Our experience at Calgary’s TELUS Spark Science Centre was out of this world! Here’s why.
I have to admit, I’m not great at coming up with ways how to bond with the younger members of my family. I usually just bring them to a park and let them run around while I read a book.
But I can tell that they were a bit bored of that recently. So I asked around for recommendations on where to go and was recommended the TELUS Spark Science Centre.
When I first arrived with the kids, I thought we were just going to see some fossils or exhibits about electricity, but I was so wrong. Being there, I felt like a kid again watching Back to the Future or Jurassic Park for the first time.
They’ve got gadgets, robots, VR, and so much more. In this guide, I wrote about the things that blew my mind and all the other stuff you’ll find at Calgary’s TELUS Spark Science Centre.
Things to Know
Admission
Admission prices for the TELUS Spark Science Centre depend on the age of the ticketholder. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time online or on the day of your visit.
- Infants (ages 0 to 2) – Free
- Children (ages 3 to 17) – $23.95
- Students (with valid IDs) – $27.95
- Adults (ages 18 to 64) – $32.95
- Seniors (ages 65+) – $29.95
- Family (max of 6 people, up to 2 adults) – $113.95
Parking
The TELUS Spark Science Centre provides parking for visitors.
- Daily Rate – $12
- Under 45 minutes – Free
- Private events – Free
There are several payment options for parking at the TELUS Spark Science Centre.
- Cash – There are limited options on-site for cash payments. You can either pay the exact amount or pay using a credit card.
- By Phone – You can pay for a parking spot using the ParkPlus App. The code for the TELUS Spark Science Centre is ZONE 8310.
- Refunds – The TELUS Spark Science Centre does not issue any refunds for parking.
Where is TELUS Spark Science Centre?
TELUS Spark Science Centre can be found at 220 St. George’s Drive NE. It was originally situated at Centennial Planetarium but was moved to Nose Creek Valley in 2011, near Calgary Zoo and the Bow River.
How to Get to TELUS Spark Science Centre
Via Light Rail: You can get to TELUS Spark Science Centre by taking the light rail’s Blue Line. The Calgary Zoo Station is around a 10-minute walking distance away from the museum’s entrance.
Via Bus: Several buses stop at the Calgary Zoo Station near TELUS Spark Science Centre. Transport lines 19 and 90 can get you there.
Via Private Car: You can find directions on how to go to the ‘TELUS Spark Science Centre’ by using an app or your car’s GPS. The museum provides parking for its visitors.
What to See in TELUS Spark Science Centre
Infinity Dome Theatre
– Media credit: telus_spark
IMAX is nothing compared to Infinity Dome Theatre. The dome is a feast for the senses, spanning 3 stories high and providing 360-degree visuals.
Watching a show here is a magical experience that makes you feel like you’re flying without having to leave your seat. Even though it wasn’t in 3D, I couldn’t help but dodge objects on the screen because of how high-definition they were.
The shows usually depict scenes from across the universe and in the different corners of Planet Earth. Because of Infinity Dome Theatre, I’ve reached places all over the world with just the price of the museum’s admission ticket.
Simply remember to check out their show times when you arrive to plan your viewing schedule. Each show usually takes around 30 to 40 minutes to finish.
Brainasium Outdoor Park
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One of the best things inside TELUS Spark Science Centre is the Brainasium Outdoor Park. Be warned that the kids may never want to leave once they get started here.
You’ll see a bunch of kids running around and using the equipment to climb, spin, jump, and more. It’s essentially a play space with several fun scientific exhibits sprinkled in.
For example, there’s a giant Newton’s Cradle that plenty of children take turns to play with. The real standout, however, is the huge 63-foot slide. Children have to climb a long rope tower to use it, but they never seem to be tired once they’re up at the top.
As for parents, there are plenty of benches around the area where they can rest from all the museum walking and keep an eye on their kids.
Virtual Reality
– Media credit: telus_spark
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to live a day in the shoes of another species? With the help of some cutting-edge technology, you can now travel back to prehistoric times and fly with dinosaurs or dive deep down and see coral reefs as a sea turtle.
The TELUS Spark Science Centre offers VR experiences that are both educational and exciting for the whole family. This isn’t just a visual activity — you’ll also be hearing immersive audio and feeling haptic sensations.
