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Calgary Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

While the city itself isn’t particularly pretty — it’s full of skyscrapers and doesn’t have a lot of historic buildings — underneath all that glass is a cosmopolitan destination with a rough and wild cowboy charm to it. There’s great hiking, kayaking, skiing, water rafting, and camping all around Calgary and the city itself is one of the liveliest in the country, especially during the Stampede.

There’s a ton of greenspace here too. Add in a rotating roster of food trucks, craft beer bars, and top-notch museums, and you’ve got a recipe for one of my favorite cities in Canada.

From here, you can head out to Banff National Park or Canmore to get up close and personal with nature and explore one of Canada’s most scenic regions.

This travel guide to Calgary can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most out of your time in Calgary!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Calgary

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Calgary

1. Celebrate the Calgary Stampede

The Calgary Stampede is the world’s largest open-air rodeo held every year in July. The Stampede celebrates Canada’s western heritage with chuckwagon races, bull riding, concerts, carnival rides, and endless fair food (deep-fried butter, anyone?). It’s also a crazy party. Daytime rodeos start at 66 CAD and evening rodeos start at 84 CAD. There’s even a Drag Queen brunch in case you didn’t know you could combine a Western theme with a drag show! Just be sure to book your accommodation early as the city fills up fast!

2. Walk Stephen Avenue

Stephen Avenue is a pedestrian-only thoroughfare in the heart of downtown Calgary. It’s lined with antique stores, boutiques, restaurants, and bars. It’s best in the summer when the outdoor patios are overflowing with locals enjoying an after-work drink. This street is a great place for food trucks, outdoor festivals, and live music. In February, it turns into a snowy wonderland during the Downtown Glowfest light festival with performances and beautiful art installations. At the same time, you can warm your hands with delicious hot chocolate served both with and without alcohol at the YYC Hot Chocolate Festival.

3. Relax in the many parks

Calgary makes incredible use of its green spaces and there are many beautiful places where you can lounge and relax or enjoy the area cycling the numerous trails around the city. Visit Bowness Park, one of the city’s most popular parks in warm weather alongside the Bow River, where you can enjoy walking the paths, swim in the lagoon, BBQ, or rent a boat for the day. In winter, it’s a popular spot for ice skating and cross-country skiing, and the popular Canadian winter sport of crokicurl (hybrid of curling and crokinole). Prince’s Island Park is where people gather for Canada Day and Calgary’s Folk Festival celebrations in July. The Winter Music Folk Festival also happens there as well. In short, there is a ton of greenspace that can help you enjoy the city and take in the local pace of life on a budget.

4. Visit the Calgary Zoo

Not only is the Calgary Zoo home to tons of interesting wildlife, but it also houses the Centre for Conservation Research. There are currently around 900 animals from all over the world. Go see the penguins splashing around or check out the ‘Canadian Wilds’ area with moose, grizzly bears, bighorn sheep, and more. Or explore the indoor ‘Destination Africa’ pavilion with giraffes, monkeys, hippos, and more. Every month there are different special events. If you’re here at Christmas, attend the Zoolights, a spectacular light show composed of three million lights. And if you want to splash out, you can even sit inside a warm ‘Snowglobe’ in their Garden of Light and enjoy a hot cup of mulled wine and an artisan cheese board (175 CAD for two people). Regular admission is 30 CAD.

5. Go to the Rockies

Calgary is close to the Rocky Mountains, and the highlight of this region is the spectacular Banff National Park. The Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and both Canada’s first national park and its most famous due to its picturesque turquoise lakes, snow-capped peaks, wildlife, and breathtaking scenery. There are over 1,600 kilometers (1,000 miles) of stunning mountain trails with all sorts of activities, from hiking, skiing, and horseback riding, as well as places to camp. You can certainly visit as a day trip from Calgary, but you’ll be missing out if you don’t spend a few days here. There is something for every budget when it comes to how much you want to experience nature. You can pitch a tent at a campsite, rent a cabin, try glamping, or stay in Banff town at a hotel. Even without a car, it’s easy to get here via bus (though renting a car is the best way to explore this area).

Other Things to See and Do in Calgary

1. take a free walking tour.

The first thing I do when I arrive in a new city is take a free walking tour. It’s the best way to see the highlights and meet a local expert guide who can answer all your questions. Walk the YYC runs a solid free tour that can introduce you to the city. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end! There’s also Calgary Greeters, a free local greeting program that connects you with a local who can show you around (advanced bookings required).

2. Hang out in Prince’s Island Park

Right on the Bow River, this park spans 50 acres and is the most popular park in the city. There are free festivals and events year-round, such as the Calgary Folk Music Festival and Shakespeare in the Park. It also has running and hiking paths, cross-country skiing trails, picnic areas, flower gardens, and lots of space to simply lounge and relax. In the winter, people go skating on the lagoon.

3. Check out Fish Creek Provincial Park

Fish Creek also sits along the Bow River and is perfect for walking, cycling, and rollerblading. In the summer, people come here to fish, swim in Sikome Lake, and have barbecues. Locals also hit the trails in the winter for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Just be aware the park closes between 6pm-10pm depending on the time of year.

4. Explore the nightlife of Kensington

Located in the northwest part of the city, Kensington is a tiny business district full of trendy shops, bars, and restaurants. Whether you’re seeking a quiet pub, an outdoor patio, or a fun-filled night of dancing, you’ll find it here. Kensington Pub, Winebar Kensington, and Container Bar are all great spots to hang out for their cozy atmosphere and unique decor.

5. Go brewery hopping

If you’re a craft beer lover, Calgary has a huge number of brewpubs, small breweries, and even a Craft Beer Market. Citizen Brewing Company, Cold Garden Beverage Company, and Big Rock are some of my favorites. You can also do a brewery hopping tour with Canadian Craft Tours to 3-4 different breweries for 109 CAD.

6. Watch the Calgary Flames

Hockey is a religion in Canada, and the folks in this city take their hockey very seriously. Calgary has one of 7 Canadian teams in the NHL so check and see if there’s a game on during your visit. Tickets start around 37 CAD but you can also just find a busy pub or bar to grab a beer and watch the game with locals.

7. Wander Eau Claire Market

This indoor market has something for everyone, including a variety of upscale shops, restaurants, and a food court. In the summer, there’s a playground and a wading pool for kids. Buskers are everywhere making balloon animals, performing music, or even putting on puppet shows. Eau Claire is also the festival district, so there is often some sort of community event taking place (usually concerts). It’s a bit cheesy, but it’s a fun spot if you’re traveling with family.

8. See the Family of Man Sculptures

This collection of ten aluminum cast sculptures (some weighing as much as 1,500 pounds and measuring 21 feet tall) makes for quite the sight to see surrounded by skyscrapers and office buildings in downtown Calgary. Originally designed by Mario Armengol and displayed at the Expo 67 World’s Fair in Montreal, these sculptures were later presented and dedicated to the city in 1969.

9. Check out the Canada Olympic Park

Calgarians are an active bunch. On Friday afternoons in the winter, you’ll see SUVs and trucks loaded up with ski gear leaving town for the mountains. The Olympic Park is where many of them get their start with winter sports. This ski hill and training/competition complex serves as a tribute to the 1988 Olympic Games and is mostly used as a training ground for young athletes. If you’re here in the winter, sign up for a downhill or cross-country ski lesson, which costs about 75 CAD for 90 minutes. You can even try the bobsled or luge!

10. Head to the top of the Calgary Tower

Built in 1967, the Calgary Tower stands 191 meters (626 feet) and commemorates Canada’s Centennial. It’s the centerpiece of the city and at the top, you’ll get uninterrupted views straight to the Rocky Mountains. Plus, the glass floor at the observation deck is thrilling (and terrifying). A ticket to the top is 19 CAD if you buy online and 21 CAD at the ticket window.

11. Visit the Heritage Park Historical Village

This heritage park is like a living museum. It showcases Western Canadian history from the 1860s to the 1950s. You can ride a steam train, learn how to make old-fashioned ice cream, chat with actors dressed up as prairie settlers, explore First Nations history, and take a horse-drawn wagon ride. It’s another one of those somewhat cheesy experiences, but you’ll learn a lot and it’s fun for kids. Tickets are 30 CAD.

12. Take a food tour

If you want to sample the finest foods that Calgary has to offer, take a food tour with Alberta Food Tours. They have several different excursions, including a Calgary Farmers’ Market tour and a walk through the Inglewood neighborhood. You can try poutine, cheeses, charcuterie, sweet treats, a few drinks, and more throughout the evening. Food Tours run during the high season until October and cost 95 CAD. There is also a self-guided tour all year round using their app for only 45 CAD, which is 2.5 hours long and includes some tastings as well as discounts from several of their business partners.

