Alright Dad, today’s your day to shine. Mom’s off duty and you’ve got the kids, the only thing you need to do is follow this plan. No aimless driving, no “what are we doing next?”, just a solid mix of fun, food and adventure. Whether you’re looking for an easygoing day with the littles, or something a bit more action-packed, we’ve got you covered. Grab the keys and hit the road, it's time to give Mom a break.
Morning Kickoff: Breakfast Options
Set your day up for success with a solid breakfast. If you’re looking for a hearty meal, look no further than the Chuckwagon Cafe. This legendary cowboy-style diner, located in Diamond Valley, is known for its steak and eggs, fluffy pancakes, and locally sourced beef. If you’re interested in a lighter start, check out French 50 Bakery on historic Elma Street in Okotoks. This cozy bakery serves fresh pastries and sourdough and a brunch menu that’s as delicious as it is Instagram-worthy.
Morning Fun
March mornings can still be chilly, so head on over to Millennium Lanes in Okotoks for some five-pin bowling. Regular bowling is available by the hour, with four bumper lanes if the kiddos need some extra help. If bowling is a hit, keep in mind that Glo Bowling is available on Friday and Saturday nights.
Lunch at Evelyn’s Diner
Once everyone’s worked up an appetite, it’s time for a retro-style refuel. Evelyn's Memory Lane Diner is straight out of the 50s, with checkered floors, a jukebox, and thick milkshakes. Enjoy some old-school classics with your kids as you're transported to a different era.
Laid-Back Outdoor Fun
After lunch, get some fresh air in the afternoon sun. Keep it lowkey with outdoor curling at Hub Town Brewery in Okotoks. No experience? No problem. The game is easy to pick up, and it’s a great way to introduce the kids to one of Canada’s favourite pastimes. While you enjoy a well-earned beer, the kids can sip on the Hubbles Small Batch Soda…keeping everyone happy and hydrated.
If it’s an extra cold day and you don’t feel like fighting that battle, hop over to Stix n’ Bones, a spacious arcade and billiards hall in High River. It’s got everything: pool tables, darts, arcade games, snacks and even a VR escape room. Perfect for some friendly family competition for any season.
Dual Purpose Pit Stops
If you have teens who live for an Instagram-worthy shot or youngsters who need to stretch their legs, make sure to stop at the Okotoks Erratic. This giant boulder, sitting in the middle of the prairies, was left behind by a glacier. Your kids can burn off some energy in the open fields beside the erratic, and it’s the perfect spot for a dad and kids road trip selfie. Just make sure you wait until you’re home to share the pictures with mom, she might be enjoying her day off from you and the kids.
Outdoor Adventure Option
If you’re the kind of dad who likes to tire the kids out before heading home, swap the laid-back activities mentioned above for something a little more high-energy…
Book a cross-country skiing session with Outbound Elements at West Bragg Trails to brush up on your ski skills. The kids will either love it or complain loudly; either way, they’ll sleep well tonight.
Alternatively, book a guided adventure in Kananaskis Country, custom designed for you and the kids skill level. Whether you want a casual snowshoe or an intense hike, the team at Path Less Taken will plan the whole thing for you.
Please note: An Alberta Conservation Pass is required for the parking for both activities. You can purchase your Alberta Conservation Pass here.
Dad Dinner
As a dad you may not have heard of girl dinner; we’ll spare you the details and instead introduce you to the perfect location for Dad dinner: Big Sky BBQ. After you and the kids have worked up a serious appetite, head to this Texas-style BBQ joint just outside Okotoks. Brisket, ribs, and pulled pork…just the meal you need after a big day out.
Homeward Bound
A full day out, minimal planning required, and the quality memories (and maybe a few sibling rivalries) to make mom’s day off completely worth it. You? You’ve earned yourself some dad cred. If you’ve got young kids and need one more Hail Mary pass… offer to handle bedtime. Trust us, your wife will never forget it.
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