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Calgary travel blog — the fullest calgary guide & what to do in calgary for first-timers.

Toronto, Vancouver are probably the first names that people will think of when it comes to Canada tourism. However, this country is extremely large and there are many other attractive destinations and cities with countless interesting things for us to explore. One of them is Calgary – which was once voted as the most livable city in North America. And in this article, we will share with you everything about Calgary to help you make a perfect trip to this beautiful city. So, is Calgary worth visiting, what to do in Calgary and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Calgary for the first-time? Let’s check out our Calgary travel blog (Calgary blog) with the fullest Calgary travel guide (Calgary city guide, guide to Calgary, Calgary guide, Calgary tourist guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit, what to eat and top things to do in Calgary to find out the answer!

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With a vibrant, modern life, rich tradition and a desirable green living space, Calgary is planned to be a modern city, with a developed transportation system and bustling streets. Coming to Calgary, visitors not only discover the beautiful natural landscape but also experience a dynamic city no less than the leading cities of the United States.

Calgary travel blog: Overview of Calgary

Calgary is the largest city in in the southern provincial state of Alberta, located near the Rocky Mountains. It has many skyscrapers that thrive on one resource: Oil. Calgary is the “oil center” of Canada. Due to the fast and strong development, it makes Calgary more American and more vibrant than many other Canadian cities. Visiting the tourist sites, attractions of Calgary is easy because the city is well planned, with an excellent public transport system.

Calgary is about 300km from Edmonton and 240km from the border with the United States. With an area of ​​825 square kilometers, a population of more than 1.6 million people, Calgary is currently Canada’s third largest city. Despite being a rich, bustling and developed industrial city, Calgary topped the list of the greenest cities in the world (according to Forbes magazine in 2007), this also explains why people call this “green industrial city”.

Calgary has an average elevation of about 1,045 meters above sea level. The main terrain here is mountainous and majestic plateau. Not only that, this city is also considered the “oil field” of Canada. Therefore, Calgary has an extremely developed economy, people’s living standards are very high. In recent years, the city government has also made strong investments in tourism sector, making it one of Canada’s top destinations.

The Economist Intelligence Unit has ranked Calgary as the most livable city in North America in both 2018 and 2019. Calgary has been a top contender for the title for the past 10 years. Calgary was also ranked as the best city in the world for motorists in 2019.

Calgary blog: When to visit?

Calgary is influenced by a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold dry winters, but compared to many other Canadian cities, it has a much milder and more pleasant climate.

The best time to come here is from June to August every year, this is the time when Calgary has a pleasant cool air and takes place many festivals and special events of the city. In addition, if visitors want to experience winter activities such as skiing, they can also choose to travel to Calgary during the period from November to March.

Calgary guide: How to get to Calgary?

Calgary International Airport is located about 17km northeast of downtown Calgary. To getting to the city center, you can choose a taxi or shuttle service for about 40 USD. A more economical solution is to go by bus (costs about 10 USD) depends on routes.

To find the cheap airfares as well as best flight routes based on your location, you can hit Google Flights , Skyscanner or Kayak to hunt in advance.

Calgary travel guide: Getting around Calgary

You can choose the means of transportation in the city easily and economically thanks to the advanced transportation system here. Calgary, like many cities in Canada, has a good public transport system. The system has a light rail system (C-Train), regular and low-rise buses and community buses. Transit bus routes run through most of Calgary’s major roads.

Calgary travel blog: Where to go, what to do in Calgary and top things to do in Calgary

Calgary tower.

Address: 101 9 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 1J9, Canada Hours: 12–9PM/Saturday, Sunday: 10AM–9PM

As soon as you arrive in Calgary, you will definitely be impressed with a soaring tower in the center of the city with a red observatory, which is the Calgary Tower – the tourist symbol of this city.

Not only is a famous tourist spot, the Calgary Tower is also considered a symbol of the city. It was built in 1967, with a height of up to 197 meters. This is currently the second tallest tower in Canada (after CN Tower in Toronto with a height of 553 meters).

On the top of the tower there is an observatory surrounded by a layer of transparent glass. This is a great place for you to see the beautiful city of Calgary from above or admire the majestic scenery of the Rockies located not far away.

In the city of Calgary, there is an interesting neighborhood that anyone who comes here wants to explore is Chinatown. Here, you will have the opportunity to get lost in a Chinese world right in Canada. Not only that, this place is also considered as a culinary paradise with countless attractive street foods of China as well as many other Asian countries that you can enjoy such as the most Chinese signature dish Dimsum.

Bow River and Peace Bridge

Flowing through the heart of the city of Calgary is the beautiful and poetic Bow River. The river water is clear and green with undulating white cliffs. Please go up to the Peace Bridge with green trees to check in with beautiful photos. In winter, the Bow River freezes over and is a favorite place for people to enjoy skating here.

The Peace Bridge spanning the romantic Bow River is a place that anyone visiting Calgary wants to have a check-in. The river water below is clear and green, combined with the red color of the bridge to create a charming scene.

Calgary Zoo

Address: 210 St. George’s Drive NE, Calgary, AB T2E 7V6, Canada Hours: 9AM–5PM

Another place you should not miss is the Calgary Zoo. There are currently about 1,400 animals, from 272 different species living here. Among them are rare and endangered species. The zoo has a Prehistoric Park area, with life-size dinosaur models in ancient natural formations.

Olympic Park

You may not know, in 1988, the Winter Olympics were successfully held in Calgary and this place became the first Canadian city to hold the position of the host of this major worldwide sports festival.

At that same time, Calgary built a high-speed skating rink on the campus of the University of Calgary, becoming one of the largest indoor skating rinks in the world. If you come here in winter, don’t forget to visit this famous ice rink to experience fascinating winter sports!

Glenbow Museum

Address: 130 9 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0P3, Canada

A history and art museum in the city, which focuses on the history of unknown peoples in North America. The museum’s good location and many permanent art collections make it a must-visit in Calgary. In 2021, the museum was undergoing major renovations with plans to expand the existing and subsequent artworks to open to the public for a period of three years.

If you don’t like the outdoor recreational activities, check out the art galleries on Stephen Avenue and the Glenbow Museum downtown.

Devonian Gardens

Address: CORE Shopping Centre, 333 7 Ave SW 4th floor, Calgary, AB T2P 1B5, Canada Hours: 11AM–5PM/Sunday: 12–5PM

As an indoor botanical garden in the heart of the city, this unique green space features hundreds of different plants and trees. Like an urban oasis in the heart of the city, the indoor park is located inside one of the floors of the shopping mall. It is one of the great and perhaps only largest indoor places in the world to see tropical gardens in a visit to Downtown Calgary’s cultural sites.

Bowness Park

Address: 8900 48 Ave NW, Calgary, AB T3B 2B2, Canada Hours: 5AM–11PM

Located on the banks of the Bow River in the Bowness neighborhood of Calgary, the park is especially known for its lagoons, skating rinks, picnic spots, and overall serene setting. This green space is one of the city’s favorite spots for boating and riverside picnics and one of the city’s best all-season locations.

Calgary Stampede

The Calgary Stampede is the city’s most popular festival. During the 10 days of the festival, horse riding competitions, music and agricultural product displays attract millions of visitors. This is an opportunity for visitors to join the cheering crowd to watch the horse-drawn carriage performances, or hold their breath to watch the adventurous bull-riding competition.

Calgary is an extremely ideal destination for an overseas trip in your summer, because in the summer there is a very special rodeo Stampede (this is considered the largest event in the world). You have been fascinated by the wild beauty of the cowboys of the West through the movies, rest assured that you will see many such “manly men” in this event.

Fish Creek Provincial Park

Fish Creek Park is the perfect spot for those looking for a taste slice of nature in the American skies where there are walking trails that lead through forested areas; and along streams. There are also several heritage buildings in the park.

The Hangar Flight Museum

Address: 4629 McCall Way NE, Calgary, AB T2E 8A5, Canada Hours: 10AM–4PM

Also known as the Aero Space Museum of Calgary focuses on Canadian and Western Canadian aviation history, about Canadian pilots who fought in World War II.

In the museum there are series of exhibits a variety of aircrafts, simulators, aeronautical art prints, radio equipment, and information on aviation history. The museum is housed in a large building near the Calgary airport.

Heritage Park

Address: 1900 Heritage Dr SW, Calgary, AB T2V 2X3, Canada Hours: 10AM–5PM

On 127 acres next to Glenmore Reservoir Calgary, visitors will be able to visit the typical cultural models here. Friendly atmosphere and information, interesting images and landscapes at Heritage Park will bring attraction not only for adults but also for children.

Royal Tyrrell Museum

Address: 1500 N Dinosaur Trail, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y0, Canada Hours: 9AM–9PM

An in Drumheller Valley, about 135km from Calgary, visitors can view fossils of these dinosaurs at the Royal Tyrrell Museum.

At night, go to the Jubilee Theatre, enjoy a Broadway musical, opera or ballet. Or cross the Bow River, to 17th Southeast Avenue, or International Food Avenue, to enjoy the multicultural cuisine, from Ethiopia, Portugal, Vietnam, India Philippines, Hong Kong to many other regions. This is a must-visit destination for foodies.

In addition, Calgary is also close to the Banff, Canmore and Kananaskis ski resorts. The city is also not far from the Alberta Badlands, a natural landscape with magical rock formations, paleontological sites and ghost towns.

Rocky Mountains

Coming to Calgary you should not miss the opportunity to go to the Rocky Mountain road, this is one of the most beautiful and famous roads of the Rocky Mountains which starting from the town of Jasper to the town of Banff located about an hour and a half east of Calgary.

These two towns are famous for being beautiful because they have many wooden houses as well as flowers everywhere on the streets or cities crowded with tourists and towering rocky mountains.

On both sides of the road are majestic rocky mountains, waterfalls rivers and streams or snow fields as well as lakes and ponds. This is sure to be one of Banff’s popular winter destinations to be reached. Other highlights on this part of the mountain (at the top 3,600 meters) include Lake Louise, Kicking Horse and Rogers Pass.

Banff National Park

Located in the Rocky Mountains of Alberta, Banff National Park has endless mountain terrain, wildlife, numerous glacial lakes, dense forests, and everything that defines Canada’s richest natural scenery. The park is known as Canada’s oldest national park, featuring many of the country’s famous lakes, including the famous Moraine Lake and Lake Louise.

Banff National Park also has Canada’s most iconic hot spring, known as Banff Upper Hot Springs or Canadian Rockies Hot Springs. The hot springs pools are one of the park’s commercial developments with spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains. Banff Upper Hot Springs is one of the park’s beautiful UNESCO Heritage Sites.

Calgary travel blog: Shopping in Calgary

Calgary is a great place to shop. Visitors will find an array of fashion boutiques in Inglewood and 17th Street by Alberta artisans, from Ette evening wear and Rubaiyat jewelry.

West Edmonton Mall with 350,233 m2, is one of the largest shopping places in the world, 3 hours north of Calgary by car. In addition to 800 booths and diverse services, the center also has the world’s largest indoor theme park and an ice palace. In addition, West Edmonton Mall also has an 18-hole miniature golf course, a cinema and a bowling alley.

Calgary travel guide: What to eat?

The people of Calgary are very gourmet, the dishes in the city are often delicately prepared, perfect like French florentines, Cheezy Waffle Sandwich, Salmon Lox Sandwich, Big Kahuna, Spolumbo Bun, etc.

The wild cowboy feel of the city of Calgary in Canada  is reflected in steaks you’ll find in its cuisine. Calgary citizens are mostly immigrants, so don’t be surprised when you find Japanese cuisine, Thai, Greek, Indian, Korean, German, Spanish or Middle Eastern in the city.

Calgary blog: Where to stay?

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Hyatt Regency Calgary ( Agoda , Booking )
• Grey Eagle Resort & Casino ( Agoda , Booking )
• Wyndham Garden Calgary Airport ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hampton Inn by Hilton Calgary Airport North ( Agoda , Booking )
• Fairmont Palliser ( Agoda , Booking )
• Carriage House Hotel & Conference Centre ( Agoda , Booking )
• Le Germain Hotel Calgary ( Agoda , Booking )
• Best Western Plus Port O’Call Hotel ( Agoda , Booking )

Check out more top and best hotels on Agoda.com or Booking.com

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Calgary you can refer to

• Calgary: Calgary Tower General Admission Ticket
• Calgary: Heritage Park Historical Village Admission Ticket
• Calgary Downtown: 2-Hour Introductory Walking Tour
• Calgary: 3.5-Hour Bus City Tour with Gasoline Alley Museum
• Calgary & Lake Louise: Smartphone Audio Driving Tour
• From Calgary: Private Banff National Park Day Trip
• Downtown Calgary: Smartphone Audio Walking Tour
• Calgary: Discover Calgary Smartphone Audio Walking Tours

Read more Canada travel guide here .

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40+ BEST Things to Do in Calgary, Alberta (updated 2024)

Disclaimer: this page may contain affiliate links. please review our full terms and conditions for more information and our privacy policy. note that any pricing, operating hours, or other such information provided below may have changed since initial publication..

Compiled by the Road Trip Alberta team

Last Updated on July 1, 2024

We lived in Calgary and the area for many years, back when the city was primarily known for just a few things: the oil industry, the famous Calgary Stampede , the 1988 Winter Olympics, and lots of Alberta beef at the many steak restaurants. While those things are still an essential part of the city’s fabric, on every return visit since we left in late 2009, we always marvel at its evolution and all the new and exciting things to do in Calgary.

Many of our friends still live in the southern city, and we often find ourselves back there to visit or attend business meetings. But in every spare moment, we endeavour to explore something new! We’ve taken many photos at many angles of the dynamic Wonderland sculpture. We’ve done the same with the Peace Bridge, checking it out at the first day’s light and dusk.

We’ve eaten at so many fantastic new restaurants (although it is hard to pull us away from our major fave—Native Tongues); the magnitude of the explosion of exceptional eateries in the last decade is sometimes hard to fathom. But it happened, and the culinary scene alone is doing a lot to draw people in.

However, there is so much more to see and do. Calgary is a constantly evolving city, and its prime location also makes it a perfect base to explore diverse neighbouring regions.

Acknowledgments

The land on which Calgary is located is in the traditional territories of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) and the people of the Treaty 7 region in Southern Alberta, which includes the Siksika, the Piikuni, the Kainai, the Tsuut’ina and the Stoney Nakoda First Nations, including Chiniki, Bearpaw, and Wesley First Nations. The City of Calgary is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region III.

Facts About Calgary

The city of Calgary started as a North-West Mounted Police fort called Fort Brisebois (and eventually Fort Calgary). It was built in this area because of the importance of the meeting of the Bow and Elbow rivers. It was incorporated as a town in 1884 and then a city later in 1894. Initially a small town, the population grew significantly when the Canadian Pacific Railway finally connected Calgary to Eastern Canada in 1883.

Only 18 years after becoming a city, the first Calgary Stampede was hosted by Guy Weadick. The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth has only continued to grow since then! Calgary started as an oil city after multiple Southern Alberta oil strikes in 1914, 1920, and 1947. Though this shaped the city as the fastest-growing city by the ‘50s, it was also known for its arts and education with the inception of the Glenbow Museum and the University of Calgary in 1966. The cultural importance of this city continued to grow in 1988 when it hosted the 1988 Winter Olympic Games – earning its reputation as a hot spot for international travel.

Boasting a population of over 1.3 million people, Calgary is the largest city in Alberta. Calgary’s altitude is 1,048 meters above sea level, and it is only 80 kilometres east of the Rockies. Still sporting its long-held nickname – Cow Town – is a modern, urban city built out of Western tradition.

• Calgary was dubbed the Sandstone City after a fire in 1886 burned much of the wooden home’s to the ground and the city rebuilt with sandstone from the banks of the Bow. Old City Hall is one of the only sandstone buildings left in the city now.
• The dry climate in Calgary is attributed to its mountain-high altitude. The city frequently experiences chinooks in the winter – warm, moist wind that raises the temperature dramatically.
• Calgary is the birthplace of the Caesar! That spicy vodka and clam-infused-tomato juice cocktail was invented by Walter Chell for the opening of Marco’s Italian in 1969.
• The city proudly hosted the 1988 Winter Olympics. That year held Olympic favourites like the Jamaican bobsled team and Eddie the Eagle. This was a formative moment in Calgary history.
• Calgary is a city of helpers. It has the most volunteers per capita out of all Canadian cities!

How to Get to Calgary

Driving to calgary, how far is calgary from edmonton.

Driving from Edmonton to Calgary will take approximately three hours (almost exactly 300 km). If you want to mix things up with an adventurous alternate route (or two!), check out our guide for getting from  Calgary to Edmonton  (and vice versa).

How far is Calgary from Vancouver?

Driving from Vancouver to Calgary , which is 971 km away, will take you around 10 hours. We recommend splitting up the drive and taking in some of the sites along the way, such as stops in Kamloops, Revelstoke, Golden, and  Banff !

How far is Calgary from the United States?

Getting to Calgary from the  Del Bonita  border crossing takes roughly 3.5 hours (when driving on AB-2 North). From the  Carway Border  Crossing, you’ll be driving 260 km or 2 ¾ hours via AB-2 North. Another close border crossing is the  Chief Mountain  Border Station. The drive from here is also approximately 3 hours long.

Flying to Calgary

The Calgary International Airport (YYC) is busy and has many connections, making it easy to get there. Getting into the city from the airport is possible through public transit, rental cars, and shuttles. 

• There are multiple car rental options at the Calgary airport. Book in advance to avoid any hassle! We recommend booking via  RentalCars.com to select the cheapest rate or to book with whichever company you prefer.
• There are  hotel courtesy  shuttles that take you to nearby hotels, plus a shuttle service that takes you straight to downtown Calgary.
• Public transportation recently started serving the Calgary airport regularly. You’ll find buses across the roadway on the arrivals level at the domestic terminal and international terminal. Purchase tickets at Door 15, Pillar 32 and Door 1, Pillar 7 (debit, credit and coin payment accepted). The cost is $8 per person. For route information, visit the  Calgary Transit website .
• A taxi from the airport to downtown will take approximately 25 minutes and cost between $40 and $45 (under usual driving conditions).
• Uber  is also in Calgary and does pick-ups and drop-offs at YYC. The airport has three pickup zones: door 1, door 12 or door 17 in the passenger pick-up zone.

Bus to Calgary

Multiple bus companies have stops in Calgary (it’s easy to compare them on  Busbud , but here are a couple of our favourite options):

• We’ve personally taken  Red Arrow  several times and always had a seamless and on-time journey. There are three drop-off points (north, downtown, and the Calgary International Airport). The Deerfoot Inn and Casino is also a stopping point, but it is by reservation only. The current cost, if travelling to Calgary from Edmonton, is approximately $75.
• Ebus  is Red Arrow’s less-luxurious sister company. It offers similar pick-up/drop-off points but at a lower rate. For example, travelling to Calgary from Edmonton costs nearly $64.

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• We've developed ebook itineraries and travel guides for hot Alberta destinations and for a variety of 7-day trips. For one low price, you'll get local travel advice that you WON'T find elsewhere!
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Things to Know About Visiting Calgary

Getting around, calgary transit.

Calgary Transit is an easy, cheap way to travel around the city. There are many free spots along the train line to park and ride throughout the city (it’s a great way to avoid parking fees downtown). Many bus and train routes get you from the north to the south of the city. Check out  schedule maps  and fees.

For quick, easy rides around town, check out one of the many taxi services:  Checker Cabs ,  Associated Cabs , or Calgary Cab .

Uber operates in the greater Calgary area, between Airdrie (to the north), Okotoks (to the south) and Chestermere (to the east).

Biking and Walking Path Network

Make use of the most extensive urban pathway network in North America! Calgary bike paths are made for everyone—walkers and cyclists. There are many pathways downtown, and the network spreads to outer neighbourhoods from there. Check out the  City of Calgary’s maps  for more precise directions.

Downtown Plus 15

Found yourself in beautiful downtown Calgary on a not-so-beautiful day? The city has an extensive “Plus 15” system of indoor connected walkways just above the downtown streets. Use the system to explore the many buildings and shops.  Download the Plus 15 map here.

Best Times to Visit Calgary

Calgary is great to visit at any time of the year, with many activities to keep you busy year-round! Visiting in the summer months, from June through August, will ensure days full of festivals and a beautiful river valley setting. Longer days in the summer are also something to take advantage of. And don’t forget about the world-famous Calgary Stampede that occurs every second week of July.

Calgary in winter can also be a delight. While there are guaranteed to be a couple of weeks where the city is experiencing an inhospitable deep freeze, warm chinook winds that blow off the mountains can also melt it all and sometimes bring temperatures into the summertime range.

Being within range of the mountains also makes day trips to famous ski slopes possible. (Check out our guide on how to get from Calgary to Banff .)

Where to Stay in Calgary

There are plenty of accommodation choices in Calgary. Whether you’re looking for an experience or just a simple room, there’s something for everyone.

Calgary Hotels

Downtown –  Stay in the heart of downtown at the historic  Fairmont Palliser  Hotel. You’ll be within walking distance of some of the city’s most renowned shops, entertainment, and restaurants! There is a spa with a pool to pamper yourself, too.

Beltline –   Hotel Arts  offers a beautiful and eclectic space; this boutique hotel in downtown Calgary is a must if you’re into the art scene. Sip cocktails and eat world-class food around the poolside (open to non-hotel guests too). The hotel features two superb local restaurants, and it sports its own commuter bike program to help you explore the city.

West Side –  The Alt Hotel Calgary University is brand new and opened in July 2023! When we’re looking for the perfect option to explore Calgary and a base to escape to Canmore or Banff for the day, this is the hotel we choose to stay at. Conveniently located in the city’s west end, it’s an excellent option for us to explore everything around Calgary or get to the mountains efficiently and quickly.

Want to see more options? Click through to see our guide to the best hotels in Calgary . If you are travelling with your pet, you might also want to check out our guide to pet-friendly hotels in Calgary .

AirBnbs and Rentals

Airbnb has always been one of our favourite ways to stay when we travel. There are plenty of options for Airbnbs and rentals in Calgary in all quadrants of the city. Here’s a post of our recommended  Calgary Airbnbs to stay at.

There are a few camping options very near the city limits and also other great ones within a few hours. Want the camping experience but need to rent an RV? This guide to RV rentals in Alberta (including Calgary) covers how to do it.

Sights to See in Calgary

Prince’s island park.

Prince’s Island Park  is a hub for cultural activities in the city. Catch some Shakespeare in the Park hosted by Theatre Calgary, and the famous Calgary Folk Festival is held here in late July. You can dine at the sublime  River Café or just enjoy a picnic in the grass and watch the wildlife go by!

Calgary Peace Bridge

This eye-catching red bridge was completed in 2012 and quickly became an iconic Calgary sight. It stretches across the Bow River, connecting Memorial Drive and Eau Claire Park. Take your time, enjoy some people-watching, and be sure to get a selfie!

