calgary tourism attractions

17 Top Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in Calgary

Written by Chloë Ernst and Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Despite being Alberta's largest city and Canada's oil capital, Calgary has never shaken off its "Cowtown" nickname. It's a reference to the city's long history as the center of a vast cattle-rearing region and is a name that has been of immense value to tourism marketers, conjuring up romantic ideas of cowboys, cattle drives, and an untamed Wild West.

This is why, when you pay a visit to this dynamic city, you'll find many related things to do, from catching the famous Calgary Stampede each July to exploring the city's pioneer-era Heritage Park, an especially fun activity for families.

It's also a particularly stunning place to visit for those who enjoy beautiful vistas, too. Look to the western horizon and the Rocky Mountains appear like an insurmountable barrier rising up from the plains. The proximity of these mountains, with their well-known national parks , makes Calgary an excellent choice for skiing, hiking, or sightseeing vacations.

For those seeking entertainment right in the city itself, there are also plenty of tourist attractions to include on your Calgary itinerary. Walking the city's huge Prince's Island Park and across the iconic Peace Bridge is especially fun at night, either before or after enjoying a great restaurant in the downtown core.

To help you cram as much as possible into your travel itinerary, be sure to read our detailed list of the top attractions and things to do in Calgary, Alberta.

1. Visit during the Calgary Stampede

2. take a day trip to banff & lake louise, 3. take the kids to calgary zoo, 4. learn about calgary's past at heritage park, 5. see the views from calgary tower, 6. winsport: canada olympic park, 7. take a walk to prince's island park, 8. take the train: rocky mountaineer rail journey, 9. visit the glenbow museum, 10. studio bell, home of the national music centre, 11. hike around fish creek provincial park, 12. enjoy the seasons at bowness park, 13. see the planes at the hangar flight museum, 14. visit the home of the mounties at fort calgary, 15. visit the military museums of calgary, 16. tour the stables at spruce meadows, 17. take a seat in the devonian gardens, where to stay in calgary for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions & things to do in calgary.

The 10-day Calgary Stampede can trace its roots all the way back to the 1880s and is the highlight of Calgary's summer calendar of events. Having cemented the Alberta capital's reputation as Canada's "Stampede City," this famous rodeo is now widely regarded as one of the top attractions in Alberta . It is held each July and includes all kinds of cowboy- and rodeo-style entertainment and exhibitions.

Billed as "The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth," the Calgary Stampede now attracts millions of visitors who join the local population to dress up for the event in blue jeans and brightly colored Stetsons. Highlights of this must-visit event include a huge parade, rodeo competitions, thrilling chuck wagon races, and an authentic First Nations village . Numerous concerts and stage shows are also held here, along with a fun fair, pancake breakfasts, as well as agricultural shows.

Getting to Stampede Park, the festival's permanent home, is easy either by public transit or car, with plenty of parking available. And even if you're here in the off-season, a visit and tour, or possibly taking in a concert, remain one of the top things to do in Calgary.

Address: 1410 Olympic Way SE, Calgary

Undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Canada due to its picture-perfect mountain setting, Banff National Park and the town of Banff make for a perfect day trip from Calgary.

While there are a variety of ways to get from Calgary to Banff , if you prefer to take your time and have the opportunity to stop and see the sites whenever the urge strikes, taking a car (either your own or a rental) may be the best option.

Drivable in under 90 minutes, the route itself is nothing short of spectacular. You'll take in incredible mountain vistas shortly after leaving the city, and they never let up along the way. After passing Canmore , another great place to stop for some sightseeing , you'll enter the park gates to find yourself in the town of Banff, the only community located in the magnificent Banff National Park.

It's a great place to explore either before or after touring the park, and features plenty of shopping and dining opportunities. You'll also find a wide range of first-rate accommodation options in Banff, too.

One of the highlights of your visit, though, will be seeing Lake Louise . Famous for its dazzling turquoise waters framed by stunning snowcapped mountains, the tallest reaching heights of over 3,000 meters, it's the ultimate safe selfie spot, especially with the handsome Fairmont Château Lake Louise in the background. It's also a great place to pause and reflect on the splendor and natural beauty of this beautiful part of the world.

Other fun things to do in Lake Louise include strolling along the lovely lakeshore trail or enjoying a canoe ride. You can also take the Lake Louise Gondola for the chance to enjoy some great views of the lake.