  For more information on other cities in Canada, check out these guides:

• Montreal Travel Guide
• Nova Scotia Travel Guide
• Ottawa Travel Guide
• Quebec City Travel Guide
• Toronto Travel Guide
• Vancouver Travel Guide
• Vancouver Island Travel Guide

Calgary Travel Costs

Hostel prices – There are only a couple of hostels in Calgary. A bed in a room with 4-6 beds is 30-45 CAD per night while a dorm with 8 beds or more costs about 40 CAD.

Private hostel rooms start from 90 CAD per night for two people but can go as high as 175 CAD. During the Stampede, prices shoot up by about 50% and sell out months in advance, so make sure you book ahead.

For those traveling with a tent, camping is available outside the city for 30 CAD per night. This gets you a basic plot without electricity. RV plots cost around 55 CAD per night.

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels start at 90 CAD, but these aren’t near the city center. For something closer to downtown, expect to pay at least 120 CAD per night. Free Wi-Fi, AC, TV, and a coffee/tea maker are usually included.

Airbnb is available everywhere in Calgary, with a private room starting at 50-65 CAD per night. An entire home/apartment averages 90-125 CAD per night. Prices double when not booked in advance.

During the summer months, there is also the option of renting a dorm room from a university. Rooms are generally available from early May to late August and offer access to on-campus services (laundry, parking). Mount Royal University has single rooms starting from 109 CAD per night.

Food – Overall, the food here is a collage of dishes from other cultures, owing to the country’s diverse history of immigration. In Calgary, beef is the go-to meat since half of the entire country’s beef supply comes from Alberta. Bison is also common, as are fresh berries in the summer. More general Canadian staples include beaver tails (fried dough with fresh maple syrup), Canadian bacon, poutine (fries with gravy and cheese curd), and the oddly tasty ketchup chips.

For the city’s best eats, hit the food trucks. Calgary has an epic food truck scene, and their locations change daily. Download the Street Food Calgary app to follow the trucks in real time.

You can find pizza by the slice for 4 CAD. Larger meals like taco salad or curry cost around 11 CAD.

A combo meal at McDonald’s costs about 12 CAD. Pubs and chain restaurants are very reasonable at about 20 CAD for a meal with a drink.

Higher-end restaurants set you back around 60 CAD if you also order an appetizer and a drink.

A glass of wine is around 9 CAD while beer is 7 CAD. A latte/cappuccino costs around 4.75 CAD. Bottled water costs 2 CAD.

If you cook for yourself, expect to spend around 50-60 CAD per week on groceries. This gets you basic staples like pasta, rice, produce, and some meat.

Some of my favorite places to eat in Calgary include CRAFT Beer Market, Holy Grill, Bridgette Bar, and Peters’ Drive In.

Backpacking Calgary Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Calgary, expect to spend about 75 CAD per day. This budget assumes you’re staying in a hostel, cooking all your meals, taking public transportation to get around, limiting your drinking, and doing mostly free activities like hanging out in the parks and wandering Stephen Avenue. Add 10-15 CAD extra per day if you plan on drinking.

On a mid-range budget of 155 CAD per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb room, eat out more (but still cook some meals), rent a bicycle to get around and take the occasional taxi, enjoy a couple drinks, and visit more attractions like the zoo. If you plan to visit during the Stampede, add in another 66 CAD per day.

On a “luxury” budget of 315 CAD per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

Keep in mind that many of these prices (especially accommodations) increase by 50% during Stampede time!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in CAD.

Calgary Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Calgary is not a cheap city. If you stick to mostly free activities, you’ll save some money but otherwise, things here are pricey. It’s one of the more expensive cities in Canada and it’s tough to visit on a limited budget. Nevertheless, here are some tips to help you save money in Calgary:

• Stay with a local – If you plan ahead, you can usually find a Couchsurfing host to give you a free place to stay. You’ll not only save money but you’ll get to connect with a local insider who can share their tips and advice.
• Take a free walking tour – Walking tours are a great way to get familiar with a city and its culture. Walk the YYC is the only free walking tour in town, but it’s a good one! You can also book a Calgary Greeter — a local volunteer who walks you around the city.
• Avoid the Calgary Stampede – If you’re not dying to see the Stampede, avoid the dates around this event. Prices are higher everywhere. On the other hand, if you are here during Stampede, take advantage of the city’s many free pancake breakfasts (stampedebreakfast.ca).
• Look for free events – Most of Calgary’s street festivals are free to attend, and there are free events year-round. Check out Visit Calgary’s website for their up-to-date event listings!
• Spend your time in nature – With its abundance of outdoor activities, walking/biking trails, and relaxing parks, if you spend most of your time soaking up Calgary’s big nature you’ll save a lot of cash.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter to ensure your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Calgary

There are only a few hostels in Calgary so be sure to book early if you can. Here are my suggested places to stay:

• HI Calgary City Centre
• Wicked Hostels Calgary
• HI Kananaskis (located west of Calgary, near the mountains)
• HI Lake Louise (Banff)

How to Get Around Calgary

Public transportation – Calgary has a well-connected bus system. Use cash to purchase a ticket on the bus (exact change required), or buy tickets at many drug stores, supermarkets, and corner shops. Fares are 3.60 CAD one way, or you can pay 11.25 CAD for a day pass (which is the best deal). One-way fares are valid for 90 minutes.

Calgary also has two Light Rail Transit (LRT) lines known as the C-Train. You can buy tickets with cash or credit card at any C-Train station, and ticket prices cost the same as the bus. You can ride the C-Train for free in Calgary’s downtown core between the City Hall Station and Downtown West/Kerby Station, but make sure you have a ticket as soon as you leave the free zone (a section downtown where fares are free between 3rd Street East and 11th Street West along 7 Avenue).

Taxi – Taxis are not cheap here. Their base rate is 4 CAD, and it’s an additional 1.93 CAD per kilometer afterward. Prices add up fast so skip the taxis here if you can!

Ridesharing – In addition to taxis, you can also use Uber to get around Calgary. It’s cheaper, but it’s still going to break the bank if you use it often, so stick to public transportation as much as possible.

Bicycle – Calgary has more cycling paths than anywhere in North America, with nearly 850 kilometers (528 miles) of pathways! Plus, most major streets have designated biking lanes. Lime Bike is a public bike-share program that lets you rent an e-bike to get around. Just download the app, search for a bike nearby, and unlock it for 1 CAD. After that, it’s 0.30 CAD per minute to ride, meaning a 30-minute journey costs about 10 CAD. If you’d like to take a bike out for longer, Sports Rent offers rentals for 35 CAD per day.

Car rental – Car rentals can be found for around 40 CAD per day for a multi-day rental. However, unless you’re leaving the city to explore I wouldn’t suggest renting one. Parking adds up and the bus can get you anywhere you need to go on a budget!

When to Go to Calgary

Late spring and summer in Calgary are the best times to visit, especially between May and early September. There’s so much going on in the city, and everyone is outdoors making the most of it. The average daily temperature is around 23°C (73.4°F), but it’s often higher than 30°C (86°F). Calgary is never really overcrowded with visitors compared to places like Toronto and Vancouver (except during Stampede in July).

Things start cooling off considerably in the fall; don’t be surprised if you see snow in September. Winters are cold, with average temperatures hovering around -11 to -14°C (12-6.8°F). This doesn’t discourage Calgarians in the slightest, however, and you’ll find most people hitting the slopes around Kananaskis and Banff on their time off.

If you’re into winter sports, embrace the cold and take advantage of the near-constant perfect snow conditions.

If the national parks are your priority, aim for a spring or fall visit. The parks are bursting with people in the summer. Additionally, try to skip weekend visits as that’s when the parks are busiest.

How to Stay Safe in Calgary

Calgary is a very safe city. Violent crime here is very rare. Your greatest risk is petty theft, such as pickpocketing, but even that is rare. Just keep your valuables secure and out of reach at all times just to be safe.

The eastern part of downtown (east of City Hall) is a bit sketchy at night, so avoid walking through that area alone.

If you’re not used to severe winter weather, make sure you bring lots of layers and appropriate clothing if you’re visiting in the winter. Avoid staying outside for too long if you’re not adequately protected. It gets cold!