Don’t miss this 12-metre-high metal sculpture in front of The Bow, Calgary’s tallest building. You can walk right through the sculptured mesh share of a girl’s head and get a new perspective on the downtown buildings.

Calgary’s East Village

Calgary’s East Village is an exciting city neighbourhood concentrated in a few well-connected walkable or bikeable streets. It’s referred to as “a catalyst of urban culture, a future-facing hub of optimism, ideas and energy that is helping the city live its next chapter.” It’s a perfect way to spend an afternoon with the family, checking out the cool shops, pubs, restaurants, and public art.

“The Last of Us” Filming Locations

From Mount Royal University and SAIT to Fish Creek Provincial Park and the neighbourhood of Inglewood, this HBO megahit starring Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey was shot all over Alberta but staged primarily in Calgary. If you want to see all of the sights and relive the magic (as well as find out where Pedro’s fave spot to eat was), check our article on The Last of Us filming locations .

Festivals in Calgary

Calgary boasts a  wide array of festivals  to please any interested goer. Top events include:

Calgary Stampede

Calgary Stampede  is easily the city’s biggest event, attracting millions of people to the city in early July to experience the greatest outdoor show on earth. Spend an afternoon watching the rodeo and the chuckwagon races, and stay for the world-renowned Grandstand show later in the evening. For thrill-seekers, the Midway has plenty of rides and lots of festival food to entice foodies.

Over the ten days, there are concerts (some free) throughout the grounds and in neighbouring venues with live music and other performances. Be sure to take a walk through downtown Calgary during any day of the Stampede, as you will indeed find a free pancake breakfast somewhere.

Beakerhead  in mid-September is one of our favourites as it brings together the worlds of science, engineering, and art. The events, exhibits, and concerts will entertain, educate, and surprise you. They take place all over the city but culminate in a massive spectacle at Prince’s Island Park. This is an unmissable festival in Calgary!

Calgary Folk Festival

The Calgary Folk Festival is an annual “four-day family-friendly cultural and musical extravaganza.” Artists from Alberta, Canada, and around the world share live music and stories on multiple stages in the beautiful Princes Island Park. The Festival typically runs in July and is a local favourite for attractions in Calgary.

Chinook Blast

Locals and tourists embrace winter fun in Calgary by experiencing Chinook Blast – a six-week winter festival celebration. 2021 was the inaugural year of the festival featuring the best of Calgary’s artists, and it has been growing in popularity since then.

In addition to all the events, food trucks and displays, Chinook Blast anchors onto other popular festivals in Calgary during the winter months, including:

• High-Performance Rodeo
• Calgary Folk Music Festival’s Block Heater
• Glow Festival
• Ethnik Festival of Arts & Culture and
• BIG Winter Classic

Best Things to Do in Calgary

There are so many different and fun things to do in Calgary throughout all four seasons – from skiing inside the city to enjoying the best Calgary museums or taking in some of the fun Calgary bowling alleys (if that’s your thing) – visitors will never be bored in Cowtown. Here are some of the best things to do!

Calgary Zoo

The  Calgary Zoo  is one of the best things to do in town. It’s located near downtown and is a great place to spend a day with the whole family. The zoo is home to nearly 1,000 creatures across 119 species, and its mission is to become Canada’s leader in wildlife conservation.

The Calgary Zoo has many unique and extraordinary exhibits. Gorillas, polar bears, giraffes, and penguins are just a few of the animals you’ll find here. In the summer of 2023, the Calgary Zoo opened the Land of Lemurs, Canada’s first immersive lemur experience. Visitors will get to witness first-hand these rare creatures from Madagascar.

It’s not only summer that the Calgary Zoo is busy. The popular  ZooLights  during the Christmas season brings many visitors here as well.

Heritage Park Historical Village

Located just 15 minutes from downtown Calgary next to the Glenmore Reservoir, Heritage Park Historical Village is a fun spot to spend a day and is one of the top Calgary museums. The park is open all year round, and visitors will see and feel the past come to life through the authentic and interactive exhibits.

Self-guided walking tours give visitors the opportunity to learn about the history of Calgary and Western Canada. Guests will love the fully operational steam engine train (including rides), horse-drawn wagon rides, different daily activities, and the Gasoline Alley Museum, which features some vintage cars.

Fort Calgary

The National Historic Site of Fort Calgary is situated at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow Rivers, and visitors will learn about the complex story it has to tell. The Fort has always been a historical and cultural gathering place. The Mounties built Fort Calgary in 1875 and laid the foundations for what the city is today. Visitors can experience the interpretive centre, roam around the 40-acre park and step back in time by visiting the Hunt House and Métis cabin.

Go Rafting on the Bow River

The Bow River originates in the mountains and runs through downtown Calgary. A perfect summer afternoon can be spent on a raft floating down the gentle river (locals say it’s one of the city’s best things to do)!  Rent your own raft  or  go with a tour guide  so that you can sit back and enjoy the city-line views.

WinSport (Winter Sport Institute)

***The Winsport Bobsled Track is currently under repairs with no set date of when it will reopen.

Originally a venue for when Calgary hosted the 1988 Winter Games Olympics,  Winsport   (formerly known as Canada Olympic Park) is a hot spot for sports in the city. In the winter, you can  ski and snowboard  within city limits or even try hurling yourself down the Olympic bobsled track. In the summer, the Olympic Park ski hill is used for mountain biking and the  Monster Zipline,  where you can reach up to 120 km per hour!

Watch a Calgary Flames Game

Catching the excitement of a live Calgary Flames game is a must-see for any visitor. It’s Canada’s national pastime, and if you’re in town from October through April, grab a ticket and make your way to the Saddledome to watch a game. The Flames game atmosphere will be even more intense if the game is against the Edmonton Oilers!

Calgary Tower

One of the top attractions in Calgary is the view of the city from the Calgary Tower, a 190.8-metre free-standing observation tower. Have a bite to eat in the Sky 360 Restaurant and Lounge, and then stand on the Observation Deck to see a panoramic view (not recommended if you are afraid of heights!). Be sure to browse the gift shop afterward, which features unique Calgary Tower memorabilia.

Downhill Karting

If you’re an adrenaline junky, then Downhill Karting is a must-do on your visit to Calgary. You get to the top and start of the track via a chair-lift, and the excitement begins there! You will race down the hill, descending over 100 metres and winding down a 1.8 km track with over 50 twists and turns. It will surely get the blood pumping. The only question that remains is, who will take the checkered flag?

Spend a Day at Calaway Park

It’s fun for the whole family at Calaway Park . Open from May through October, there is so much to do at this outdoor amusement park. There are so many things to do here, including 32 rides, with the Vortex roller coaster, the log ride, and bumper boats being the most popular. Also included with the Calaway Park admission is the opportunity for visitors to enjoy unlimited rides, live entertainment, and access to the Haunted Hotel, Spray n’ Play, and Cinemagic 3D. The only things you need to bring extra money for are food and games!

Keep your eyes on the Calaway Park Events webpage as there are special happenings throughout the summer. Family fun night happens multiple times when the park is open for an extra two hours to get as many rides in as you can. And everyone loves dressing up for ‘Halloweekends’ throughout September.

Try an Escape Room

Have you ever felt the rush of trying to solve the clues to escape from a room? It’s pretty exciting when you solve that last clue to win with seconds to spare. Escape rooms are a fun way for your friends and family to bond and work together. There are plenty of different options for escape rooms in Calgary .

Studio Bell National Music Centre

The Bell National Music Centre is one of the top attractions in Calgary. The Centre has five floors of exhibitions telling the story of music in Canada. This is a place for music lovers to explore (and love). Visitors will have plenty to see and do, including the chance to experience the interactive instrument installations.

Any music fan will appreciate the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, located on the top floor of the National Music Centre. This hall is entirely dedicated to recognizing Canadian artists and icons who have made their mark in music. Studio Bell also holds frequent concerts, so keep an eye on its events page to see who and what acts are coming to town.

TELUS Spark

The  TELUS Spark Science Centre is one of Calgary’s places for the curious. It has fun things to do for kids and adults alike. Everyone can embrace their desire for exploration and discovery in science, technology, math, and art. 

Fun fact: In 2018, it set a Guinness World Record for the largest functioning Rubik’s Cube!

Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame

Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame is Canada’s largest and only national museum for sport. It’s one of the top Calgary attractions in Canada Olympic Park at the city’s west end. They focus on “recognition, education, curation and thought leadership with an emphasis on educating youth on the values, history, and culture of sport in Canada.”

Since its inception in 1955, close to 700 inductees have been named, and it’s the highest sporting honour awarded to Canada’s top athletes.

Calgary Military Museum

Learn all about the Canadian Military in Alberta at The Military Museums in southwest Calgary. The museum, on the Garrison base, actually houses eight separate museums, which include:

• The Naval, Army and Air Force Museums of Alberta
• Air Force Cold War Museum
• Four museums of the founding regiments

The museum is “dedicated to preserving the memories and traditions of the countless Canadians who proudly served their country through numerous wars and conflicts by their selfless dedication, commitment and courage.” At this incredible museum, visitors can see many exhibits and understand the role of the military throughout history.

Spruce Meadows

Just south of Calgary is Spruce Meadows , the home of internationally renowned horse-jumping competitions. Numerous tournaments and competitions are held throughout the year here, but none more prestigious than the Masters. This is part of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping , a four-competition season where riders can win up to 1 million Euros. The Masters is held every September for four exciting days on the grounds.

Spruce Meadows also hosts many other events throughout the year. In summer, it hosts several Garden Parties, and in the winter, it’s a popular spot for its Christmas Market and holiday lights throughout the grounds.

Treat Yourself to a Spa Day

After you’ve stuffed in all you can into your time in Calgary, book at least half a day off to unwind. Take a leisurely stroll in nature, get pampered with a massage, or even take a yoga class! The city has a lot to offer, so much so that we’ve got an entire guide to the  Calgary spa and wellness  scene for you to peruse.

Take a Calgary Tour

If you’d rather have a knowledgeable local lead you around Calgary to show you the sights, teach you some history, and give you the very best expert advice, then there are some really great tour operators in the city! From food to brewery tours, sightseeing to rafting on the Bow River and more, check out our article on Calgary tours to pick what you’d like to do.

Best Free Things to Do in Calgary

Glenbow museum.

***Note that the downtown location is closed for renovation and will become the JR Shaw Centre for Arts & Culture. During the renovation, visitors can go to the satellite gallery at the Glenbow at the Edison located on the second floor at 150 9 Ave SW.

Thanks to the $25 million JR Shaw Free Admission Endowment , admission to the Glenbow Museum will forever be free ! And there’s always something fascinating to see at the  Glenbow Museum , making it easily one of Calgary’s best things to do.

Learn about Alberta’s history, explore the West African collection, and check out the rotating exhibit that always proves popular! The Glenbow Museum always has an eye for great artists.

Nosehill Park

Take on these beautiful hiking trails right in the heart of Calgary! Nosehill Park boasts of being one of North America’s largest urban parks, taking up an area of over 11 square kilometres. Take in beautiful views of downtown and enjoy getting out into nature (without having to go very far).

Fish Creek Provincial Park

Fish Creek Provincial Park is one of the largest urban parks in North America! The park stretches for an astonishing 20 km at the south end of Calgary. When you are inside the park, you would never believe that you were in the middle of a busy city.

There are so many trails for hiking and biking, spots for nature viewing and photography and even an outstanding restaurant to enjoy a meal. In winter, Fish Creek Provincial Park is a popular spot for cross-country skiing. Be sure to stop into the visitor centre and see everything the park has to offer

Calgary ArtWalk Downtown

Explore the public art scene with the  Calgary ArtWalk . Every year, multiple galleries gather for 48 hours of art. Download the map and start your self-guided walk!

Calgary Central Public Library

The Calgary Central Library  is known for so much more than its books! Opened in late 2018, it was quickly noticed as an architectural marvel, even being recognized by TIME magazine as one of the  100 Greatest Places of 2019 . Take pictures outside and inside this beautiful building (which is also the new hot spot for graduation photos in the city). The central library also offers free use of its computers, meeting rooms, and more.

Take a Stephen Avenue Walk

Taking a stroll along the walking-only Stephen Avenue (8th Avenue) is another popular thing to do in Calgary. The street is full of commercial and entertainment spots and patios, making it a prime after-work go-to stop for a drink. In the summer, on hot days, the street will be packed with locals, and nightlife will buzz in the evenings.

The Inglewood Bird Sanctuary and Nature Centre

Providing a safe haven for migratory birds to rest their wings since 1929, the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary and Nature Centre is a beautiful spot found right in the heart of Calgary. It’s easy to forget you’re in a bustling city as you surround yourself with so much nature; in fact, 270 species of birds, 21 species of mammals and 347 species of plants have been recorded at various times within the nature centre! Open from 10 am until 4 pm Wednesday through Sunday, the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary and Nature Centre is free.

Enjoying the Holidays in Calgary

If all of the above isn’t enough for you, then try coming to Calgary during the holiday season! From skating on a frozen Olympic Plaza (or these other spots to go skating in Calgary) to taking in some of the awesome Christmas markets, there is always so much going on (see our post on Christmas in Calgary for plenty of ideas). And if you plan to be in the city at the end of December, check out all of the hot party spots in our article on New Year’s Eve in Calgary .

Best Spots to Eat in Calgary

Narrowing down the list of restaurants in Calgary is tough; in the last decade, it has earned its place as a top foodie city in Canada. With the number of  breweries in Calgary  and funky hole-in-the-wall restaurants increasing every year, you’ll have to make a couple of trips to try it all! And if you’re looking for more “specialty” eats, we’ve got full articles on where to get brunch , as well as Calgary cafes and coffee shops.

Here are our top picks for Calgary food spots:

Native Tongues

Does award-winning Mexican food sound like your kind of night? Not only does  Native Tongues  have a menu featuring mouth-watering tacos, but it also has extensive tequila choices. If you’re too tired to go out, don’t fret! There’s also a take-out/late-night menu so you can enjoy their food at home. 

Enjoy fine dining in the middle of Calgary’s scenic Prince’s Island Park at  River Café . Recognized as one of the most eco-friendly restaurants in Canada (and one of Calgary’s best), it is a great place for your taste buds and your conscience. The menu is created every season from the best local ingredients.

Calgary has a really good brewpub scene. There are so many good options to check out, but we recommend going to  Trolley 5 . The two-story restaurant is set up with lots of brewing equipment in view. The menu features fun takes on typical pub food, and they have a killer brunch menu! Alberta Beef Brisket & Egg Sandwich, anyone?

First Street Market – Moose & Poncho

Yes, the food hall concept has come to Calgary, too! Head to First Street Market for a yummy array of food and drinks to satisfy everyone. Our go-to is the divine Moose and Poncho – the au jus that comes with the delicious Birria tacos is seriously slurpable.

YYC Food Trucks

Also, step away from the restaurant experience and test out  YYC Food Trucks ! This group of passionate chefs and foodies attend multiple events around the city throughout the year, spreading street food culture, ranging from pizza to Asian fusion to local gelato.

Things to Do Near Calgary

There are so many things to do in Calgary, but it also serves as a perfect base for multiple day-trip opportunities. If you are itching to get out of the city and see more of what the province is about, you can’t go wrong in any direction. Here are some of our favourites:

Banff and Canmore

By far, the most popular road trip and day trip from Calgary is to head to the Canadian Rockies and experience the mountain resort town of Banff (and Canmore, which is on the way). It only takes about 1.5 hours to get to Banff National Park (see our Calgary to Banff route guide, which covers all your options and activities along the way).

From hiking to shopping to skiing and more, plenty will keep you busy. For what to do when you get there, check out our Banff destination guide. If you don’t have time to enjoy an extended time there, consider this one-day tour that will hit the highlights!

Canadian Badlands

Head on a road trip east from Calgary to step back in time (by millions of years)! Steeped in history, the Badlands of Alberta take you back to the time of dinosaurs, which you can hear more about at the iconic  Royal Tyrrell Museum  in Drumheller and  Dinosaur Provincial Park .

The landscape east is something out of an old spaghetti western, and tales from the past can be heard at places like the  Atlas Coal Mine  and seen at  Medalta in the Historic Clay District in  Medicine Hat .

Sundre Area

The town of Sundre is Only a couple hours’ drive from Calgary. It sits in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains – the peaks are still visible, but this spot offers more of a flavour of the Wild West. Full of ranch lands offering horseback riding to explore more of the terrain,  this area  is for nature enthusiasts who can appreciate the cowboy traditions that helped shape Alberta. Enjoy camping, white-water rafting, some good eats, and more.

Turner Valley

Many are surprised to find a  world-class distillery  south of Calgary, but to those who are privy to the gems south of the city, a day trip there is a no-brainer. Learn about Alberta’s cowboy history at the nearby  Bar U Ranch , and also make a pit stop to see the natural phenomenon of the  Okotoks Erratic . There is a lot to see in just one day!

Don’t Forget:

Visiting other spots in Alberta? Check out our extensive guide for all the things to do while visiting Banff , Edmonton , or just go for the whole she-bang and review our list of the 100+ best things to do in Alberta !

ALSO, don’t forget that while you’re on the road, you can download our FREE Road Trip Alberta bingo cards , to make it just that much more fun!

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Home » Travel Guides » Canada » 25 Best Things to Do in Calgary (Canada)

25 Best Things to Do in Calgary (Canada)

Canada is a great many things. It’s British Columbia’s rugged wilderness; Saskatchewan’s endless fields of sunburnt wheat; It’s the rich traditions of the Arctic north, it’s the quirky communities of the Nova Scotia and Newfoundland, and of course, it’s a unique selection of multicultural city centers, each with their own sense of identity. Calgary, located in the Province of Alberta, is one of Canada’s most understated cities, one that is often overshadowed by its more dazzling sister Vancouver on the west coast, or it’s big brother, Toronto, in the far east. But Calgary is one of those quintessentially Canadian cities that provides its visitors with experiences they won’t have elsewhere.

Also see: Things to do in Canada .

Nestled alongside the Bow River, about 50 miles east of the spectacular Canadian Rockies, Calgary is fifth largest city. Even more interesting is that Calgary’s population of 1.2 are among some of the youngest in Canada! That’s right, the average age in this city is 35.7, which means one thing; You are guaranteed to have a great night out in this town. But don’t be fooled, Calgary isn’t merely a party town, there are plenty of family friendly activities. Calgary is as multicultural as Canada’s larger cities, with some 120 different languages spoken here! The city’s wide open spaces, and laid back atmosphere give it the nickname “Cow Town”, couple that with the juxtaposition of a booming tech industry and a younger, multicultural demographic, there is an endless number of activities to keep you entertained. Here are the top 25 things to do in Calgary :

1. The Calgary Tower

Every major Canadian city has an impressive means to get a birds eye view of all the action and Calgary is no different. One of the best ways to orient yourself around any city is to get above it all and the Calgary Tower, some 1228 meters above sea level gives you a 360 view of the city. The 62 second trip from the bottom takes you to the first observation deck where you and 249 of your closes friends can enjoy sweeping, uninterrupted views. And once your breath has been completely stolen, head to the second observation deck and enjoy a cocktail, some appetizers and the best view in town.

2. The Calgary Zoo

Canada is home to a number of highly respected zoos, and the Calgary Zoo has not only joined the ranks, it leads the charge in terms of successful breeding programs, diversity of animals, research dollars and educational programs. The Calgary Zoo will take you on a journey through the heart of Africa with Hippos, Mountain Gorillas, Giraffes and anything else you might find on the Serengeti. Come get a feel for Canada’s wilderness and watch playful grizzlies and mischievous mountain goats. There are more than 1000 animals, along with botanical gardens, a butterfly conservatory, and Centre for Conservation and Research. If you have little ones along, this is one of the most entertaining things to do in Calgary.

3. Visit Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump

Anyone here in Calgary on a longer stay should consider some of the epic day trips a short drive away, especially if they’re history or archaeology buffs! Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump is an archaeological site renown around the world for its exquisite preservation of Plains People culture. The Plains People, an aboriginal people who first peopled the lands in and around Calgary, were skillful hunters, who cleverly chased these giant beasts over cliffs and later set up highly complex butchering and process stations. This is an incredibly essential component of Canada’s archaeological past, and   has been designated a Unesco World Heritage Site.

4. Heritage Park Historical Village

This award winning attraction is one of Western Canada’s most beloved and holds the esteemed title of being Canada’s largest living museum. Family friendly and a feast for the eyes and ears, the Heritage Park Historical Village boasts more than 200 exhibits, spread out over 127 acres of pristine land. Living museums take history from behind the glass and place it out in the open so visitors can experience it first hand. Exhibits include a First Nations Encampment from the 1880’s, and a peek into the lives of pre-railway settlers.

5. The Calgary Stampede

Most people think of south for a good rodeo. Perhaps the rolling hills of Montana or Wyoming, or better yet, the ten gallon hat capital of the world, Texas. But the ‘Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth’ happens right here in the modest city of Calgary. This century old show collides with the modernity of the 21st century to create one of the most entertaining displays of Wild West heritage. While good old fashion rodeo takes the main stage nightly, there are also chuck wagon races, cattle auctions, midway rides and games, an incredible array of southern inspired and not-so-southern cuisine, and of course, lot’s of cowboys! The Calgary Stampede happens every July and is well worth planning your visit around this time.

6. Shop 17th Ave & The Entertainment District

Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal are generally more renown for their calibre of shopping, however, with Calgary’s young demographic, just about anything you would find in the larger cities you’ll find on Calgary’s famed 17th Ave, plus a few quirky shops you won’t find elsewhere. From mainstream favorites like Gravity Pope, West Elm and Frank & Oak, to cool record shops, chic knitting boutiques and glitzy jewelry shops fit for any Manhattanite. If it’s retail therapy you’re after, punctuated with cocktails at the hottest wine bar in town, this are over 400 shops, restaurants and services at your beck and call.

7. Go on a Public Art Safari

Despite it’s rough and tumble cowboy reputation, Calgary was named the cultural capital of Canada in 2012. After receiving this designation, the number of outdoor art installations has exploded, with artists from around the country (and the globe) flocking to Calgary to experiment with their own unique mediums. Grab your camera, hit reset on your imagination, and stroll along somewhere like the Stephen Avenue Walk. Here you’ll find 10 metal tree sculptures, white in color, standing between 21-26 meters high, lit up at night. The trees are both an art installation, and a funky way to reduce sudden wind gusts that pick up along 8th Avenue S.W. If you’re interested in murals, Calgary artists Ivan Ostapenko, Daniel J. Kirk, and Kai Cabunoc-Boettcher have fantastic temporary installations up in the East Village area.

8. Catch a Flames Game

Canada is hockey country, with 7 NHL teams and millions of fans across the country. The province of Alberta is home to two Stanley Cup champion teams, the Calgary Flames and the Edmonton Oilers, home of the ‘Great One’, Wayne Gretzky. If you have the opportunity to visit Calgary between the months of October – April, treat yourself to some of the most exciting, fast-paced hockey in the league by seeing either team play.

9. Visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum

Alberta is a haven for paleontology enthusiasts. If you want to travel back in time 65 million years, and check out the richest dinosaur deposits on earth, take a quick 1.5 hour drive from Calgary, and you get to experience it all first hand. Plug ‘Drumheller’ into the ‘ol GPS, load up the kids and head straight for the Royal Tyrrell Museum. Here you will find 30 of the most complete dinosaur skeletons in the world, various interactive exhibits and plenty of experts on hand to walk you through a truly prehistoric journey. The museum also features a brand new exhibit, a marine specifies dating back 75 million years!

10. Day at Calaway Park

Because of Calgary’s unusually young demographic, it also attracts young families which means the city is absolutely teeming with family friendly activities. Consistently rated as one of the best things to do in Calgary, Calaway is Western Canada’s largest outdoor Amusement park. Home to 32 rides, 23 carnival games, a 3D theatre and plenty of food vendors to keep the family fed, this park also offers up sweeping views of the Rocky Mountains.

11. Canada’s Sport Hall of Fame

Like our neighbours to the South, Canadians are huge sports fanatics. From baseball, football and track & field, to our most beloved sport of all, hockey. Any sports buff will appreciate this 40,000 square foot museum, conveniently located in the WinSport’s Canada Olympic Park. Try your hand at some shadow boxing against legend Lennox Lewis, and check out the torch used to light the 1988 Olympic Winter Games. More than 600 Canadians have been inducted, many of which you probably know, but had no idea were Canadian!

12. Explore Hidden Music Venues

Calgary country and western roots definitely attracts star power with the likes of Faith Hill, Garth Brooks and Keri Underwood coming to town, but you can’t get your trip to align with tour dates. Instead, check out some of Calgary’s vibrant live music scene in some of the smaller, less known venues around town. Clubs like the Blues Can attract local and national artists to play their best blues every Sunday night.

13. Eat, Drink & Be Merry

Did you know Calgary was home to 6 of Canada’s top 50 restaurants last year? Who would have thought this land-locked province could compete with its seemingly more populated big brothers to the West and East. Calgary’s multicultural demographic and strategic location (surrounded by farm lands) makes it a hotbed for fusion restaurants, farm-to-table trends, the evolution of mixology and a burgeoning food truck presence. The restaurant and dining options here are endless, and every month it seems, there is some hot, new eatery making national headlines.

14. Expo Latino

If you think of yourself as a xenophile of sorts (individual obsessed with other cultures), Calgary summer calendars are bursting with fun, colorful festivals, parades, and picnics. Calgarians look forward to Expo Latino every August, Canada’s largest outdoor Latin Festival. Come celebrate Latin Culture alongside proud Canadians, take a dance workshop, shop for beautiful handicrafts, eat great food, and enjoy spectacular live performances put on by local and national members of the Hispanic community.

15. Visit Fort Calgary

Despite it’s cosmopolitan facade, Calgary is a city that provides you with ample opportunity to experience and explore the past (even the prehistoric past!) Fort Calgary is a living museum that shows the beginnings of Calgary from 1875, at the convergence of the Bow and Elbow River. Here you can learn about the rich history of our Mounted Police, take a virtual tour of Calgary from a streetcar and get a feel for what it was like when the first train arrived. Calgary is incredibly proud of its humble beginnings and the long journey to get to where it is today.

16. Kick up Your Heels at the Cowboys Dance Hall

You’ll have to leave the youngin’s at home for this saucy night out, but you’ll be glad you did, because this establishment is not only the official World’s Stampede Headquarters, it’s been voted as one of the “Top 3 Mega Bars in North America” by USA Today! There is no better place to be during Stampede than here for the biggest party, and if you’re here during the off-season, it’s still one of the most happening bars in the city, with raucous music, beautiful women, and wealthy, well-do-to oil barons flashing their cash. So throw on your Stetson, oil up the boots and head to Cowboys for a night you won’t forget.

17. Take a Horseback Riding Tour

You know what they say, when in Rome! Alberta is cattle and ranch country, and Calgarians are all cowboys and cowgirls at heart. Why not spend the day feeling like the real deal and head to explore wide open spaces on a horseback riding tour. There are plenty of companies a short drive from the city, and with the Rocky Mountains to the East and West, and nothing but rolling hills in front of you, there isn’t a bad seat in the house.

18. A Fishing Expedition on the Bow River

If trout fishing is your aim, the Bow River is your game. Alberta is home to some of the best trout fishing on earth, and attracts competitive anglers from all corners of the world.   The Bow River is one of the world’s top three trout streams, boasting the most consistent trout run. The official season runs from November to the end of March, but May to the end of September is prime time. Not only are the waters here pristine and clear, the scenery is serene, and awe-inspiring. Expert fishing outfits are a stone’s throw from the city centre, and you’ll always come home with a great catch.

19. Picnic in Prince Island Park

Canadians adore their urban space, and especially when its green. You won’t find any Canadian city without a significant urban park, and Calgary is no different. Sometimes you need a break from manic sightseeing, a day to throw a blanket down, have some lunch, and experience a city from a local’s perspective. Prince Island Park is not only a great place to enjoy beautiful city views, it also plays host to a number of festivals and features a seasonal outdoor skating rink.

20. Bottoms Up at the Big Rock Brewery

Craft brews are the fastest growing sector of the liquor industry in the world and Calgary saw the trend from a mile away. Back in 1985, barley farmer and visionary Ed McNally, represented a small contingent of barley growers who wanted to do more with their crop than feed cattle. Ed opened Big Rock, Alberta’s first craft brewery and grew it into the 54 million dollar operation it is today. The Big Rock Brewery Tour is now rated one of the most popular things to do in Calgary by Trip Advisor.

21. The Military Museum

Though are military presence pales in comparison to our neighbors to the south, Canadians had one of the most significant victories in the First and Second World Wars. The sacrifices were great, the casualties high, and this military museum, much like others in Canada, weaves together our story of bravery during the darkest time Modern History. Providing its visitors insight into what trench life was like, the implications of flying a bomber and how the varying arms of the military acted together to bring about peace.

22. Weekend Trip to Banff

No trip to Calgary is complete without a visit to Banff National Park. Even if you landed in Toronto, thousands of miles away, a trip to this part of the world would be worth every penny, but you only have to travel and hour and a half! The town of Banff is the gateway to the Rockies, an unrelenting 6,641 km2 of absolutely pristine, rugged wilderness. Banff National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Canada’s very first National Park. As you may have guessed, this is a proverbial mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. Everyone from hardcore mountain climbers, cyclists, hikers, backcountry skiers and kayak junkies can be found in and amongst Canada’s greatest playground.

23. Pamper Yourself at the Fairmont Banff Springs

We had to give this one its own category because the Fairmont Banff Springs is a destination in and of itself. Nested in the postcard perfect Rocky Mountains, this hotel has hosted some of the world’s most important people including queens, sitting presidents and rock stars. Originally built in 1888 as a signature railroad hotel, the hotel itself has undergone a number of beautiful renovations which much of the Scottish Baronial facade maintained. This “Castle in the Rockies”, offers a series of luxurious accommodations, and its proximity to the town of Banff make it an ideal base camp for some world class skiing.

24. Columbia Ice Field Tour

Canada is home to some of the planets oldest rocks, and most impressive glaciers, and with Calgary being such a short drive to some of these geographical marvels, make the most of your trip by getting out of town and taking a trip along the continental divide. This particular glacier initially advanced around the same time that modern man appeared in the archeological record! Another fun fact? The Columbia Ice Field gets 7 meters of snow per year!

25. Climb Aboard The Rocky Mountaineer

There is nothing quite like being rocked to sleep by the gentle sway of a railcar, and the rhythmic clicking of the tracks beneath your head. The only thing more peaceful, is winding your way through some of the world’s most impressive mountain ranges, being served five star cuisine, all the while being aboard one of the most exciting train journeys on earth. The Rocky Mountaineer is the “largest privately owned luxury tourist train company in the world”, and has been voted “One of the World’s Best Life Changing Trips” by Travel + Leisure. If that isn’t an endorsement, what is? With trips that originate in Banff and head West or start in Vancouver and come East, this is definitely an investment worth considering.

25 Best Things to Do in Calgary (Canada):

• The Calgary Tower
• The Calgary Zoo
• Visit Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump
• Heritage Park Historical Village
• The Calgary Stampede
• Shop 17th Ave & The Entertainment District
• Go on a Public Art Safari
• Catch a Flames Game
• Visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum
• Day at Calaway Park
• Canada’s Sport Hall of Fame
• Explore Hidden Music Venues
• Eat, Drink & Be Merry
• Expo Latino
• Visit Fort Calgary
• Kick up Your Heels at the Cowboys Dance Hall
• Take a Horseback Riding Tour
• A Fishing Expedition on the Bow River
• Picnic in Prince Island Park
• Bottoms Up at the Big Rock Brewery
• The Military Museum
• Weekend Trip to Banff
• Pamper Yourself at the Fairmont Banff Springs
• Columbia Ice Field Tour
• Climb Aboard The Rocky Mountaineer

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The city of Calgary is often overlooked when planning a trip through Canada, and to be honest I’m not sure why. This beautiful city is a perfect hub to plan outdoor adventures in places like Banff and Drumheller in addition to having a a slew of arts, cultural, and other activities to enjoy in the city proper. If you are planning a trip through Calgary take a look at our Ramblin’ Calgary Travel Guide for a great selection of things to do in the city.

It’s no secret that Lauren and I are absolutely head over heels in love with the city of Calgary. Heck, we love Calgary so much we’ve spent months in the city exploring it and even consider Calgary our second home.   Calgary is Canada’s fourth largest city , and is a rich hub for tons of arts and culture. On top of all that, it’s easy access to the farms and ranches just outside of the city which mean that local restaurants have been on the forefront of the farm-to-table movement and have put together some exciting (and delicious) menu offerings. With all it has to offer, Calgary truly is a cosmopolitan city with the heart of a small country town and should be very high on your list of Canadian cities to visit. So without further ado, we present our Ramblin’ Guide to Calgary, and assure you that you can’t go wrong partaking in any, or all, of these awesome activities.

Things to Do in Calgary

Calgary zoo.

As the second largest Zoo in Canada, the Calgary Zoo does a fantastic job of representing the local diversity of the wildlife that calls the Canadian Rockies home while also featuring exhibits from across the world. The Zoo is so diverse they even have an entire section dedicated to dinosaurs. On top of the great exhibits, the Calgary Zoo also features neat events like their annual Zoo Lights to keep things fun and fresh.

Click here to see our full post about the Calgary Zoo .

Telus Spark

While most science museums have been relegated to the world of families and small children, the Telus Spark does a fantastic job of making their exhibits accessible to children of all ages. Then to make it super adult friendly, the Telus Spark Science Centre offers an Adults Only Night on the second Thursday of every month that’s the perfect setup for a fun date night. The evening starts off at 6 PM and  features cocktails, special exhibits, and DJ’s spinning tunes all night.

Click here to see our full post about Telus Spark .

Aero Space Museum of Calgary

Located in a retired flight training hangar built in 1941, the Aero Space Museum of Calgary brings you up close and personal with Alberta’s rich military aviation heritage. With a large collection of lovingly restored aircrafts, it’s a fascinating window into early aviation technology.  Visitors can take a guided tour which lasts about 2-hours or you can explore on your own.

Click here for more information on the Aero Space Museum of Calgary .

 Heritage Park

Opened in 1964, Heritage Park is Canada’s largest living history museum. It features a surprisingly wide range of activities that allows you to both learn about and interact with the past covering the period from the 1860’s to the 1950’s. It allows you to truly understand what life was like for a Western Canadian settler by visiting actual historical buildings and towns from 5 key periods in Canadian History. In addition to the historical buildings, Heritage Park is also home to Gasoline Alley which features a deep collection of vehicles and other automotive memorabilia from the golden age of automobiles. Although the Park is closed for the Winter, you can visit Gasoline Alley year round, as well as attending special events like Once Upon a Christmas .

Click here to see our full post about Heritage Park and Gasoline Alley .

Canada Olympic Park

There aren’t many places in the world where average humans like you and I have the opportunity to train side by side with Olympic Athletes. Here in Calgary though, you can do just that at the Canada Olympic Park.  It’s the kind of place where an average can learn to luge, play hockey, ski, snow board, and even figure skate. Located on the site of the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, the COP is dedicated to one thing: training high-performance winter athletes. If you are looking for winter adventure I recommend the bobsledding . If summer time fun is more your thing they also have a zip line course and mountain biking trails.

Click here to see our full post about Canada’s Olympic Park .

Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame

Canada has a rich sporting tradition that is honored in this international award winning Sports Hall of Fame. With galleries dedicated to everything from Hockey to Curling and Motor Sports to Swimming there’s a little bit of something for everyone. What makes the Hall of Fame especially fun, is the fact that many of the exhibits have interactive touch and experience displays that let you see what it feels like to be a world class athlete.

Learn more about Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame .

Military Museums

The Military Museums is western Canada’s largest museum dedicated to military history, art and education. Interestingly the facility is actually a collection of 8 separately curated regimental museums located under one roof. The Military Museums feature much more than just the usual guns and medals though, as their mission is more than just historical preservation. The museum has a well curated collection of arts that depict the social impact of military conflict.

Click here to see our full post about the Military Museums .

Rocky Mountain Sidecar Adventures

Taking road trips is something we are known for. We spent many months covering ground in Alberta and seeing as much of the province as we could by car. After one trip with the team at Rocky Mountain Sidecar Adventures and I’ve had a change of heart. Fair warning: once you try this, traveling by car will never be the same. With tours that take you into the heart of the Rockies, through the lovely city itself, or through Okotoks and along the Cowboy trail, there’s something for everyone. It’s one of the most unique ways you’ll ever see Alberta and it’s worth every penny.

Click here to see our full post about Rocky Mountain Sidecar Adventures .

Arts and Culture in Calgary

Calgary opera.

Featuring 4 – 5 key performances each season the Calgary Opera is a fantastic chance to experience the opera in a warm and inviting environment. With world class performances from Canadian artists, the Calgary Opera has made a commitment to the development of local talent as well as the development of new productions.

Click here to learn more about current performances for the Calgary Opera.

National Music Centre

Being a lover of All Things Music, the National Music Centre holds a special place in our hearts.  With two distinct missions in place, visiting and supporting the centre is an absolute must for any fan of music. The NMC is dedicated to to the development and support of Canadian musicians and seeks to strengthen relationships and explore the power of music. As if that weren’t a worthy enough goal to support, the NMC goes a step above by housing a massive collection of historical musical artifacts. The NMC’s collection can be toured or you can take in one of their many live music performances year-round.

Read more about the National Music Centre .

Glenbow Museum

The Glenbow Musuem boasts the largest art collection in Western Canada and features an eclectic blend of classic and modern art. One of the things that makes the Glenbow unique though, is the fact that it also features an entire floor dedicated to the history of Alberta. It’s not often that you get to observe art and then learn it’s historical context in the same building, but that’s exactly what you get at the Glenbow.

Read more about the Glenbow Museum .

Stage West Dinner Theater

I never thought I’d say this, but if you find yourself looking for a fun date night, dinner theater is the way to go. We had a chance to see a production at Stage West and found the performance fun and engaging. The food, served buffet style, was the star of the evening though with blend of fresh and inventive recipes. Stage west hosts quite a few different shows each season from Locally Written plays to nationally acclaimed productions like Spamalot so there’s definitely something for everyone.

Learn more about the Stage West Dinner Theater .

Where to Eat in Calgary

Calgary farmers market.

Visiting farmers markets is always a fresh and fun way to discover local foods and recipes, and the Calgary Farmers Market is no exception. Featuring over 70 vendors you can find everything from freshly cured meats to succulently prepared meat pies, to delectable baked goods. In addition to vendors the Farmers Market also has a food court with a wide variety of local and international cuisine that represents the ethnic diversity of the city.

More information on the Calgary Farmers Market .

Canadian Brewhouse

It’s not often that we feature or recommend chain restaurants, but the Canadian Brewhouse is a small chain  of sports bars that offers great food in a fun environment without having to head into downtown. Featuring a strong collection of pub food served with a twist you can’t go wrong with selections like bacon wrapped jalapeno poppers, fully loaded poutine, and burgers stacked two patties high and smothered with fried mushrooms, bacon and cheese.

Read our full review of The Canadian Brewhouse .

Ox and Angela

Located at the heart of Calgary’s 17th Ave Downtown District, Ox and Angela is serving up Spanish style tapas with a Canadian twist. With an energetic and warm environment, it’s a lovely spot to stop in for a snack and a drink after work, or a great venue for an evening of fun with a group of friends. – note: Ox and Angela has been renovated and renamed to Ox Bar de Tapas .

Read our full Ox And Angela Review

It’s not often that you can effectively mix fine dining with a casual and comfortable environment. Somehow though, the team at Muse has managed to do just that. Located in the trendy Kensington neighborhood just outside of downtown Calgary, Muse is a great spot to relax and enjoy a romantic evening while also pleasing the most refined of pallets.

Read our full review of Muse

The brainchild of award winning executive chef Dave Bohati and restauranteur Vanessa Salopek, Market features a menu composed of regional and seasonal cuisine. With dishes like Spicy Lamb Tartare, Octopus and Chorizo, and a Pork Belly Hot Pot you know any trip to Market will always be a culinary adventure.

More information on Market .

Tango Bistro

Located just South of downtown, Calgary Tango Bistro takes the concept of Spanish Tapas and combines it with traditional Canadian dishes to make a fun and unique dining experience. If the just the thought of dishes like Smoked Duck Poutine, Wonton Crusted Prawns,  Wild Boar Bacon Wrapped Beef, and a fresh Seafood Tower make your mouth water, Tango Bistro is a place for you.

Read our full review of Tango Bistro

 River Cafe

Tucked away on the tiny Prince’s Island Park, the River Cafe provides fine dining in a unique setting. There is no parking on the actual island so a trip to the river cafe requires a short jaunt through the park. Upon arrival at the cafe you are treated to a culinary journey through some of Calgary’s best regional cuisine. The River Cafe’s unique setting and comfortable yet romantic atmosphere make it an exceptional choice for a romantic evening.

More information on River Cafe

If you are looking for more places to eat in Calgary, you might want to take a look at out post that features the most unique and best brunches in Calgary .

Calgary Craft Breweries

Village brewery.

Craft Breweries are popping up all across North America bringing innovative and finely produced beers to the masses. Even though we’ve visited literally hundreds of breweries and brewpubs the Village Brewery in Calgary still stands out as one of the best.  Not only do they make a fantastic brew (try the Blacksmith or Brünette) they also have a huge commitment to their local community and have even gone as far as brewing their Gardner beer with only locally grown hops and honey. They truly do prove that it takes a Village to brew a great beer. Village does offer limited tours, and also features an onsite tap room with growler fills.

read our full review of Village Brewery

It’s not often that you find a craft brewery that’s proud to tell you that you can’t have their beer. That’s exactly what you’ll find though when you visit the Wild Rose Brewery. If you ask them, they’ll tell you that they started their craft brewery with the single mission of freeing themselves from “the tyranny of boring beer”. If you ask me, they’ve succeeded. The only catch is, you have to be in Alberta to get it. Wild Rose currently offers limited tours at their new brewery, or offer pints and growlers at their classic taproom in the Currie Barracks.

read our full review of Wild Rose Brewery

Big Rock Brewery

Founded in 1985 Big Rock Brewery is one of Alberta’s oldest craft breweries and they’ve made it their mission to produce “deliberately different” craft beers. With a deep selection running from a traditional Brown Ale to a Steel Cut Oatmeal Rasin Stout there’s something for everyone. You can book a tour of the brewery and sample quite a few of their brews, or just stop in to their bottle/gift shop and pick up a sampler. Either way you won’t lose.

more info on Big Rock Brewery

Pet Friendly Hotels In Calgary

Thanks to the growing art, music, and fine dining scene, Calgary has developed as Alberta’s cultural hub. Sitting at the center of this young and rapidly growing city is Hotel Arts. As Calgary’s first boutique hotel of it’s kind, it serves as a great downtown location for taking in what the city has to offer. By combining the white hat service Calgarians are legendary for with beautiful fine art in a luxury and pet friendly environment the team at Hotel Arts in Calgary have put together a destination that is truly unique.

Read out full review of the Pet Friendly Hotel Arts

Aloft Calgary University

Located outside the downtown core the Aloft Calgary University is an excellent choice if you want to visit the cities attractions but stay somewhere away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Aloft hotels are pet friendly without a fee, and offer nice amenities including an indoor pool, fitness center, and an onsite bar with restaurant. Plus with their arf pert friendly program, your pooch is as comfortable in the room as you are.

More info on the Aloft Calgary University

We hope you enjoyed this Calgary travel guide, if we missed any of your favorite things to do in Calgary let us know in the comments.

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Share this:, 12 thoughts on “ the ramblin’ calgary travel guide and trip planner ”.

I lived in Calgary for 20 years and there’s a few things here that even I haven’t done. Nice list!

Thanks Raymond! The funny thing is we left off some nice places to eat and see because the list was getting too big. This is a wonderful city.

Wow, you really prove Calgary has a ton to offer! Would love to check it all out, especially the Heritage Museum and the fresh markets!! Thanks for sharing!

I’m surprised you haven’t been to Calgary yet. You have to visit Calgary and make a trip to Banff while you’re at it.

Wow what an in depth guide to Calgary. It wasn’t on my radar before, but I’m thinking I might have to fly up there soon. Great post!

Calgary is an awesome city to visit, and it also serves as a great hub for outdoor activities in the surrounding National Parks.

Don’t forget about the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra – it’s one of the best in North America, and they do everything from classical to popular music. It’s one of my favourite things about Calgary!

Also, Lougheed House is a tiny gem – if you’ve never been there, I highly recommend it.

will be filing this away for a future trip to canada, especially the parts on where to eat and drink. bring on the canadian breweries!

What a great post! I’ve never been to Calgary (and have spent embarrassingly little time in Canada at all), but this puts a new destination on my list!

If you plan on coming in the Winter Laura, we’d be happy to show you around :-)

Great guide guys! If the variety of activities hadn’t completely convinced me, once I got to the food section I was completely drooling. I always have a great time in Canada and would love to spend more time exploring there.

Jennifer, You definitely need to spend some time in Calgary, we could show you around :-)

Comments are closed.

Calgary   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Henryk Sadura | Getty Images

19 Best Things To Do in Calgary

Updated Feb. 11, 2021

There are numerous reasons to go to Calgary, the most obvious one being to hit the slopes. Perched in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, the city becomes a home base for many winter sports enthusiasts. Stop by the Canada Olympic Park to watch

• All Things To Do

Glenbow Museum Glenbow Museum

Heralded as one of Canada's finest, the Glenbow Museum caters to history buffs and art lovers alike. Exhibits here focus mainly on the culture of Western Canada, featuring everything from interactive displays on the First Nations tribes to an extensive collection of military memorabilia. However, there are also displays of European Art, Asian sculpture and even West African artifacts, plus plenty of hands-on activities to keep children entertained.