If you find yourself wanting to cram as much as possible into a single day's visit to this beautiful area, you may want to consider joining a fun full-day tour of Lake Louise and the Icefields Parkway . Including round-trip travel from Banff, your adventure takes in some of the area's most spectacular scenery in comfort and style, and under the guidance of a professional tour guide. Along the way, you'll take in such sightseeing highlights as spectacular Bow Falls and Moraine Lake.

• Best Hikes in Banff National Park
• Best Hikes at Lake Louise

Tracing its roots back as far as 1917, Calgary Zoo is one of the city's most popular family attractions and Canada's largest and most visited zoological park. Spread across a 120-acre site on St. George's Island in the Bow River, the zoo is home to over 1,000 animals representing some 272 species, including many examples of rare and endangered species.

There are also botanical gardens on the property, which are always fun to visit in spring. Spring's also a good time to visit due to the arrival of newborn animals; check the zoo's website for news and details of its animal residents.

Popular must-see sections include the Land of Lemurs, Destination Africa, and the Canadian Wilds. It's at the latter that you'll enjoy up-close views of fascinating creatures, including grizzly bears and the newest arrivals, a pair of pandas.

Other fun things to do include spending time exploring the six-acre prehistoric park attraction with its full-size replica dinosaurs. For those traveling in winter, be sure to visit the nighttime Zoolights Christmas festival held here each year.

Address: 210 St. George's Drive NE, Calgary, Alberta

Calgary's Heritage Park is a typical village from the pioneering period, with dozens of reconstructed historical buildings and lively costumed interpreters from four different time periods. Along with exhibits and buildings ranging from an 1860 fur-trading fort to a 1930s town square, a highlight of a visit is riding the old steam engine, which provides transport around the park.

There's also a paddlewheel tour boat that offers scenic cruises across the Glenmore Reservoir, which offers plenty of great sightseeing and photo ops. The reservoir is also a popular spot for outdoor activities such as sailing, canoeing, and rowing.

Be sure to allocate a little extra time in your Heritage Village itinerary to visit the Gasoline Alley Museum . This fun attraction is popular for its hands-on, interactive experiences and one-of-a-kind vintage vehicles.

Address: 1900 Heritage Drive SW, Calgary

At the top of the Calgary Tower , a viewing platform with a glass floor and revolving restaurant enables sightseers to enjoy the thrilling sensation of being 191 meters above the city in one of its landmark buildings.

Opened in 1968 and until 1984 the tallest structure in the city, the tower still offers excellent views out over the city and beyond to the mountains. It is particularly beautiful at night, and the tower itself is lit up each evening to stunning effect.

In 1988, the tower's giant torch bore witness to the spirit of the Olympics, and is still lit on special occasions. A fun movie, shown regularly in the building, highlights the construction of the tower.

Address: 101 9 Ave SW, Calgary

In the foothills of the mountains to the west of the city rise the strange-looking towers of WinSport, home to the Calgary Olympic Park . In 1988, this was the primary site for the XV Olympic Winter Games.

Today, the hill is still open to skiing and snowboarding, and there are opportunities to bobsled, zipline, toboggan, snow tube, and mountain bike down the slopes and hills. Indoor ice skating is also available, including professional competitions, casual sessions, and programming for tourists and locals to enjoy.

Guided Ski Jump Tower Tours give a panoramic view of the Calgary skyline from the top of the ski-jump slope. Canada's Sports Hall of Fame is located in the park as well.

Address: 88 Canada Olympic Road SW, Calgary

Prince's Island Park is a large 50-acre green space located to the north of downtown Calgary. Set on an island in the Bow River, the park is adjacent to Eau Claire Market , and many tourists make a joint visit to these two top attractions.

Connected to the mainland by three pedestrian bridges, the park offers walking and biking areas, as well as outdoor concerts and plays during the summer months. A popular restaurant is located on the island.

Address: 698 Eau Claire Ave SW, Calgary

The award-winning, luxuriously appointed, and privately owned Rocky Mountaineer rail tour runs between Calgary or Jasper and Vancouver, the company's base, cutting westward on the historic Canadian Pacific line through the soaring mountain wall of the Rockies. At Canmore , providing the weather is good, there is a fine view of the snow-capped Three Sisters, a grouping of mountain peaks that make for a stunning backdrop to your journey.