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Scams here are rare, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Calgary Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Calgary Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Canada and continue planning your trip:

Where to Stay in Quebec City: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Vancouver: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Toronto: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Canada Road Trip: A One Month Suggested Itinerary

How to Road Trip the Yukon on a Budget

How to See Alberta: A 10-Day Suggested Driving Itinerary

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

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

• Last Updated: February 8, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

1) Visit the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book your tickets in advance on Get Your Guide .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ MORE: 17 amazing things to do in Quebec City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can find more than just showjumping in the park.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Find the full price list on their website .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You are sure to have a blast at Calaway Park!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Enquire on their website about brewery tours.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Calgary Travel Guide

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

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

Best Accommodation – Where to Stay in Calgary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Restaurants in Calgary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lindsay Harvey

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Home » North America » Calgary

9 BEST Places to Visit in Calgary (2024)

Calgary is the third-largest city in Canada, so you’d be right to expect plenty of things to do here! It’s one of the coolest cities in North America, and the citizens know it! Famed for its wild-west history, artistic sculptures of cows throughout the city are just one of the nods to this. Another is the Calgary Stampede, one of the wildest parties in all of Alberta!

It combines a historic past with a progressive attitude and outlook – in fact it was the first North American city to elect a Muslim mayor! If all this isn’t enough, let us add in the cool food and nightlife scenes… What more could you want from a city break!?

In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the best places to visit in Calgary. From cool museums to galleries, to parks, there are ten cool things to do, so you definitely won’t get bored when visiting Calgary!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighborhood in Calgary:

These are the best places to visit in calgary, faq on the best places to visit in calgary.

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

• Admire the amazing design of the Calgary Public Library.
• Browse the exciting exhibits at the Glenbow Museum.
• Catch a performance by the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra.

Knowing  where to stay in Calgary  should also be high on your list of priorities. Before you start your travels, we’d recommend taking a look at which neighbourhoods are close to your favourite attractions, so you don’t waste too much money and time on transportation. You need to save that for all the fun you’ll be having.

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#1 – Calgary Heritage Park – One of the more unique places to visit in Calgary

• See a typical village represented across four time periods
• Take a ride around the park on an old steam engine
• One of the best places in Calgary for a day out

Why it’s awesome: If you want to learn about the city’s past, then there’s no better way to do that than visiting the Calgary Heritage Park . It’s staffed by workers in costumes from different periods from the 1860s right up to the 1930s. This means you get a completely immersive experience and it’s like you’ve stepped back in time! This is one of the best places in Calgary for a family day out. It ticks the boxes of educational, informative, quirky, and interesting!

What to do there: There’s a whole host of cool things to do in Calgary and there’s a chunk of them in this heritage village. There are regular daily activities here, including Métis Bannock bread baking. Make sure you get to taste it! You can also ride across the park on a vintage steam train, and if you’re into vintage cars, don’t miss a trip to Gasoline Alley. When you’ve finished at the park, take a trip to nearby Glenmore reservoir, where you can enjoy a whole load of water-based activities. It’s a great spot for kayakers, rowers, and even sailors!

#2 – Calgary Tower

• Formerly the tallest building in Calgary
• An excellent spot to view the most famous landmarks in Calgary
• Especially beautiful and dusk and sunset!

Why it’s awesome: Standing at 191 metres tall, this used to be the tallest building in Calgary. Although a number of developments now stand taller than it, there’s no better place to get a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding landscapes. The observation deck has space for 250 people to look out, and it’s certainly an experience you won’t want to miss. Observation towers are popular through Canada and a great way to see the city. Although this one isn’t as tall as some of the others like the CN Tower in Toronto , it’s still one of the best places to visit in Calgary!

What to do there: Make sure you don’t forget your camera as you’re going to get some really great pictures once you’ve taken the 62-second ride to the top of Calgary Tower! If you really want to make your visit special, why just stop at the observation deck? The tower has an observation deck, and if you take the views into account it’s definitely one of the best places to eat in Calgary! Head up at sunset for a really memorable evening!

#3 – Fish Creek Provincial Park – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Calgary

• The largest urban park in Canada
• Swim in Sikome Lake during the summer
• Get a taste of nature without leaving the city

Why it’s awesome: Fish Creek Provincial Park is the biggest urban park in Canada, and it’s a great place to spend half a day or even a whole one! It’s not just about nature though, there are a number of heritage buildings in the park too. Stretching 19km from east to west, it’s easy to find your own spot where you can relax with a book, have a picnic, or play some sports if you’re in a group! Lake Sikome becomes the park’s centrepiece during the summer months, as you can cool off in it with a swim!

What to do there: There’s so much to do in this massive park! Explore it using the walking trails that will guide you through the woodlands and along Fish Creek itself. If you’d prefer to stick to one place, there are a number of attractions aside from the Heritage buildings. The Artisan Garden in the eastern section of the park is a great place to pick up some souvenirs and handicrafts for friends and family back home. Also, the Bow Valley Ranche fine dining restaurant is one of the best places to eat in Calgary.

#4 – Glenbow Museum

• See rare exhibits which tell of the development of Western Canada
• Temporary international exhibitions popular here too
• Events held throughout the year

Why it’s awesome: If you only have time to visit one museum when you’re visiting Calgary, then the Glenbow Museum is a pretty convincing option to pick. Not only does it tell the story of the city from the pre and post-war periods, it has a number of exhibitions dedicated to the historical art and the indigenous population. Some of the most important periods of the city’s history have included the fur trade and the development of the oil industry. All of that is covered here at one of the most interesting attractions in Calgary!

What to do there: Explore the fascinating events which tell the history of Calgary. If you’re looking for something extremely engaging and interesting, then check out the museum’s events calendar. They regularly hold events like talks, and sometimes they get really hands-on! If you want something properly interactive, try a crafting class. The museum opens later on a Thursday, so it’s a good idea if you’re stuck for an evening activity! You won’t regret adding this place to your Calgary itinerary!

#5 – Rocky Mountaineer Rail Journey – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Calgary

• Take an unforgettable journey on the luxurious “Rocky Mountaineer” train
• Look out for some of the most incredible views in Canada on this journey
• One of the best Calgary vacation ideas if you’re in the city for a few weeks

Why it’s awesome: So, technically this isn’t something that’s in Calgary, but you are able to start from there! The Rocky Mountain Express is a privately-owned luxury train which takes you through one of the most stunning natural landscapes in North America. If you hadn’t already guessed, we’re talking about the Rocky Mountains! The train travels Calgary all the way to Vancouver, so if you’re touring Canada or have a few days in town without plans, this is a great way to get to know Canada.

What to do there: On this luxurious train journey? Just sit back and enjoy the views. Some of the best are weather dependent, of course. So, perhaps it’s best planning this journey for the spring or summer months. Highlights include a view of the “Three Sisters” at Canmore, Lake Louise, and the brilliantly named Kicking Horse Pass. Bring a few layers of clothing, as you’ll get as high as 3,600m on this incredible train ride. Oh, and of course, don’t forget your camera!

#6 – Devonian Gardens – One of the most incredible free places to go in Calgary

• An unexpected yet brilliant attraction
• Hidden away on the 4 th  floor of a shopping mall
• More than 10,000 plants call the gardens home

Why it’s awesome: Most tourists who visit the Core shopping centre will be going there to hunt for bargains or get a souvenir for a loved one back home, we imagine. However, get ahead of everyone else and visit something pretty cool and hidden away. The Devonian Gardens are located on the 4 th floor of the mall, and they are a fantastic find for the curious traveller. There are more than 10,000 plants in here, including tropical palm trees! You certainly wouldn’t expect them here considering how cold winter can get in Calgary!

What to do there: The Devonian Gardens are one of the coolest free and best attractions in Calgary . Under the glass ceiling, these plants thrive and create a beautiful place to spend a couple of hours. As well as lots of plants, take a wander around the fish ponds, past fountains, admire the sculptures that have been placed throughout the gardens. It may not be the first thing on many a Calgary itinerary, but that’s only because it’s such a hidden gem! Make sure you don’t miss out on it.

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Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

#7 – Calgary Farmer’s Market – A Calgary must-see for foodies!

• One of  Calgary’s best food markets
• Take a guided tour from a chef
• Try out some of the tastiest and freshest local artisan produce

Why it’s awesome: One of the best spots for foodies in town, don’t miss visiting the Artisan Market! There’s only one downside to the market – it’s closed from Monday to Wednesday. You’ll find a whole host of delicious locally produced items, from foods like honey and cheese to cool jewellery. Surely, a perfect souvenir to take home! The market also houses some of the best places to eat in Calgary. And although you can try Canadian staples like poutine, those who are looking for international food like sushi will be sated here too!

What to do there: Those who really want to find the best places to eat in Calgary should consider taking a chef’s tour. They’ll show you all the best spots in the market for delicious and high quality local and international food. There’s also a crowded events program which is available on the Farmer’s Market website. While on the subject of the website, check it out if you want to re-create something you tried at the market, as it regularly adds new delicious recipes to their page!

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#8 – Canada Olympic Park

• Get a view of the Calgary skyline from the top of the ski-jump slope
• Check out the legends who made it into Canada’s hall of fame
• One of the best places in Calgary for adrenaline-fuelled activities!

