The 20 Best Things to do in Calgary, Alberta

The 20 Best Things to do in Calgary, Alberta

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This complete information to the most effective issues to do in Calgary, Alberta will present you the highest points of interest, festivals, and out of doors actions to get pleasure from all through your time in Stampede City.

Full of pioneering historical past and flanked by the Canadian Rockies, the gorgeous metropolis of Calgary is the place on your subsequent journey. In Alberta, Calgary is extra than simply the situation of an iconic stampede, it has an distinctive foodie scene, enjoyable vacationer points of interest, and out of doors adventures galore. Cut by the Bow River, it’s a metropolis of parks and recreation. Calgary can be an ideal launch level for a visit to Banff.

best things to do in calgary alberta

Things to do in Calgary

When visiting Calgary, one of the best ways to see it’s to lease a automotive. We normally decide up our automotive rental on the Calgary International Airport and use it to discover the encompassing areas similar to Canmore, Banff, and Drumheller. But earlier than you begin doing day journeys from Calgary, let’s take a look at the most effective issues to do in Calgary for a few days in downtown Calgary.

1. Go Up the Calgary Tower

things to do in Calgary - calgary Tower Alberta

As one of the crucial recognizable constructions in town’s skyline, the Calgary Tower helps newcomers and vacationers preserve their bearings as they roam the streets. Upon completion in 1968, the Calgary Tower was the tallest constructing in town. Although it was dethroned in 1984, the tower nonetheless gives guests a number of the finest views in Calgary.

From 626ft (191m) above the bottom, you’ll be able to see properly into the encompassing mountains. One of the most effective issues to do in Calgary at night time is to head to the second statement deck in the Tower. Sip on a cocktail at Sky 360 and benefit from the metropolis lights up from above.

2. Canada Olympic Park (WINSPORT)

things to do in calgary - Winsport Canada Olympic Park in Calgary, Alberta

Home to the 1988 Winter Olympics, the park is likely one of the high Calgary points of interest and continues to be used as a coaching floor for skilled athletes. Now generally known as WinSport, Canada Olympic Park is the place for winter sports activities fans to go in order for you to do some snowboarding shut to town centre, or to get pleasure from considered one of its many out of doors adventures in the summer season.

Beyond snowboarding and snowboarding, guests can get pleasure from tubing down the hills and even attempt bobsledding on the unique Olympic bobsleigh observe. Is there a greater method to head down the mountain at 100km per hour? WinSport additionally gives rides on one of many quickest zip-lines in North America. There are mountain bike trails or you’ll be able to put your climbing boots to work. Read extra about it at Canada Olympic Park – Fun in Calgary Alberta

3. Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame

things to do in calgary - Canada Sports Hall of Fame

Conveniently positioned in the Olympic Park, the museum is hallowed floor for the sports activities of hockey, baseball, soccer, and the Olympics. Along with studying in regards to the a whole bunch of Canadians which were inducted, you may as well see the torch that was used to start the 1988 Winter Olympics. Later check your abilities by shadowboxing towards iconic boxer Lennox Lewis.

4. Bow River

things to do in calgary The Bow River
Take a Photo on the Peace Bridge

With intensive pathways for walkers, bikers, and the occasional rollerblader, following the Bow River is a good way to discover Calgary. The river cuts by town and the 6.1 km pathway offers welcoming entry to varied spots. Examples embrace Prince’s Island Park and the beloved Peace Bridge.

The Peace Bridge connects Memorial Drive with Eau Claire Park. We counsel renting a bicycle to discover the waterfront. Our lodge The Hotel Arts Kensington had complimentary bikes to use to discover town.

Take a Walking Tour

One of the most effective methods to discover a brand new metropolis is to be a part of a strolling tour. This 2-hour strolling tour permits you to reserve now and pay later. (straightforward cancellation inside 24 hours of tour in case your plans change. It takes you thru downtown Calgary to discover its elevated walkways and historical past. Places to see in Calgary embrace the Municipal Plaza, Calgary’s East Village and Old City Hall. You’ll additionally stroll essentially the most intensive pathway system in North America, and Chinatown.