Soon afterward, the popular resort of Banff is reached. Other highlights in this mountainous section, where peaks top 3,600 meters, are Lake Louise , Kicking Horse Pass , and Rogers Pass . A variety of day trip options are also available, and you can even break your trip up. A popular option for outdoor enthusiasts is to stop over in Banff for a few days of hiking in Banff National Park .

However you choose to tackle this epic rail journey, a word of warning: as one of North America's busiest scenic rail adventures, it's a good idea to plan your excursion well in advance, especially if you have a hankering to ride the first-class GoldLeaf dome car.

Established in 1966, the Glenbow Museum features some rare exhibits illustrating the historical development of Western Canada. The museum travels back in time, exploring the lives of early fur traders and the North West Mounted Police, Métis uprisings under Louis Riel, and the development of the oil industry.

This fascinating art and history museum also hosts temporary exhibitions from around the world. Guided tours and educational programming are also available.

Another good museum to visit is Telus Spark . Perfect for families to explore together, this first-rate science museum features a variety of fascinating interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations, as well as lectures and educational workshops.

Address: 130 9 Ave SE, Calgary

Situated in Calgary's East Village area, Studio Bell, Home of the National Music Centre , opened in its new state-of-the-art facility in 2016. Able to trace its roots back as far as 1987, the huge structure houses a number of music-related attractions, including the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, and the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame Collection.

Together, these museums boast an impressive collection of 2,000 music-related artifacts, including numerous old and rare instruments. Among the larger exhibits are a mobile recording studio that once belonged to the Rolling Stones and a piano once owned by Elton John.

The building itself is simply stunning, especially its interior, which features more than 226,000 attractive terra-cotta tiles. In addition to its many exhibits-many of them hands-on and interactive-Studio Bell offers a diverse program of educational events and workshops, daily performances, as well as concerts.

Guided tours are available, along with a fun backstage pass tour that includes time playing some of the instruments you'll see.

Address: 850 4 Street SE, Calgary, Alberta

Canada's second-largest urban park, Fish Creek Provincial Park covers an area of nearly 14 square kilometers. Located in Calgary's far south, this huge green space is popular for its many pleasant walking and hiking trails, which lead through forest areas and along the creek, and some of which connect to other trails that crisscross the city.

Fish Creek Park has been designated a natural area, and as such is perfect for people looking for a taste of nature. It's a popular spot for bird-watching, with some 200 different species identified as living here.

Other fun things to do include fishing, swimming, biking, and participating in an organized nature tour. There are also a number of heritage buildings within the park that are fun to explore, as well as a visitor center and a restaurant.

Address: 15979 Bow Bottom Trail SE, Calgary

If there's time left in your Calgary travel itinerary for another park visit, try to also squeeze in Bowness Park . Located in the city's northwest corner, this large 74-acre urban green space is especially popular for families and is a great spot for picnics or barbecues, with fire pits provided.

There's even a fun paddleboat ride in summer. Traveling with kids? They'll want to climb aboard the great little train that's available for kids to enjoy.

Come winter, the fun revolves around skating, as well as a fun new experience called "ice biking" (yes, it's literally a bike on skates!). Other winter activities include hockey, curling, and cross-country skiing. It's an especially nice place to visit in the fall when the leaves change color.

Address: 8900 48 Ave NW, Calgary

The Hangar Flight Museum focuses on the history of Canadian aviation and Western Canada in particular. Canadian pilots who fought in WWII started the museum, which has now grown dramatically since to exhibit a variety of aircraft. At last count, 24 planes and helicopters were on display here-simulators, aviation art prints, radio equipment, and information on aviation history.

There's also a fascinating display of artifacts and information related to Canada's space programs. The museum is located in a large building near the Calgary Airport. A variety of programming is also available, including lectures, tours, events, and aircraft-related movie nights.

Address: 4629 McCall Way NE, Calgary

The first outpost of the North West Mounted Police, Fort Calgary was set up in 1875 at the confluence of the Elbow and Bow Rivers. The foundations of the original fort can still be seen, and the Fort Calgary Museum helps interpret the founding of the city. On the other side of the bridge stands Deane House, built in 1906 for the fort commandant.

Also on-site is a gift shop, which sells souvenirs and RCMP collectibles, and a theater showing related movies. If visiting on a Sunday, arrive early and partake in the facility's popular brunch (reservations recommended).

