Prince’s Island Park: Calgary’s Scenic Urban Oasis

A Visitor’s Guide to Prince’s Island Park: Outdoor Activities, Festivals, and Nature in the Heart of the City

Prince’s Island Park is a picturesque urban park located in the Bow River near downtown Calgary. As one of the city’s most beloved outdoor spaces, this lush, green island offers visitors a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, with plenty of opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and cultural events. Whether you’re walking along scenic pathways, enjoying a picnic, or attending one of the park’s many festivals, Prince’s Island Park is a must-visit destination for residents and tourists alike.

A Beautiful Island Park in the Heart of Calgary

Named after Peter Prince, a lumber mill owner who created the island in the 1880s, Prince’s Island Park is now a sprawling 20-hectare green space that sits just north of Eau Claire in Calgary’s downtown. With its scenic setting, lush trees, and winding trails, the park provides a perfect spot for both outdoor activities and peaceful nature walks, all within walking distance of the city’s core.

The park is a popular venue for festivals, concerts, and community events, drawing thousands of visitors throughout the year. From the famous Calgary Folk Music Festival to quieter moments by the lagoon, Prince’s Island Park offers something for everyone.

What to See and Do at Prince’s Island Park

1. Scenic Walking and Cycling Trails:
   • Prince’s Island Park features an extensive network of walking and cycling paths, offering stunning views of the Bow River and Calgary’s skyline. The park is connected to the city’s larger Bow River Pathway, a 48-kilometer trail system that winds along the riverbanks, providing access to downtown and beyond. Visitors can stroll, jog, or cycle through the park’s pathways while enjoying the lush greenery, peaceful atmosphere, and scenic bridges.
   • One of the most popular paths is the Eau Claire Promenade, which leads from the park to the nearby Eau Claire Market, offering shops, cafés, and restaurants along the way.
2. Picnicking and Family Outings:
   • The park is a favorite spot for picnics and family gatherings, with plenty of picnic tables, grassy areas, and shaded spots under the trees. Visitors can bring a picnic basket and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature, while families can make use of the playgrounds and open spaces for games and relaxation.
   • BBQ pits are available for those who wish to cook outdoors, making it a great destination for summer picnics.
3. Wildlife and Birdwatching:
   • Prince’s Island Park is a haven for wildlife, particularly birdwatchers. The park’s ponds, lagoons, and riverside habitats attract a variety of species, including ducks, geese, and songbirds. The park is also home to beavers and other small mammals, which can sometimes be spotted near the water.
   • Visitors can explore the park’s wetlands, which provide an educational opportunity to learn about the local ecosystem and the importance of urban natural spaces.
4. River Access and Water Activities:
   • The Bow River runs along the southern edge of Prince’s Island Park, and while swimming is not permitted, visitors can still enjoy activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and rafting. The park’s location makes it a perfect spot for launching watercraft or simply relaxing by the riverbank.
5. Festivals and Events:
   • Prince’s Island Park is Calgary’s premier outdoor venue for festivals, concerts, and cultural events. Some of the park’s most popular annual events include:
     • Calgary Folk Music Festival: Held every July, this renowned festival brings together a wide array of international and Canadian artists for four days of live music, attracting thousands of fans to the park’s outdoor stages.
     • Shakespeare by the Bow: An outdoor summer theater event featuring performances of Shakespeare’s plays with Calgary’s beautiful skyline as the backdrop.
     • Canada Day Celebrations: The park is a key location for Canada Day festivities, with live entertainment, food trucks, and fireworks lighting up the sky.
     • Expo Latino Festival: A vibrant celebration of Latin American culture, featuring music, dance, and cuisine.
6. Relax by the Lagoon:
   • The park’s serene lagoon is a popular spot for visitors to sit and relax by the water. The lagoon is surrounded by benches and picnic areas, offering a quiet place to read, meditate, or enjoy the views. It’s also a great place for photography, especially in the autumn when the trees surrounding the lagoon burst into brilliant fall colors.
7. Bow River Rafting and Floating:
   • In the summer, rafting or floating down the Bow River is a popular activity, and Prince’s Island Park serves as an ideal start or end point for river adventures. While swimming is not allowed in the river, organized rafting and floating experiences provide a fun way to enjoy the water safely.
8. Environmental Initiatives and Wetlands:
   • Prince’s Island Park is also home to a designated environmental learning area that highlights the importance of urban wetlands. Visitors can explore the wetlands via boardwalks and learn about the plants and animals that inhabit these ecosystems.
   • The park is part of the city’s stormwater management system, which ensures that rainwater is naturally filtered through the park’s wetland areas before it flows into the Bow River.
9. Winter Activities:
   • While the park is busiest in the warmer months, Prince’s Island Park also offers fun winter activities. Visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or simply walking along the snow-covered trails. The nearby Eau Claire Skating Rink is a popular spot for ice skating during the winter season.

Dining at River Café

For a more upscale dining experience, visitors can stop at the River Café, located in the heart of Prince’s Island Park. The restaurant is renowned for its focus on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, and offers a menu inspired by Canadian cuisine. With its cozy atmosphere and beautiful views of the park, the River Café is perfect for a romantic dinner, a relaxing lunch, or a special occasion.

How to Get There

Prince’s Island Park is easily accessible from downtown Calgary, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

• Address: 698 Eau Claire Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 5N4
• Public Transport: The park is within walking distance of several CTrain stations, including 3rd Street SW and 4th Street SW. Bus routes also serve the nearby Eau Claire Market.
• Parking: Paid parking is available at the adjacent Eau Claire Market, though many visitors prefer to walk or cycle into the park from downtown or along the Bow River Pathway.

Visiting Hours and Admission

Prince’s Island Park is open year-round, with access to trails and facilities from sunrise to sunset. Admission to the park is free, though certain events may require tickets.

• Hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset.
• Admission: Free (event tickets may apply for festivals or performances).
• Official Website: https://www.calgary.ca/parks/princes-island-park.html

Best Time to Visit

Prince’s Island Park is a year-round destination, though the best time to visit is during the spring, summer, and fallmonths when the park is in full bloom and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Festivals like the Calgary Folk Music Festival and Canada Day celebrations draw large crowds in the summer, making it an exciting time to explore the park. The park also shines in the fall, with its vibrant foliage creating a picturesque setting.

A Must-Visit Calgary Landmark

With its scenic beauty, variety of outdoor activities, and rich cultural offerings, Prince’s Island Park is a treasured green space in the heart of Calgary. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a leisurely walk, attend a festival, or simply relax by the lagoon, the park provides the perfect blend of nature and urban life. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Prince’s Island Park is a must-visit destination that captures the essence of Calgary’s outdoor spirit.