Recent visitors praised the museum's fascinating exhibits, treatment of history and its interactive arts and crafts opportunities.

The Military Museums The Military Museums

Consisting of the four founding regimental museums and the Naval, Army and Air Force Museums of Alberta, the Military Museums of Calgary is the second-largest military museum in Canada. Visitors can learn about history, heritage, art and more about the Canadians who served their country throughout the years. Highlights in the various collections include the Enigma Machine in the Naval Museum. Known as the Enigma-K, the device on display was introduced in 1927 and was built by the Swiss to encode and decode military communication. Another must-see is the CF-104 Starfighter, a Cold War era fighter aircraft located in the Air Force exhibit. But these two items are just the tip of the iceberg at the vast complex.

Recent visitors advised giving yourself plenty of time to explore the museum, which is quite large, with fascinating exhibits and in-depth historical overviews. Others praised the volunteers stationed on-site, who happily provide more context to the exhibits. 

Prince's Island Park Prince's Island Park free

Prince's Island Park spans nearly 50 acres and is a hit with visitors in need of beautiful walk. Trails lined with cottonwood trees appeal to walkers and bikers alike, while regular festivals and an outdoor theater beckon to culture hounds. For food, just follow the footbridge across the Bow River to the stalls of Eau Claire Market. Looking for more refined dining? Then check out the River Café .

Visitors and locals both love the park in every season, praising its peace and quiet, as well as its beauty.

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Moraine Lake & Lake Louise Tour from Calgary / Banff / Canmore

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Calgary Zoo Calgary Zoo

The massive Calgary Zoo houses nearly 1,000 animals – from tigers to gorillas – in enclosures that are representative of their natural habitats. Stop by Panda Passage to meet the zoo's two giant pandas or check out Canada's furry friends like moose and bears in the Canadian Wilds section. But the animals aren't the only reason to visit: The complex is also home to a sprawling botanical garden, featuring flora from across the world; and the Prehistoric Park, which showcases the region's history as a stomping ground for dinosaurs.

Many recent visitors agreed this zoo is a must-do for young families and for many, the pandas were a big highlight.

WinSport Canada Olympic Park WinSport Canada Olympic Park

A tribute to the 1988 Winter Olympic Games, this massive sports complex is still used throughout the year as training grounds for young athletes. If you're in town for a taste of fresh powder, consider stopping here first for a quick how-to on riding the slopes; downhill and cross-country ski lessons are available for both kids and adults. You can also try your hand at other pastimes like bobsleigh and the luge. If you're looking for a more relaxed outing, stop by Canada's Sports Hall of Fame, which is home to the world's largest collection of artifacts from the competition's history, including costumes, photographs and the torch used to carry the flame from Greece.

The museum was a big hit with recent visitors, though some have mixed feelings about the complex itself, depending on what activity they did, with some complaining about high prices and others enjoying their ski lessons.

Heritage Park Heritage Park

Calgary's Wild West past still thrives at this 66-acre living-history village. Nestled beside the Glenmore Reservoir and just south of downtown, this history-lover's paradise swarms with costumed staff re-enacting times gone by. You'll explore an 1860s replica of a fur-trading post, a ranch and a historic village. You can also take a ride on a steam locomotive or a horse-drawn wagon or cruise the reservoir by paddle-wheeler boat. For a better understanding of Calgary's history, check out the Gasoline Alley Museum, home to numerous artifacts representing the city's frontier days.

Recent visitors agreed that Heritage Park is a must-see, especially if you have kids, though most found that everyone from small tots to teens and adults enjoy the park. Several reviewers also commented on the fun of visiting during the holidays, when special events and activities are held.

Stephen Avenue Walk Stephen Avenue Walk free

Occupying three blocks of downtown's 8th Avenue, the Stephen Avenue Walk is one of the city's most popular shopping venues. This pedestrian-only shopping area – also dubbed a National Historic District – is lined with trendy stores, delectable restaurants and even several nightclubs. This downtown stretch is also the place to go for avid culture hounds; street performers, local artists and even festivals are often found here. Business travelers will likely make several stops here as the street is home to the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre and the Hyatt Regency Calgary and the Calgary Marriott Hotel .

Recent visitors loved the hustle and bustle of the area and praised the variety of restaurants and shops.

Spruce Meadows Spruce Meadows

If the Calgary Stampede doesn't satisfy your appetite for equine action, make your way to Spruce Meadows. This top-notch sporting facility – whose name springs from the surrounding spruce trees – hosts some of Canada's most prominent horseback riding events. Here, talented jockeys compete for national titles (and prize money) in adrenaline-pumping events like show jumping.

For visitors, Spruce Meadows is more than your average riding arena. You can get up close and personal with the horses while touring the stables, explore the exquisitely manicured gardens, or let the kiddos run wild at the Canadian Superstore Playground. The facility also hosts numerous events, like the Christmas Market, which is a must-do, according to recent visitors.

1 Day tour of Calgary Lake Louise, Moraine Lake and Banff Town

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Calgary Stampede & Stampede Park Calgary Stampede & Stampede Park

Located just south of downtown Calgary, Stampede Park captures Canada's attention every July during the world-famous Calgary Stampede. This massive festival features rodeos and all things Wild West. Don your hats, polish your boots and prepare for several days of horse races, concerts and even a parade. When the festival has passed, Stampede Park continues to entertain visitors with a hankering for cowboy culture. 

Calgary's most notable event earns mixed reviews. Some raved about the excitement, while others complained about the crowds and a lack of authenticity. Most, however, agreed if you're in town during this time, it's a must-see event.

Scotiabank Saddledome Scotiabank Saddledome

For a taste of true Canadian sportsmanship, make your way to Scotiabank Saddledome, home of the National Hockey League's Calgary Flames. Having moved from Atlanta in 1980, the Flames won Calgary over in 1989 when they claimed the Stanley Cup. Since then, this beloved sports team has been a symbol of pride for Calgarians; they celebrate the Flames' wins on 17th Avenue SW or "The Red Mile."

The Saddledome plays an active role in city life during the offseason, hosting special events like concerts, rodeos and even visits from such notable world figures as Queen Elizabeth II and the Dalai Lama. It gets its name from its saddle-shaped roof.

Calgary Tower Calgary Tower

Standing a whopping 626 feet high, this landmark was once the tallest building in the city. It was originally constructed in 1967 to celebrate Canada's centennial and in 1988, the Calgary Tower also sheltered the Olympic flame. Today, the tower now acts as the city's centerpiece, offering tourists spectacular views of Calgary and the Rocky Mountains.

After riding the elevator to the observation deck, head to the Theatre Room. In the Theatre Room, make sure to check out the short film, "Calgary Tower – Building and Icon," and Travel Alberta's most recent fly-through video, which shows footage of Alberta from the sky. The films run every 15 minutes from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and admission is included with your elevator ticket purchase. 

Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre

Studio Bell is home to five floors of interactive exhibits that showcase the sights, sounds and stories of music in Canada. There are 22 exhibition spaces that allow visitors to experience music and Canadian music history in a hands-on way. Visitors can play the guitar, mix a track and sing in vocal booths. Other exhibits feature memorabilia from Canadian music icons and Canadian Music Hall of Fame inductees. The Kimball Theatre Organ, without a doubt, is a highlight for many recent visitors. The organ dates back to the 1924, when organs were used to provide sound effects and score music to silent films. Organ demonstrations are conducted at 3 p.m. Wednesday to Friday and at noon and 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Reviewers also praised the museum's architecture and the variety of exhibits as well.

Fort Calgary Historic Park Fort Calgary Historic Park

This 40-acre National Historic Site encloses the remains of the original mounted police stronghold, which until the 1970s, were buried under the expanding city. Today, you can explore the fort's remains and, with the help of recently uncovered artifacts, learn what life was like for these western Mounties.

While some visitors said they very much enjoyed their time here, others write this attraction off as kind of boring. However, history aficionados will especially enjoy it, according to recent visitors.

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Calaway Park Calaway Park

This amusement park has plenty of rides, shows, attractions and play areas for everyone from tiny tots to thrill-seeking teens. Bumper cars, bumper boats, a log flume, roller coasters and more are among the attractions. Add to that, live entertainment, games, food venues and 3D movies, you can keep busy all day.

Recent visitors said there is plenty to do for the whole family, with lots of fun rides and attractions.

Fish Creek Provincial Park Fish Creek Provincial Park free

This large park south of downtown offers lots of opportunities to hike, swim, fish, cycle, ski and simply enjoy nature. What's more, the park's visitor center has a theater and exhibit area showcasing artifacts found in the park.

Recent visitors praised the park for its beauty, the variety of outdoor pursuits available and the opportunities to see wildlife. Others enjoyed the numerous walking and cycling paths.

TELUS Spark TELUS Spark

This science museum offers plenty of hands-on opportunities to learn about everything from technology to the brain. In the Creative Kids Museum – designed for kids ages 9 and younger – children can learn about flotation in a water play area, crawl and climb in a climbing structure, design and make inventions, and stage a play, among other activities. Live science demos are another highlight for visitors, as well as shows in the planetarium.

While many recent visitors loved the museum for its interactive exhibits, others found it too expensive for what's on offer. However, one upside is that admission to the Dome Theatre, which screens planetarium shows and movies, is included in the overall entrance ticket.

Central Library Central Library free

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12 Best Things To Do In Calgary

Calgary is sometimes seen as the entry point to the great outdoors in Alberta . Yes, it’s within easy access of the dramatic Banff National Park , but it’s also a snug little city to spend a few days exploring. Honestly, there’s a heap of places to see and some epic things to do in Calgary; so much so that it’s worth tagging onto any Alberta itinerary . 

To be honest, I hadn’t even thought of visiting Calgary before we visited. I saw it as ‘the airport’ to get into the Canadian Rockies and explore the stunning nature. That being said, I’m so glad we made a stop in the city as we loved our few days here; so much so that we’ve been back quite a few times since!

Of course, if you’re travelling to the best places in Alberta , you’ll be wanting to visit Banff , maybe go skiing in Sunshine Village , see the stunning Lake Abraham (bubble lake) or Grotto Canyon and Canmore ?

Well, just be sure to leave a day or two to spend some time in downtown Calgary, too.

With that in mind, I wanted to share some of the best things to do in Calgary on your next trip. Oh yeah, and with any of our posts, pop us a message if you need any other advice. Have the best time in Canada! 

1.) Kensington 

Okay, so Kensington is one of my favourite neighbourhoods in Calgary and a place that’s got a really cool vibe! It kind of reminds me of Camden in London (or the Lower East Side in NYC) and is a great place to wander around the independent stores or yummy restaurants. 

For me, wandering this area is easily one of the best things to do in Calgary, especially if you’re hungry. For some tasty bites to eat, make sure to pop into 

Also, for some great coffee, pop into Higher Ground. Their roast is so good. 

Read more: Best things to do in Alberta

2.) Inglewood 

Inglewood is one of those areas that’s so simple to visit when staying in the centre of Calgary. With it being around a 25-minute stroll, it’s honestly worth heading across on a weekend or in the evening to make the most of the cool little bars and eateries. 

We popped over to Gorilla Whale which is a Japanese-fusion restaurant that serves up some of the best ramens in all of Calgary. Plus their yakitori skewers and cocktails are amazing. It’s the perfect place for dinner; just make sure to reserve a table before you go. This place fills up fast. 

Whilst here, be sure to visit Fair’s Fair Books , too. It’s such a cosy place that has an epic book selection of old and new books. It’s a treasure trove for bookworms.

Finally, if you fancy warming up, pop into Gravity Espresso & Wine , which, not only has great coffee (and wine) but also live DJs on certain days, too.

Read more: Best things to do in Banff

3.) Studio Bell 

Perched in the centre of Calgary, Studio Bell is one of Canada’s biggest and best homes of Canadian music. Housing thousands of exhibits, it’s somewhere that any music lover will totally love. If that’s you, you’ll easily find this to be one of the best things to do in Calgary. Not only that, the building is pretty cool, too. 

Now, a visit to Studio Bell will likely take around 90-minutes and is well worth stopping by on your stroll around the centre. That being said, if you’re not a music-lover, you might wanna give this spot a miss. After all, it’s all about the music! 

Afterwards, you’ve had your fill at Studio Bell , King Eddy is well worth visiting (next door). It’s a historic music venue and eatery that’s perfect for a bite, or an obligatory Ceasar!

Read more: Our time exploring Studio Bell

4.) Wonderland Sculpture 

Right next to the Bow skyscraper (in the centre of Calgary), seeing the Wonderland Sculpture is one of the best things to do in Calgary if you want to see some local arts. 

Being a whopping 12-metre high wire face, the Wonderland Sculpture is great to see. Now, you obviously won’t spend more than 10-minutes here, but it’s well worth seeing. 

Oh yeah, and for a tasty brunch, pop over to OEB Breakfast Co that serves up one of the mightiest breakfasts in the city. Their walls are so fluffy and the eggs benedict is so good. 

Read more: One-week itinerary for exploring Banff

5.) Calgary Library (Central Library)

Now, you might not think that visiting a library is one of the best things to do in Calgary, but trust me, this one is.

Well, if you love books and architecture at least! 

You see, Calgary Library is totally stunning and houses a huge mix of books a lovely cafe and some incredible architecture that you should see. Even if you’re not ‘into’ books, just pop in for a quick wander. It’s lovely.

Read more: Visiting the Calgary Library

6.) Prince’s Island Park

Strolling Prince’s Island Park is one of the best things to do in Calgary on a sunny summer day.  For me, it’s the kinda place that’s perfect if you want to step away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Calgary and really just chill out for a little while. That being said, if you visit in winter, you can also try your hand at some outdoor skating )on the lagoon), too. 

Plus, there are trails for both walkers and cyclists, too. Oh, and during the summer months, you may be there on a day when one of the city’s events are held. Keep an eye out for listings when you arrive. 

Afterwards, pop over to Village Ice Cream for some of Calgary’s most yummy treats. No joke, their salted caramel gelato is heaven. 

Read more: Best hikes in Alberta

7.) Calgary’s Heritage Park

Calgary’s Heritage Park brings history back to life in this living history village.

This is a paradise for history lovers like you with re-enactments of how life ‘in the west’ was once like. During your visit, you will have the chance to trade at a replica trading post, visit a ranch as well as the historic village, too.

Finally, if you’re feeling up to it, you can then go on a steam train, take a ride in a horse-drawn wagon or cruise along in a paddle wheeled boat. It is great for families. 

8.) Glenbow Museum

The Glenbow Museum is heralded as one of the finest of Canada’s museums and one of the best things to do in Calgary for sure!

The exhibits are mainly focused on Western Canada’s culture with displays from the First Nations history and more historical artefacts that go back centuries. 

Not only that, but you’ll also see art and sculptures from Europe, Asia and Africa, too. 

Finally, for a bite to eat, hop over to Ten Foot Henry that serves up some of the tastiest sharing plates in Calgary. Their salmon gravlax and masala chicken is everything and more! 

9.) Canada Olympic Park

The Canada Olympic Park was the venue for the 1988 Winter Olympics and this massive winter sports complex is used as both a training ground for any future Olympians. 😉

It’s a great place to try your hand at skiing, too! Though, if skiing is not exciting enough for you then you can try bobsleigh or the luge, too.

Oh, and Don’t forget to visit the Olympic Museum while you are there.

10.) Calgary Tower

The Calgary Tower was once the city’s tallest building at 626 feet high and built to commemorate the country’s Centennial in 1967.

Today, you can go to the top for the spectacular views of the city and the nearby Rocky Mountains. To get to the top you can take the elevator or would you prefer to climb the 762 steps? Ha!

Just an FYI, we took the elevator. There’s no way we’d have made those steps! 

Afterwards, take a cab over to Native Tongues for some of the best Mexican food in all of Canada.

Plus, they create some of the tastiest mescal cocktails, yummy tostadas and freshly-fried doughnuts. Love this place.

Read more: Our visit to the Calgary Tower  

11.) See some Canadian Hockey

The Saddledome is where you will find the Calgary Flames play their home games! 

We loved watching a game and it was so much fun. Though, it totally surprised me how brutal and contact-heavy hockey is! We saw a player get knocked out by a puck. Still, he was all fine… I think! 

All in all, it’s such a great experience, and well worth going whilst in Calgary. 

12.) Fort Calgary

Fort Calgary is where the history of the city all began as a mounted police stronghold. Nowadays, seeing it is one of the best things to do in Calgary if you want to explore some of the city’s history.

Although it was buried until the 1970s, now though you can go and witness the reconstruction and see some original remains of the fort, too.

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Home » North America » Calgary

Where to Stay in Calgary (2024 • COOLEST Areas!)

As the gateway to the Rocky Mountains (or the Rockies as you’ll hear the locals call it), it’s an EPIC winter destination for you ski bunnies out there.

But the city of Calgary is so much more than a gateway city. It’s a vibrant and eclectic city located  in the Canadian province of Alberta. It’s got skyscrapers, mountains, nightlife, cultural attractions, and more!

Whatever season you visit Calgary, Calgary provides. From snowy mountains to hiking, biking and fishing in the summer – you name it, Calgary has it.

However, the city is made up of a variety of different neighbourhoods, each offering something slightly different. As a result, figuring out exactly where to stay in Calgary can be tricky.

Are you after the big lights of the city? Or a mountain escape? Whatever your travel heart lusts for – I’m here to make sure your trip to Calgary satisfies you to the MAX.

I’ve compiled the best areas to stay in Calgary depending on your travel style and budget. You’ll find the best places to stay and things to do in each too!

So, it’s time to get scrollin’ and find out where in Calgary suits you best.

Where to Stay in Calgary

Calgary neighborhood guide – places to stay in calgary, calgary’s 5 best neighborhoods to stay in, faq about finding a place to stay in calgary, what to pack for calgary, don’t forget travel insurance for calgary, final thoughts on where to stay in calgary.

Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Calgary.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Wicked Hostels – Calgary | Best Hostel in Calgary

The Wicked Hostel has a wonderful location and a plethora of amenities. Guests can enjoy fast wifi, a filling breakfast, free laundry service, and unlimited hot drinks. In addition to this, there are comfortable beds and spotless common spaces.

Hilton Garden Inn Calgary Downtown | Best Hotel in Calgary

This excellent hotel offers four-star luxury at the heart of the city. It has a variety of features, including laundry facilities and an on-site restaurant. This hotel is ideally located near Calgary’s top tourist attractions and a vast array of eateries and cafes are just a short walk away.

Urban condo with great views | Best Airbnb in Calgary

You really can’t get more central than this cool, clean studio. There’s a sheer abundance of things to do right on your doorstep: from museums to beaches, parks, cafes, and bars. It’s super convenient and ideal if you’re on a short visit.

Downtown is a large neighbourhood located at the heart of Calgary. It is where businesspeople and buskers rub elbows, and where you’ll find a great selection of historic landmarks and popular tourist attractions.

Victoria Park

Situated south of the downtown core is the historic neighbourhood of Victoria Park. One of the oldest communities in the city, this community is best known for its heritage houses and relaxed atmosphere as well as it’s eclectic shops, delicious restaurants and cosy cafes.

The Beltline

You won’t find a livelier neighbourhood than Calgary’s Beltline. Set southwest of the city centre, the Beltline is the place to see and be seen. It’s home to a large selection of restaurants and cafes, as well as unique boutiques and local shops.

Inglewood is one of Calgary’s oldest neighbourhoods. It was the site of Calgary’s original downtown core and for decades was the hub of all that was happening in Calgary.

Bridgeland is a beautiful neighbourhood located north of the Bow River. It sits adjacent to both the Downtown and Inglewood neighbourhoods and is well-connected throughout the city.

Calgary is an enormous and sprawling metropolis. It is the largest city in the province of Alberta and is Canada’s fourth-largest metropolitan area, after Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver.

It has a world-class restaurant scene, rich and diverse cultural offerings, and is one of the rowdiest sports towns in the country. With so much to see, do and eat, it’s no wonder that Calgary is one of Canada’s most popular destinations .

If you’re visiting Calgary for the first time, we recommend staying Downtown . This area is where you’ll find most of Calgary’s top attractions , restaurants, shops, and connections to the rest of the city.

Victoria Park is a historic neighborhood situated southeast of downtown Calgary. It is renowned for heritage homes, vibrant shops, and electric restaurants and bars. It’s also the best place to find accommodation if you’re traveling on a budget.

To the west is the Beltline . This lively and vibrant neighborhood is where you’ll find Calgary’s entertainment district packed with bars, clubs and delicious restaurants.

Inglewood is one of the coolest neighborhoods in the city. Here, you’ll find independent boutiques, local coffee shops, craft beer, and charming locals.

Across the Bow River is the Bridgeland community. It’s home to the amazing Calgary Zoo and the interesting TELUS Spark, as well as a variety of other family-friendly attractions.

Still not sure where to stay in Calgary? Don’t worry, we’ve got more detailed guides on each area below!

Want to save money on accommodation?

We got you. For reals.

Now, let’s take a look, in more detail, at the five best neighborhoods in Calgary. We’ve included our top accommodation and activity picks in each, so you know exactly what you’re getting.

1. Downtown – Where to Stay in Calgary for your First Visit

Downtown is a large neighborhood located at the heart of Calgary. It’s where business people and buskers rub elbows, and where you’ll find a great selection of historic landmarks and popular attractions.

This neighborhood is also a haven for fearless and adventurous foodies. There are a plethora of world-renowned restaurants here, offering creative and unique dishes from cuisines from around the world. So whether you’re craving a savoury steak or vivacious Vietnamese, there’s something for every taste in downtown Calgary.

HI Calgary City Centre | Best Hostel in Downtown

This newly renovated property is one of the best hostels in Calgary . It’s a quick walk from the city center and is close to great bars, restaurants, and shops. We love this hostel because it offers so many amenities, including free all-you-can-eat breakfast, individual lockers, bed lights, and more!

Homewood Suites by Hilton Calgary Downtown | Best Hotel in Downtown

This hotel has comfortable rooms, modern amenities, a rooftop terrace, and a pool. When you’re not relaxing at the hotel, there are endless bars, stores, and attractions on your doorstep.

Hilton Garden Inn Calgary Downtown | Best Hotel in Downtown

Urban condo with great views | best airbnb in downtown.

You can’t really get more central than this cool, clean little studio. From museums to beaches, parks, and cafes, you’ll have many of the top things to do in Calgary on your doorstep! If time’s a factor, you really couldn’t ask for something more convenient than this.

Things to See and Do in Downtown

• Admire the amazing design of the Calgary Public Library.
• Browse the exciting exhibits at the Glenbow Museum.
• Catch a performance by the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra.
• Climb to the top of The Calgary Tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
• Discover The Famous Five by visiting the monument.
• Go for a stroll down the Stephen Avenue pedestrian mall.
• See a range of performances and exhibits at the Arts Commons.
• Sink your teeth into premier Alberta beef at Saltlik Steakhouse.
• Snap a picture in Olympic Plaza.
• Take a relaxing stroll through the Devonian Gardens
• View incredible works of art at The Art Gallery of Calgary.