Why it’s awesome: Back in 1988, Calgary hosted the 15 th Olympic Winter Games. More than 30 years later, the unusual structures are still standing and make for one of the coolest places to visit in Calgary. Especially if you’re into sports! The Olympic Park lies a little to the west of the city in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The ski jump slope is probably the most recognisable landmark, but there’s plenty more to see, including Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame!

What to do there: Take a guided ski jump tour to get an unrivalled view of the city skyline. You’ll actually be able to see the Calgary Tower in this one! The great thing about the Olympic park is that it’s one of the best places in Calgary to try a range of outdoor activities.

During the winter, you can ski or snowboard here but that’s not all. If you’ve ever wanted to try bob-sleighing or tobogganing, that’s on offer too! In the summer, zip-lining and mountain biking are the most popular activities. It’s easy to tick some items off your bucket list here!

#9 – Calgary Stampede

• The highlight of a Calgary summer!
• Make sure you pack a Stetson and blue jeans
• A number of cool competitions and exciting events make for a great atmosphere!

Why it’s awesome: So, it’s kind of cheating including this in a list of the best places to visit in Calgary. However, if you’re in town during the summer it’s something you simply can’t miss! Calgary is immensely proud of its moniker as Cowboy Town, and the Stampede is the perfect time to see that spirit captured and harnessed! As well as rodeos, there are flag flying events, cowboy-style entertainment, and every morning just has to start with a pancake breakfast. Don’t miss this Calgary must-see!

What to do there: Each July the Calgary Stampede takes place, and you’ll want to be among the 1 million revellers who have an incredible time each year. It’s said to be the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, and although that’s a self-branded title, it’s kind of hard to disagree. The parade, rodeo, and derby are real highlights, while the market is a great place to get some cowboy-related memorabilia. This is an unmissable event to learn more about the city’s history!

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Calgary

What should I visit in Calgary?

There are plenty of cool places to visit in Calgary but these are the best: – Calgary Heritage Park – Glenbow Museum – Calgary Farmer’s Market

What are the best places to visit in Calgary for nature lovers?

Calgary is surrounded by breathtaking and untouched nature. Check out these epic places: – Devonian Gardens – Fish Creek Provincial Park – Calgary Heritage Park

Are there any free places to visit in Calgary?

To save a buck or two, visit these free places in Calgary: – Fish Creek Provincial Park – Devonian Gardens – Calgary Farmer’s Market

What places can you visit in Calgary today?

To find out which places are open today, check out GetYourGuide or Airbnb experiences . They offer guided tours, classes and entry tickets to some of the best attractions in Brisbane.

Final Thoughts

So, that concludes our list of the best places to visit in Calgary. We hope that our list has been useful, informative, and has given you an insight into having the best experience when you travel to Calgary!

Whether you want to check out the cool museums and galleries, see an incredible local tradition, or just find your own quiet spot to disconnect and relax, we’ve tried to include everything you could possibly want to stay! Added to that, you should have a better idea of the best places to stay in Calgary too.

So, all that’s left for us now is to wish you a fantastic holiday. Whether you’re just visiting Calgary, or it’s part of a wider trip across Canada and North America, our list will help you to make the most of your time there!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Sheridan Cahoon

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Calgary   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Henryk Sadura | Getty Images

Why Go To Calgary

From rags to riches, Calgary has experienced its very own Cinderella story. First founded as a Rocky Mountain outpost for the mounted police, this Canadian cow town went from honky-tonk to high-end with the discovery of oil in the early 1900s. Over the next century, shimmering office buildings replaced mom-and-pop businesses. By 1988, the city's reputation as a commercial powerhouse (along with its ideal location near the snowy Rocky peaks) earned it the honor of hosting the Winter Olympics. Since then, Calgary has been riding high.

Despite this transition, Calgarians continue to see their city from the eyes of the conventional cowboy: Here, leather boots and wide-brimmed hats still reign supreme and you'll see them on people all over Calgary. If your inner buckaroo still isn't satisfied, visit during the summer's annual  Calgary Stampede , which summons bronco-busters from all walks of life to try their hands at wrangling. As any cattleman (or woman) will tell you, it's the most fun you can have with your boots on.

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Best of Calgary

Best hotels in calgary.

• # 1 in Le Germain Hotel Calgary
• # 2 in Hyatt Regency Calgary
• # 3 in Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire

Best Things to Do in Calgary

• # 1 in Glenbow Museum
• # 2 in The Military Museums
• # 3 in Prince's Island Park

Popular Tours

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Calgary Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit Calgary are June through August, when most of the city's special events take place; and November through March when skiing conditions are in their prime. The winter months mark the city's low season with freezing temperatures that deter sightseers and force room rates down. You can expect to find hotel prices at their highest come summertime. You  will  find some good deals; however, if you book a few weeks in advance. If you're looking to save money without facing arctic temperatures, plan a visit for April or October when the city is free of tourists and winter's icy grip.

Weather in Calgary

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

• Don't be strapped for cash The official currency is the Canadian dollar. You can avoid cash conversion fees by relying on credit or debit cards instead.
• Don't forget your jacket Calgary's temperatures fluctuate frequently due to its location near the Rocky Mountains. Even during the summer months, it's a good idea to have some extra layers on hand.
• Don't drive during the winter If you're not used to snowy conditions, skip driving entirely and use public transit. If you must, be wary of black ice and unplowed roads.

How to Save Money in Calgary

• Rely on public transportation  When cruising and perusing downtown, there's no need to splurge on parking or a taxi. The CTrain (Calgary's light-rail system) offers free rides within that area.
• Bring your own hotel  You can save money on lodging by laying your head at the Calgary West Campground, which features bathrooms, showers and laundry all for around CA$35 to 40 (about $26 to $30) per night.
• Bundle up  Winter is the cheapest time to visit, so pack your parka and prepare for a blizzard.

Culture & Customs

Calgary is a true melting pot, with more than 120 languages spoken in the city. Though you'll hear many languages, English and French are Canada's two official languages, and as such signs are posted in both. Perhaps the biggest difference American travelers will encounter is the use of the Canadian dollar and the international metric system.

One U.S. dollar is equal to about CA$1.30, but since the exchange rate fluctuates,  be sure to check it  before your trip. You can avoid confusion by familiarizing yourself with Canadian currency. Coins are in denominations of $2, $1, $0.50, $0.25, $0.10 and $0.05. Canadian dollar coins are called "loonies;" two-dollar coins are called "toonies." Paper bills are in denominations of $100, $50, $20, $10 and $5. You can dodge high exchange fees by withdrawing Canadian money directly from an ATM.

Along with differences in currency, you'll also encounter some disparities in how temperatures, distance and weights are measured (in metric units); distance is measured in kilometers – pay close attention to this if you've decided to rent a car.

What to Eat

With a nickname like "Cowtown," it's no surprise Alberta beef is a star dish on many restaurant menus. But that's not all your find in Calgary.

Local favorites include cheese buns from Glamorgan Bakery , a tasty snack famous in Calgary that is known to sell out fast. The minidoughnuts at the Calgary Stampede are world-renowned and when the event isn't happening, the Calgary Mini Donuts food truck found around town can still fill your cravings.

Deep-fried shredded ginger beef is said to have been invented in Calgary at the Silver Inn Restaurant in the 1970s, where diners can order it to this day. The Caesar cocktail is another Calgary invention. According to local lore, the concoction is made with Clamato juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, vodka and spices. Order it at the Westin Calgary (which was formerly the Calgary Inn – where the drink was invented) and at bars throughout town.

Getting Around Calgary

The best way to get around Calgary is by using public transportation. The Calgary Transit system provides efficient and affordable light-rail and bus service throughout the city. As such, you'll find you don't need a car; though one might be handy if you're looking to head westward into the mountains to Banff . When the weather is nice, many residents opt for bicycles instead. The region boasts hundreds of pathways and bike lanes. If you're arriving in town by way of the Calgary International Airport (YYC), you can take the Route No. 300 bus to downtown for CA$11 (about $8). From there, ride the light-rail to your lodgings (the pass includes all-day access to all CTrains and buses), or fork over extra money for a cab. Fares from the airport to downtown Calgary cost between CA$40 and CA$45 (about $30 to $33).

Entry & Exit Requirements

A valid travel document (preferably a passport) is required for citizens of the United States traveling outside the mainland by air or sea, as well as for U.S. citizens trying to re-enter the country. If you are planning to drive, you can also use a NEXUS card, which allows for expedited border crossings for both private and commercial travelers through Canadian and U.S. border controls. For more information, visit the U.S. State Department  website .

