visit historic buildings.
20-minute drive from downtown.
CAD60, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Free House

End the day with casual dining at Free House, known for its laid-back atmosphere and selection of craft beers.
Approx. 10 minutes drive from Heritage Park.
CAD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Exploring Calgary

Calgary, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at OEB Breakfast Co.

Indulge in gourmet breakfasts at OEB, a popular local chain with a vibrant atmosphere.
Downtown Calgary, 10-minute drive.
CAD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Calgary Tower

Take in breathtaking views of the city and the Rockies at Calgary Tower, a fun experience for the whole family.
Walk or drive 5 minutes from breakfast.
CAD60, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Prince’s Island Park

Stroll through Prince's Island Park, where kids can play and you can enjoy picturesque views of the Bow River.
A short drive or 15-minute walk from the Calgary Tower.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Blue Devil

Savor a family-friendly lunch with a stunning riverside view at The Blue Devil.
Located within the park, no transport needed.
CAD75, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Telus Spark Science Centre

Enjoy hands-on learning experiences at Telus Spark, where science meets fun for kids and adults alike.
15-minute drive from the restaurant.
CAD80, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Pizza Prazzo

Delight in a family dinner with a variety of pizzas to please the entire group.
Approx. 15-minute drive.
CAD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Travel to Banff

Banff, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Blackfoot Diner

Enjoy a hearty breakfast as you prepare for your journey to Banff.
20 minutes from the hotel in Calgary.
CAD60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Banff

Take a scenic drive to Banff, approximately 1.5 hours, with stunning views of the Canadian Rockies.
Follow AB-1 W and exit onto Banff Ave.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Banff National Park

Embark on a short hike suitable for families at Tunnel Mountain, providing incredible views of Banff Town.
A short drive to Tunnel Mountain trailhead.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Maple Leaf

Feast on Canadian cuisine in a cozy restaurant right in town to refuel for your afternoon adventures.
Return to Banff town, about 5 minutes drive.
CAD100, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Gondola Ride

Experience a thrilling gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain for breathtaking views and family-friendly walking trails.
5-minute drive from lunch.
CAD300 (family pass), 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Banff Brewing Co.

Wrap up your day with great beer (for the adults) and a variety of hearty meals that the whole family will enjoy.
Drive 5 minutes from the gondola.
CAD90, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Adventure in Banff

Banff, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Wild Flour Bakery

Start your day with delicious baked goods and coffee at this cozy bakery.
Located in Banff, walk from your accommodation.
CAD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Lake Minnewanka Boat Cruise

Enjoy a family-friendly boat cruise on Lake Minnewanka, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.
Drive to the boat launch, about 15 minutes away.
CAD140 (family pass), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Park Distillery Restaurant

Dig into locally sourced dishes while enjoying views of the surrounding mountains.
Return to Banff, roughly 20 minutes drive.
CAD90, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Banff Upper Hot Springs

Relax and unwind in the Banff Upper Hot Springs, a perfect way to rejuvenate after a morning of adventure.
Drive about 10 minutes from lunch.
CAD50, 2.5 hours

4:30PM

Explore Downtown Banff

Wander the charming streets of Banff, visiting local shops and art galleries.
Walk around downtown; everything is within walking distance.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Bison Restaurant

Enjoy fine dining in a rustic atmosphere, specializing in local game and fresh ingredients.
Located in Banff, 5-minute walk from the shops.
CAD150, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Travel to Lake Louise

Lake Louise, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Lake Louise Village Grill

Fuel up with a wholesome breakfast before heading out to explore this iconic area.
10-minute drive from Banff.
CAD60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Lake Louise

Marvel at the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Louise and, if weather permits, canoe on its serene surface.
5 minutes drive from breakfast.
CAD120 (canoe rental), 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Canoe Café

Enjoy lunch with a picturesque view overlooking Lake Louise.
Onsite at the lake, no transport needed.
CAD80, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Hike the Lake Agnes Trail

Take a family-friendly hike to Lake Agnes, where you find a charming teahouse at the top.
Trailhead starts at the end of Lake Louise.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Lake Louise

Head back down from your hike, reflecting on the incredible views along the way.
Return down the same trail.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Post Hotel & Spa

Indulge in fine dining at this elegant hotel known for its exceptional cuisine.
5 minutes drive from the Lake.
CAD150, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Travel to Jasper

Jasper, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at Trailhead Café

Kickstart your travel with breakfast at Trailhead Café before journeying to Jasper.
10-minute drive from Lake Louise.
CAD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive the Icefields Parkway

Embark on one of the most scenic drives in the world on the Icefields Parkway to Jasper, stopping at viewpoints along the way.
Follow Hwy 1 N; approximately 3 hours to Jasper with stops.
Free (gives you happiness!), 4 hours (including stops)

1:30PM

Lunch at The Moose's Nook

Delight in lunch at a rustic restaurant featuring local dishes.
Located in Jasper, a 10-minute drive after arriving.
CAD80, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Jasper SkyTram

Enjoy a breathtaking ride up the Jasper SkyTram for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
A short drive from the restaurant, about 10 minutes.
CAD160 (family pass), 2 hours

5:30PM

Explore Jasper Town

Spend time exploring the quaint town of Jasper, checking out local shops and cafes.
Easily walkable from the SkyTram.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Jasper Brewing Company

Conclude your day at this family-friendly brewery that offers tasty food and delicious craft beers.
Just a 5-minute walk from downtown Jasper.
CAD90, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Adventure in Jasper

Jasper, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Pyramid Lake Hotel

Start your day with breakfast overlooking magnificent Pyramid Lake.
5 minutes from Jasper town center.
CAD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Wildlife Tour

