Prince's Island Park
This urban park on an island on the Bow River is one of Calgary’s most famous parks. It is named after Peter Anthony Prince, the Eau Claire Lumber Mill founder.
The park was completely renovated in 1999. The builder put a wetland construction and native plant restoration for beautification. Since then, it has been a sought-after destination in Calgary.
Indeed, this park is an essential contributor to Calgarians’ cultural and recreational quality of life.
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What is there to do at Prince's Island Park?
The park hosts plenty of festivals and events throughout the year. Thousands of visitors come here every day, especially during summer.
Events like the Calgary Folk Music Festival, Shakespeare by the Bow, Canada Day, Heritage Day, and Barbecue on the Bow are usually held here at the Enmax Stage.
Prince’s Island Park is famous for being a clean and family-friendly space. It is a perfect place for the family to relax and have fun.
Mealtime is more delightful with picnic tables all around. Visitors can even picnic under the trees or among the picnic area’s lush and green.
If you can’t bring food, there are food stalls in the Eau Claire Market across the Bow River as well as the world-renowned River Cafe that you must visit.
The pathway and hiking trails are safe for hiking, biking, and strolling. The youngsters can even ride their rollerblades or skateboards.
Pet owners can also take their dogs for an on-leash walk, except during Canada Day and Heritage Day celebrations as the park usually gets so crowded.
With the island being surrounded by the Bow River, you can canoe along the river. Tourists can enjoy cross-country skiing or outdoor skating on the lagoon during winter.
There is so much beauty to see around Prince’s Island Park because of its natural state. There are flower gardens and seasonal water fountains to visit. You can even marvel at the beautiful autumn foliage during the winter season.
Kids can amuse themselves in the playground. They can also learn about wildlife, habitats, wetlands, and water quality at the Chevron Learning Pathway.
Tourists often walk through the iconic Peace Bridge because of its fantastic view. It has an impressive architectural structure that requires no beams or cables to support its weight.
How big is Prince's Island Park?
The island has a surface of 20 hectares. Three bridges link the park, one to Eau Claire and downtown Calgary, the Bow River Pathway Bridge at Memorial Dr and Crescent Heights.
It is part of the pathway and hiking trail system lining both sides of the Bow River. The river’s southern arm has been landscaped, while the island’s eastern end re-creates a wetland environment.
Prince's Island Park spans nearly 50 acres and is a hit with visitors in need of a beautiful walk.
Where is Prince's Island Park Located?
This recreational island is at 698 Eau Claire Ave SW, Calgary. It provides stressed-out urbanites opportunities to bike, hike and fish.
Several footbridges can attain direct access to the island as part of the Bow River pathway. Commuters can take Downtown C-train; the nearest stop is 7617 of the routes 31 & 419.
There are limited parking stalls in the park on regular days. Vehicle access to the park is, however, restricted during events. Though, parking is available underneath and around the Eau Claire Market with an evening and weekend rate that starts as low as $3. You can also park at 200-286 Memorial Dr NW Parking or also known as CPA Lot 59, which is a lot across Memorial Drive, then you access the park via the connecting bridge.
The park is open every day from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., and you don't have to pay to enter.