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Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

2. Victoria Park – Where to Stay in Calgary on a Budget

Situated south of the downtown core is the historic neighborhood of Victoria Park. It’s best known for its heritage houses and relaxed atmosphere. It’s also full of eclectic shops, delicious restaurants, and cozy cafes.

Victoria Park also provides cheaper accommodation than Downtown, so you’ll find your budget stretches further here.

Wicked Hostels – Calgary | Best Hostel in Victoria Park

The Wicked Hostel is our top recommendation for where to stay in Victoria Park because it has a wonderful location and a plethora of amenities. Guests can enjoy fast wifi, a filling breakfast, free laundry service and unlimited coffee, tea and hot cocoa. In addition to this, there are comfortable beds and spotless common spaces.

Hotel Arts | Best Hotel in Victoria Park

Hotel Arts provides stylish and convenient accommodation in Calgary. Each room comes with a Keurig coffee machine and a workstation, as well as a comfy bed and an ensuite bathroom. The hotel also provides a fitness centre, an onsite restaurant and bar, a pool, and room service. It’s right by top attractions including Calgary Memorial Park and Tower, the Art Gallery, and the Discovery Dome.

Simply Comfort Apartments | Best Apartments in Victoria Park

These fully equipped apartments provide a home-away-from-home for couples or families visiting Calgary for the first time. Each flat has a full kitchen, laundry facilities, and high-speed wifi, and are stylish and modern throughout. From here, top attractions including Stampede Park, Glenbow Museum, and the Creative Kids Museum are a short walk away.

Modern 2BR Condo | Best Airbnb in Victoria Park

This modern condo is the ideal Airbnb in Canada for families, couples, or business travelers deciding where to stay in Calgary. Top features include free parking, wifi, and a fully equipped kitchen, Guests also have access to the patio, gym, and garden terrace. The apartment is spacious, and large windows let in plenty of natural light and views over the cityscape. Its top location puts you close to Downtown, Chinatown, the river, and more!

Things to See and Do in Victoria Park

• Dance the night away at the legendary Cowboys Dance Hall.
• Don’t’ miss the exciting, lively, and world-renowned Calgary Stampede, which takes place every summer.
• Feast on mouthwatering Mexican fare at Native Tongues Taqueria.
• Root for the hometown Calgary Flames of the National Hockey League at the Scotiabank Saddledome.
• Sample one of the delicious and unique flavors available at Village Ice Cream.
• Savour Indian dishes at the Calcutta Cricket Club.
• Sip urbane drinks at the Proof Cocktail Lounge.
• Wander along the stunning Elbow River or rent bikes and explore the banks on two wheels.

3. The Beltline – Best Area to Stay in Calgary for Nightlife

You won’t find a livelier neighborhood than Calgary’s Beltline. Set southwest of the city centre, the Beltline is the place to see and be seen. It’s home to a large selection of restaurants and cafes, as well as unique boutiques and local shops. It gets pretty noisy if you are visiting Calgary on the weekend – if you can’t beat ’em, join ’em.

The Beltline is also home to Calgary’s infamous 17th Avenue – or the Red Mile. The heart of the city’s entertainment district, 17th Avenue is home to a vast array of lively bars, bustling pubs and boisterous nightclubs where you can dance from dusk until dawn.

Best Western Plus Suites | Best Hotel in The Beltline

Large rooms, wonderful views, and an unbeatable location – it’s no wonder we love this Calgary hotel! Set at the center of the city, this hotel is close to shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes. It boasts a variety of features, including a Jacuzzi, a sauna, and free wifi.

Holiday Inn Express and Suites | Best Hotel in Beltline

A classic, the Holiday Inn Express provides a comfortable and convenient place to stay in Calgary. It offers free wifi, free parking, and each room has its own bathroom. Breakfast is included in the room price, so you can fuel up before a day of exploring (or after a night of drinking).

Amazing High-Rise Apt | Best Airbnb in Beltline

If heights don’t bother you, then you’ll love this 25th floor apartment in Beltline! The condo boasts awesome sunset views, and lets you see as far as the river and mountains. It’s super modern yet cozy throughout, with enough space to sleep up to four guests. The building is ideally situated a short walk from 17th Street, where you’ll find bars, restaurants, and nightlife.

NUVO Hotel Suites | Best Hotel in The Beltline

The Nuvo Hotel Suites is your best bet for budget-friendly accommodations in The Beltline. It has large and modern rooms with air conditioning and kitchenettes. Guests can also enjoy free wifi, a golf course and laundry services. Ideally located in Calgary, this hotel is a quick stroll from top tourist attractions and bars.

Things to See and Do in The Beltline

• Choose from a wide range of Canadian craft beers at National on 17th.
• Dress to impress at Bespoke, an upscale lounge in the Beltline.
• Drink, dance, and party all night long at Twisted Element.
• Enjoy a night of good food and great drinks at Last Best Brewing & Distilling.
• Grab drinks at the Ship and Anchor.
• Indulge in a mouthwatering burger or outrageous milkshake at Regrub.
• Kickstart your day with a delicious breakfast at Monki.
• Sip creative and urbane cocktails at The Milk Tiger Lounge.
• Sneak a peek at the intriguing Chinook Arc installation.
• Spend a fun night at the Commonwealth Bar & Stage.

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4. Inglewood – Coolest Place to Stay in Calgary

Inglewood is one of Calgary’s oldest neighborhoods. It was the site of Calgary’s original downtown core and for decades was the hub of all that was happening in Calgary.

But don’t come to Inglewood expecting the neighborhood to be old and outdated. In fact, Inglewood is one of the coolest neighborhoods in all of Canada. It is one of the most culturally diverse areas of Calgary and is where you’ll find everything from bikers bars to antique stores.

Whether you’re a culture vulture, a fabulous foodie, a fashionista, or an art aficionado, you’ll love it here.

Fully Private Suite | Best Airbnb in Inglewood

This tastefully decorated basement suite is ideally placed in central Inglewood. It’s walking distance to 9th Ave where you’ll find interesting boutiques, and close to the Bird, Wildlands, and Fish parks. You’ll have a kitchen, laundry facilities, and free wifi. Despite being in the basement, the suite is bright and airy throughout, with plenty of space for you and a partner to relax in.

Inner City Sanctuary | Best Private Room in Inglewood

You’ll feel right at home staying in this beautiful guest house. You’ll get the privacy of your own space as well as access to the rest of the property. It’s a beautiful space to get some work done in and is one of the best places to stay in Calgary for digital nomads. The house is stylish and full of character, and sits in the heart of Inglewood close to quirky coffee shops and boutiques.

Modern Home Close to Everything | Best Holiday Home in Inglewood

Sleeping up to seven people, this holiday home is ideal for groups deciding where to stay in Calgary. It’s modern throughout, with five bedrooms, two living rooms, and a fully equipped kitchen. It’s close to Downtown and provides easy access to Inglewood’s top places to visit. Given its location and size, we reckon this place is awesome value for money!

Novel Bed and Breakfast | Best Bed & Breakfast in Inglewood

Enjoy a relaxing and comfortable vacation in Calgary by making your base at this delightful B&B. It offers four cosy rooms each outfitted with modern amenities. Guests can also enjoy free wifi, luggage storage and a library. It is ideally located for exploring Inglewood, the city and surrounding countryside.

Things to See and Do in Inglewood

• Down a pint at the Cold Garden Beverage Company.
• Enjoy local cuisine and stylish drinks at The Nash.
• Explore the lush and expansive Inglewood Wildlands and visit the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary.
• Grab a late-night snack at the Blackfoot Truck Stop.
• Indulge at Bite – Grocer & Eatery.
• Kickstart your day at Delightful Café.
• Listen to live music at the Ironwood Stage & Grill.
• Sample from a great selection of creative brews at High Line Brewing.
• See brilliant exhibits at the Esker Foundation.
• Sip a cappuccino or cocktail at Gravity Espresso & Wine Bar.
• Unleash your inner animal at Gorilla Whale.

5. Bridgeland – Best Neighborhood in Calgary for Families

Bridgeland is a beautiful neighborhood located north of the Bow River. It sits adjacent to both the Downtown and is well-connected to the rest of the city.

This neighborhood is also home to two of Calgary’s top family-friendly attractions, the Calgary Zoo and TELUS Spark. Because of these two fantastic attractions – and a handful of others – Bridgeland is our pick for where to stay in Calgary for families.

Downtown condo with a homey vibe | Best Airbnb in Bridgeland

Hardwood floors, cozy decor, and enough space for family activities make this one of the best Airbnbs in Calgary . The apartment has space for six guests and features open-plan living.

Best Western Airport Inn | Best Hotel in Bridgeland

The convenient location of this hotel makes it an ideal base if you’re traveling with family. It’s right by the airport and a short drive away from central Calgary, so you can reduce travel time and get on with your vacation. The hotel offers traditional rooms and a pool, and free breakfast makes morning starts that much easier.

Beautiful Modern Loft | Best Condo in Bridgeland

With space for up to five guests, this industrial-style loft is perfect for groups or families. It’s close to the highway and has free parking, ideal if you’re on a road trip around Calgary . The loft is simple but stylish and is fully furnished with everything you’ll need throughout your stay. It’s worth noting that this isn’t the quietest place to be, but is still walking distance to cafes, shops, and boutiques.

Gorgeous 2BR Apartment | Best Apartment in Bridgeland

This apartment is perfect for families deciding where to stay in Calgary. It’s close to Stampede Park and the Olympic Plaza, and is a short drive from Downtown. The flat is stylish and modern, and is equipped with a full kitchen, wifi, a flat-screen TV, and laundry facilities.

Things to See and Do in Bridgeland

• Dine on a delicious and filling breakfast at OEB Breakfast Co.
• Eat an incredible bowl of ramen at Shiki Menya Ramen.
• Feast on local dishes at the Blue Star Diner.
• Grab a slice of savory and saucy pizza at LCV Pizza Bar.
• Have your mind blown at the groundbreaking TELUS Spark science and discovery center.
• Pack a picnic and enjoy an afternoon in Tom Campbell’s Hill Natural Park.
• Rent bikes and explore the Bow River pathway.
• See your favorite animals, reptiles, apes, and aquatic creatures at the incredible Calgary Zoo.
• Snack and sample your way around the Riverside Farmers’ Market.
• Try one of the best burgers in Calgary at Burger 320.

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Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Calgary and where to stay.

What are the best places to stay in Calgary?

Here are some of our favorite places when traveling to Calgary: – In Downtown Calgary:  HI Calgary City Centre – In Victoria Park:  Wicked Hostels – Calgary – In The Beltline:  NUVO Hotel Suites

Where to stay in downtown Calgary?

Looking for an incredible place to stay in downtown Calgary? Try these: – HI Calgary City Centre – Urban Condo with Great Views – Homewood Suites by Hilton

Where to stay in Calgary with a family?

Get some peace & quiet for the whole family at this  Downtown Condo with a Homey Vibe . It’s a great Airbnb pick for bigger groups!

Where to stay in Calgary for couples?

Looking for a great place to stay in Calgary with your loved one? Zen Lofts or  NUVO Hotel Suites  is the way to go! You won’t regret it.

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Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

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Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Calgary is a city that shouldn’t be missed. It’s a great sports town, has a world-class restaurant scene, and offers a variety of lively bars and vivacious clubs. No matter your age, budget, or interests, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Calgary!

If you’re still not sure where to stay, you can’t go wrong with Wicked Hostels – Calgary . It’s our favorite hostel in the city because of its central location, a variety of amenities, and its free breakfast.

Another excellent option is the Hilton Garden Inn . Situated Downtown, it boasts an excellent location, stylish rooms, and awesome amenities.

• Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Canada .
• Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Calgary .
• Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Calgary instead.
• Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Calgary to plan your trip.
• Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Canada . 
• Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

Sheridan Cahoon

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Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

58 Best Things to Do in Calgary, Canada

April 2, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey 12 Comments

Things to Do in Calgary Last Updated: March 26th, 2024

Although known for the world-famous Calgary Stampede and its proximity to the Canadian Rockies, there’s so much more to this beautiful city.

With beautiful outdoor attractions and neighbourhoods, cultural hot spots, food tours, winter sports and festivals, Calgary is a hidden gem quickly gaining in popularity. Nestled in the Alberta Foothills, Calgary is one of Canada’s most multicultural and fastest-growing cities. Known for its laid-back Western atmosphere, it’s also a bustling tech town with one of Canada’s youngest populations.

Although we travel and write about the best of Canada, Calgary is our home city and we’ve lived here for 20 years. People are always asking us about the best things to do in Calgary, so we’ve created an extensive guide to help you explore the city. Whether you’re a local looking for the best restaurants in Calgary or a first-time visitor looking for the best Calgary tours , this is your guide to the best things to do in Calgary year-round.

Planning your trip to Calgary last minute?

Below are some of the top tours, hotels, and more! Don’t forget to plan ahead when considering the top things to do in Calgary!

🇨🇦 Top Activities and Tours in Calgary:

• Best Kananaskis Horseback Riding Tour : This two-hour horseback tour in the Rocky Mountains is just over an hour’s drive from Calgary and has over 100 5-star reviews.
• Best Calgary Biking Tour : See and learn about many popular areas of Calgary on this 3-hour biking tour with all 5-star reviews.
• Best Whitewater Rafting Tour : With the Rocky Mountains nearby, a whitewater rafting trip is one of the most exciting ways to experience this beautiful area.
• Best Calgary Walking Tour : Hear the stories and history that make Calgary an exciting cosmopolitan city and explore the +15 elevated walkways that add to the city’s unique character.
• Best Private Tour to Banff : Immerse yourself in the scenery of the Canadian Rockies and enjoy a personalized experience of Banff National Park on this private tour from Calgary.

🛌 Top Hotels in Calgary:

• Fairmont Palliser (luxury)
• Alt Hotel Calgary East Village (mid-range)
• Acclaim Hotel by CLIQUE (budget)

🚗 Visiting Calgary independently?   Be sure to book your Calgary rental car ahead of time to ensure availability!

1. The Calgary Tower

Although it’s no longer the tallest building in Calgary, the Calgary Tower remains an icon of the city and offers beautiful 360-degree views of the downtown core and the Rocky Mountains on a clear day. It also features a glass floor for those who want to test their fears and look down 191 metres at the streets below. There’s also Sky360, the Calgary Tower restaurant for those who want fine dining paired with incredible views.

Fun Calgary Fact : If you’re exploring downtown Calgary, check out the +15 Pathway Network. This is one of the world’s most extensive pedestrian skywalk systems, comprised of 62 bridges for a total length of more than 18 kilometres (11 miles). In the winter, locals who work downtown make extensive use of the network, travelling between buildings without having to go outside. The Pathway Network is called “+15” because the skywalks are approximately 15 feet (roughly 4.5 metres) above street level. Download the map here.

(Want more fun facts? Check out our article about fun, cool, and strange Calgary Facts )

2. Calgary Stampede

Also known as the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, the Calgary Stampede is indeed the biggest event in Calgary and the largest rodeo on Earth! Taking place in early July for 10 days, the Calgary Stampede is the best time to see the city come to life. Not only is the weather generally good in July, but the Stampede brings amazing concerts, a world-class rodeo, incredible performances, a massive mid-way, lots of interesting food, and all sorts of parties, some of which start before breakfast. Accommodation does become substantially more expensive at this time but if you’re looking for a party, this is the time to come.

3. Heritage Park Historical Village

During the warmer months, Heritage Park Historical Village is a wonderful place to spend the day. Not only is it a good chance to learn about some of Western Canada’s history but it’s also quite interactive with a beautiful fully operating steam train, a paddle-wheeler that takes visitors out on the Glenmore Reservoir, an active historical village with shops and bakeries, and a functioning old-fashioned amusement park. There’s also a beautiful museum with vintage cars, dining and concessions, and so much more. This is such a great Calgary attraction for the whole family.

4. Studio Bell National Music Centre

Not only is the National Music Centre home to Canada’s Music Hall of Fame, but it’s also an interactive treasure trove of musical instruments and memorabilia. Here you’ll learn about Canada’s musical icons and get the chance to play some instruments yourself. You can even take a “backstage tour”, which takes you through centuries of musical instruments and a visit to the famous Rolling Stones mobile recording studio. This is easily one of Calgary’s top attractions and to add some icing to the cake, it’s housed in one of the most beautiful architecturally-designed buildings in the province. This can be a great couples activity, a great family activity, or something to do with friends as well. If you’re looking for fun things to do in Calgary for adults, the National Music Centre also hosts adult-only nights, which include live music and pop-up bars.

5. Calgary Central Public Library

While visiting a library is not typically a “must-do”, the Calgary Central Public Library is a bit different. While you certainly don’t need to browse the books, this building is certainly worth a visit for anyone interested in architecture. After all, it has been featured in publications around the world, including recognition from TIME magazine as one of the 100 Greatest Places of 2019.

It’s also located near City Hall, which makes it a very convenient place to explore. Other nearby attractions include Downtown East Village, Studio Bell National Music Centre, Olympic Plaza, and Stephen Avenue. The four-story building cost $245 million to construct and features an elevated floor above street level to accommodate the C-Train.

6. Take a Calgary Tour

For those visiting the city, you might want to enjoy one of the many Calgary tours . Join a knowledgeable local who can show you the sights, teach you some history, and give you insider tips. From food and brewery tours to rafting, there’s something for everyone.

7. The Calgary Zoo (Wilder Institute)

Not only is the Calgary Zoo one of the most visited zoos in the country, but it’s also one of the most internationally recognized zoos in the world thanks to their conservation efforts. The Calgary Zoo is home to over 800 animals from around the world, including Africa, Asia, North America, and the tropics. It’s a beautiful place to walk around and is easily accessed via Memorial Drive or the C-train. If you’re looking for things to do in Calgary with kids, this is it. Plus, the Calgary Zoo just received two beautiful polar bears!

8. Watch an NHL Calgary Flames Game

As many know, when it comes to sports, ice hockey is what Canada is most known for. Luckily for you, Calgary is home to one of the seven NHL teams in Canada. The Calgary Flames play regularly between the months of October and April, and if you’re not picky about where you sit, you can attend a game for as low as $25. For the best seats, however, you can expect to pay upwards of $300. Either way, it’s a great way to spend an evening, so grab a seat, drink some of the infamous draft beer, and enjoy watching Canada’s national winter sport!

9. Float or Raft Down the Bow River

If you’re looking for a relaxing local activity in the summer, there’s nothing quite like a slow float down the Bow River. The Bow River is very popular due to its size and the fact that it goes through downtown and is easily accessible. When we first moved here, you had to buy your own tube, but now some companies rent rafts as well, making it easy for anyone to experience. You’ll notice many tubes going down the river during warm summer days. If you don’t have a raft, you can rent a raft or join up with a guided tour.

10. Explore the Bow River Pathway System

Calgary has the most extensive urban pathway and bikeway network in North America, with the city maintaining approximately 1000 km of regional pathways and 96 km of trails, all of which are available for Calgarians and visitors to enjoy, whether for walking, running, in-line skating or cycling.

For those visiting the city, we highly recommend exploring the Bow River Pathway System . It’s home to a variety of sculptures and art pieces, as well as the iconic bright red Peace Bridge, which takes you across the Bow River. There’s also Prince’s Island Park and the Bow River itself, which takes you all over the city. On a nice hot summer day or in the fall with colourful leaves, this is really one of Calgary’s highlights.

11. Visit Prince’s Island Park

If you’re already exploring the Bow River Pathway System as mentioned above, you really shouldn’t miss Prince’s Island Park . This is truly a beautiful slice of nature right in the middle of the city and right next to the Eau Claire Market area, which is home to a number of great restaurants. In the summer, there’s a variety of festivals that take place here including the Calgary Folk Music Festival and Expo Latino. There’s also a fine dining restaurant called the River Cafe, which is ranked as one of the top restaurants in Canada. Aside from that though, it’s just a pretty park where locals go to hang out, play frisbee, go for a jog, and admire the Canadian geese and ducks that also call this place home.

12. Walk Across Peace Bridge

While visiting Prince’s Island Park, don’t forget to visit one of the most iconic sights in Calgary. Peace Bridge is a beautiful red pedestrian bridge that crosses over the Bow River between Memorial Drive and Eau Claire Park. It has become one of the iconic images of Calgary over the last decade and makes for a great way to explore other nearby neighbourhoods such as Kensington. It’s also a great place to take some photos.

13. The Glenbow Museum

Those looking for a beautiful museum in the heart of downtown Calgary should head to the Glenbow Museum . However, please note that the museum is currently closed as it received extensive renovations. Once complete, it will be called the JR Shaw Centre for Arts & Culture and will be free to explore.

This museum represents Western Canadian art and culture, both as a repository of important cultural history but also as a living record of contemporary life in this part of the world.  Their collection includes over one million objects, documents, photographs, and artworks, which make it one of the largest museums in Western Canada. In addition to art, however, the Glenbow Museum also features the history of Calgary and Alberta, as well as a great exhibit on the traditions, values, and history of the indigenous people who have lived in the Northwestern plains of Alberta and Montana for thousands of years.

During the renovation, visitors can go to the Glenow satellite gallery at the Edison on the second floor at 150 9 Ave SW.

14. WinSport (Canada Olympic Park)

Formerly known as Canada Olympic Park (it was home to the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics), WinSport is Calgary’s top outdoor activity centre. Not only is it home to the Canada Sports Hall of Fame, but it’s also a great place to try a variety of activities and sports. In the summer, you’ll find the fastest zip line in North America, downhill mountain biking, and more. In the winter, you’ll find skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and even an Olympic bobsleigh track ! However, the Winsport Bobsled Track is currently under repairs with no set date of when or if it will reopen.

15. TELUS Spark Science Centre

If you’re looking for a great place to bring kids, It’s hard to find a better indoor attraction than TELUS Spark . It’s not just for kids though. This science centre has Calgary’s only Dome Theatre, which features incredible nature movies and live planetarium shows. There are also travelling exhibitions, an outdoor adventure space for play and risk-taking, a plethora of fun and interactive educational exhibits, and so much more.

16. Explore Stephen Avenue

Quite possibly Calgary’s prettiest street, Stephen Avenue is also the most historic. Right in the heart of downtown, running parallel to the C-Train and mostly closed off to vehicles, Stephen Avenue is the perfect place to go for a walk, especially in the summer months when there are more people out and about. You’ll see some of Calgary’s most beautiful historic buildings, shops, and restaurants. It’s also close to most of downtown Calgary’s top attractions such as City Hall, Olympic Park, the Calgary Tower, the Glenbow Museum, the Calgary Public Library, and the Bell Studio National Music Centre.