Join a guided wildlife tour to spot elk, bears, and other incredible creatures in Jasper National Park.
Pick-up will be arranged from your accommodation.
CAD400 (family rate), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fiddle River Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious lunch with a Canadian flair at this riverside restaurant.
5-minute drive from the tour drop-off point.
CAD80, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Maligne Canyon Hike

Take a refreshing hike through Maligne Canyon, witnessing stunning waterfalls and unique geological features.
Drive approximately 20 minutes from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Athabasca Falls

Explore the breathtaking Athabasca Falls, a great place for photos and enjoying nature.
Short 30-minute drive from Maligne Canyon.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Whistle Stop Restaurant

Savor a delicious dinner at this casual eatery, perfect for a family after an eventful day.
Backtrack to Jasper, around a 30-minute drive.
CAD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Canmore Adventures

Canmore, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Summit Café

Enjoy a warm breakfast with fresh pastries and coffee before heading to Canmore.
20-minute drive from downtown Jasper.
CAD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Canmore

Travel to Canmore, a quaint mountain town just 20 minutes from Banff.
Continue along Highway 1, approx. 30-minute drive.
Free, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Visit Canmore Nordic Centre

Explore the beautiful trails and activities at the Canmore Nordic Centre, perfect for outdoor adventures.
A short drive from town center, around 5 minutes.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Grizzly Paw Brewing Company

Grab a bite to eat at this family-friendly pub known for its craft beer and kid-friendly menu.
Drive 5 minutes from Nordic Centre.
CAD80, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Canmore Town

Wander the lovely streets of Canmore, checking out local shops and art galleries.
Walking distance from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Grassi Lakes

Take a family-friendly hike to Grassi Lakes for stunning views and refreshing turquoise waters.
Drive about 10 minutes from the town center.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Iron Goat Pub & Grill

Enjoy dinner with mountain views at The Iron Goat, a local favorite for its great ambiance.
Drive back to Canmore, around 10 minutes.
CAD100, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Drumheller and Badlands

Drumheller, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Café on the Bow

Enjoy breakfast with a view of the Bow River before heading to Drumheller.
Drive approximately 1.5 hours from Canmore.
CAD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Drumheller

Travel to Drumheller, home of the Royal Tyrrell Museum, known for its impressive dinosaur exhibits.
Follow Hwy 1 E, approx. 1.5 hours.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Royal Tyrrell Museum

Explore one of the world's finest dinosaur museums, an absolute delight for kids and parents alike.
Located in Drumheller downtown, about 10 minutes from the highway.
CAD80 (family pass), 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at O'Shea's Eatery & Ale House

Savor a delicious meal at this family-friendly eatery in Drumheller.
Near the museum, approximately 5 minutes drive.
CAD70, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Hoodoos

Explore the unique rock formations known as the Hoodoos, excellent for some family photo opportunities.
Just a 15-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Last Chance Saloon

Wrap up your day with dinner at this historical saloon known for its old-time vibe and hearty meals.
Drive back to Drumheller, around 15 minutes.
CAD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Return to Calgary

Calgary, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tim Hortons

Kick off your day with a quick breakfast from Tim Hortons before leaving Drumheller.
Quick drive to the nearest branch.
CAD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Return to Calgary

Head back to Calgary for a day of rest and relaxation.
Approximately 1.5 hours drive on Highway 1.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Calgary's Glenbow Museum

Visit one of Canada’s most important cultural institutions to explore art and history exhibits.
Drive from downtown Calgary, 10-minute drive.
CAD60, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Palomino Smokehouse

Enjoy a casual lunch featuring comfort food classics at this lively barbeque joint.
Short drive from the museum, about 10 minutes.
CAD60, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Fish Creek Provincial Park

Spend an afternoon enjoying nature and walking the many trails of Fish Creek Park—ideal for family outings.
30-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Highwood

Finish your day with a delightful dinner at The Highwood, known for its locally inspired ingredients.
15-minute drive from the park.
CAD90, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Kananaskis Activities

Kananaskis, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Kananaskis Lodge

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast at the stunning Kananaskis Lodge.
Short drive from Calgary, approximately 1 hour.
CAD70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Kananaskis Nordic Spa

Visit the Nordic Spa for self-care and relaxation in the serene mountain atmosphere.
Drive 20 minutes from the lodge.
CAD150 (family pass), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Blind Mice Pub

Refuel with a leisurely lunch featuring local cuisine at a cozy pub.
Only a short drive from the spa.
CAD70, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Hike in Kananaskis

Take a gentle family hike on one of Kananaskis’ accessible trails, showcasing beautiful views.
Drive 30 minutes to the trailhead.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Elbow Falls

Explore the beautiful Elbow Falls, great for walking around and taking family photos.
Just 15 minutes from the hiking area.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Kananaskis Mountain Lodge

End your relaxation with a delightful dinner at the Kananaskis Mountain Lodge.
A quick 10-minute drive away.
CAD90, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Travel Back to Calgary

Calgary, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Calgary Farmers’ Market

Enjoy a final breakfast and explore local vendors at the bustling Calgary Farmers’ Market.
30-minute drive from Kananaskis.
CAD60, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit the Calgary Tower Gift Shop

Get some souvenirs from your Alberta trip at the Calgary Tower gift shop.
Drive downtown, about 20 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Last-minute shopping at Stephen Avenue

Finish your trip with a little shopping along Stephen Avenue, a popular pedestrian street.
Short drive, around 5 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Ranchman’s Cookhouse

Enjoy a hearty farewell lunch at Ranchman’s, symbolizing the cowboy culture of Calgary.
About 10 minutes from Stephen Avenue.
CAD90, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Depart Calgary

Head to Calgary International Airport (YYC) for your departure, filled with wonderful memories of your Alberta adventure.
Drive to the airport, approximately 30 minutes.
Free, 1 hour
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