The  Scotiabank Saddledome is as much a part of Calgary's skyline as its buildings.

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The 15 Best Things to Do in Calgary

Calgary is a young, vibrant city smack dab in the heart of the Canadian prairies. Known for its close proximity to Banff, Calgary offers more than its own fair share of nature and adventure. With a modern downtown situated right at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow rivers, you’ll be able to enjoy the great outdoors right alongside the city’s many creature comforts!

Spend the day bobsledding at an Olympic park, shopping for unique finds in Inglewood, or having a leisurely raft down the river. As night falls, you might find yourself walking down 17th Ave looking for dinner or sampling draft beers at one of the dozens of local breweries in town, then wandering up to Crescent Hill Lookout Point for a breathtaking view of the city skyline.

With so many things to see and do, you might not know where to begin. So we’ve compiled our list of the absolute best things to do in Calgary for you. Stick to these fun and unique Calgary bucket list recommendations, and there’s no doubt you’ll have an amazing time exploring this hidden gem in the Rockies!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Things to Do in Calgary

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The Top 15 Things to Do in Calgary

1. make music at studio bell.

Canada’s National Music Centre is located in the heart of Calgary’s downtown. Operating on a pay-what-you-can model, Studio Bell strives to make music accessible to all. Inside, you’ll find exhibitions that chart the long evolution of Canadian music, many of which spotlight the contributions of Indigenous artists. 

Studio Bell also hosts live performances every week, so plan ahead to make the most of your visit. The amazing architecture of the building alone makes this one of the top Calgary attractions. Plus, Studio Bell is located right in East Village, one of Calgary’s coolest neighborhoods, which boasts plenty of public art and cool cafes, all easily accessible via public transportation. 

Nearby you’ll also find the New Central Library and the Olympic Plaza, making this an easy destination to fold into a downtown excursion.

2. Explore the TELUS Spark Science Centre

The TELUS Spark Science Centre is one of the best Calgary attractions. Here, you can immerse yourself in VR, check out special exhibitions that combine art and science, and catch a show at a 360-degree dome theater offering planetarium-scale experiences. Designed for the little ones, Spark also offers the Creative Kids Museum, a 10,000-square-foot, hands-on scientific play area and an outdoor play park.

Spark also offers one of the most unique things to do in Calgary – Spark After Dark. It’s an adults-only event series offering special catering and full bar service. The center and activities are still accessible, offering exploration and fun but in a decidedly different atmosphere. 

Each event also offers a unique theme and an additional set of attractions, from cooking classes to gaming lounges to speakers who run the gamut, from magicians to professors of neuroscience.

3. Cycle Over the Peace Bridge and Through Prince’s Island Park

The Peace Bridge is among the best sights in Calgary. This iconic Spanish-designed walkway connects Calgary’s downtown with the calm, cool Sunnyside neighborhood. 

It’s lit throughout the night, producing a completely different atmosphere depending on the time of your visit. It’s also the only pedestrian bridge along the river that offers dedicated cycling lanes. If you don’t have your own gear, you can rent scooters and bikes conveniently at the nearby Eau Claire Market .

The bridge’s unique architecture speaks for itself, and it is an excellent reason to linger at Prince’s Island Park. The park stretches out leisurely along both sides of the Bow River, offering live music, a bevy of food options (from carts to fine dining), plenty of picnicking areas, and skillfully placed public art installations. 

Moreover, it’s located right by Calgary’s downtown, making for a great stroll after dinner.

4. Ice Skate at Olympic Plaza

Once used as the venue for the Olympic medal ceremony, Olympic Plaza is now a public park. Depending on the time of year, the plaza transforms to offer unique activities in Calgary’s downtown. 

In the winter, you’ll find an outdoor ice skating area that’s free of charge and open to all. In the summer months, you might find it as a wading pool, concert stage, or festival venue!

There’s plenty of seating and shade, making it a peaceful place to sit down for a chat. Located just off the train line, Olympic Plaza is easy to get to, and it’s centrally located near many other Calgary attractions, making it a great place to stop if you’re spending time anywhere downtown. 

You’ll also find local chain Village Ice Cream within walking distance, which is definitely worth a short detour in snow, hail, or shine!

5. Take a Day Trip to a Natural Hot Spring

We can’t forget to mention that Banff is only an hour’s drive outside of Calgary. Between gondolas, glaciers, and sprawling trails, you’re spoiled for choice, but soaking in the natural hot springs is definitely one of our must-do Alberta activities, combining relaxation with amazing mountain sightseeing.

Depending on your preferences and the time of year, there are a few different options to choose from. The mineral-rich outdoor pools at Banff Upper Hot Springs are geothermally heated year-round and sit at a higher elevation than any other natural spring in the area. The best times to go for the cool mountain air and the stunning views are sunset and sunrise.

If you want more of an exclusive experience, the Willow Stream Spa at Banff’s castle-like Fairmont hotel offers full spa services and facilities alongside geothermally heated indoor and outdoor whirlpools with natural rock features. For a luxe option, Fairmont also offers packages that include private access to their Nordic plunge pools.

6. Bobsled (and More!) in Calgary Olympic Park

You don’t need to leave town to get your heart pumping. All year-round, athlete or not, Calgary Olympic Park (COP) is full of fun activities. In the winter, COP’s world-class slopes offer classic winter sports, like skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, but the facility also features a regulation-size skating rink, mini-golf, downhill karting, mountain biking, and an extreme zipline depending on the time of year.

But, the real gem is the bobsledding, a unique experience at the top of our Calgary bucket list! COP is one of the only facilities in all of North America to offer bobsledding, and it’s available in both summer and winter variations. 

For the uninitiated, a bobsled can go as fast as 80 km/h down a twisting, winding track reminiscent of an extreme roller coaster. It makes for an amazing adrenaline rush, perfect for a pair or group! Finally, to relax at the end of a day of thrill seeking, try catching the chairlift during sunset.

7. See the Calgary Stampede

One of the most unique things to do in Calgary, the Calgary Stampede takes place over nearly two weeks in early July. Equal parts rodeo, carnival, and music festival, the energy of the city completely changes during Stampede season! 

You’ll catch people of all ages and walks of life getting into the cowboy spirit. If you can time your visit right, this is one of the most fun events you can attend in all of Canada.

The Stampede Midway offers every kind of carnival ride imaginable, from roller coasters to Ferris wheels to funhouses. Concerts are held all day long at one of the four indoor and outdoor venues within the Stampede grounds, with a special emphasis on country and folk performers. 

Walking around, you might find an agrarian area complete with a petting zoo, a drag brunch, or a freestyle motorcycle exhibition. The sheer breadth of activities on offer makes the Calgary Stampede worth putting on your Calgary bucket list if you’d like to experience a true slice of the Canadian West!

8. Raft Down the Bow River

Calgary’s Bow River is a pristine waterway perfect for an afternoon of kayaking, canoeing, or rafting. An average trip covers about 12 kilometers and takes around 2.5 hours to complete. 

This activity is perfect if you want to do some serious Calgary sightseeing since the Bow snakes through the city’s downtown core and past a number of landmarks, including the famous Peace Bridge, bringing together the best of nature and city life.

Numerous rental services operate up and down the river, so you’ll have plenty of options based on where you want to begin and what equipment you need. While there is some maneuvering required, the Bow is free of rapids and is well monitored, making it suitable for travelers of all ages. 

You can even take your pets! For those seeking a bit more of a challenge, there are also numerous whitewater rafting points just outside the city.

9. Peruse the Central Library

It may be appropriate to judge a book by its cover in this case because the Calgary Central Library is just as interesting inside as it is outside. From the street, it looks more like an art gallery, with an expansive geometric facade towering over the road and an LRT line that the library overlooks. 

Approaching the entrance, you’ll be enveloped by an expansive wooden archway echoing the interior of the building, a perfect refuge from its urban surroundings. The bottom floor consists of a performance space, art displays, a cafe, and smaller collections. 

On the first floor, you’ll find a 12,200-square-foot children’s library, with interactive play areas and reading nooks. Floors 3 and 4 contain a digital commons and a reading room, respectively. You can also catch a lovely glimpse of the skyline in the meeting space at the very top of the building. 

A trip to the Calgary Central Library is easily one of the best things to do in Calgary for the bookworms among us!

10. Sip a Local Craft Brew or Two

Calgary is home to over 30 local craft breweries, which combine to create the coolest beer scene in Alberta! You’ll find everything from seasonal sours to prairie lagers to farmhouse saisons. 

Each brewery has a unique vibe, and you’ll find them dotted all over the city. Luckily, we have a shortlist of the best breweries in Calgary!