Address: 750 9th Ave SE, Calgary

The Military Museums of Calgary is an impressive collection of Canadian Forces museums that explore the history of Canada's Navy, Army, and Air Force. Exhibits emphasize interactive experiences, whether it's walking through WWI trenches or steering a ship from a wheelhouse.

A variety of military vehicles are located on-site, including several tanks, and there's also a library that's available for public use. The museum hosts events and lectures throughout the year, and a gift shop is located on-site.

Address: 4520 Crowchild Trail SW, Calgary

A world-renowned equestrian facility, Spruce Meadows welcomes visitors throughout the year to tour the stables, watch show jumping and dressage champions in training, and stroll the pleasant grounds.

Outdoor tournaments take place in the spring, with indoor competitions in other seasons. There's also a football stadium located on the 505-acre site, as well as retail vendors and dining options.

Address: 18011 Spruce Meadows Way SW, Calgary

On the 4th level of the Core Shopping Centre, visitors will come somewhat unexpectedly upon the floral paradise of Devonian Gardens . Covering about 2.5 acres, the indoor gardens feature some 550 trees, including lovely tropical palms, along with sculptures, fish ponds, fountains, and a 900-square-foot living wall.

About 10,000 plants make up the displays, and despite Calgary's cold winters, they thrive under a glass ceiling. A children's play area is located on-site. The Devonian Gardens are free for the public to wander.

Address: 400 - 317 7 Ave SW, Calgary

The best places to stay when visiting Calgary are in the vibrant downtown area, which is central to many of the major attractions. Staying near the Bow River, which runs right through the city center, will put you near walking trails and lovely parks. Another popular area of downtown is 17th Avenue, with plenty of fun things to do, such as shopping in its trendy shops and dining in its world-class restaurants. Below are some highly rated Calgary hotels in convenient locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• The elegant Hotel Le Germain Calgary , located in the central business district, is within walking distance of the Calgary Tower and EPCOR Center for the Performing Arts.
• The modern and conveniently located Hyatt Regency Calgary features rooms with city views, a rooftop sundeck, and an indoor pool, and is connected to the Telus Convention Center.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Right downtown, just a short walk from Prince's Island Park in the Bow River and offering large suites at an affordable price, is the upscale International Hotel.
• The award-winning, boutique Hotel Arts , an easy stroll from the Calgary Tower, has custom contemporary décor in all its rooms.
• South of downtown, but very close to Fish Creek Provincial Park, is the Wingate by Wyndham Calgary . With an indoor pool and waterslide, this hotel is a good choice for families.

Budget Hotels:

• A good downtown budget option is the BEST WESTERN PLUS Suites Downtown , with extra-large rooms that include either a full kitchen or kitchenette.
• The Fairfield Inn & Suites offers large suites with city views and a complimentary breakfast.
• Just south of downtown, near the Stampede grounds, is the BEST WESTERN PLUS Calgary Centre Inn with very reasonable rates.

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Canada's Big Cities : Canada's largest city of Toronto hosts countless visitors each year, drawn here for its many exciting tourist attractions perfect for families, such as the CN Tower, the Royal Ontario Museum, and the huge Ripley's Aquarium of Canada. In Quebec, the old historic district of Montreal is a taste of old Europe that's a delight to explore on foot. Not to be outdone, beautiful Vancouver , on the country's west coast, is where you'll enjoy the natural splendor of the excellent (and vast) Stanley Park, along with the traditional market place vibe of Granville Island.

The Great Outdoors : Canada is known the world over for its vast stretches of wilderness, none more impressive than the outstandingly beautiful area around Tofino BC , popular for adventure seekers including hikers, bikers, and surfers. Of its many parks, perhaps the best known is Banff National Park , famous for its proximity to the turquoise waters of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Although more remote, the rugged splendor of Nahanni National Park Reserve in the spectacular Mackenzie Mountains straddling the Yukon and the Northwest Territories has much to attract adventure seekers.

Canada Vacation Ideas : No visit to Ontario should be considered without a day or two being spent in Niagara Falls , famous for thrilling, timeless attractions including the Maid of the Mist and the Journey Behind the Falls. Canada's capital of Ottawa is also a must-visit and features the amazing Rideau Canal, which, come winter, is transformed into the world's longest skating rink. The center of Quebec City is another great place to visit, any time of year, especially around historic Place Royale.