What we enjoyed the most about it is that you don’t have to experience it on your own. The whole family can get in on the fun since most of the games are multiplayer. Just take note that they don’t allow kids below the age of 6 to play.
Flint, the Robo-Dog
– Media credit: telus_spark
A visit to the TELUS Spark Science Centre isn’t complete without seeing their beloved pet, Flint. Even though other dogs may not be fond of her, she’s a huge hit with the kids.
Just like any fun-loving pooch, Flint is curious. The only difference is that Flint isn’t covered by fur and she’s completely robotic.
Flint goes on walks throughout the building, accompanied by her handlers, so that visitors can have a chance to say hi to her. We were pleasantly surprised to discover that she stops for pictures with her fans and you can even tag her online.
In case you miss her during her walk, you can also catch her show at the Inspiration Stage where she shows off her tricks and other abilities.
Where to Eat near TELUS Spark Science Centre
LaBrezza Ristorante
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Address: 990 1 Ave NE
Phone: +1 403 262 6230
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
It doesn’t get any more authentic than LaBrezza Ristorante. This iconic restaurant has been a leading source of Italian flavors in Calgary for almost 40 years.
From the moment you enter, you’ll feel the warm, welcoming atmosphere of the place. Each server treats you like you’re a member of the family that owns this restaurant.
And speaking of family, this place is perfect for bringing your loved ones. Not only is the food worth enjoying together, but the portion sizes are also definitely meant for sharing.
For first-time diners, we highly recommend getting the bruschetta, any of the pasta, and the calamari. Although you’ve probably had these in other Italian restaurants, you’ll never look back once you have a bite of these dishes LaBrezza-style.
OEB Breakfast Co. Bridgeland
– Media credit: https://www.instagram.com/oeb_breakfast/
Address: 825 1 Ave NE
Phone: +1 403 278 3447
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 7:30 AM to 2:45 PM
If you’re like me and you believe that breakfast is the best meal of the day, then you’re going to love OEB Breakfast Co. They serve filling meals that’ll keep you energized for the rest of the day.
Diners who prefer hot breakfasts would not regret ordering their Eggs Benedict. It’s a favorite among the locals. On the other hand, those who have a sweet tooth might find their soulmate in the form of the Buttermilk Waffles.
Tourists can also get the ultimate Canadian experience by getting one of their Breakfast Poutines. A taste of this and you just might start craving maple syrup and watching hockey.
And of course, breakfast isn’t complete without coffee so grab a cup of their OEB Artisan Roast as well. It’s so good that I have to stop myself from drinking a third cup or else I’ll start shaking from too much caffeine.
Where to Stay near TELUS Spark Science Centre
Alt Hotel Calgary East Village
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Address: 635 Confluence Way SE
Phone: +1 587 441 6635
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- 24-hour front desk
Those who are bored of stuffy, old hotels will enjoy a stay at Alt Hotel Calgary. The huge designer lobby alone is full of cool corners where you can lounge, drink cocktails, or even play pool in.
Their rooms are modern, with almost everything being electrically controlled. Whether you feel like moving the blinds, changing the temperature, or making any other changes, there’s going to be a button for your convenience.
You’ll have three dining options to choose from depending on your mood. There’s Chix Eggshop, a casual diner with healthy meals, Nupo, which is a Japanese restaurant with sushi and vegan options, and Eight, a fine dining experience that serves local cuisine.
With all of these restaurants being on-site, you can just dine at a different one for every night of your stay. Each one has great views of the Bow River, which will surely elevate your meals.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Calgary Downtown
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Address: 711 4 St. SE Suite B
Phone: +1 587 352 5500
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- 24-hour front desk
Homewood Suites by Hilton Calgary Downtown is determined to never let its guests go hungry or do so much as lift a finger.
Firstly, they have a valet service that moves quicker than the blink of an eye. They also offer a grocery service that’ll take note of your family’s favorite snacks and have them stocked in your ensuite kitchen.
However, if you feel like having something more filling to start your day, you can also enjoy some of the complimentary breakfast they offer downstairs. They serve something new each day, so you’ll have something to look forward to.
The most unique thing about this hotel is their evening social every Wednesday, where you can sample some great food at reception and mingle with other guests from all over the country and the world.