Sign up

LRT adventure: A Sweet Trip to Riley Park

Looking for a fun half-day outing that doesn’t involve loading everyone into the car? Hop on the CTrain and make your way to one of Calgary’s most family-friendly neighborhood adventures: Kensington and Riley Park. Kensington is easily accessible by LRT via Sunnyside Station and is packed with cafes, shops, and little discoveries before you head to the park.

Stop #1: Sunnyside Station

Start your adventure by hopping off at Sunnyside Station. Before heading to Riley Park, make the important family decision: coffee for the grown-ups, treats for the kids!

Kensington Treat Stops

Take a short stroll into Kensington for a snack break:

  • Ice cream stop: Pick up a scoop (or two!) at Abbey’s Creations – a classic stop for ice cream lovers. (401 10 Street NW)
  • Coffee and pastry stop: Grab a coffee and baked treat at The Roasterie, a local institution known for handcrafted coffee drinks and daily pastries since 1985. (314 10 Street NW)
  • For a quirky add-on, wander past the many little shops in Kensington – there are plenty of fun things to spot along the way.

Stop #2: Riley Park

With treats in hand, walk over to Riley Park for the main event. This beautiful inner-city park has wide-open spaces, gardens, a playground, and a wading pool in summer perfect for letting kids burn off some energy.

Family Challenge: Riley Park Explorer Hunt

Turn the walk into a game:

  • Find a flower in the gardens
  • Spot a bird in the trees
  • Find the biggest rock
  • Count how many different kinds of leaves you see
  • Have a family race to the playground

Bonus Adventure Extension

If everyone still has energy, continue exploring Kensington’s shops, public art, and pathways before heading back to the LRT.

  • Best for: Toddlers to elementary-aged kids
  • Time needed: Two to four hours
  • Parent win: No parking battles, no “are we there yet?” car questions, and everyone getsa treat. CCM

 

See our related articles:

Calgary’s Child Magazine © 2026 Calgary’s Child