More on Canada

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15 amazing things to do in Calgary

From a wooden fort that happens to be a museum, to a great farmers' market, there are many great things to do in Calgary

Calgary is a friendly and fun-loving city with a booming restaurant scene, great hotels, underground nightclubs, quirky antique shops, retro-themed bars and awesome museums. Bonus points: the locals are some of the friendliest in Canada . The very best way to see the city is to tour the historic venues and independent hotspots that make Calgary what it is. To that intent, we hereby highlight some amazing things to do in Calgary. Just a warning: you might never want to leave.

Done something on this list and loved it? Share it with the hashtag #TimeOutDoList and tag @TimeOutEverywhere.

Find out more about   how Time Out selects the very best things to do all over the world .

An email you’ll actually love

Best things to do in Calgary

1.  Calgary Tower

What it is: Clagary Tower may look like an homage to the Space Needle, but it was in fact erected in 1967 to mark 100 years of Canadian independence.

Why go:   At 190-meters high, this towering observation deck makes for the perfect spot from which to get a good shot of the Rocky Mountains. There's also a restaurant up there that revolves and the staff love sharing their favorite sights,  so don't be afraid to ask.

2.  Glenbow Museum

What it is: As one of the most widely-recognized museums in the city, Glenbow Museum’s art collection traces the legacy of western Canadian art and culture.

Why go: From landscape paintings to Aboriginal sculptures, walk through a collection of modern art, a window into Canadian art history, and take particular notice of the abstract paintings and historic oil portraits of famous Canadians.

3.  Heritage Park Historical Village

What it is:   Few things make learning more fun than getting hands-on. Heritage Park Historical Village quite literally does that, as it's a living museum.

Why go:  See the way folk once lived and worked in realistic mock-ups of situations from the 1800s. Learn to churn butter, hop in a horse-drawn cart and ride some antique amusements from 1904. There's a cafe and a restaurant onsite for when you get hungry.

4.  Fort Calgary

What it is: This wooden fort, built in 1875, is a museum and a restaurant all in one. The 40-acre fort is also a public park known as the birthplace of Calgary.

Why go: The museum is a walk into Canadian history, with interactive installations, old maps and newspapers all on display. Also on the grounds, walk through the oldest building in Calgary, the Hunt House, which was erected in 1876.

5.  Spruce Meadows

What it is: This sprawling public park can be perused at any time of year. Expect walking paths, picnic grounds, a 1940s carousel, train rides for kids and a series of agricultural educational programs for adults.

Why go: Not only can you feed horses here, but you can also watch world-class horse jumping competitions. (As long as you visit between late January and late October).

6.  Commonwealth Bar & Stage

What it is: What was once a run-down warehouse has been converted into a contemporary and cool nightclub space that's popular with a young generation of revellers. 

Why go:  I f you want to dance and drink until late, Commonwealth is the place to go. They're open until 2am Wednesday to Saturday and have regular live DJs and bands. The space is big, but not so much so that you feel lost. The exposed brick walls and air ducts add a nice industrial touch.

7.  Big Al's Bar & Grill

What it is: This neighborhood, down-to-earth bar is a traditional western Canadian hotspot with beer, rock music, cowboy hats and leather seating.

Why go: It's a fun place to watch a sports game, play pool and see live rock bands on the weekends. They offer 12 draught beers on tap and are widely known for serving pizza late into the night.

8.  Bottlescrew Bill's Pub

What it is: Steps away from the Calgary Tower, this classic watering hole is one of the oldest pubs in the city. Since 1985, they’ve been serving well over 300 different kinds of beers, making it the largest selection in the city. Yep, impressive.

Why go: The large patio is the perfect place to admire a summer sunset. In the winter, the bar’s four rooms feel like a living room. The beer list boasts imported brews from Belgium and Germany alongside microbrews like Village Wit.

9.  Ten Foot Henry

What it is: Named after a cartoon character from the 1930s that was drawn by Carl Anderson, this restaurant has been a city staple for almost 40 years.

Why go: Mere s teps away from Haultain Park, this all-day-restaurant offers a vegetable-heavy menu for family-style dining. Plus (and trust us on this one) there's a spaghetti pomodoro to die for.

