Calgary
Soak up Calgary’s friendly Canadian spirit, from culture, sport and shopping to restaurants, museums and galleries, all with Banff National Park within easy reach.
The city of Calgary, Alberta
Located in the eastern foothills of the Canadian Rockies, this cosmopolitan city has an estimated population of 1.1 million. Renowned for its annual Stampede rodeo show, sports culture and friendly locals, Calgary is bursting with things to do and see.
Discover the hip neighbourhoods, lush green parks, fascinating museums, local markets and a great assortment of restaurants. Mingle with the locals and watch a live sporting event! Visit the Calgary Tower, spend a day at the Heritage Park Historical Village, or cycle past the Bow River.
Best Things to Do in Calgary
Explore Downtown Calgary
While there are many amazing cities in the world, you are sure to fall in love with Downtown Calgary. As you arrive in the city, one of the first things that you will notice is the striking Calgary Tower.
This free-standing observation tower has an observation deck that offers a 360-degree bird's-eye view of the city. Whether it's in the middle of winter or summer, the view from the top of the Calgary Tower is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Stroll Along Stephen Avenue
While you are exploring Downtown Calgary, be sure to pop by Stephen Avenue Walk. This lively avenue is a pedestrian-only lane and features many historical facts about the city.
Here, you can also find some of the best local restaurants and pubs in Calgary. And of course, for the shopaholics, there is a great assortment of shops to indulge in.
Soak up the vibes in Southern Alberta
If you like art, be sure to visit The Wonderland Sculpture. This 12-metre-high sculpture can be found in front of the landmark building, The Bow.
Or take a wander over to The Peace Bridge, a foot traffic bridge located over the Bow River in Downtown Calgary. Take in the views of Bow River from the bridge, which are beautiful year-round.
Culture, History and Local Experiences
Museums, Music and Chinatown
Are you a history buff? Be sure to pop by the Glenbow Museum or Fort Calgary. If you are a music fan, Studio Bell is a must-visit and is home to the National Music Centre. Or take a visit to Calgary’s Chinatown, a unique cultural district with a fantastic selection of restaurants.
Studio Bell National Music Centre
With five floors of exhibitions, Studio Bell is the perfect place to learn about Canadian music. Discover the Canadian Halls of Fame, enjoy interactive exhibits and celebrate music. Generally open from 10 am to 5 pm, Thursday to Sunday, it’s a must-visit for any music lover.
Heritage Park Historical Village
For a fun thing to do in Calgary, visit the Heritage Park Historical Village. Western Canada’s Living History Museum is action-packed, covering 127 acres of parkland. Located just 15 minutes from Downtown Calgary, there is so much to do and see at Heritage Park.
Parks and Outdoor Spaces in Calgary
Prince’s Island Park
For a little nature in the heart of Calgary, visit Prince’s Island Park. This beautiful park is an urban oasis featuring flower gardens, picnic areas, playgrounds, outdoor skating and hiking trails.
There is even a café overlooking the Bow River if you would like to stop and enjoy a cup of tea.
Bow River
During your visit, you will see the beautiful Bow River running through the city of Calgary. A favourite spot for locals to indulge in fun water activities such as rafting, floating, fishing and more.
The locals also enjoy cycling, jogging and walking beside the Bow River. It’s an ideal part of the city to connect with nature and take in the surrounding views.
Sport, Events and Family Fun
Calgary Stampede
While sports enthusiasts are spoiled for choice in Calgary with a large range of live sporting events, the most popular yearly event is the Calgary Stampede rodeo show.
The World’s Largest Outdoor Rodeo attracts visitors from all over the world. Generally held in the summertime, the event features chuckwagon races, concerts, entertainment shows and of course, the world-famous rodeo.
Canada Olympic Park
Sport is extremely important to the Calgarians and this is evident throughout the city. In fact, the 1988 Winter Olympics were held here. One of this major city’s main attractions is the Canada Olympic Park.
At Canada Olympic Park, you can learn more about the history of sports in western Canada. Located south of the Trans-Canada Highway, the national Olympic park is renowned for being Calgary’s outdoor destination. Or be sure to stop by Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame!
Calgary Zoo
For a family-friendly fun day out, the Calgary Zoo is a must-visit. One of Calgary’s most popular attractions, the zoo is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, except Christmas Day.
Here, you can admire wildlife such as bighorn sheep, bears, cougars, the Rocky Mountain goat and much more.
Best Time to Visit Calgary
The best time to visit Calgary is in summer, between June and August. During this period, many exciting local events are happening! However, we do recommend travelling during the shoulder seasons for better value for money, fewer crowds and a better choice of accommodation.
Winter Sports in Calgary and Beyond
If you are interested in winter sports, visit between November through March, when the snow is at its best. However, be aware that Calgary can get very cold in the winter. In fact, the coldest temperature ever recorded was -45.0°C!
Day Trips from Calgary
If you are searching for a day trip, Calgary is in a prime location in Canada. From the Canadian Rockies, the Canadian Badlands and everything else in between. There is no shortage of adventures to indulge in near Calgary.
Suggested day trips from Calgary include:
Banff National Park
Lake Louise
Kananaskis
Canmore
Sundre
Red Deer
Lacombe
Olds
Innisfail
Okotoks
Banff National Park
Approximately an hour and a half drive west of Calgary, Alberta, is Banff National Park. An absolute natural wonderland and an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. This part of the world is bursting with beauty and one-of-a-kind landscapes.
Take a self-guided tour and discover the beautiful, glistening Lake Louise. Explore the world-class hiking trails, snow-capped peaks and wonderful wildlife. The heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountains is truly incredible.
Edmonton
Known as Canada’s Festival City, the capital city of Alberta is located just three hours north of Calgary. Edmonton is nestled beside the North Saskatchewan River and lies in the heart of the Canadian wilderness.
In the summertime, soak up the sunshine with 18 hours of sunlight! Perfect for shopaholics, here you can find North America’s second-largest shopping mall, the West Edmonton Mall.
Where to Stay in Calgary and Beyond
Make your trip extra special by experiencing a unique stay from our extensive collection of hand-selected accommodations in Calgary and beyond.
Your travel specialist will match you with accommodation that suits your wants and needs. A journey where your accommodation is an experience in itself.
Let’s Design Your Holiday Together
We’ll take the time to get to know you to match your fully bespoke holiday with your pace, your interests and anything you desire. Combined with first-hand, local knowledge, you’ll receive a mapped-out itinerary from us, but the process isn’t done until you are 100% satisfied.
We take care of every detail, so you can focus on relaxing, rejuvenating and reconnecting with yourself and the world around you.