Cold Garden Beverage Company in Inglewood is a microbrewery with an artsy warehouse vibe and a variety of flavors you won’t find elsewhere. If you’re looking for a retro kick, complete with cassettes and tube TVs, Eighty-Eight Brewing Co. off Ramsay is a must-visit. 

Also in Ramsay, The Dandy Tasting Room offers unique seasonal sours. For beer geeks, The Establishment offers barrel-aged wild beers in an upscale tap house. Honorable mentions include Big Rock Brewery , Banded Peak Brewing , Village Brewery , and Annex Ale Project . 

But really, you can’t go wrong with any of them!

11. Catch a Hockey Game at the Saddledome

Check off something on your Calgary bucket list and watch a hockey game at the Saddledome . Even during the off-season, matches are scheduled every week. There’s nothing quite like watching the athletes breeze over the ice at light speed or hearing the roar of the crowd as the game goes into a tie-breaking overtime!

If hockey’s not your thing, look out for the ice skating shows happening every few months. Big music acts also go through the Saddledome, making this the one-stop destination for big events of all kinds in Calgary.

The Saddledome offers a full concession spread for mid-game snacking. For more substantial fare, you can check out one of the many restaurants, lounges, and clubs right inside. It’s also located within walking distance of many popular restaurants and breweries, meaning you’ll have plenty of places to go to celebrate (or commiserate) your team’s results.

12. See the Best City Views at Crescent Heights Lookout Point

One of the best sights in Calgary is completely free of charge. Between the Rocky Mountains in the distance, the city skyline, and the Bow River winding past, Crescent Heights Hill is a local favorite. Depending on the season and the time of day, you might see a pristine, frozen wonderland, a vast prairie landscape, or a quiet, twinkling city nightscape.

The lookout point is usually not very crowded, except on holidays and weekend evenings. You can drive up to the peak or walk up the 168 steps of the Memorial Stairs. 

Our personal favorite route goes over the Peace Bridge, through Sunnyside, then up the short trail to the steps. This is a perfect place to go after date night, as it’s within walking distance from many downtown restaurants, but there’s also plenty of parking at the top of the hill or near Prince’s Island Park.

13. Visit the Esker Foundation Art Gallery

For a taste of Calgary’s art scene, visit the Esker Foundation Art Gallery in Inglewood. The Foundation strives to make art accessible to the public, so entrance is always free. While the space is relatively small, exhibitions are often immersive, room-scale experiences that are carefully curated for their creativity, innovation, and relevance to local issues.

Aside from the art itself, the gallery regularly offers artist talks, exhibition tours, and hands-on workshops. Attend a yoga lesson surrounded by art, bring home a clay vessel made with the input of an installation artist, or do some collaborative weaving. If you’re looking for unique things to do in Calgary, this is the place to be!

If you find yourself wanting more after your visit, Contemporary Calgary is another amazing space offering funky and interesting exhibitions. The New Gallery is a tiny, artist-run collective space in Calgary’s historic Chinatown. 

The Glenbow Museum primarily offers cultural and historical installations, but you’ll also find classic and indigenous art and frequent special exhibitions featuring a wide range of traditions from around the world.

14. Grab Dinner, Drinks, and Dessert on 17th Ave

Yes, that’s an “and!” Calgary’s 17th Avenue is the city’s dining hotspot, serving gastronomical delights from around the world. Ramen bars, smokehouses, speakeasies, taquerias, bistros, Himalayan grills, Irish pubs, pizzerias, French bakeries, and more all await you.

Our top spots are Lulu Bar for small plates with a unique Canadian fusion twist, Betty Lou’s Library for the quintessential password-required speakeasy experience, Last Best Brewery (on 11th Ave) for top-notch craft beer and pub fare, Made By Marcus for seasonal, handmade ice cream offerings, and The Living Room for fondue and an intimate atmosphere.

On a weekend evening, 17th Ave is the busiest street in Calgary. Even in the dead of winter, you’ll find plenty of people dining on insulated patios and lines out the door of the city’s most popular restaurants. 

Be warned, though. Curb parking might be near impossible to find on a busy night, but there are plenty of lots on 17th Ave itself, and neighboring streets are often more amenable. More walking just means more to discover, after all!

15. Shop Local in Inglewood and Kensington

Aside from offering fantastic dining options, Inglewood and Kensington are the most unique shopping districts in Calgary. Both are historic areas full of personality. No matter who or what you’re shopping for, you’ll find it (and more!) here.

In Inglewood, second-hand reigns. The joy of finding a unique vintage record or a ‘50s wedding dress is hard to beat!

Plus, the neighborhood is home to Fair’s Fair , Calgary’s largest second-hand bookstore, as well as Antiquaire Vintage Boutique , which stocks women’s clothing and home decor, and That Old Retro Store , a purveyor of audio paraphernalia throughout the ages. If you’re looking to bring home Canadian brews, Oak & Vine has the best selection in town.

In Kensington, you’ll find specialty retailers of comics, Japanese import goods, and band merchandise, among others. Kensington’s artisan market is a must-see for handmade wares. 

If you want a special touch, InGear Store stocks jewelry, furniture, and leather goods sourced from artists around the world. And for fine tea and beautiful teaware, pop into The Naked Leaf . 

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Calgary. What’s your favorite thing to do?

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About the Author:

Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

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Calgary will surprise you with its beauty, cool eateries, nightlife beyond honky-tonk, and long, worthwhile to-do list. Calgarians aren’t known for their modesty; it’s their self-love and can-do attitude that got them through disastrous flooding in 2013 and, in 2016, saw them helping residents of wildfire-stricken Fort McMurray with unquestioning generosity. We mustn’t forget – Calgary also hosted the highly successful 1988 Winter Olympics, elected North America’s first Muslim mayor, and throws one of Canada’s biggest festivals, the Calgary Stampede.

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The 14 BEST Calgary Tours and Excursions for 2024

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

Compiled by the Road Trip Alberta team

Last updated on January 6, 2024

Basing yourself in Calgary on your next Alberta trip is a great plan – there’s a lot to see in the city and within a short driving distance! In just one hour, you can immerse yourself in the foothills and then the Rocky Mountains, see dinosaur fossils at Dinosaur Provincial Park in the Canadian Badlands, and more. Even better, a stay in Calgary can introduce you to all kinds of fun experiences within city limits, and sometimes, the best way to experience any city is through guided tours.

There are plenty of Calgary tours available, but we made the research and selection process more manageable by rounding up some highly recommended experiences. So whether you’re looking for tour operators right in Calgary or one to take you on a side trip to Drumheller or Banff or more, read through this guide to the best Calgary tours for inside the city and beyond.

The Best Calgary Tours

City of calgary sightseeing tour by sidecar – our top pick.

• Tour Length: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Star Ratings: 5/5 (20+ reviews)

With so many great options it was hard to narrow it down, but because of the unique mode of transportation and the Calgary views, this tour rose to the top.

Take in the sights of the city on a vintage sidecar tour! On this 70-minute guided tour of Calgary, you can relax while your driver takes you around the city and narrates the sights along the way.

There is a brief stop for photos at either Scotsman’s Hill or Crescent Ridge where the driver also doubles as a pseudo-photographer for some tourist shots overlooking the heart of Calgary. Included in the ticket price is the option to choose your pick-up location from one of the downtown Calgary hotels or at the base of the Calgary Tower .

3-hour Bike Ride Through Beautiful Calgary and the Bow River

• Tour Length: 3 hours
• Star Ratings: 5 / 5 (10+ reviews)

Slow down and hop on two-wheeled transportation to connect with the city. See tourist hot spots like the Peace Bridge, Prince’s Island Park, Fort Calgary, the Calgary Stampede grounds, and more! Start your journey at Joe’s Garage Bicycle Rental and Repair in southwest Calgary and embark on a trip to 10 different spots throughout the city, all while hearing tales of conquest, mystery, and First Nations culture before ending back at the bike shop.

The tour operator has infant seats and buggies available for children so that they can join in on the experience, and since there is a cap of 12 travellers in the group, it is guaranteed to be a small, intimate experience. Please note that this tour is moderately physical and not recommended for those with heart problems or other serious medical problems

This tour includes:

• Use of bicycle – no need to bring your own!
• Helmet (if wanted)
• A bicycle lock

Our guide, Dan, was wonderful! Very knowledgeable and accommodating! It was just my husband and I on the tour, and we loved every minute! It was a great way to see the city and learn all about it!! – Viator user Judy_Z

Calgary Brewery Tour

• Tour Length: 3 hours and 30 minutes

The microbrewery scene in Calgary has exploded in the last decade, and there are some seriously good award-winning brews to sample on this tour! You will even have access to your very own self-proclaimed “beer geek tour guide” and get an educational, behind-the-scenes beer sampling experience. The meeting (and end) point is downtown at Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott, and you will be transported around in style by a branded Canadian Craft Tours van.