10.  Native Tongues Taqueria

What it is: This fun-loving Mexican taqueria serves a traditional Mexican food with a (spicy) twist.

Why go: To try the charcoal grilled tacos served "mercado style," which are perfect to share with the family or a group of friends. The stacked bar is centered around mezcal spirits, so expect potently delicious cocktails to wash down the awesome food.

11.  Crossroads Market

What it is: Since 1987, this farmers’ market has been selling goods made by Calgary’s top local businesses.

Why go: Beyond the fresh vegetables, there are crafts to bring home, like handmade jewelry, purses and clothing. Also expect street food vendors that sell everything from sausages to pancakes with Canadian maple syrup.

12.  Iron Crow Antiques

What it is: The ultimate browsing place for secondhand gems, old art and design items, this is a treasure trove of Canadian goods.

Why go: From collectible tin cans to vintage vases and lamps, there are affordable knick knacks to bring home, whether to decorate your abode or in need of souvenirs.

13.  Lunchbox Theatre

What it is: This independent theater has been bringing underground art to the forefront of the city’s culture for over 40 years.

Why go: It’s the place to catch the next great Canadian playwright before s/he makes it big in Hollywood. The space also hosts plays during lunch hour, starting at noon—the perfect break from work, if you ask us.

14.  Broken City Social Club

What it is: This quirky nightclub is a city classic for its wide range of programming. Yep we're talking a whole host of events from open mics, standup comedy, concerts by local acts and punk rock bingo.

Why go: This is where you can belt it out on karaoke nights, drink an unpretentious beer and slide into a photo booth to take a snapshot. Basically, come here to have some fun.

15.  Betty Lou’s Library

What it is: This eclectic bar is a hidden gem in the Lower Mount Royal district. If you ever wanted to go back in time to visit a retro 1920s living room, this is the place. Filled with velvet chairs and vintage chandeliers, the cocktail menu can be described as prohibition-meets-Parisian-glamour—and we’re oh-so into it.

Why go: The vibe. The drinks. The appetizers (made with local ingredients). Everything here is awesome.

Hungry for the best restaurants in Calgary?

The 20 best restaurants in Calgary

From Thai to Italian, Afghani to Chinese, the best restaurants in Calgary reflect the city’s growing diversity and we are here to slurp it all up.

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Calgary   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Henryk Sadura | Getty Images

19 Best Things To Do in Calgary

Updated February 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.

Popular Tours

Lake Louise & Banff Tour from Calgary / Banff / Canmore

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from $ 115.96

Banff, Lake Louise & Moraine Lake Tour from Calgary, 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.

Lake Louise Moraine Lake JohnstonCanyon fromCalgary / Canmore / Banff

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Discover Banff National Park - Day Trip

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from $ 132.42

Banff Area & Johnston Canyon 1-Day Tour from Calgary or Banff

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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.

Explore Banff National Park with Our Premium Day Tour

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Full Day Private Banff National Park Tour Small Group Customizabl

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Lake Louise & Yoho (Moraine Lake June - Oct) from Calgary / Banff

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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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Peace Bridge Peace Bridge free

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Banff Town, Lake Minnewanka, Banff Gondola & Banff Hotsprings

Wonderland Sculpture Wonderland Sculpture free

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THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Calgary

Things to do in calgary.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Southeast Calgary
• Southwest Calgary
• Northwest Calgary
• Northeast Calgary
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Heritage Park Historical Village

2. The Calgary Zoo

3. Prince's Island Park

4. Bow River

5. Spruce Meadows

6. Calgary Pathway System

7. Fish Creek Provincial Park

8. Nose Hill Park

9. Bowness Park

10. Calaway Park

11. WinSport

12. Inglewood Bird Sanctuary and Nature Centre

13. Olympic Plaza

14. Riley Park

15. Edworthy Park & Douglas Fir Trail

16. North Glenmore Park

17. Carburn Park

18. Confederation Park

19. South Glenmore Park

20. St. Patrick's Island

21. Weaselhead Flats

22. Elbow River

23. Calgary Sandy Beach Park

24. Stanley Park

25. Baker Park

26. Pearce Estate

27. Central Memorial Park

28. Glenmore Reservoir

29. Granary Road

30. Bowmont Park

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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 13 Comments

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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

[…] it one of the things to do in Okotoks as well. In fact, I’d also say it’s one of the things to do in Calgary […]

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The top 10 attractions in Calgary

Things to do

Western culture meets cosmopolitan in Calgary , Alberta , a fun-loving city of skyscrapers  and urban cowboys on the doorstep of the Rockies.