5. Stephen Avenue

things to do in calgary Stephen Avenue

Arguably essentially the most stunning avenue in Calgary, finishing the Stephen Avenue Walk is a must-do. Placed in town heart, the avenue is simple to get to and gives historic buildings, fashionable outlets, and comfy eating places.

The magnificence goes up a notch in the summer season when the road turns into a hub of exercise. Once you will have accomplished the stroll, additionally, you will be shut to most of the high points of interest on this listing. From the Calgary Tower to Glenbow Museum.

6. Studio Bell & the National Music Centre

Home to the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, the Studio Bell & National Music Centre options an architectural design that’s as memorable because the reveals themselves. Inside, you’ll uncover an abundance of memorabilia and devices, that includes iconic Canadian musicians similar to Neil Young, Bryan Adams and Oscar Peterson.

By becoming a member of the backstage tour, you’ll be able to discover centuries of historic devices and study native music icons. The spotlight of the tour, nevertheless, is the journey by the long-lasting Rolling Stones recording studio and an opportunity to play some devices alongside the journey.

7. Prince’s Island Park

things to do in calgaparks

On an island alongside the Bow River, Prince’s Island Park comes with 50-acres of pure area to discover. On a sunny day in Calgary, seize a picnic and calm down underneath the shady timber. Or you’ll be able to eat on the River Cafe, a superb eating restaurant situated inside the park

Connected to downtown Calgary by way of three pedestrian bridges, you’ll uncover ample strolling and biking tracks to stretch out your legs. If you didn’t carry a picnic, there’s a great restaurant to dine at, and you may additionally come across stay music as you stroll the paths. Prince’s Island Park is close to the Eau Claire Market. Combine your park day by exploring the market’s collection of one-of-a-kind finds and specialty treats.

8. Calgary Folk Music Festival

things to do in calgary Folk Music Festival

Over 4 days, Prince’s Island goes to one other stage with incredible solo acts and bands lighting up the area. Boogie underneath the balmy Calgary solar and hear to your favourite tunes or uncover new musicians to fall in love with. Alongside the stay performances, one can find a number of workshops, arts and crafts, together with scrumptious meals distributors. When the music stops, that doesn’t imply the enjoyable ends. You are inside strolling distance of the downtown core, with loads of choices to hold the night time rolling.

9. Expo Latino

One of the most effective festivals in Calgary is Expo Latino. Held yearly in August, Expo Latino is the most important Latin pageant in Canada. With ample stay music, room to dance, and superb Latin delicacies, you’ll be able to’t miss Expo Latino.

10. Fort Calgary

things to do in calgary fort calgary

At the union of the Bow and Elbow Rivers, Fort Calgary was the primary outpost of the North West Mounted Police. To at the present time, you’ll be able to nonetheless see the unique foundations of the fort whereas the Fort Calgary Museum tells the story of town from its basis to fashionable occasions. You’ll be taught of the Métis’ historical past and affect in Calgary and the way the Elbow River and Bow Rivers are vital to Indigenous tradition and heritage.

11. Heritage Park Historical Village

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If Fort Calgary offers a glimpse into Western Canada’s historical past on the Heritage Park Historical Village offers the complete image. The park is dwelling to a collection of historic buildings from the pioneer period with ample costumed interpreters to assist you journey again in time. Fun Fact: This is Canada’s largest residing historical past museum!

The buildings cowl 4 key durations in Calgary’s historical past. You’ll uncover an 1860s fur-trading fort, a city sq. from the early twentieth century together with the favored outdated steam engine. Jump on for a experience across the village. Other actions embrace a paddlewheel tour on the scenic Glenmore Reservoir and a go to to Gasoline Alley Museum. A spot stuffed with classic automobiles and interactive reveals.

12. The Military Museums

Displaying the essential efforts of Canada’s military through the First and Second World Wars, the Military Museums supply superb perception into this era of human historical past.

The museums go into nice element, protecting tales of the courageous women and men who put their lives on the road. Here you’ll be able to be taught what it was like to be in the trenches on the Western Front, or flying a bomber throughout WWII. Your go to will even include the prospect to view varied army automobiles, together with tanks.

13. Glenbow Museum

things to do in calgary Glenbow Museum

If it’s a depressing day and also you’re questioning what to do in Calgary when it’s raining, then the reply is the Glenbow Museum. Within downtown Calgary, the museum focuses on artwork and tradition in Western Canada. With over one million artifacts, artwork items, and images on show, put together to take a deep dive into modern life and tradition in this nook of the world.

