There’s a lot more to being a youth than meets the eye; we have the time, energy, freedom, and physical capability to participate in fun activities with friends in our free time. So why are so many of us spending it on our phones? Instead of continuing to doomscroll, visit some more of these spots in Calgary!
(By the way, there’s another article on this blog with a few more neat spots! Be sure to check it out.)
1. The Portrait
The Portrait is a wonderful little photo studio across the road from Victoria Park Stampede Station. They do photoshoots, passport photos, and most importantly, they have photobooths. I’ve only ever done photobooth shoots because they’re self-serve.
There’s shelves of cute seasonal headbands, plushy hats, and goofy glasses that can be used as props for the photos. You can also choose from an assortment of different frames and between two backgrounds.
The actual photos in the photobooth are taken at fast-paced intervals, so there’s certainly an element of chaos and rushing. It makes the entire experience so much more fun!
The cheapest option is $10 for 2 copies of a strip of 4 photos, but there are so many more options if you choose other frames and photo styles. This is my favorite place to bring all my friends; not only is it cheap if you split the price between a lot of people, but it is also next to a small bakery, bubble tea shop, and a bingsu shop.
2. Karaoke Korilla KBBQ
1410 17 Ave SW, Calgary
There’s a disco ball, shining lights, and lots and lots of reverb. There’s also food and drinks!
This is actually a Korean barbeque restaurant, but they have a really nice space for karaoke downstairs. It is a little pricey ($40/hr) but the price quickly lowers if you split the price between friends! Korilla is also the only location in Calgary that allows minors in their karaoke rooms.
If you enjoy (or just don’t mind) singing, this is the place for you! And don’t worry if you have a bad voice; the machine has so much reverb that anyone can sound like a star singing into the mics. Seriously, it’s so nice to sing your heart out with your friends. I highly recommend.
Something to keep in mind – they only give two mics per room so it can get a little crowded if you have over 6 people.
3. KoKo
620a 17th Avenue SW
KoKo a very small Japanese convenience store on 17th Ave. If that isn’t enough to convince you to go, then consider that it’s also on 17th Ave, the centre of good food and vibrancy in Downtown Calgary.
KOKO opened recently in January, and they have so many good food options. They have everything from housemade quick bites like onigiri and sushi to full steaming bowls of tonkotsu ramen. Whether you’re looking to try out a new snack or if you want a meal, they’ve got something for you. Keep in mind, their prices are on the lower end in comparison to the rest of 17th.
4. Good Bread
8303 Fairmount Dr SE, Calgary
A little more on the pricier side, but Good Bread is a wonderful cafe and bakery in South Calgary. It was on the off-campus site of my middle school, and I remember going there nearly every day during lunch time because their pastries were so delicious.
They opened a few years ago but have had a lot of success because of how high quality their food is. Would highly recommend if you live in South Calgary. It’s a little bit off Macleod Trail, so it’s also pretty convenient. They have the best cream croissants and chocolate croissants. Their mini cheesecake is also to die for.
In terms of drinks, they mostly serve coffee and tea (like any cafe). If you’re a sweet kind of person, I would recommend their mocha. It’s rich, creamy, and well blended!
5. Laser City
9950 Macleod Trail SE, Calgary
No. You’re not too old for laser tag. Nobody is too old for laser tag.
Seriously, Laser City, while not the place for the highest tech laser-tag ever, is such a steal. It’s ten dollars per person for one game (30 minutes) and a load of fun. I’ve always dropped in with a few friends, but the more the merrier. Their laser tag is in a maze illuminated by black light and flashing lasers, which makes the experience that much more nostalgic and thrilling!