Edmonton, AB 5 Kid-Friendly Activities

Every parent or caregiver has heard the words "I'm bored" at one point or another. Fortunately, the city of Edmonton offers a wide array of exciting attractions, and many of them are kid-friendly. From hands-on museums to an array of outdoor activities, there's always something fun for young people to explore. Read on to learn about a few of the fun things to do with kids in Edmonton.

Explore the Final Frontier at TELUS World of Science

Tellus World of Science is a nonprofit science center operated by the Edmonton Space and Science Foundation. Located in the Woodcroft neighbourhood, it was opened in 1984 as part of a long line of science-themed facilities. Tellus's current name is in honour of Tellus Communications after an $8.2 million partnership in 2005.

Attracting more than a half-million visitors each year, the grounds host many science-themed exhibits. The Zeidler Dome is the largest planetarium in the country. Discoveryland offers an interactive gallery aimed at children between the ages of 2 and 8. The exhibit features a walkable piano, a water table, and several block-based displays.

The Environment Gallery is designed for older youths and has displays on ecology, hydrology, and geology. The Robotics Laboratory features a 45-minute guided program that teaches visitors to build robots to perform various tasks. The Space Gallery offers participants a Mars Pathfinder replica, a real moon rock, and other wonders of astronomy. In addition to these, the facility frequently rotates features and sponsored exhibits to encourage repeat visits.

Potential visitors should be sure to contact the facility in advance, as exhibits are sometimes reserved for classrooms. There are also opportunities for adults to volunteer with displays or travelling demonstrations. Adult tickets are $7.48 for members and $29.95 for the public. Children between 3-12 are $5.25 for members and $21.95 for others. Entrance for youths between 13 and 18 is $6.48 for members and $27.95 normally.

Annual memberships for adults are $77.95. Yearly costs for child memberships are $49.95, while teenagers can join for $69.95.

Enjoy an In-Town Safari at Edmonton Valley Zoo

Filled with the wonder of wild mammals, birds, and more, visiting a zoo is an adventure every child should enjoy at least once. Edmonton Valley Zoo offers an experience based on conservation, education, and fun for visitors of all ages. With more than 350 animals, they definitely have something for everyone. Adult tickets are $14.95, while admission for children and youths is $10.50 and $13.50, respectively.

The facility offers dozens of different habitats for animals worldwide. Some of the more popular animals include the Asian elephant, African pygmy hedgehog, African spurred tortoise, and Bactrian camel. But the zoo experience is about more than just watching. The exhibits often include in-depth information to help visitors understand more about each animal's diet and lifestyle in the wild.

Best of all, the zoo experience isn't just limited to the trip. Visit the website to find ways to get kids involved and interested in conservation initiatives. The zoo offers an Adopt-an-Animal program that allows donors to contribute to creating a comfortable environment for their chosen beast. The website also contains news about creature-specific initiatives, such as the Red Panda Network or Polar Bears International.

Step Back in Time at Jurassic Forest

If modern animals aren't enough to get the youngsters going, take a walk on the wilder side at Jurassic Forest. The park offers people the chance to get up close to some of the biggest land animals ever to walk the earth. Featuring menacing terrors like the Albertosaurus and Tyrannosaurus or more peaceful herbivores like the Stegosaurus or Triceratops. From creatures the size of a home to dinosaurs no bigger than cats, kids can experience many unique visions of yesteryear.

Organized like a scavenger hunt, enjoy the 2km walk through the forest while little hunters search for elusive creatures. Creep up on the giant just beyond the trees or hide from the horned predators in the clearing. After the hunting is done, play a round of dinosaur-themed mini-golf and visit the concession stand.

Tickets for the park and mini-golf are just $17 for children and $22 for adults.

A Day of Play Awaits at Castle Downs Park

Outdoor lovers will also enjoy spending time at Castle Downs Park. The grounds feature all the most important hallmarks for fresh air spaces. Teams can enjoy the baseball diamond, soccer fields, and football facilities while runners take advantage of the track. The area offers several great picnic sites close to kids' playgrounds so that they can burn off some energy.

For summer fun, visit the spray park to keep cool by playing in the water. When the temperature drops, opt for the outdoor ice skating rink. Skaters may also enjoy hanging with friends at the skate park, and pet-lovers will love the off-leash areas for dogs.

Best of all, while it does cost money to rent some facilities, visiting the park is free. That makes this a great activity for cost-conscious caregivers that need a way to have some fun for cheap.

Play Games at The Rec Room

If the weather is bad, or it's time for some inside fun, head to the Rec Room. The facilities have a wide variety of indoor activities for individuals or groups. Competition junkies will brag for years about winning games like ping pong, pool, or bowling. Gamers will get lost in the more than 120 options of both nostalgic and modern varieties.

Looking for something new? Try the axe-throwing booth or take a run at the racecar simulator. Become fully immersed in the latest virtual reality games. Take the kids for a weekend night, or host a birthday party for family and friends.

Don't forget to visit one of the two eateries within the facility for the best Canadian cuisine. Try the mini Mexican corn dogs or the Philly cheesesteak spring rolls at The Shed. On the other hand, THREE10 offers a herb-rubbed Atlantic salmon or a giant pretzel for a quick bite.

Kids Can Have Non-Stop Fun in Edmonton

Whether it's exploring Edmonton's best parks, browsing a museum, or playing arcade games, kids are sure always to enjoy their time in Edmonton. Edmonton offers great facilities for outdoor exercise and some of the best indoor gaming in the area. Stick to this list and make "I'm bored" a phrase of the past.