The Museum additionally presents an incredible look into the values, traditions, and heritage of indigenous peoples who’ve lived alongside the Northwestern Plains for hundreds of years.

14. Calaway Park

Wondering what enjoyable issues to do in Calgary as a household? Well, you’ll be able to’t go incorrect with a day at Calaway Park. As the largest out of doors amusement park in Western Canada, Calaway Park guarantees to be a enjoyable day for everybody.

The park comes with over 30 rides, of which many will get the center pumping. For some extra relaxed enjoyable, you’ll be able to play nearly two dozen carnival-style video games. Better but, get pleasure from a present at Calaway Park’s very personal 3D theater.

15. Fish Creek Park

The second-largest city park in Canada has pleasant strolling trails by forests and alongside the famend creek. The designated pure space is dwelling to some 200 species and is a good place to get pleasure from bird-watching.

16. Watch the Calgary Flames

things to do in Calgary - watch a Calgary Flames Hockey game

Hockey is Canada’s hottest sport and by an enormous margin. One of the most effective methods to get into the native spirit is to go to the Saddledome and watch the Calgary Flames tear up the ice

The aptly named Saddledome certainly seems to be like a saddle from the surface. From October to April, the sector sells out a number of occasions every week. If you’re on a finances, tickets to see the Flames might be low cost, particularly in contrast to a Maple Leaf’s recreation in Toronto. Tickets to video games towards the Edmonton Oilers might be aggressive. But watching the 2 bitter rivals face-off is likely one of the finest issues to do in Calgary.

17. Theatre Calgary

If you’re in search of one other exercise at night time in Calgary, why not go to the Theater? Theatre Calgary is an expert theatre firm and performing arts theatre that hosts Broadway productions.

18. Calgary Zoo

Zoos are usually not usually listed on our to do listing, however they do have a spot in conservation and schooling. Plus, the Calgary Zoo is famend for its conservation efforts serving to uncommon and endangered species. The Calgary Zoo additionally has a botanical backyard and butterfly conservatory. If you’re in search of issues to do in Calgary for the entire household, you might have considered trying to contemplate a visit to the Calgary Zoo.

19. Calgary Stampede

Calgary Stampede

Over ten days in July the world-famous Calgary Stampede takes place at Stampede Park. Locals and up to one million vacationers descend on the occasion.

Known because the ‘greatest outdoor show on earth, guests are enthralled by rodeo events and exhibitions to stage shows and pancakes breakfasts. The history of the Calgary Stampede can be traced back to the late 19th century and its reputation grows by the year.

Where to Eat in Calgary

where to eat in calgary

Calgary has an excellent foodie scene and there are plenty of places to have a delicious meal. These are a few of our favorite restaurants.

Charcut Roasthouse was voted as one of Canada’s high 10 finest new eating places by enRoute Magazine. It’s a carnivore lovers delight at Charcut, a positive wager is to order the particular of the day from their customized constructed rotisserie. When visiting Alberta, you have to have Alberta Beef, and that is the place to attempt it.

Model Milk is and open idea kitchen overlooking the restaurant the place patrons can sit on the bar and watch the workers at work. The menu has a really European flare and adjustments recurrently following what’s in season.

Day Trips from Calgary

Calgary is conveniently situated on the Trans Canada Highway linking, Calgary, Canmore, Banff and Lake Louise. No go to to Alberta can be full with out seeing these stunning locations.

20. Banff National Park

Best Hikes in Banff National Park

One of the most effective day journeys from Calgary is Banff National Park, dwelling to towering mountains and the storybook Lake Louise. You can attain the park in 90 minutes however the surroundings is probably going to have you ever stopping at common intervals.

After arriving in the park, proceed on to the lake. Spectacular mountain vistas encompass you at each flip, carved over millennia by the sluggish motion of glaciers. The result’s the gorgeous turquoise waters of Lake Louise. Head out on the lake or stroll the lakeshore path.

