Suncor Energy Centre | Calgary

Heritage Park Historical Village is one of Calgary’s most popular and beloved attractions, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and experience life in Western Canada from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. Located on the shores of Glenmore Reservoir, this expansive living history museum is a unique and interactive destination that appeals to history buffs, families, and anyone interested in learning about Canada’s heritage.

Overview of Heritage Park

Location: Heritage Park is located in Southwest Calgary, near Glenmore Trail and the Glenmore Reservoir, making it easily accessible from downtown Calgary and surrounding neighborhoods. It is one of the largest historical villages in Canada.

Size: The park covers over 127 acres (51 hectares) and includes multiple exhibits, restored buildings, and outdoor spaces, making it a large and immersive experience.

Theme and Concept: Heritage Park brings history to life by recreating a turn-of-the-century Canadian village, showcasing the development of Western Canada from the late 1800s to early 1900s. It features a mix of historical buildings, interactive exhibits, and costumed interpreters who engage visitors in demonstrations and storytelling, offering a glimpse into the lives of people from the past.

Main Attractions and Features

The Historical Village

The Heritage Park Historical Village is the heart of the park and is home to over 180 historic buildings, including homes, churches, shops, and barns, which have been carefully restored and relocated to create an authentic atmosphere. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits that reflect the lives of early settlers in Western Canada. Some notable buildings include:

The 1880s Main Street: This area of the park is lined with recreated historical buildings, such as a General Store, Blacksmith Shop, and Post Office, mimicking what life would have been like in a small Western Canadian town during the late 19th century.

Gasoline Alley: A unique exhibit that showcases vintage automobiles, gas stations, and memorabilia from the 1920s to 1950s, highlighting the evolution of transportation in the region.

The 1900s Prairie Railway

One of the standout features of Heritage Park is its historic railway. The Alberta Prairie Railway runs through the park and offers visitors a chance to experience a train ride in vintage steam or diesel locomotives. The ride takes visitors on a scenic journey around the park and is a favorite for families and railway enthusiasts alike.

The Ranch Area

Heritage Park includes a section dedicated to the agricultural history of the region, with farm animals, barns, and heritage crops. Visitors can explore the settler’s cabin, the ranch yard, and even see animals such as cows, chickens, horses, and pigs that help showcase life on a working farm during the late 1800s and early 1900s.

The Gasoline Alley Museum

Located near the park’s entrance, the Gasoline Alley Museum is an exhibit dedicated to the evolution of automobile history in Canada. It houses one of the most impressive collections of vintage cars, gas station memorabilia, and antique automobiles in Canada, offering a fascinating look at how transportation changed in the early 20th century.

The Midway

The Heritage Park Midway features a collection of traditional amusement rides, including the carousel, ferris wheel, and other historic rides that were popular in Western Canada during the 1900s. It adds a fun, family-friendly atmosphere to the park, with old-fashioned games and activities for children and adults alike.

The Bakery and Ice Cream Shop

One of the most beloved features of Heritage Park is the chance to try traditional foods and treats from the past. The Bakery sells freshly baked goods like bread, pastries, and cookies made from century-old recipes, and the Ice Cream Shop offers delicious ice cream that is made on-site using old-fashioned methods.

The Prairie Steamer

The Prairie Steamer is a steam-powered boat that operates on the Glenmore Reservoir during the summer months. The boat offers a scenic and relaxing way to take in the views of the reservoir and surrounding areas while learning about the history of early water transport in the region.

Historical Demonstrations and Interpretive Programs

Throughout the park, visitors can witness live demonstrations of traditional crafts and trades, such as blacksmithing, spinning, weaving, and woodworking. The staff, dressed in period costumes, interact with visitors and share their knowledge of daily life during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Educational interpretive programs and guided tours are available for groups, families, and school trips, providing in-depth information about the historical periods covered by the park.

Special Events and Seasonal Activities

Heritage Park is a year-round destination, hosting special events and activities that reflect the changing seasons.

Heritage Park's Ghost Tours: During Halloween, the park hosts ghost tours and haunted house experiences, where visitors can explore the spooky side of the historical village, complete with actors, special effects, and ghost stories.

Christmas at Heritage Park: The park becomes a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with festive decorations, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and a Christmas market. Visitors can enjoy classic holiday activities, including baking gingerbread, seeing Santa, and shopping for unique gifts at the Christmas market.

Summer Events: In the warmer months, Heritage Park offers a range of events such as live music performances, pioneer days, and themed events like Canada Day celebrations and victorian garden parties. These seasonal events add a special touch to the experience, with various activities for families and history enthusiasts.

Family-Friendly Features

Heritage Park is an excellent destination for families, with plenty of activities and experiences for children of all ages. Highlights include:

Interactive Exhibits: Kids can take part in activities such as gold panning, craft making, and farm chores to experience life as it was in the early days of Western Canada.

Children’s Playground: The park features a playground for younger children to enjoy while parents explore the village.

Family Rides: The midway rides and the steam train ride are perfect for children and adults alike, offering a nostalgic and enjoyable experience.

Visiting Information

Hours of Operation: Heritage Park is open seasonally, with summer months (May to September) being the peak time for visitors. However, the park also hosts winter events like Christmas festivities, so it’s worth checking their schedule for specific seasonal activities and closures.

Admission Fees: Admission to Heritage Park is typically paid at the entrance, with ticket prices varying depending on age and season. Special rates are available for families, seniors, and groups. Annual passes are also available for those who plan to visit regularly.

Accessibility: The park is wheelchair accessible, with some paths and exhibits designed to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges. However, due to the historical nature of the site, some areas may have uneven surfaces.

Conclusion

Heritage Park Historical Village is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the rich history of Western Canada. Whether you're exploring the restored village, enjoying a train ride, or learning about the region's agricultural and industrial heritage, the park offers a unique and immersive experience. Its combination of historical exhibits, interactive demonstrations, and family-friendly activities make it an enjoyable place for visitors of all ages to learn, explore, and have fun.