There are three stops on this Calgary tour: Bow River Brewing, OT Brewing Company, and Born Brewing Co. Each sharing their story, vision, and of course, some stellar brews!

Private Self-Guided River Rafting Tour in Calgary

• Tour Length: 2 to 4 hours
• Star Ratings: 5 / 5 (70+ reviews)

This experience is rated as Calgary’s number one outdoor activity, so you know it will be a good time! This self-guided experience on the Bow River begins at the launch point in West Baker Park, so all you have to do is show up, and a 4, 6, 8, or 10-person inflatable raft will be waiting for you. Hop in with your crew and enjoy a leisurely float at your own pace as you explore some natural parks and enjoy exceptional views of the cityscape. Depending on the river flow, this journey can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, and the final destination is Prince’s Island Park in the heart of the city.

For an even more convenient experience, you can grab a ride in the shuttle from the Lazy Day office in northwest Calgary to the launch point and back for an additional fee of $7 per person.

This is an amazing way to spend a day in Calgary! Pack a picnic lunch, grab your tunes, and head out! So much fun!! You have the rental raft for the whole day, so take your time, stop along the way! We had so much fun the first time, we went 2 more times this summer! TripAdvisor Reviewer

Ghost Tour of Calgary By Sidecar

• Star Ratings: 5 / 5 (3 reviews)

If ghost stories and unique transportation are your jam, look no further than this spooky Calgary tour by sidecar! This adult-only ghost tour takes you to historic parts of the city, places like Fort Calgary, Inglewood, and Scotsman’s Hill, with experienced drivers. Listen to a professional storyteller providing live narration via helmet communication along the way. Stop at historic pubs for non-alcoholic refreshments (or an alcoholic drink at your own expense). Enjoy a fun night in Calgary while learning about the darker parts of the city’s history and some of its notorious residents.

This experience is tailored to small groups tour and only allows a maximum of 6 travellers. It meets and ends at the Calgary Tower with a starting time of 7:30 pm.

We had sooooo much fun. I would do it again. They were the nicest people to have with us. If you’re looking for a great time don’t pass this up ! – Viator user Ann_H

The Best Of Calgary Walking Tour

• Tour Length: 2 hours

The absolute best of Calgary is highlighted in this 2-hour walking tour that begins at the Calgary Tower. This experience is a private tour that comes with a knowledgeable guide who will enlighten your group about the roots and old stories of how Calgary came to be and how it developed into Canada’s Stampede City. Get your listening ears and legs ready for 2 hours of walking and talking!

Calgary Private Food Tour

• Tour Length: 3+ hours

This tour is unique because it is fully customizable! Provided through Alberta Food Tours, you can set up a group of 2-45 people with your very own guide(s), depending on group size. The tour time is customized to fit your needs, whether late morning, afternoon or evening, Sunday through Thursday.

What dining establishments you end up at are customized depending on what you want to experience! Indulging in delicious food with good company – this personalized experience is definitely a fantastic and memorable way to spend a few hours.

Day Tours From Calgary

Horseback trail ride in kananaskis – top pick, horseback trail ride in kananaskis.

The raving testimonials seal the deal on why this horseback adventure is a top pick for Calgary tours found outside Calgary.

• Star Ratings: 5/5 (120+ reviews)

A trip to Alberta will not be complete without a horseback riding adventure! And the spectacular scenery in Kananaskis is some of the best in all of Canada. This wonderful tour is capped at eight people to ensure personal attention by the guides throughout the journey, and it is open to all skill levels of horse experience, from novice to experienced riders. The activity begins and ends in Kananaskis, so a vehicle is required to get there by yourself from Calgary. However, the scenic drive alone is worth it, not to mention the exciting opportunity to leisurely explore the Kananaskis Valley and have many wildlife viewing opportunities.

This tour includes a professional and experienced guide, and the use of a horse and necessary equipment.

It was a great experience. Our trail ride leader was excellent as was the trailing rider. We had a great time. The horses were great. We would recommend it to everyone who wants the experience of doing a trail ride and seeing some awesome country. – VIATOR USER Thomas_O

Kananaskis River Rafting

• Tour Length: 4 hours
• Star Ratings: 5 / 5 (35+ reviews)

Pair fantastic views with some adrenaline-pumping action, resulting in this Kananaskis river rafting adventure. This small group tour leaving from Canmore or Banff is excellent for all levels of whitewater rafting experience, even beginners and even includes snacks! Embark on a 1.5-2 hour rafting experience followed by a refreshing swim in the Kananaskis River, one of Alberta’s most pristine waterways. Also included in this tour are free photos of your rafting adventure available online so you can download and share your epic time with all your family and friends.

A group of 10 of us went rafting, and it was so much fun. Our guide Tim was fantastic, made us feel safe and we had tons of laughs. – Viator user Jim_N

Banff National Park Tour From Calgary

• Tour Length:
• Star Ratings: 4.5/5 (60+ reviews)

Enjoy exploring all Banff National Park has to offer without worrying about driving yourself or paying a national park fee! Starting from a hotel in downtown Calgary, travel in an air-conditioned tour bus to Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies and visit landmarks such as Sulphur Mountain (there is an opportunity to add on a gondola ride here too, which is HIGHLY recommended), Bow Falls, and Johnston Canyon . The full-day tour also allocates some free time in the Banff townsite for shopping and grabbing a bite to eat before heading back to the bus for the journey back to Calgary.

The scenic views, in the Banff area are outstanding!! Also our Driver/Guide Sammy was excellent!!! The trip was well organized and implemented!!! – Viator user Kevin_G

Canmore Caving

• Tour Length: 6 hours
• Star Ratings: 5 / 5 (220+ reviews)

Embark on a “Caver For A Day” experience in Rat’s Nest Cave, one of the longest caves in Canada! Pick from two departure times to begin a tour that will test your physical and mental limits. The full-day tour begins with a 45-minute hike uphill learning about the area’s geologic history with possible wildlife sightings. Once at the cave entrance, you will rappel down 59 feet and begin the route, ending at a crystal-clear grotto.

Note: Caving is a moderately strenuous activity and requires climbing, crawling, squeezing, and sliding through a cave. In addition, guests are required to wear a helmet as well as a safety harness which has a maximum waist size of 45″ (114 cm) and a maximum leg size of 33″ (84 cm). Equipment will be provided.

A unique experience. Something that should definitely be on a bucket list. Very informative as well as fun. John was fantastic. – Viator user Jacqui_P

Private Day Tour – Calgary to the Royal Tyrrell Museum

• Tour Length: 8 to 10 hours
• Star Ratings: 4.5 / 5 (10+ reviews)

Discover the hoodoos in the rustic Canadian Badlands landscape with a trip to explore Drumheller . In addition to the amazing landscape, during the trip, see the World’s Largest Dinosaur, Drumheller’s Little Church, Horseshoe Canyon, and Horsethief Canyon.

There is an option to add on the Royal Tyrrell Museum and Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site for the additional admission fees, and in our opinion, they are both definitely worth the costs. Although this is a sightseeing tour with no narration, it is a private chauffeured experience for you and your group, so enjoy the luxury!

Jeff was a great guide! He was very knowledgeable of the area and gave fantastic local (and international) travel tips and recommendations. He offered to take photos of us at every stop which is super important to me. – Viator user Hannah_R

Columbia Icefield Adventure 1-Day Tour From Calgary or Banff

• Tour Length: 13 Hours

Spend the day exploring the wonders of the Canadian Rockies! And also get the once-in-a-lifetime chance to discover the Columbia Icefield on foot. This full-day tour picks up from either downtown Calgary or Banff. You will see natural wonders, including the Waputik Range, Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, and the Crowfoot Glacier – many of the top highlights found on the famed Icefields Parkway .

For an additional cost, you can also hop on the Columbia Icefield Ice Explorer and see the landmark up close! This great tour includes highlights to discover from both Banff National Park and Jasper National Park, with the convenience of round-trip transit throughout.

Glacier is stunning and driver provided good service. He is knowledgeable and professional and helped taking pictures for us . – Viator user Quilin_Z

Lake Louise and Yoho National Park From Calgary

• Star Ratings: 4.5 / 5 (110+ reviews)

See the most stunning Canadian Rockies landscapes – from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake – on this exciting full-day tour! With pickups in Calgary and Banff National Park, you will get to witness the amazing sights of Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Emerald Lake, with a pass-by of the Spiral Tunnels before being dropped back off at your starting point. Learn about the area’s history from your tour guide and enjoy the scenery as you sit back and relax. Bonus: if you book this tour during the winter months, it also includes snowshoeing.