With mountains hovering in direction of the heavens, Banff National Park is the definition of unforgettable. In the winter there may be world class snowboarding and snowboarding and in the summer season you’ll be able to go mountain biking, or climbing. Read extra: The Best Things to do in Banff, Alberta

21. Canmore

day trips from calgary canmore

Canmore is situated between Calgary and Banff and is a superb cease for a day. In reality, we’ve spent a number of days in Canmore from exploring its many climbing trails in the summer season to snowshoeing and cross nation snowboarding in the winter. One of the most effective issues to do is to take a helicopter tour over the Canadian Rockies to see the spectacular surroundings of Banff and Lake Louise. Read extra: The Best Things to do in Canmore, Alberta

22. Drumheller

hoodoos of drumheller

One of our favourite day journeys from Banff is the unimaginable city of Drumheller. Take a highway journey to see the hoodoos, Royal Tyrrell Dinousaur museum and canyons of the world. The Atlas Coal Mine is a good tour for the entire household and also you’ll even get to see the world’s largest dinosaur. Read extra: 17 Awesome Things to do in Drumheller, Alberta

23. Take The Rocky Mountaineer to Vancouver

rocky mountaineer jasper

One of the world’s finest practice journeys leaves from Calgary on its method to Vancouver. If you will have just a few days to fill in your Calgary itinerary, contemplate a once-in-a-lifetime journey on the Rocky Mountaineer.

The luxurious practice travels alongside the historic Canada Pacific Line, venturing deep into the snow-capped peaks of the Rocky Mountains. Along the best way, you’ll have the prospect to cease at Canmore, Banff National Park, or Jasper for quite a lot of spectacular day journeys.

How to get to Calgary

How to get to Calgary Alberta

The foremost level of entry to Alberta’s largest metropolis is from Calgary Airport. You can have quite a lot of transport choices to select from.

There is an categorical bus to downtown that leaves each half hour between 5 am and midnight and prices $6.35 USD. The journey takes half-hour. A shuttle leaves from Bus Bay 8 each half hour from 8 am to midnight. The shuttle prices $12 USD and connects to most metropolis inns. A taxi experience from the airport to downtown prices roughly $35 USD.

Best time to go to Calgary

Best Time to Visit Calgary

With a stability of city and mountain adventures to embark on, there may be by no means a nasty time to go to Calgary. The winter months supply nice native snowboarding and decrease room charges. In the autumn, you’ll get pleasure from reasonable temperatures and exquisite surroundings because the leaves flip to auburn.

However, you’ll be able to’t go previous summer season as the most effective time to go to Calgary. With all of the festivals and stay occasions plus the Calgary Stampede, it’s a magical time of yr. Book as far in advance as potential to lower your expenses on lodging.

Where to keep in Calgary

Where to stay in Calgary Alberta

Even as town continues to develop, the most effective place to base your self is inside Calgary’s downtown. You can be shut to the overwhelming majority of points of interest from the Bow River to Stephen Avenue.

Hotel Arts Kensington – Calgary

We have stayed at this boutique lodge in Calgary just a few occasions and it’s excellent. The Hotel Artis is a luxurious boutique lodge that goes the additional mile. Located in the center of Kensington Village, it has a cool and funky vibe that’s nice for nightlife. They supply free bike loans on the lodge and it’s situated alongside the pedestrian path working alongside the river. Check out costs on TripAdvisor

More Calgary Hotels

Luxury – Fairmont Palliser – You can’t go incorrect with this historic lodge. Operating for greater than 100 yeras, this luxurious lodge in the central enterprise district is close to lots of Calgary’s high points of interest. It’s shut to the CORE procuring Centre, cultural points of interest and leisure. Budget – Best Western Plus Downtown gives visitors spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains. Offering studios together with one and two-bedroom suites get pleasure from free breakfast and WiFi whereas being mere steps from the downtown enjoyable. Mid-Range – In the center of Calgary, one can find a number of mid-range inns, together with International Hotel & Spa. The lodge gives beneficiant room sizes, complimentary continental breakfast, a gymnasium, and a heated pool.

So, there you will have it. These are the most effective issues to do in Calgary for the entire household. Whether you’re utilizing town as a leaping off level to discover the Rocky Mountains or for a metropolis break, Calgary is a superb selection as the most effective cities in Canada to go to it doesn’t matter what the season.

Plan Your Trip to Alberta with these Resources

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