17. Devonian Gardens

Devonian Gardens is an indoor urban oasis located in the CORE Shopping Centre just off of Stephen Avenue. With over 500 trees, 50 plant varieties, a koi pond, and a dedicated children’s play area, it’s a haven for families and nature lovers. There’s even a vertical 900-square-foot living wall, which is a popular spot to snap photos.

These beautiful botanical gardens are open year-round, providing a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. During the winter, you can visit Devonian Gardens to escape the cold temperatures outside.

18. Explore the 17th Ave Entertainment District

Known to some as the Red Mile, 17th Ave SW is one of the most popular places in Calgary. It basically starts right in front of the Saddledome (Stampede Park) and stretches all the way down to 14th street SW. This is where you’ll find lots of trendy shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants. It’s a lively place during the summer months and is a great place to go for a walk, find a bite to eat or enjoy a night out at the bars.

19. Explore Kensington

With over 250 businesses, Kensington is one of Calgary’s most vibrant communities and one of the top neighbourhoods we recommend visiting. Located just across the Bow River from downtown, walkable from the famous Peace Bridge, this beautiful spot is home to trendy brunch spots, eye-catching public art, and specialty stores.

Those taking the LRT can simply get off at Sunnyside Station, which is practically in the heart of Kensington, making it a very easy place to explore.

20. Calgary’s East Village

One of the newest exciting neighbourhoods in Calgary is East Village, which was created to be “a catalyst of urban culture, a future-facing hub of optimism, ideas and energy that is helping the city live its next chapter.” Located right next to the Bow River, within walking distance from Inglewood, Studio Bell, and many other attractions, It’s a perfect way to spend an afternoon with the family checking out the cool shops, pubs, restaurants, and public art.

21. Olympic Plaza

Located right in front of City Hall and next to Stephen Avenue, Olympic Plaza was opened in 1988 to commemorate the 15th Winter Olympic Games that were held in Calgary. The plaza features a reflecting pool, an amphitheatre, and the Olympic Flame bronze statue. It’s right next to the LRT line and hosts a variety of events, including concerts. During the winter months, it’s also one of the best places to go skating as the rink is one of only two in Calgary with refrigeration, keeping the ice close to perfect on many days.

22. Inglewood

Another one of our favourite neighbourhoods is Inglewood. Not only is this Calgary’s oldest neighbourhood, it’s also one of its coolest. Located at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow Rivers, not far from East Village, Inglewood is full of charming local restaurants, shops, and historic buildings. Despite being next to Calgary’s downtown core, Inglewood has retained a small-town vibe and is very walkable and bike-friendly. Those who enjoy live music will also love The Ironwood Stage & Grill and The Blues Can, which is the unofficial house of blues.

23. The Inglewood Bird Sanctuary and Nature Centre

Also located in Inglewood is the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary and Nature Centre, which has been providing a safe haven for migratory birds since 1929. Despite being located near downtown Calgary, this is a wonderful spot to surround yourself with so nature and forget you’re even in a city. More than 270 species of birds, 21 species of mammals and 347 species of plants have been recorded at various times within the nature centre! Open from 10 am until 4 pm Wednesday through Sunday, the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary and Nature Centre is free.

24. Explore Nosehill Park

If you’re looking to go hiking in Calgary, few places match Nosehill Park . This park is one of North America’s biggest urban parks with more than 11 square kilometres of nature. It also offers stunning views of downtown Calgary and is home to an ancient First Nations artifact: The Siksikaitsitapi Medicine Wheel. There are not many trees in the park, so make sure you bring a hat during hot summer days.

25. Explore Fish Creek Park

As if one massive urban park wasn’t enough, Calgary went ahead and made another. Actually, Fish Creek Park is a provincial park that happens to be located in Calgary and is the second-largest urban park in Canada! This park is much more extensive than Nosehill Park, taking up a big portion of Calgary’s southside, crossing over rivers and connecting to the beautiful Glenmore Reservoir. There are a variety of places to start from and you can walk, run, bike, or even rollerblade.

26. Bowness Park

Next to the Bow River and not far from downtown, Bowness Park is a beautiful outdoor space that offers something for everyone. In the summer, visitors can take a paddleboat out onto the lagoon, enjoy picnics by the water, or stroll along the scenic pathways. It’s also a great place to launch a tube or a paddleboard for a rafting trip down the Bow River. When winter arrives, the lagoon freezes and becomes an enchanting ice-skating rink which is free to use. It’s also possible to go cross-country skiing during winter when the city gets good snowfall.

27. Find Your Groove at the Calgary Folk Music Festival

One of our favourite weekends during the summer in Calgary is the Calgary Folk Music Festival , which takes place over four days in the beautiful area of Prince’s Island Park in downtown Calgary. With multiple stages and an incredible lineup of musicians and bands, this is a great place to get introduced to new music, dance under the hot sun, or just lay back and let the music soothe your soul. You’ll also find workshops, incredible food, an array of handicrafts, and cool stuff to buy.

28. Go Fly-Fishing

Did you know that Calgary’s Bow River is one of the top three trout streams in the world? That’s right! Alberta is home to some of the best trout fishing in the world and that attracts anglers from all over. Whether you bring your own gear or join a tour, there’s no better place to go fly-fishing than in and around Calgary. In terms of timing, the Bow River can technically be fished throughout the year. However, Calgary can get some harsh winters, which means the most comfortable time to fish would be between May and October.

29. The Military Museums

While Canada’s military is a fraction of the size of our neighbours down south, we did have one of the most important victories in both the First and Second World Wars. It was a crazy time in history and resulted in an unbelievable amount of casualties. During your visit to the Military Museum , you’ll learn about the stories of bravery during this troubling time in history. You’ll get insight into what life was like in the trenches, what it was like flying a bomber, and how everyone came together as a team to bring down the enemy.

The museum houses eight separate museums and is currently under renovation. However, it remains open to the public.

30. Downhill Karting

If you love excitement, then Downhill Karting is a must-do when you visit Calgary. Located at WinSport, you get to the top of the track via a chair-lift before racing downhill, descending more than 100 metres down a 1.8 km track with over 50 twists and turns. It’s a fun thing to do with friends, family, and kids.

31. Visit the “The Last of Us” Filming Locations

For fans of the show and video game, The Last of Us Part 1 was filmed entirely in Calgary and other parts of Alberta, becoming the largest series to be shot in Canada. Many of the spots are open to the public, such as SAIT Polytechnic, Fish Creek Provincial Park, and many parts of downtown Calgary.

32. Explore the Public Art

People often say that Calgary lacks culture, but the city was named the cultural capital of Canada back in 2012. Since then, the number of art installations across the city has multiplied, making it a great city to explore public art. As locals, this is really something we’ve come to appreciate over the years. Art plays a crucial role in the development of modern, vibrant cities, bringing awareness of the spaces we move through while transforming landscapes with added texture and interest. From beautiful statues to stunning murals, there are so many art pieces to enjoy in Calgary .

33. Wonderland at the Bow

Speaking of public art, this one is one of the most famous. The Bow is a 158,000-square-metre office building that stands 236 metres (774 ft) tall. It is the third tallest building outside of Toronto and when it was built in 2012, it was ranked among the top 10 architectural projects in the world. That’s why we recommend visiting. Since it’s an office building for both Encana Corporation and Cenovus Energy, you won’t be able to go inside. However, it’s one of Calgary’s most iconic buildings and is truly beautiful to see. It’s also home to one of Calgary’s most iconic images. Wonderland is a 12-metre-high metal sculpture that resembles a girl’s head and is a great place to get that sought-after Instagram shot.

34. Eat at Award-Winning Restaurants

Those into food will have a great time in Calgary. With thousands of restaurants to choose from, as well as a thriving multicultural scene, there’s no shortage of options. We’ll list a few favourites below but don’t miss our guide to the 40 best Calgary restaurants , which features many award-winning restaurants for all budgets. We’ve also created a guide to the best breakfast in Calgary .

Peter’s Drive-Thru: When it comes to fast-food-style burgers, fries, and milkshakes, Peter’s drive-thru is the place to go. This is one of Calgary’s most famous dining establishments and if you go during the evenings or weekends, lineups will be huge. There’s no seating so everything is done like a drive-thru. You can either park and line up outside or sit in your car and go through the drive-thru. Either way, the food is delicious and fairly cheap, and they have the best burgers and shakes in the city.

River Cafe: Now for something polar opposite, let’s head down to the beautiful Prince’s Island Park area for one of Calgary’s top upscale dining options. Uniquely located next to the Bow River surrounded by trees, the River Cafe is perhaps the best setting for a romantic restaurant in Calgary. It’s also one of the most eco-friendly restaurants, serving up a wide range of Canadian cuisine with local ingredients.

Bridgette Bar: Another fancy restaurant located near downtown Calgary is Bridgette Bar. It’s been a while since we ate here but I’ll never forget having mashed potatoes with smoked butter and a delicious smoked Rainbow trout.

CRAFT Beer Market: Home to one of the coolest rooftop patios in the city, CRAFT is a great place to eat everything from fried pickles to pizza, tacos, and their popular bowls. Karla’s favourite is the Ahi Poke Bowl. As you may have guessed from the name, they also have more than 100 beers on tap.

Native Tongues: While there aren’t loads of amazing Mexican restaurants in Calgary, one of the favourites is Native Tongues, which features an array of popular tacos and tequila.

35. Visit a Brewery

If you love sampling delicious local beer, you’ve come to the right spot. There are lots of breweries in Calgary to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a creative sour, stout, or face-imploding IPA, there are more than 40 great Calgary breweries to choose from. If you want to combine award-winning food with award-winning beer, Last Best Brewing should be high on your list.

36. Take the Kids to Calaway Park

While Calaway Park is certainly more geared toward kids, it is Western Canada’s largest outdoor amusement park. With 32 rides, 23 carnival games, lots of food vendors, and even a 3D theatre, Calaway Park is a very popular attraction with the young and the young at heart.

37. Fort Calgary Historic Site

Fort Calgary Historic Site Is the city of Calgary’s birthplace. It was built in 1875 as an outpost for the North West Mounted Police and later became the trading hub. The park consists of restored barracks buildings, historical displays, and a replica North-West Mounted Police detachment. During the summer months, many events are held here, including outdoor movies, ghost walks, concerts, and more.

There is no fee to visit the park but the museum has a small fee.

38. Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame

Whether you’re into hockey, baseball, football, or even track & field, sports buffs will love Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame , which is conveniently located at WinSport Canada Olympic Park and is Canada’s largest and only national museum for sports. You’ll find a 40,000-square-foot museum, as well as the torch that was used to light the 1988 Olympic Winter Games. More than 700 Canadians have been inducted into the Hall of Fame making it’s a great opportunity to learn about sports in Canada.

39. The Hangar Flight Museum

Aviation enthusiasts will love the Hangar Flight Museum . Located near the Calgary International Airport, this museum has a range of vintage aircraft and artifacts on display, including military planes. Visitors can explore the evolution of aviation technology and learn about Western Canada’s aviation history.

40. Go Horseback Riding

With a deep heritage of cowboys and rodeos, it should come as no surprise that Calgary and the surrounding area is a great place to go horseback riding. There are a variety of companies offering horseback riding tours , with some of the most popular ones being out towards the mountains and Kananaskis.

41. Get Cultured at Expo Latino

If you love the multiculturalism of Canada, then you probably love all the vibrant festivals that occur across Canada. One of Calgary’s most popular ethnic festivals is Expo Latino , which is held in August, and just so happens to be Canada’s largest outdoor Latin Festival. On a hot summer day surrounded by Calgary’s city landscape, Expo Latino is the perfect opportunity to celebrate Latin culture, including live music, dance workshops, beautiful handicrafts, amazing food, and more.

42. Science is Fun at Beakerhead

Beakerhead is a fun and interesting Calgary festival that brings together science, engineering, and art. Visitors can be entertained and educated and the event is fun for all ages. It’s also located within the downtown core, with the biggest setups typically taking place around Fort Calgary or Prince’s Island Park.

43. GlobalFest Cultural & Fireworks Festival

Whether you’re into mind-blowing fireworks or experiencing new cultures, GlobalFest is a must-do festival in Calgary. This annual festival celebrates Calgary’s multicultural communities, featuring pavilions, performances, and international fireworks, illuminating the sky with a colliding orchestra of light and sound. The fireworks are a competition between a variety of countries, such as China, India, Austria, France, and Germany, creating some of the best displays you’ll ever see.

44. Chinook Blast

Despite being a winter city, there are not a lot of winter festivals in Calgary. However, a new festival that arrived in 2021 is called Chinook Blast , which brings in other festivals, such as the Calgary Folk Fest, into a wintery scene in downtown Calgary. Some of the features include the Calgary Folk Music Festival’s Block Heater, the Glow Festival, the Ethnik Festival of Arts & Culture, the High-Performance Rodeo, and more.

45. Spruce Meadows

Located at the far southern end of Calgary, Spruce Meadows is home to internationally renowned horse-jumping competitions and has earned a reputation as one of the most important equestrian competition venues in the world. Numerous tournaments and competitions are held throughout the year here, with the Masters being the most prestigious. This is part of the Rolex Grand Slam of Show Jumping, a four-competition season where riders can win up to 1 million Euros. The Masters is held every September for four exciting days on the grounds. Even celebrities, such as Alec Baldwin, have been seen here.

46. Stagewest Calgary

Stage West Theatre is a great place to see live musical theatre while eating one of the biggest buffets in the city. We’ve seen all sorts of shows there, including Red Rock Diner, And The World Goes Round, and my absolute favourite – Jersey Boys! It starts with a 120-item buffet, which includes all sorts of things, such as crab legs, salmon, roast beef, perogies, sushi, dessert, and so much more. The menu changes slightly each time. Once dinner ends, the lights go out and the show begins. It’s a really great time and if you’re looking for a dinner theatre in Calgary, this is one of the best places to go.

47. Jubilations Dinner Theatre

If you’re looking for more of a traditional dinner theatre experience, where the actors serve you the food for example, you’ll want to buy tickets for the Jubilations Dinner Theatre . They have been a staple of the Alberta theatre scene for over 20 years, showcasing the best in pop culture and crafting hilarious parodies of the biggest names in movies, music, and TV. Take in the excitement (and the stunning live vocals) while you enjoy a delicious multi-course dinner served by our character servers.

48. Aussie Rules Piano Bar

Located in the same building as Jubilations Dinner Theatre, Aussie Rules is a popular piano bar where people come to request songs and sing-a-long with very talented pianists. It’s so fun that before you know it, you might be standing on chairs chugging beer to the chants of “Aussie Aussie Aussie, Oy Oy Oy”.

49. The Rec Room

If you’re looking for a super fun place to go with friends, check out the Rec Room , which combines a bar and restaurant with an entire suite of gaming opportunities such as redemption games, video games, shuffleboard, pool, arcades, and more.

50. Play a Round of Mini Golf

If you love mini golf as much as we do, Calgary is a great place to be. Whether it’s a challenging championship-style course or a course filled with fun obstacles, there are many places to enjoy a round of mini golf in Calgary .

51. Shakespeare by the Bow

Shakespeare by the Bow is an annual summer tradition (July and August) that brings free outdoor theatre productions to Calgary. Typically held in Prince’s Island Park, but occasionally elsewhere in the city, this is a great attraction for theatre lovers. Past productions have included A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the Merry Wives of Windsor, and The Comedy of Errors.

52. Calgary Farmers’ Market

If you’re looking for fresh produce, artisanal goods, and a wide variety of delicious food, there is no better place to visit than a farmers’ market. The Calgary Farmers’ Market has two locations that are worth checking out. CFM South is in the Fairview East Industrial area, while CFM West is in the Greenwich area, very close to WinSport.

With over 75 vendors at the Calgary Farmers’ Market, you can find everything from handmade gifts to baked goods while enjoying live music on certain days.

53. Get a Massage

Whether you’re a local or someone exploring the city for a few days, who doesn’t want a good massage or a day at a spa? Calgary has many places, ranging from luxury to basic, giving options for almost any budget. So whether you’re looking for a full package with pools, hot tubs, and rose pedals, or just looking for a deep-tissue massage, Calgary has a plethora of options.

54. Enjoy an Escape Room

Over the last few years, escape rooms have taken cities by storm. People love them! So if you and some friends feel the need to solve clues and feel like James Bond, Calgary has many escape rooms to try. Escape rooms can be a fun way for your friends and family to bond and work together, not to mention a great way for employers to bond with employees.

55. Enjoy High Tea

No longer just for royalty, High Tea (also known as Afternoon Tea) can be enjoyed by everyone in Calgary. From luxury experiences at the Fairmont to unique experiences just outside the city, check out our guide to the best High Tea in Calgary .

56. Eat Some Ice Cream

Winter or summer, Calgary has some excellent places for ice cream and gelato. From classics like vanilla and chocolate to more creative options like Salted Caramel Pretzel and London Fog, check out our guide to find the best ice cream in Calgary .

57. Spend a Few Nights ( Where to Stay in Calgary )

As one of Canada’s biggest cities, there’s no shortage of hotels and other accommodations. There really is no “best place to stay in Calgary”. It just depends on what you’re looking for. Do you want to be downtown? Do you want to be close to a certain attraction? Do you want to be close to the airport? Do you want cheap, mid-range, or luxury? There are so many options and there’s something for everyone.

However, although we’ve listed some great options below, you’ll want to check out our guide to the best hotels in Calgary for even more information on where to stay.

Calgary Hotels Downtown

For those who want to stay in downtown Calgary, there are lots of accommodation options, including the Fairmont for those who want luxury, and a plethora of other options for everything in-between. There’s also a variety of hotels that are not downtown. There are also a number of Calgary hotels with pools all over the city for those with kids or simply wanting to take a dip. Some popular options for where to stay in Calgary include:

Alt Hotel Calgary East Village : Once known as a rather sketchy neighbourhood, Calgary’s East Village has been completely transformed into one of the coolest and trendiest neighbourhoods in the city. Not only is it home to attractions such as the Calgary Library and the National Music Centre, but it’s also home to the new Alt Hotel. This Canadian hotel company provides trendy hotels for a great value. We stayed at the Alt Hotel in Ottawa and loved it. There’s a reason it has such high reviews from hundreds of guests.

Hotel Arts Kensington : If you’re looking for a smaller beautiful hotel just outside the city centre in the trendy neighbourhood of Kensington, this is it. Not only do they offer delicious food, underground heated parking, and beautiful rooms, but they also offer free bicycle rentals, which make for a perfect day considering the hotel is right in front of the Bow River Pathway.

Le Germain Hotel Calgary : If you’re looking to be right downtown in the middle of both the Calgary Tower and Stephen Avenue, then this is a great option. Consistently ranked as one of the top hotels in Calgary, this upscale hotel offers everything from typical hotel rooms to apartment-style suites. You’ll also find a 24-hour fitness centre, a lounge bar, and a complimentary continental breakfast.

Motel Village Calgary

One of the most popular places to stay in the city is Motel Village Calgary, which is a small area with a high concentration of mid-range hotels, such as the Best Western and the Holiday Inn. Although Motel Village is not downtown (and is certainly not all motels), it is in an awesome location, right across the street from McMahon Stadium (home of the CFL’s Calgary Stampeders), the University of Calgary, and the Banff Trail C-Train station, which is only three stops away from the downtown core and two stops from Kensington. If you’re looking for Calgary hotels Northwest, Motel Village is one option. Other options include Hotel Arts Kensington, and Westmount River Inn, as well as hotels around Bowness and Winsport Olympic Park.

Hotels in South West Calgary

Southwest Calgary is a big area that includes downtown Calgary and Macleod Trail . Popular options downtown include Marriott, Sheraton, Fairmont, and Delta. Popular options on Macleod Trail include Best Western Plus, Days Inn, Holiday Inn, and many others.

Hotels in North East Calgary

The most popular area for Northeast hotels would be around the airport. There are many hotels in this area including Best Western, Sheraton, Comfort Inn, and many others. Many of these Calgary airport hotels include a free shuttle.

Bed and Breakfast Calgary

We love a good Bed & Breakfast and Calgary has a few options. Options include Along River Ridge, Calgary Westways, Tending Gardens, Cozy Nest, and many others.

Cheap Motels in Calgary

We’re big fans of spending less on a place to sleep and more on fun activities. Calgary has many options for cheap motels including the Super 8, Econo Lodge, Olympia Motel, and many others.

58. Enjoy a World-Class Road Trip

As you can see, there are lots of fun things to do in Calgary. However, when you’re done with the city, there are loads of cool things to do and places to see just around the corner. This is what we recommend.

The Foothills

Just outside Calgary are the beautiful Alberta foothills . They make a great day trip or you can even extend your visit and stay in one of the small communities. Popular areas include Turner Valley, Black Diamond, Okotoks, Nanton, and High River. You’ll find charming restaurants, little museums, and cool activities such as learning how to blacksmith, visiting local producers, and so much more.

One of the most popular places to visit near Calgary is Drumheller , which is known as the dinosaur capital of the world. Not only will you find the world-famous Royal Tyrell Museum, but you’ll also see dramatically different scenery. Instead of foothills and mountains, you’ll find the stunning Alberta Badlands .

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump

If you’re into indigenous culture and history, one of the coolest places to visit is Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump . Located just south of Calgary, near Lethbridge, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features an incredible museum and a beautiful place to learn about one of the biggest buffalo jumps ever found.

Banff and Canmore

Banff, Canmore , and the Rocky Mountains need no introduction. They’re one of the most famous tourist destinations in Canada and for good reason. Very few places in the world offer the stunning scenery found in Banff National Park, and it’s all less than 1.5 hours from Calgary. Enjoy world-class outdoor attractions, spas, a thriving restaurant scene, and so much more. For more, check out our guide for the best things to do in Banff .

The Kananaskis

Another popular Rocky Mountain area is the Kananaskis, which is a little closer than Banff and Canmore and can also be found southwest of Calgary when visiting the Alberta Foothills. This area is a provincial park and while there are very few accommodation options, it is a very popular place to enjoy one of the many famous Kananaskis hikes .

Getting to Calgary

If you’re a visitor looking for different ways of getting to Calgary, here’s some practical advice on how to get here.

Getting to Calgary by Car

Calgary to Edmonton : The drive from Calgary to Edmonton is approximately 300 km and takes roughly 3 hours. The highway is basically straight the entire way and the halfway point is the city of Red Deer. If you’re hungry, stop off in “Gasoline Alley”, which has a huge variety of restaurants, fast food, and gas stations. Our recommendation? Try a burger from Peter’s Drive-In. This is a famous local Calgary burger joint, which recently opened a location in both Gasoline Alley and Edmonton. Grab a milkshake while you’re at it.

Calgary to Vancouver : This is one of the most beautiful drives you can do along the Trans-Canada Highway and takes anywhere from 10-12 hours to do the nearly 1000-km stretch. However, you could easily spend weeks doing this road trip if you stop off and explore the many beautiful regions along the way. Popular stops include Kelowna and Golden BC .

Calgary is also very close to the USA border, a roughly 3-hour drive from Montana.