Calgary Stampede

They don't call Calgary Cowtown for nothing. Same for the "greatest outdoor show on earth," aka The Stampede External Link Title . This annual July citywide phenomenon is a huge part of Calgary's identity and is not to be missed. Expect 10 days of high-adrenaline rodeo events and chuckwagon races, pancake breakfasts, concerts, a First Nations Village, and boot-stomping Western-style entertainment. Pack your jeans and join the hoopla.

Calgary Olympic Park

WinSport runs Calgary Olympic Park External Link Title , site of the 1988 Winter Olympic Games. Today, athletes train here and you can get into it, too: ski, skate, snowboard, and bobsleigh in winter External Link Title ; in summer External Link Title , luge, zipline, mountain bike, mini-golf, and try the summer bobsleigh or Challenge Course. Don't miss the Sports Hall of Fame External Link Title either.

Nose Hill Park

Panoramas of downtown are worth a trip to high-plains, aspen-flanked Nose Hill Park External Link Title , a delightfully wild open area External Link Title northwest of town -- one of North America's largest urban parks. Hike or bike extensive trails covering the four square miles and pause for a picnic with a view. Look for two stone circles, former "tipi rings" and important archaeological sites.

Dinosaur Provincial Park

Fossils are what you'll find in the unusual badlands of this UNESCO World Heritage Site External Link Title , about two-and-a-half hours outside Calgary near Brooks. Archaeologists have unearthed some 300 fossils here -- the world's biggest source of Cretaceous fossils. Hike External Link Title , camp External Link Title , or tour an active dig site External Link Title .

Prince’s Island Park

On an island in the Bow River , leafy Prince's Island Park External Link Title is a downtown green urban oasis where you can stroll, cycle, paddle, ski, or take in an outdoor play or concert. Pair your visit with a trip to Eau Claire Market External Link Title for lunch or drinks on the patio. Popular celebrations happen here, including the Calgary Folk Festival External Link Title and Canada Day events.

Heritage Park

Canada's largest of its kind, 127-acre Heritage Park Historical Village External Link Title is a spot to learn about 1860 to 1950s Western Canadian history External Link Title . Tour preserved heritage buildings and homesteads, look at antique vehicles, see nearly 200 exhibits, tour by steam train or paddleboat, shop, and dine year-round.

Calgary Tower

Get a 360-degree view of the skyline, foothills, plains, Rocky Mountains, and  beyond from the glass floor and observation deck of Calgary's signature Tower External Link Title 4,029 feet up. Two restaurants offer elevated dining: the rotating SKY360 External Link Title is ideal for festive drinks, and high-end Ruth's Chris Steakhouse External Link Title is the place to sample top-notch Alberta beef.

Glenbow Museum

Originally a gift from philanthropist Eric Lafferty Harvie, downtown's sprawling Glenbow Museum External Link Title is Calgary's culture hub with accessible art and history to the tune of one million objects on display. High-profile international exhibitions External Link Title show here, and permanent collections External Link Title include rare cultural artifacts, photographs, historical documents, and artwork of all kinds that's shaped Calgary into the place it is today.

Western-wear shopping

Time to pick up some stylish boots, jeans, and a Stetson. Calgary sports some of the best Western-apparel retail therapy there is. Unleash your inner cowpoke at Smithbilt Hats External Link Title , Lammle's Western Wear & Tack External Link Title , and Alberta Boot Co. External Link Title

Rocky Mountaineer

Slow it down and ride in style from Vancouver, BC east to Calgary on the white linen-and-china-style Rocky Mountaineer External Link Title , a luxe train line that follows the historic Canadian Pacific Railway route. It's hard to beat the views of iconic Lake Louise , Kicking Horse Pass, and towering glaciers from your own cushy seat in the domed coach External Link Title over a gourmet meal and glass of Canadian wine.

True, Calgary is the traditional launch point for skiing, trekking, national park touring, and Rockies road trips, but this high-octane Western city has enough going for it to warrant a vacation all on its own. Tuck into a big steak , or try the city's thriving vegetarian scene , plus plenty of honkytonk.

Plan your trip now at the Visit Calgary website.

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