Calgary in 1 Day for Families - Royal Tyrrell Museum — world-class paleontology exhibits
In Collaboration with View Rockies Charters. Updated on February 4, 2026.
Full-day guided trip from Calgary to the Drumheller Badlands designed for families with kids. See world-class fossil displays at the Royal Tyrrell Museum, climb inside the World's Largest Dinosaur, explore hoodoos and dramatic canyons, cross a historic suspension bridge, and visit the quirky hamlet of Wayne — all paced for parents with stroller- and kid-friendly tips.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with View Rockies Charters, inspired by the tour 1 Day Guided Drumheller Tour: Calgary to Dinosaur Badlands. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Royal Tyrrell Museum — world-class paleontology exhibits
- Climb the World's Largest Dinosaur (fun for kids!)
- Walk the Hoodoos trail and Rosedale Suspension Bridge
- Historic Wayne & Last Chance Saloon photo stop
- Panoramic views at Horseshoe Canyon
Itinerary
Day 1
Meet in downtown Calgary, drive to Drumheller, visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum and local Badlands highlights, then return to Calgary. Seasonal notes: July brings long daylight and warm weather — pack sunscreen, hats and refillable water for kids.
Meet-up & Check-in — Downtown Calgary (4 Ave SE)
Meet your guide and group in downtown Calgary for check-in, quick safety briefing and seat assignments. Bring any snacks, nappies or stroller requirements here so the vehicle can be arranged appropriately.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 10–15 minutes early to drop bulky strollers in the vehicle — guides will stow them safely.
- There are public washrooms nearby on 4 Ave SE; use them before boarding to avoid an early stop.
- Confirm any child-seat needs with the guide at check-in — infants cannot sit on laps per operator rules.
Drive: Calgary → Drumheller (scenic highway stretch)
Relax in an air-conditioned vehicle while your guide gives an introduction to the Badlands geology and what to expect at each stop. Short comfort/restroom break scheduled en route if needed.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring motion-sickness remedies if your child is prone to carsickness — the road is rolling countryside.
- Use this time to nap; many kids do well with a mid-drive rest. Pack a small blanket and pillow.
- Keep water bottles handy — guides carry bottled water but a refillable bottle is eco-friendly and handy for kids.
Royal Tyrrell Museum — family-friendly fossil discovery
Explore one of the world’s top palaeontology museums with interactive displays and large skeletons that awe kids. The tour includes the main galleries and a short outdoor hoodoos viewing nearby.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a lightweight stroller — museum is spacious and stroller-friendly but some exhibits have short queues.
- Kids ages 4+ often love the interactive displays — ask staff about kid-focused trails or activity sheets at the front desk.
- Plan a restroom and snack stop mid-visit — the museum has family washrooms and a small cafe for allergy-friendly options.
World's Largest Dinosaur — climb inside T‑Rex (photo & view)
Short visit to the iconic 86-foot T‑Rex. Children can climb the internal stairs (supervised) for a memorable view of the valley — great photo moment.
Tips from local experts:
- Stairs: there are 106 steps inside the dinosaur — carry toddlers in a secure front carrier; older kids will love counting the steps.
- This stop is quick (20–30 minutes) — bring a small towel for sweaty kids in July and remove hats before climbing to avoid losing them.
- Supervise children on the steps and lookout; the climb is exciting but narrow in spots for little ones.
Lunch — Downtown Drumheller (family-friendly choices)
One-hour free time in Drumheller town to choose from family-friendly restaurants and cafés on Main Street. Guide can recommend quick allergen-aware options for kids.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for high chairs and kids' menu options — many downtown Drumheller cafes accommodate families in summer.
- If you prefer a picnic, grab takeaway and sit riverside — bring sunscreen and a hat for the kids.
- Keep nap schedules in mind: a 45–60 minute lunch helps younger ones recharge for afternoon short walks.
Rosedale Suspension Bridge — short stroll and photos
Quick family-friendly stop to walk the scenic Rosedale Suspension Bridge — kids love the gentle sway and the river view underneath.
Tips from local experts:
- Bridge has railings but hold young children’s hands — small kids love the novelty but stay close.
- This is a good spot for a quick snack or water break — benches nearby for a rest.
- Northern exposure can be cool even in July; carry a light layer for toddlers and a hat for glare protection.
Wayne & Last Chance Saloon — historic hamlet stop
Drive through Wayne — a tiny former coal-mining town famous for the Last Chance Saloon. Short photo-stop and chance to see frontier memorabilia (exterior viewing; saloon interior visits as time allows).
Tips from local experts:
- Wayne is very small with narrow lanes — keep strollers folded for easier short walks between photo spots.
- If planning a restroom stop, use facilities at the nearby visitor points before wandering the hamlet.
- Kids enjoy the 'old west' vibe — point out historic signage and train artifacts for a quick local history moment.
Hoodoos Trail — short interpretive walk among stone pillars
Walk the interpretive Hoodoos trail to see the unique eroded stone pillars up close — an easy, short trail suitable for kids who can walk ~20 minutes.
Tips from local experts:
- Trail surfaces can be uneven; closed-toed shoes are recommended for kids and parents.
- Bring a sun hat and sunscreen — little shade on the trail in July; carry water for the family.
- Let kids spot and count different hoodoo shapes — a simple scavenger-game idea keeps them engaged on the short walk.
Horseshoe Canyon — panoramic canyon viewpoint & short descent
Final badlands highlight with dramatic striped canyon views. Families can walk to the main viewpoint and descend a maintained trail partway for photos; avoid steep sections with toddlers.
Tips from local experts:
- The main viewpoint has parking near the edge; keep young children a safe distance from the rim and use stroller or carrier for descent if needed.
- Late afternoon light in July offers great photos — capture the striped layers for a memorable family shot.
- There is limited shade and no services; bring extra water and a small first-aid kit for scrapes after short hikes.
Return Transfer: Drumheller → Calgary (drop-off back downtown)
Board the vehicle for the return drive to Calgary. Final restroom and comfort break as needed en route; estimated drop-off downtown.
Tips from local experts:
- Offer children a last chance to nap on the ride back; guides can help with luggage and stroller re-loading.
- Expect slightly cooler temperatures when you return to Calgary in the evening — bring a light layer for kids.
- Tip suggestion: guides appreciate a small gratuity for family-friendly service; have local cash or card available.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Families |
| Transfers | 3 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 7 |
| Total Places | 7 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Attraction, Meal, Outdoor, Neighborhood |