Getting to Calgary by Plane

Calgary is home to the Calgary International Airport (YYC), which is one of the biggest airports in Canada and just had a major renovation to make it even bigger and prettier. From the airport, there’s an array of options for renting cars, taking a shuttle, hopping in a private transfer, or taking a bus. There are also hotel courtesy shuttles that go to various hotels and the downtown shuttle leaves every 30 minutes at a cost of $15 one-way.

Other options include a taxi (25 minutes to downtown for roughly $40 – $50), Uber, and even public transportation at a cost of $8 per person. Once you arrive, there is plenty of staff around to help you navigate your way.

Getting to Calgary by Bus

There are a few buses that make their way to Calgary. Greyhound Bus is no longer an option but the Red Arrow is a good one. We haven’t taken many buses in Canada (we live here so we have a car) but the Red Arrow is one of the only ones we’ve experienced and it was great. It’s about $70 to travel between Calgary and Edmonton but their new less-fancy Ebus service will do it for $42. You can compare bus options using Busbud .

Getting Around Calgary

Calgary has a lot of options for getting around the city, including public buses, C-train, taxis, and Uber.

• Public Transportation: As with all major cities, Calgary has a robust Calgary transit system . The bus system, however, might be somewhat difficult to navigate BUT the C-train system is very easy. The C-train is Calgary’s metro system. Most of the track is above the ground and each station has a place to buy tickets, which go for $3.40 for 1.5 hours worth of travel. You can also buy a day pass if you plan on riding 3+ times. Most stations also have parking if you have a car and just want to get around the city easier. TIP: the downtown line of the C-train is actually free! So, if you’re jumping on the train between City Hall and 7th or 8th Street SW, you do not have to pay. You’ll notice that the intercom system will tell you that you are leaving the “ free fare zone ” when you are going out of the free area.
• Taxis: Taxis are plentiful in Calgary. Examples include Checker Cabs, Calgary Cab, Associated Cabs, Delta Cab, and a few others.
• Uber: This is also a great option in Calgary. Simply download the app and voila. The only downfall with Uber is that you need either WiFi or data to use it. This is sometimes tricky for travellers.
• Peddle Bike: Calgary is quickly growing its biking paths and there are many great places to peddle a bike around the city . You can easily rent a bike and peddle around the city in the warmer months, exploring all the beautiful parks.
• Scooters and Electric Bikes: Lime scooters are a new fun option for getting around the city is by scooters or electric bikes. These are the green scooters and bikes you’ll see in various parts of the downtown core. However, you’ll need to download the app and use data to really take advantage of it.

Weather in Calgary (Aka: Best Time to Visit)

Calgary is a year-round destination, but the most popular time to visit is between June and October. These are the warmer months with more festivals and more outdoor activities. However, Calgary is also beautiful in the winter and has loads of things to do in the colder months, not to mention being close to Banff for those looking for a winter wonderland experience or world-class skiing and snowboarding.

Another advantage of the summer is that the days are very long as the sun doesn’t set until after 10 PM. It’s also home to the famous Calgary Stampede, which is known as the greatest outdoor show on Earth.

In the winter, the sun sets before 5 PM and can be very cold. However, Calgary’s proximity to the mountains brings a phenomenon known as the Chinook. These warm winds sweep into the city and dramatically change the temperatures. It can be -25 Celcius one day and +5 Celcius the next. This makes our winters partially mild. In addition, Calgary is one of the sunniest cities in Canada, so even if it’s cold outside, the sky will likely be blue, bright, and beautiful.

Want more? Enjoy these Canadian travel guides below:

• Driving from Calgary to Banff
• Driving from Banff to Jasper
• Best Breweries in Calgary
• Things To Do in Alberta
• Things to Do in Edmonton
• Camping in Alberta
• Drumheller Camping

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

Reader Interactions

February 9, 2022 at 8:45 am

Thanks for listing fun things to do in Calgary. There’s a few we didn’t know about.

February 16, 2022 at 8:38 am

Great article!

February 17, 2022 at 11:09 am

Very informative, great article!

February 20, 2022 at 12:21 pm

Great article.

March 12, 2022 at 11:20 am

I would love to visit Vancouver again or take in some BC Winery Tours! Thanks for all the interesting articles.

March 13, 2022 at 4:16 pm

Looks great!

March 13, 2022 at 8:34 pm

I love all the suggestions!

March 21, 2022 at 11:51 am

I’m in Edmonton but it’s been a couple years since I’ve been to Calgary. I definitely want to check out the National Music Museum and The Glenbow (learned admission there is now free).

And my tradition when driving to Calgary is to stop in Red Deer at The Donut Mill for donuts.

March 22, 2022 at 10:31 am

haha yeah that donut shop is popular. Glenbow is still under renovations but not sure when it’s opening

April 3, 2022 at 8:03 am

This article is great! I’ve lived close to Calgary, been there lots and had no idea of all the things I was missing. Know what I’m doing for ‘stay-cation’ this year.

May 5, 2022 at 8:30 pm

Very thorough and informative. Thanks!

June 4, 2022 at 12:20 pm

I’m heading there this month. Thanks for all the great info

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The 20 BEST Things to Do in Calgary (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 8, 2024

Your complete guide to the best things to do in Calgary, Canada. Whether you want to see the famous Stampede or fish in the Bow River, you’ll be blown away at what to do in Calgary!

Calgary is Alberta’s largest city by population and is a young, hip and vibrant city with numerous skyscrapers and art lined pedestrian walkways. 

Yet it still exudes an old west feel, Calgary wasn’t given the nickname “Cowtown” for no reason!

It is a big city with a small-town feel, rich in old western history.

However, it also maintains a culturally diverse identity as over 120 languages are spoken throughout the city.

The city sits at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow Rivers.

Just 50 miles to the east of the Canadian Rockies. It is the stepping off location for the exploration of many of the beautiful Canadian National Parks – such as Banff and Jasper.

Calgary was founded in the mid-nineteenth century as Canada was solidifying its national identity.

A fort bearing the city’s name was built in 1875 to protect fur traders, farmers and ranchers who were beginning to populate the region.

Despite the city’s proximity to unimaginable natural beauty, ironically, the oil and energy industry remains the greatest contributor to the city’s economy and has led to the development of the city throughout recent history.

The Canadian Pacific Railway is even headquartered in Calgary, so you can catch a scenic train around North America before or after your stay.

Whether you’re interested in understanding the rich and beautiful history of the region, or you just need a few days to settle into metropolis life to ground yourself before exploring the Great Outdoors, there are tonnes of incredible things to do in Calgary!  

READ MORE: Don’t miss the best things to do in Banff when you’re travelling Alberta!

Table of Contents

1) Visit the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary

2) take a self guided walking tour through heritage park historical village, 3) take in breathtaking 360 views from the calgary tower, 4) take a walking tour with a local of downtown calgary. , 5) be amazed at glenbow museum, 6) witness the world famous calgary stampede, 7) eat a picnic lunch at prince’s island park, 8) visit the calgary zoo, 9) be entertained at spruce meadows, 10) explore head smashed in buffalo jump , 11) get a rush at the winsport canada olympic park & downhill karting at skyline luge calgary, 12) watch a flames hockey game at the saddledome, 13) ride a roller coaster at calaway park, 14) take a step back in time at fort calgary, 15) fish the bow river, 16) take the big rock brewery tour, 17) day trip to banff national park, 18) visit studio bell and canadian music hall of fame at the national music centre, 19) take a leisurely stroll through one of calgary’s city parks. , 20) enjoy the nightlife and music scene at the blues can, the best hostel in calgary – wicked hostels, best budget accommodation for couples – best western plus suites downtown, best mid-range hotel in centro motel, best luxury hotel in calgary – hotel arts, budget – gaga pizza, mid-range – the eden, high-end – bow valley ranche restaurant, the best things to do in calgary.

As the gateway to spectacular beauty in both national and provincial parks, Calgary is often the first stop for those interested in exploring Alberta’s natural beauty. 

With Banff less than an hour and a half away, you could easily make day trips from Calgary to the interior parts of Banff, Kootenay and Yoho National Parks. 

Or you could hunker down in the city and explore its many city parks. 

But if you’re looking for a bit of culture and entertainment, there are also plenty of museums, restaurants, bars and sporting events to keep you entertained during your stay. 

The Heritage Park Historical Village and Fort Calgary are some of the coolest historical sights in Canada, for those who love history.

Depending on the time of year you plan to visit, you might even catch the famous Calgary Stampede Park that takes place annually in July.

Regardless of your interests, plan to build out an awesome itinerary from our list of incredible things to do in Calgary!

For years we had driven right past the sign for this place and said, “We should stop by one day.”

On our most recent visit to the city, we finally did. And boy are we glad we took the time, because it instantly became our absolute favourite attraction in Calgary!

The Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary located in Cochrane was founded in 2011 by Georgina De Caigny, a local who got her first wolfdog in 2009 and soon realised that there was very little information out there about these beautiful yet misunderstood creatures.

A wolfdog is essentially any domestic dog (often huskies) that has wolf blood in it. They are large, gorgeous creatures, but can have a wild temperament and need different levels of care to normal dogs.

Many people would purchase, breed or adopt wolfdogs thinking they’ll be great house pets, and soon realise that the amount of work they need to properly look after is way more than expected.

As a result many are abandoned or given up for adoption again. Georgina discovered this firsthand, which is why she opened up the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary.

Visitors are welcome to come walk around the 160-acre property and see the rescued wolfdogs.

The wolfdogs live in large enclosures, so you cannot approach or pet them. But volunteers are always on hand to answer questions, and if you time your visit with the feeding sessions it’s a fascinating opportunity to learn more about the animals.

There’s a lot more to the sanctuary than what we have just written, so make sure you stop off here on your trip to Calgary and be amazed at the incredible work Georgina and her team are doing to raise awareness and protect these stunning wolfdogs.

The Heritage Park Historical Village is one of the top Calgary attractions.

Travel back in time as you walk through the park’s four main areas – Heritage Town Square, 1900’s Living Historical Village, 1880’s Pre-Railway Settlement, and 1860s Fur Trading Fort and First Nations Encampment.

Take a ride on an authentic steam train through the 1900s Living Historical Village and enjoy an ice cream cone at the town’s ice cream parlour.

Visit the homes and businesses of the first settlers in Western Canada during the 1880’s Pre-Railway Settlement .

Learn the history of a diverse group of people that travelled through Calgary in the 1860s Fur Trading Fort and First Nations Encampment .

You will be entertained by costumed interpreters and involved in over 200 interactive and hands-on exhibits and attractions.

Lots of fun to be had and history to be learned by all at Heritage Park Historical Village.

Book your tickets in advance on Get Your Guide .

One of the more popular ways to see the city is from the top of Calgary Tower.

The Calgary Tower stands a stagger 190.6 meters tall and from its observation tower, you can see as far as the Canadian Rockies.

Originally named the Husky Tower until 1971, upon the completion of the tower in 1968, Calgary Tower was the tallest structure of its kind in North America.

Ride one of the two elevators to the top or you can try to conquer the more than 800 steps to the main floor.

On the observation deck of Calgary Tower, you can enjoy the 360-degree views of the entire city of Calgary.

There are also two restaurants – Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse and Sky 360 – where you can get a drink or a bite to eat. 

Or you can head to the nearby Stephen Avenue Walk, a pedestrian mall full of bars and restaurants.

There is a lot to see in Calgary. One of the best ways to explore the city is by taking a customized walking tour with a local .

Your guide can meet you where you are staying or any area of town you’d like to see.

Tour the popular Stephen Avenue, a pedestrian-only section of the city that’s full of shops, restaurants, food trucks, art and entertainment.

Look for the famous statues throughout downtown – the Wonderland Sculpture, Famous Five, Family of Horses, Sitting Eagle, Family of Man and the Tree Sculptures plus many others. 

There is something fascinating to be found by history buffs, art lovers and world culture enthusiasts at the Glenbow Museum!

Established by philanthropist Eric Lafferty Harvie in 1966, it is one of the top things to do in Calgary by both locals and tourists.

Containing everything from modern art by Canadian artists to the history of the Plains Indians and first settlers, the Glenbow Museum has truly a diverse collection of artifacts and exhibits to explore as well as interactive exhibits.

Plan to spend at least 2 to 3 hours touring this large and thorough museum.

You are guaranteed to gain a fuller understanding of Canadian history when you visit! Check the website for visitor info!

READ MORE: 17 amazing things to do in Quebec City

The Calgary Stampede is one of the most famous Canada attractions!

Held annually for 10 days in July, millions of people from around the world come to attend the Calgary Stampede, the world’s largest rodeo.

There’s more than just a rodeo to enjoy. There are fair rides to thrill you, chuckwagon races, live music and agricultural events.

The Stampede’s sole purpose is to entertain its visitors, educate and preserve the history and culture of the Old West, and they do it well!!

If you’re visiting Calgary in July, which is perhaps the best time to visit, this is an event that you don’t want to miss in Stampede Park!

One of the best things to do in Calgary is to simply enjoy a nice easy day at Prince’s Island Park.

Arguably the most popular park among the many city parks in Calgary, Prince’s Island Park is accessible by walking or biking via the Peace Bridge .

The park itself is 20 hectares of nature and a pathway that allow you to traverse the entire island on foot or bike.

It is dog-friendly most days (except during large events) so it’s a great place to get exercise in addition to relaxing for a nice picnic lunch. 

Prince’s Island Park does have a full-service restaurant if you don’t want to pack your own lunch.

And if you’re visiting at the right time you might even be able to take in one of the many festivals and events held in the park throughout the year. But there is no bad time to visit Calgary, it’s amazing year-round!

READ MORE: Check out our complete guide to travelling in Canada !

The Calgary Zoo is more than just a place to see animals. It is a zoo dedicated to the care and protection of endangered species.

The zoo is operated by a not-for-profit, the Calgary Zoological Society, and is one of just a few zoos in Canada that is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

Recognized as one of the world’s top zoos for animal conservation, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums considers the Calgary Zoo to be one of the top zoos in the world!

Home to over 1,000 different types of animals, from the endangered Giant Panda Bear to the tiny Black-Footed Ferret.

Animal welfare is the number one priority at the Calgary Zoo and you will find that all habitats meet the highest standards of the creatures well being. 

Whether Calgary is just a stopping point on your way to the National Parks or you’re here for a longer stay, make sure you plan a visit to this animal paradise!

Spruce Meadows is a sports complex and park started by the Southern family in 1976 and is one of the best outdoor equestrian venues in the world.

Dedicated to organizing and hosting equine showjumping tournaments of all levels, celebrating the horse, and the breeding and training of top sport horses.

You can find more than just showjumping in the park.

There are plenty of family friend activities to see and do on an event day.

You can even visit the stables and see some of the horses that will be competing! 

Just a short drive away from Calgary, you’ll find a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is world renown for being the largest and most preserved Buffalo jump in North America.

The jump dates back 6,000 years and was in use for over 5,500 years.

Where the plains meet the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, you will be led by a Blackfoot guide who will interpret the plains buffalo culture.

Through several indoor and outdoor exhibits, you will learn about the aboriginal Plains People who were clever hunters and used the 11 meter high cliff to kill the buffalo and then skillfully processed the carcasses. 

READ MORE: If you love adventure, check out this list of the best hiking in Banff !

Are you ready for Calgary’s ultimate gravity-fueled thrill ride?!

Voted as one of the best Calgary activities, you will race down a 1,800-meter track, one of the longest in the world, with over 50 twists and turns!

Ride a ski chairlift to the top of the track at Canada Olympic Park and then get ready to hurtle down the racecourse.

The karts are easy to control and is fun for all ages. Winsport Canada Olympic Park is where you’ll find WinSport and Downhill Karting, and it’s a great place to visit with the whole family.

Find the full price list on their website .

If you are wondering what to see in Calgary that you can’t see in other places, check out a hockey game.

The Calgary Flames are one of three professional hockey teams in Calgary, but the largest as they are part of the NHL. The Edmonton Oilers are another local favorite in Alberta.

Their last Stanley Cup victory was in 1989. But win or lose, you’re sure to see some exciting action at the Saddledome! 

The NHL hockey season last from October until April so there are plenty of opportunities to watch any number of the 41 Flame home games.

Tickets are reasonably priced , so even if you aren’t a true fan of hockey you can still have an exciting evening before heading out for the night!

If you’re a real sports fan, you can even check out Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame during your stay in Calgary! Canada’s Sports Hall Of Fame is just another one of the amazing attractions in Calgary.

A Calgary attraction that certainly stands out at the top of the list of adrenaline-pumping activities is a visit to Calaway Park.

The park features 32 rides as part of the largest outdoor amusement park in Western Canada. 

If you’re not at all interested in the rides but are obligated to visit thanks to your partner, there’s also great fair-style food and drinks and a variety of games you can play without stepping foot on a ride.

But if roller coaster rides are your thing, be sure to check out “ Chaos ,” “ Storm ,” “ The Vortex, ” and the “ Dream Machine .” 

You are sure to have a blast at Calaway Park!

Fort Calgary is an important piece of the history of Western Canada.

In 1875 the North West Mounted Police ventured to where the Bow River and Elbow Rivers meet and there built a fort called Fort Brisebois on Blackfoot territory.

Fort Calgary was originally built to control the illegal American Whiskey trade and create alliances with indigenous peoples.

A year later the fort was renamed Calgary by Colonel James MacLeod after Calgary House, a castle located in Scotland.

At the park, you can tour the grounds and barracks of where the original fort lay and learn the history of how Calgary was founded. 

Fort Calgary is a National Historic Site, and is a cool insight into Calgary’s history.

Grab your fishing pole or hire a fishing charter. If you love to fish then the Bow River is where you need to be!

Being one of the world’s top three trout streams, the Bow River attracts the best fishing anglers worldwide to its waters.

Find the right fishing hole in the crystal clear water, cast your line, and relax in the peaceful scenery while you wait for that huge trout that is sure to nibble on your line! Bow River offers some of the area’s best fishing.

Big Rock Brewery is one of Canada’s larger breweries with its head office and largest brewery located in Calgary.

Founded in 1985, the brewery features 10 year-round beers, 5 ciders and a handful of seasonal brews. 

You can tour the brewery in Calgary and taste samples of the beers.

Learn the process from beginning to end as a trained beerologist walks you through how the beers come into existence. 

Taste for yourself the excellence on which the company prides itself! 

Enquire on their website about brewery tours.

When you’ve run out of interest in Calgary sightseeing, it’s time to plan a quick day trip into the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

Banff National Park is a jewel not only for Canada but also for the world.

Known for its uniquely blue glacial lakes and rivers, tall mountains and diverse wildlife, Banff National Park is worth its own trip at some point in your life. 

But since you’re in Calgary, go ahead and take the short 130 km drive to Banff to check it out for yourself.

With only one day to explore Banff , you’re going to be hard-pressed to see very much of it. Spend the day doing outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, or just enjoying the views.

But you definitely want to make sure to check out the most famous spots of Lake Louise, Johnston Canyon and Lake Moraine. 

You can plan tonnes of hikes or simply pull over wherever you’d like to enjoy the beauty of the Rocky Mountains! 

If you’re looking for something to hear in addition to the many things to see in Calgary, plan a trip to the Studio Bell at the National Music Centre. 

Studio Bell at the National Music Centre is a musical museum that features a collection of instruments, hosts a variety of performances and offers tonnes of educational opportunities to the public. 

As a venue, there are almost daily concerts and events so be sure to check out the schedule in advance of your trip. 

You can also check out the Canadian Music Hall of Fame at the National Music Centre in Calgary.

Easily one of the top things to do in Calgary is to enjoy one of the many public parks the city has to offer.

Calgary boasts over 8,000 hectares of parks within its city limits.

And there are over 800 km of trails and parkways for walking, biking or otherwise moving through the city’s green space. 

The city parks department takes great care of the parks and does a fantastic job of updating you on areas that might be closed due to weather or maintenance. 

Some of the most popular parks to visit are Fish Creek Provincial Park, Bowness Park, Nose Hill Park and Edworthy Park and Douglas Fir Trail . 

If you are wondering what to do in Calgary at night and you dig blues music then there is no better place in Alberta to enjoy some good music than at The Blues Can.

Located in the historic Inglewood section of town, the Blues Can offers daily live shows each evening. The venue also boasts a classic southern dining menu to go with the atmosphere.  

Grab a bite to eat. Enjoy a tasty cocktail or two. And relax as the blues musicians take you to a different place and time with their tunes. 

Calgary Travel Guide

Now that you know what to do in Calgary, it’s time to find out where to stay and where to eat in this major Canadian city.

Here’s our short travel guide to help you with the best Calgary tourist attractions and activities.

Best Accommodation – Where to Stay in Calgary

If you are wondering where to stay in Calgary, don’t worry, you have plenty of options!

Whether you are looking to save a little cash by staying in hostels or budget hotels or want to splurge on a special occasion, you can find a whole range of options in Calgary. 

Canada, in general, is a fairly expensive place to travel.

So if you are used to third world prices as you travel, be prepared to spend a little more for your accommodation. 

Calgary is not as friendly to the backpacker as other cities, so your options with hostels are limited.

But reasonable budget and mid-range hotels are not much more if you don’t mind spending a little more for a room.

Rated high for friendly staff, cleanliness and location the Wicked Hostel is a great deal for the budget-savvy traveller.

One of the most secure accommodations in all of Canada, Wicked Hostel required valid ID to stay in the hostel. 

The list of amenities is enormous, with key points being incredibly fast WiFi, breakfast (featuring both Nutella and Vegemite options) and a free laundry service.

There are also free business services such as the use of computers, document printing and scanning and free international calling.

Expect free towels, secure luggage storage and parking during your stay at the Wicked Hostel.

With rooms ranging from USD$27 – USD$32 for 4-8 person mixed/male/female dorms, you can expect great value considering all the amenities Wicked Hostel has to offer. 

Enjoy the fun atmosphere. Make friends. And even go on pub crawls and attend other events with staff from the hostel. 

Exceptional value for its location and amenities offered, the Best Western Plus Suites Downtown is a great option for any couple seeking both comfort and accessibility during their stay in Calgary.

Each room comes with free WiFi, bathtub, kitchenette and an included breakfast for two.

But you can opt for a room that has a private jacuzzi spa as well. 

The rooms are spacious and accommodate comfort as you can spread out and enjoy your stay in Calgary.

Expect a clean, comfortable experience and friendly staff to make your stay more pleasant.  

When you stay here you are just minutes away walking to a variety of tourist attractions, restaurants, pubs and transportation at the city centre. 

All rooms are around USD$100, making it an incredible value when you are looking for a place to stay in Calgary. 

Although located 9 km from downtown Calgary, the Centro Motel is one of your best options for mid-range accommodation in the city.

With rates as low as USD$45 for a room, you can’t beat the price in terms of the amenities. 

Each room includes free WiFi and breakfast and comes with a flatscreen television and mini-refrigerator. There is a business centre in the hotel offering services to help keep you connected if needed. 

