If you are into Canadian history and photography, but don’t always have the time to go for long trips and yeah, living in Calgary is a must too, then you definitely have to visit the Heritage Park. Open all year-round, it is a photographer’s inspirational heaven and while you cannot sell or use for commercial purposes the pictures you take while being there, it will provide you with endless photographic entertainment no matter the season. Unfortunately there is a downside as well, being one of the most visited locations in Calgary, there is no best time for going there, unless you decide to rent the whole place all for yourself. On weekends, it is simply packed, and if you decide to try your luck on any other day, well, half of the house wives from Calgary assault the gates of the park as early as they are open, accompanied by an army of toddlers, while the other half, you can find at the zoo, another popular location. Nevertheless, if you still want to take your chances and just looking to relax, no camera involved, maybe have a good meal and learn some new facts about the Canadian history, then it is the best place in the city to do just that. Don’t forget your ear plugs though.
The park is divided into four distinct areas reflecting different time periods in Western Canadian history but only a handful of buildings are originals, most are re-creations serviced by a numerous staff dressed in historic costumes, very helpful and knowledgeable. There are also some antique automobiles and horse drawn vehicles going around the park which are fun to watch but, if you are a ‘petrol head’, the Gasoline Alley with its enormous collection of vintage cars, trucks and more, will make you spend half of your visit just there. No moms and toddlers involved so you are safe. lol
For the next post about Heritage Park, a little preview from the Gasoline Alley, my fave!
Leave a Reply