Location map
Community: Downtown (beltline) – 1221 2 St. S.W.
Parking: typical downtown parking
Gordie’s Review (3 years old) – I liked the fountains! (I think he actually means the sprays along the walkway)
Features: Cenotaph, pathways, Memorial Public Library with WWI soldier statue in front, Boer War, Memorial equestrian statue, Memorial honouring Rt. Hon. Richard Bedford Bennett
Water Features: Fountains, walkway water sprays
Overall: Central Memorial Park is Calgary’s Oldest Park. It was revitilized in 2009 but still reflects the original Victorian garden style with geometric pathways, elaborate flower beds and native and imported trees.
.
On the west side of the Park you’ll find the Cenotaph where Memorial Ceremonies are held every year.
In the centre of the park are numerous flower beds, two fountains and a equestrian statue in honor of the Boer War.
Along the South side of the park are water features that kids (or big kids!) and walk around in. It’s not a water park exactly, but they purify the water (with sodium bicarbonate) so it is safe for the kids to play in. Definitely bring a change of clothes for your kids – they will get wet!
In the picture below you can see the Memorial Library in the background.
The Box Wood Cafe is located at the West end of the water sprays.
If you are looking for something to do with your kids downtown, this is a great option. It’s never been particularly busy while we’ve been there and just kitty corner across the street is the excellent Haultain Park Playground.
This is our favourite park when it’s a hot day. The kids (3.5 & 21mo) can splash and play, then we have a picnic. Often the food trucks park nearby, as well!
.I was sure I had just walked into The Garden of Eden last summer. It was a hot scorcher of a day and the sprays were just perfect for an adult alone to get wet without looking to juvenile. And the flower beds were a wonder that contained some very unique flowers and plants. Well done!!!!! And a long time coming. A small cafe attached provides simple snacks or lunch. And of course for a delicious treat and coffee, Good Earth is right across the street in the Sheldon Chumer Center. Let’s not forget the Old Library there is now a gallery too.
We enjoyed this park last year when I had to find a way to entertain my 2 -year old while my husband waited to be seen at The Chumir. She had so much fun (and got a little burnt since we didn’t have any sunblock with us). Thanks for the reminder that we should go back there this summer 🙂