Additionally, the boutique hotel is consistently rated high for its service, location and cleanliness.

And the staff at the hotel are hard to beat in terms of friendliness and helpfulness. 

The Hotel Arts in downtown Calgary sets the standard for exceptional value in luxury hotels.

A stylish boutique hotel set in the perfect location allows you to combine your desire to explore the city with a chance to return to your hotel room and feel relaxed.

One of the few hotels in Calgary offering a pool, the hotel also offers valet service, a bar, fitness centre and two restaurants.

If you don’t feel like going out for a meal, room service is also available. 

You’re likely not going to find friendlier or more helpful staff and the spacious rooms will leave you wanting for nothing.

Each room offers a flatscreen TV, free and fast WiFi and standard amenities such as toiletries, coffee/tea and a safe to make your stay more enjoyable.

You can also upgrade your stay to a luxury suite for a private balcony/terrace view and a sweet bathrobe.

No doubt if you are looking for comfort and luxury in your stay in Calgary, the Hotel Arts will provide you the best value by far.  

Best Restaurants in Calgary

Downtown Calgary is full of delicious options for place to eat while you enjoy your stay in the city.

From casual quick bites to luxurious fine dining experiences you can expect a range of dining atmospheres. 

And because Calgary is full of international culture, you can choose between traditional Canadian menu options or a range of flavors from Europe, Asia and beyond. 

It’s possible to make Calgary a destination for the food alone! 

Here are a few of our favorite places to eat in Calgary. 

Gaga Pizza is one of the most highly rated restaurants in downtown Calgary for value and deliciousness.

Grab a custom pizza or make your own as you are sure to not be disappointed either way!

This cosy, family-owned restaurant in downtown Calgary feels a bit upscale but has reasonable prices.

They serve classic, Canadian bistro food with nice cocktails and a wide variety of drinks. People also love the trendy space, jazz music, charcuterie boards, and overall ambience of the place.

Spoil yourself at the Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant in a corner of Fish Creek Provincial Park along the Bow River.

Enjoy locally-sourced lunch, dinner or brunch menus featuring tasty plates such as oysters, elk, bison and the best quality beef. 

Lindsay Harvey

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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How to Get From Calgary to Banff

Wondering how to get from Calgary to Banff? The International Airport of Calgary (YYC) is an excellent gateway to the Canadian Rockies. Many visitors to Banff find this is where their trip to the region starts. Most journeys start from the city and then to the Alberta prairies, before setting your eyes on the Canadian Rockies and finally making your way to the Bow Valley.

If you’re arriving in Calgary before your trip to Banff, the good news is there are many ways to get from Calgary to Banff. These options include rental cars, private transfers, shuttle buses, and public transport. If you are curious how far Banff is from Calgary, we’ll answer that for you and all the best options between the two. Read on; you may be surprised you can make this journey without renting a car.

What Is The Closest Airport to Banff?

You may be wondering what the closest airport to Banff is. That would be the Calgary International Airport ( YYC). Most of this article starts at YYC, which, in our opinion, is one of the most pleasant airports in North America. It’s rarely super busy and has a great layout for a major city. There is no commercial airport in Banff.

How Far is it From Calgary to Banff?

If you’re wondering the distance from Calgary to Banff, the answer is – it’s not that far. You can make the drive in about 1.5 hours, and you’ll start getting great views of the mountains as you drive in around the 45-minute mark. If traveling to Canmore, you are looking at one hour and 15 minutes, depending on where you are coming from in Calgary. That being said, you can take a few different routes to get to Banff.

• The Fastest Route is on the Trans-Canada Highway. From YYC to Downtown Banff is approximately 144.0 km via AB-1 W. This route isn’t very scenic but does start to get pretty once you pass the Stoney Nakoda Casino on your left-hand side. You’ll then see famous mountain peaks like Yamnuska before reaching Canmore. Right after Canmore, you’ll see Banff’s Parks Canada entrance gates. You can purchase your Banff Park Pass here if you don’t have one yet.
• The Scenic Route doesn’t take much more time than the fast route, so we recommend it if you have an extra 30 minutes. When driving from Calgary to Banff, you’ll take the exit towards Cochrane and take Highway 1A from Cochrane to Canmore. It’s a slight detour with different views. If you want to make it a little quicker, you can get on the 1A in Cochrane and get off near Morley before continuing to Banff on the TransCanada.

Important Routing Notes

• If time allows, consider driving each route to and from Calgary . When driving from Calgary to Banff, take the 1A. For the return home looking away from the mountain, take the TransCanada from Banff to Calgary.
• Expect the drive to take longer during winter , especially after a big snowstorm.
• During the weekends in July and August, the TransCanada can become very congested, with Calgary and the surrounding region entering the mountains. This means it may take longer to get to Banff on a Friday night, and on Sunday evening, it will take longer to get back to Calgary. Keep this in mind if you have flights during these times.
• Take extra care as you approach the mountains as Chinooks , gusts of warm air that descend from the mountain, have blown unsuspecting drivers off the road. This is a real threat in the winter when gusts of snow can make the road disappear. If it’s a bad storm, consider spending the night in Calgary. Other than that, the drive is easy!

Calgary to Banff by Shuttle Bus

Several companies offer private shuttle bus transfers from the Calgary International Airport. These bus companies run on a schedule with multiple departures from Calgary to Banff. The two most popular are Banff Airporter and Brewster Express . They’re excellent options with various times and routes, so your travel plans may be better suited for one over the other.

Banff Airporter

The Banff Airporter is a year-round service between Calgary, Canmore, and Banff. They have many scheduled times, so you rarely have to wait more than an hour after your flight has landed. Only one location is available for pickup/dropoff in Calgary at the airport and one in Canmore at the Coast Hotel . While they offer a pickup/dropoff hotel service in Banff.

The staff is always friendly, with modern buses with power points, comfortable seats, blankets, and water available. The journey takes about 1:15 hrs to reach Canmore and 1:45 to reach Banff. Of course, the exact travel time depends on your location in Banff and road conditions. They do not offer a service to Lake Louise. We’ve used them as we like leaving our car in our garage at home when we travel abroad, always good service.

Calgary to Canmore

Calgary to banff, brewster express.

Brewster Express is the largest operator of group tours and bus services in and around the Canadian Rockies. Their parent company, Pursuit, also operates major attractions like the Banff Gondola and Lake Minnewanka Cruise . Brewster, the transportation company, operates group tour buses that deliver guests to all the park’s major sights. Even if you opt for another transport option, one of their tours may be a great option to explore the park.

Brewster Express operates only in the summer, connecting Calgary with Kananaskis , Canmore, Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper. You have a greater selection of pick-up and drop-off points with the Brewster Express. Most notable is the regular service to Lake Louise and the once-a-day shuttle to Jasper from the Calgary Airport. They also offer a shuttle service with hotel pickups in the Calgary city center.

This is an excellent option if you have time to explore Calgary, which you should do in the summer months. There are some great things to do in Calgary if you time your visit during the Calgary Stampede, or you can enjoy some fine dining or check out Studio Bell. They also offer a winter service that connects the ski resorts to the town of Banff, but no service for Calgary to Banff.

The bus service also allows you to purchase point-to-point tickets. You can hop on a shuttle bus from Canmore to Lake Louise or Banff to Jasper.

Calgary to Lake Louise

Discover banff tours.

Discover Banff Tours runs shuttles between Banff, Canmore, Downtown Calgary, and the Calgary Airport. These coach cars run daily and start at $78 a person. This shuttle service offers pickups from select Lake Louise locations, including the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and most hotels in Banff. They offer pick-ups and drop-offs in Canmore at the Coast Hotel only and will drop off in Calgary at either YYC or a selection of Downtown hotels.

Mountain Park Transport

Mountain Park Transport is a popular tour company in the Rockies. They run shuttles to Banff in the winter and summer from YYC to Banff or Lake Louise. Their prices start at $85 per person.

On-It Public Bus

This is only available in the summer, but it is a public bus route that can get you from Calgary to Banff. On-It is a regional transit company that connects the towns of Banff and Canmore to Downtown Calgary. The bus is not as luxurious as shuttle buses, and there is no ample luggage storage in the back, but it costs less than $15! The bus also operates only on weekends.

It’s designed more so that Calgarians can take public transport to the park and vice versa, as it doesn’t leave from the airport. However, if you’re traveling to Banff on a budget , it’s a great way to save some money. The ticket includes free local transport on the Roam transit system around Banff.

The weekend buses sell out quickly, so book your tickets well in advance if possible. The Buses depart from Downtown Calgary, Bridlewood / Somerset LRT, and the Crowfoot LRT Station. They stop in Banff at the Corner of Elk Street and Banff Ave and Canmore at the Benchlands and Bow Valley Trail.

New! On-It riders can connect with Local Roam Transit Routes 1, 2, 4, and 6 for free, which can get you to the Banff Upper Hot Springs and the Banff Gondola (Route 1), Bow Falls (Route 2), the Cave & Basin (Route 4), and Johnson Lake, and Lake Minnewanka (Route 6).

Also New – On-It Also offers bus routes that go between Calgary and Lake Louise and Moraine Lake during the summer. From June 14, 2024 – September 2, 2024, their schedule runs from Calgary to Lake Louise, and from September 6, 2024 – October 14, 2024, they are offering buses to Moraine Lake. Tickets are less than $20 per person and only run on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

The Banff Express

The Banff Express offers great value fares to Banff and Canmore. Buses leave from Calgary Eau Claire Market (Good Earth Coffeehouse), Calgary – Foothills Hospital McCaig Tower (West Entrance), and the HI Calgary City Centre Hostel.

Passengers are dropped off at the Banff – Heritage Train Station in Banff or the Canmore – Visitor Information Centre. Drop-off at your hotel or home is available in Banff; you just have to ask your driver. Compared to the airport options, The Banff Express is pretty affordable And charges the following one-way fares:

Vivo Public Bus

The Vivo Shared Bus , a small-group shuttle bus between Calgary and Canmore or Banff, is slightly cheaper than some options listed here. Drop-off options include the Solara or Northwinds in Canmore or the Mount Royal in Banff. Prices start at $50 per person.

New is the option to book the Flixbus from Downtown Calgary to Banff. There are multiple daily departures, and the bus rides take between 1.30 and 2 hours. Rates start at $12, which is an absolute steal. Buses have free WiFi and outlets. Every time we ride Flixbus, we’re reminded of how comfortable the seats are!

By Private Transfer

If you’re not looking to drive but prefer more flexibility, consider a private transfer from Calgary. You can leave at any time or from any address in Calgary. There is a wide range of options for vehicles that range from taxis to charter buses and luxury sedans. You can also choose your destination anywhere in the region. Rates vary naturally.

A taxi charges a flat rate of $250 as mandated by the government of Alberta. The local Calgary taxi companies include:

• Associated Cabs
• Checker Cabs
• Calgary Cabs

Many companies offer a private shuttle service, and you’ll likely get the best rate booking directly rather than with your hotel/resort . A Best Transport and Tour starts around $350 with a private shuttle service to Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper ( they also run shared shuttles! )

While Banff Sedan offers several luxury vehicles you can book, they are slightly higher priced. If you’re a large group, these services can work out cheaper in the long run or be similarly priced to the shuttle bus service with the added bonus of your own schedule. For example, a 10-person sprinter van costs $803.31 for a private transfer and $799.90 for the Banff Airporter.

Banff Sedan Rates (YYC to Banff/Canmore)

Other Private Transfer Companies

• Banff Transportation Group : This popular transportation group will take you between the city and Banff or vice versa.
• Banff Private Charters : This is a good option for a large group, like a wedding party, as they cater to up to 24 people.
• Limo To Go : If you want to arrive in Banff in style, be it a luxury dean, luxury SUV, or even a limo Limo to Go has you covered.

Get a Rental Car and Drive Yourself

Self-driving is easy peasy! Renting a car or driving your own vehicle is one of the best ways to explore Banff and provides many advantages over public transport. There’s no need for a shuttle with this option! A vehicle allows you to avoid crowds, make up your own schedule, and explore all of the various parts of Banff. If you plan to do a lot of hiking, you will need your own rental car.

Of course, if you don’t want to drive, you can book tours or use public transport around the park. If you have plans to visit the most popular sites, it might make more sense to use tours and public transport. Parking at sights like Lake Louise , Johnston Canyon , and Moraine Lake can be far more difficult than a public option, and there are public transport options to get to these places. However, anything, even vaguely off the beaten path, will require your own set of wheels.

All major car rental companies operate at Calgary International Airport with a large fleet of options. You do not need a truck or SUV in the summer months, and it’s questionable in the shoulder seasons when snowy roads are infrequent. If you are on a budget, renting a car from the Calgary city center rather than the airport may be worth it, as prices are typically $50-$100 cheaper.

Visiting Banff in Winter

If you plan to visit Banff in the winter , it’s imperative you rent a car with winter tires on it. If you visit between November and April, you should get a car with winter tires. Inform your rental car company you are driving to Banff, and they should know what to do. Keep in mind that just because you are renting a car in the winter does not mean it automatically comes with the proper tires.

If you plan on driving on the Icefields Parkway , winter tires are necessary for the winter. Snow tires or chains are required by law for travel on Hwy #93N / Icefields Parkway) and Hwy #93S / Banff-Windermere Highway (Banff and Kootenay National Parks) between November 1 and March 31.

Canadian Rockies Car Rental Resources

• Our guide for everything you need to know about renting a car for Banff.
• Travel Alberta: For road laws and driving guidelines
• 5.11 Alberta: For up to date road conditions
• Bow Valley Road Conditions Facebook Group : For pictures and first-hand info about the roads. Especially handy in the winter.
• Rentalcars.com and Expedia: We use these platforms to book rental cars around the world.
• Outdoorsy : Go the campervan route and have your kitchen, wheels, and hotel all in one!

Unconventional Options

• There is no train connecting Calgary and Banff , but there are talks of it happening in the future.
• There’s always Uber . However, I wouldn’t rely on this service as many drivers will require a return fare to justify the drive and cost of taking you to Banff.
• Like BlaBlaCar in Europe, Poparide is a rideshare company where you can find drivers already driving between Calgary and Banff. Prices vary, but typically, it’s not much more than the fuel cost.
• Plenty of Bow Valley Facebook groups with drivers and passengers often seek others to ride with. Of course, this is a riskier option, and I wouldn’t recommend it to most visitors, as it might ruin your plans, though Canada is very safe. However, it is an option if you are on an extreme budget.
• Hitchhiking is not common between this route, and you will likely be waiting a while to find a ride by hitchhiking between Calgary and Banff.
• Turo is like Airbnb for cars. If you can’t find great car rental prices or options, check out Turo.

Local Transport While in Banff

Once you arrive in Banff, you can do anything around the town, car-free. You are not required to rent a car to get around Banff; however, it gives you significant freedom. There are even hikes from the town center, like Tunnel Mountain and Sulphur Mountain, and even more hikes around Lake Louise .

Our Guide on How to Visit Banff Without a Car

Public Transport in the Bow Valley

Although the towns of Banff and Canmore are not the typical size you’d expect to find an extensive public transport network, Roam Transit serves the area reliably. Most of the major sites are covered, especially during the summer.

You can get around quite easily from Lake Minnewanka to Johnston Canyon and Lake Louise, and the Banff Gondola . You can buy your fare individually, multiple fares at once, or a daily/monthly card. Fares are pretty affordable, too, with local routes starting at just $2.

Shuttle Buses in Banff

It may be best to check out the Brewster Expres s that connects Kananaskis, Canmore, Calgary, Lake Louise, and Jasper for transfers with luggage. You can book individual legs for easy hotel transfers between Banff, Jasper, and Lake Louise.

Booked Tour in Banff

Several tour providers will pick you up and take you to all the hotspots in Banff. You can book private tours, large group tours, or unique experiences like dog-sledding or white water rafting. Going on a tour offers more than just transport as you gain a knowledgeable guide who can share facts and history about the park’s natural wonders. This awesome tour leaves Calgary and is a great day tour option . It takes guests to Banff highlights like Bow Falls, Johnston Canyon Walk, and the Hoodoos.

Booking a tour means you don’t need a car to visit Banff. Discover Banff Tours and the Pursuit are two of the biggest operators in the region, but there are many different operators, so shop around for the tour that best suits you. You can see our recommended tours in Banff here.

Other Options for Getting Around Banff

• Taxi : There are only a  handful of taxis  in Banff, and they are not the cheapest option, but they are there if you need them!
• By Bike:  In the summer, I get almost everywhere by bike . I love riding my bike from Banff to Canmore and vice versa. It’s a fantastic and active way to explore the park on a sunny day. If you are driving from home, I highly recommend bringing bikes to explore the park. Banff Adventures also rents mountain bikes and cruisers during the summer. Bike rentals include a helmet, lock, and trail map.
• Banff Parking:  Parking in Banff can be challenging during peak summer months. A few free lots are around town, but most are paid parking now. Check out the  Banff parking website  to see where it is available.

Entering Banff National Park

Anyone visiting Banff National Park will need a Parks Canada pass for their visiting days. The Parks entrance gate to Banff is right after you pass Canmore. Driving from Calgary to Banff, you can expect to find the gates around the 120.0 km mark.

You’ll see cars driving past the gates on the right, but either they already have a pass or are just driving through and not planning on stopping in Banff. Visitors who don’t have their pass or have not pre-purchased online must stop at the gates to purchase their pass.

Parks Canada employees check if you have your pass, and you can get a ticket. The lineup to purchase a Parks Canada pass at these gates can get long on a nice summer day, so I recommend purchasing in advance. Parks Canada pass prices are as follows:

• Adult : $11.00
• Senior : $9.50
• Youth (up to 17):  Free
• Family/group of 7 people : $22.00
• Day passes expire at 4 pm the following day.

Or you can buy them from Parks Canada in advance online. If you’re staying in Banff for over a few days, I highly recommend a Discovery Pass. A  Parks Canada Discovery Pass , which gets you entrance to all Parks Canada destinations for the year, is only $151.25 for a family. Again, day passes are $11 per person, so depending on how many days you are staying and if you have plans to go to Banff, you may want to consider the Discovery Pass.

Pass fees are as follows:

• Adult:  $75.25
• Senior : $64.50
• Family : $151.25

Where to Stop Between Calgary and Banff

Most of the fun happens once you get to the mountains, but there are a few fun things to do between Calgary and Banff!

• Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary : Interact with wolves in a controlled environment.
• Bowness Park: A beautiful park to stop in as you leave Calgary.
• Barrier Lake : Barrier Lake is a beautiful lake in Kananaskis, not far from the TransCanada. It’s a bit of a detour, but if you are looking for somewhere to stop for lunch, it’s a stunning setting.
• Lac Des Arcs : Wonderful lake on the right-hand side of the road when driving from Calgary to Banff.

You Have Made it to Banff!

Do a little dance because you are in one of the prettiest places in the world! There are many things to do, restaurants to eat at, and places to stay.

Things to do in Banff

• Hike Tunnel Mountain: One of my favorite easy hikes in Banff is Tunnel Mountain. It’s easily accessible from Banff Ave and a great intro hike to the Rockies.
• Take the Banff Gondola Up Sulphur Mountain : A classic thing to do in Banff. You won’t get such beautiful views for the low effort anywhere else.
• Check Out Bow Falls : An easy walk from Downtown will lead you to Bow Falls. A beautiful waterfall near the Banff Springs Hotel.

The Best Restaurants in Banff

• Bear Street Tavern : Great pizza, awesome beer, and good vibes. A fantastic and affordable place for lunch.
• The Waldhaus Restaurant : In the summer, few places have as amazing views as here. It overlooks the Banff Springs golf course and dishes up German fare and beer.
• The Bison: Save this modern restaurant for date night. It has great food, cocktails, and views.

Where to Stay in Banff

• Elk+Ave Hotel: Mid-range to higher-end hotel located right in the center of the action on Banff Ave.
• Castle Mountain Chalets : Unique cabins away from Downtown Banff near Castle Mountain along the Bow Valley Parkway. You’ll need your car to stay here, but it’s worth it!
• Banff Springs Hotel : One of the most iconic hotels in Canada. This castle has the most mesmerizing views in the valley. It’s a splurge, but you’re guaranteed to love it.

Hopefully, this helped you determine how to get from Calgary to Banff efficiently . If you have any other questions leave a comment or see our Canadian Rockies travel guide for more articles about photography spots, lakes, hikes, and everything else.

↓ Ask Your Questions ↓

The  Banff Blog Private Facebook Group  is your headquarters for Canadian Rockies travel advice and information, including hike and off-season travel information. You can also meet new adventure buddies.

Plan Your Trip to the Canadian Rockies

• Recommended Experiences: There are many things to do in the Rockies, but our top recommendations include the Banff Gondola and a cruise on Lake Minnewanka (here’s a combo tour with both !). If you want a stress-free way to get to Moraine Lake, we highly recommend looking into Moraine Lake Bus Company . For a full day tour, we can’t recommend Radventures Best of Banff Tour enough!
• Hotels in the Rockies: There are many places to stay, from luxury hotels to wilderness cabins. See all our favorites here .
• Get Hiking : If hiking we highly recommend you download offline maps with AllTrails+ to always know your location, preview trails to plan ahead, and find trails that fit your schedule. Get wrong-turn alerts and advanced trail conditions to enjoy your hike with less stress and more preparation.
• Get Around : We suggest renting a car to get around. You can search for rental cars on Rentalcars.com . For a campervan trip, you can check prices and compare on Outdoorsy .
• Cheaper Airfare: We also use Going for airfare deals and travel credit cards to earn points on purchases. Those credit card points can be redeemed for free flights and hotels! Want to earn $1,000 toward your next trip? There’s an awesome travel card that has a new limited-time offer that will get you access to just that. The Capital One Venture X has no foreign transaction fees. To keep up to date with insane credit card welcome offers like this, we highly recommend signing up for the Daily Drop Newsletter .

Cameron has been featured as a travel expert with numerous publications worldwide and has spoken on several occasions about the power of travel. He has a passion for all things in the Canadian Rockies and loves to spend his time snowboarding, scrambling, camping, biking, and trail running. You can learn more on the about us page.

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I’ve been soaking up everything this blog has to offer for the past couple days as I plan a couples trip to Lake Louise. 2 questions that I was hoping you could help me with (will likely have more in the future): 1. Are any of these shuttle options going to take me from Calgary to Lake Louise in March? Looks like Brewster Express is the only explicit option, but sounds like it’s seasonable. 2. Unrelated, but interested in your opinion of beginner/novice ski opportunities around Lake Louise in March. Thank you for such amazing content!

Glad you’ve enjoyed it! Yes, Brewster is the only option in the winter. You could theoretically take the Banff Airporter to Banff and then the public bus to Lake Louise, but that could be a bit of a pain. If you’re looking to ski, you can always stay in Banff and take the free shuttle bus daily that the ski resort operates. We think all of the resorts in Banff are great for beginners as they have beautiful views and plenty of beginner runs.

Hope you have a fantastic trip!

Best, Cameron

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