Our guide, Alan, was so knowledgeable. Perfect amount of time allowed at each stop. So nice having someone else do the driving and parking. Highly recommend this tour. – Viator user Cyndy_P

If you are basing yourself in Calgary, we can help you plan your stay:

• Where to stay in Calgary .
• Where to eat in Calgary . Or, if you want to get specific, where to find the best pizza in Calgary !
• All of the great things to do in Calgary .
• And if you’re heading west, we have curated a list of the best Banff tours as well.

Dalene Heck is a co-founder of Road Trip Alberta. She was born in Edmonton, grew up in the Peace Country, and has ventured to almost every corner of Alberta and the world (she’s travelled to 60 countries)! She is a serial blogger, the CEO of HMI Marketing , co-creator of the Trip Chaser card game, a leukemia-slayer, and cat whisperer.

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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.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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.

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

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

Calgary travel blog: Overview of Calgary

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

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

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

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

Calgary blog: When to visit?

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

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

Calgary guide: How to get to Calgary?

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

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

Calgary travel guide: Getting around Calgary

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

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

Calgary tower.

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

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

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

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

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

Bow River and Peace Bridge

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

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

Calgary Zoo

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

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

Olympic Park

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

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

Glenbow Museum

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

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

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

Devonian Gardens

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

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

Bowness Park

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

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

Calgary Stampede

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

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

Fish Creek Provincial Park

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

The Hangar Flight Museum

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

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

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

Heritage Park

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

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

Royal Tyrrell Museum

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

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

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

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

Rocky Mountains

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

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

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

Banff National Park

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

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

Calgary travel blog: Shopping in Calgary

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

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

Calgary travel guide: What to eat?

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

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

Calgary blog: Where to stay?

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

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

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

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

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

Read more Canada travel guide here .

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Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

17 of the Best Calgary Tours

February 28, 2023 By Matthew G. Bailey Leave a Comment

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Although we have extensive experience across all of Canada, Calgary is actually our home base, which means we know a lot about this beautiful city and all the awesome Calgary tours that you can enjoy.

Located next to the world-famous Canadian Rockies and the Dinosaur Capital of the World, there are also lots of Calgary tours that take you outside the city to explore some of the best natural attractions in Alberta.

So whether you’re looking for a tour in Calgary or a tour to the Rocky Mountains and beyond, we’ve got you covered in this guide to the best Calgary tours!

Calgary Tours Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links, which means when you make a purchase, we get a small commission. Affiliate links cost you nothing to use and they help keep these travel guides free. It’s a win-win! For more information, visit our privacy policy.

With so many Calgary tours both within the city and in the surrounding areas, there are many options for you to choose from. Below are the top 17 Calgary tours we could find!

Our Top 3 Picks: Calgary Tours

#1 TOP PICK

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Three-Hour Bike Tour

✔️ Experience the beauty of Calgary ✔️ Bike and Guide included

Kananaskis Whitewater Rafting

✔️ Exciting and Adventurous ✔️ See the Rocky Mountains

Private Tour to Banff

✔️ World-Famous Banff ✔️ World-famous Lake Louise 🚫 Con

1. Private Self-Guided River Rafting Tour in Calgary

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Even as locals, one of our favourite things to do during the summer in Calgary is to go tubing down the river. Whether it’s cruising down the Bow River or lazy floating down the Elbow River, this private self-guided river rafting tour is a great way to experience the city and some of the best views.

Since this is a self-guided tour, you’ll simply pick up your raft, get some instructions from the rental company, and head out on a true Calgarian adventure. Feel free to go solo or bring your family and friends for a peaceful float down the river, passing by golf courses, residential areas, nature, parks, and even parts of downtown Calgary.

This is an amazing way to spend a day in Calgary! Pack a picnic lunch, grab your tunes, and head out! So much fun!! You have the rental raft for the whole day, so take your time, stop along the way! We had so much fun the first time, we went 2 more times this summer! – Happy Customer ( see more reviews )

This four-hour self-guided rafting tour in Calgary includes:

• PFDs, paddles and safety kit
• Free Parking
• Guides are not required for these tours.
• Tickets ($7 each) for our convenient shuttle to the launch point

Click Here to See Reviews, Pricing, and Availability.

2. Calgary Downtown: 2-Hour Introductory Walking Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Whenever we visit a new city, we always try to take a walking tour as it’s such a great way to not only learn about a new place but to also get oriented. This is your chance to embark on a 2-hour walking tour of Calgary’s Downtown . 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.

Begin at Municipal Plaza and learn about the origins of Calgary. Continue on to see the newly-revitalized East Village buildings. Pass by more public art and many historic buildings. Travel along the most extensive pathway system in North America and into Chinatown. Work your way back towards the historic Stephen Avenue where your tour will end. If you’re hungry, this is a great place to find some of the best restaurants in Calgary .

We really enjoyed the Calgary waking tour with Mikaela! We saw and learned so much, which deepened our experience in the city. In particular, we loved the public art and the stories behind the sites we visited. Our guide was enthusiastic and knowledgeable. Highly recommended activity! – Happy Customer ( more reviews )

Calgary is a blend of a brash frontier town and a lively metropolis. Explore the downtown with a tour guide who will introduce you to this dynamic city. Enjoy the public art and historical buildings along the route. Some of the highlights include:

• Enjoy the public art seen throughout the city
• Learn the history of Calgary and Western culture
• Explore the historic buildings and hear their survival stories
• View the stunning architecture of the new public library
• Enjoy the tour in any weather conditions; Calgary’s elevated walkways will keep you warm and dry

3. Calgary City Sightseeing Tour in a Sidecar

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  70 Minutes | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re for a truly unique Calgary tour, this is it! This Guided Sidecar Tour of Calgary offers a unique mode of transport: by vintage sidecar motorcycle. Relax while your driver takes you around the city and narrates the sights along the route. See landmarks like Scotsman’s Hill and Crescent Heights Park, which overlook the heart of Calgary, as well as a brief stop for photos. Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off are provided.

We loved being able to communicate as a group with the tour guides. They had so much enthusiasm for the city of Calgary and so much knowledge. It was a treat to spend time with these guides. We also loved the novelty of this tour – first time on a sidecar and we did not expect to learn so much and enjoy it so much! – Denise ( see more reviews )

This is a unique chance to tour Calgary in a vintage sidecar motorcycle ride through the downtown core with guided narration. They’ll also pick you up from all the downtown hotels for maximum convenience. The city tour rolls for 70 minutes with one stop for photos either at Scotsman’s Hill or Crescent Ridge. All in all, the tour included:

• Driver/guide
• Headsets to hear the guide clearly
• Live commentary on board
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Use of helmet
• GST (Goods and Services Tax)

4. Calgary: 3.5-Hour Bus City Tour with Gasoline Alley Museum

⭐️  RATING:  4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3.5 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Set off on a 3.5-hour tour through Calgary to gain an overview of Downtown and take time to explore the famous Gasoline Alley Museum at Calgary’s Heritage Park. Photograph the panoramic views of the city, see classic cars, and learn about Calgary’s history.

This 3.5-hour Calgary Bus Tour begins at the base of the Calgary Tower and travels through downtown and to the Calgary Zoo, the Telus Spark Science Center, East Village, and to historic Inglewood, all in a comfortable minibus. You’ll also visit Scotsman’s Hill for some of the most beautiful views of the city, stop at Canada Olympic Park to watch some sporting activities and spend some time at Gasoline Alley Museum, a museum dedicated to historical gravitational gas pumps and antique vehicles.

Very professional, informative, knowledgeable, narrative by Judy. We toured the most photographic viewpoints in Calgary. We stopped at locations that allowed photographs, nutrient breaks, and a great museum of vintage automobiles. I recommend this tour to anyone who wants to see everything Calgary has to offer and the history that made it happen !! – Happy Customer ( see more reviews )

This 3.5-hour Calgary Tour includes:

• Get the best panoramic views of the Calgary skyline
• Explore classic cars, gas pumps, and vintage signage at Gasoline Alley Museum
• Hear stories about Calgary from your local guide
• Entrance to Gasoline Alley Museum
• Transport by comfortable bus
• Professional driver
• Local tour guide

5. 3-Hour Bike Ride Through Beautiful Calgary and the Bow River

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re looking for a scenic biking tour through Calgary’s top areas, this 3-hour Calgary biking tour is for you. Their expert local guides know Calgary inside and out. ​Touch, see, hear, and smell the mystifying magnificence of nature as you cycle along the Bow River and into Sandstone City. Explore local favourite prairie spots, marvel at the iconic Peace Bridge, and hear tales of conquest and mystery. Connect with the First Nations Peoples, the water, and the legendary Stampede, just to name a few.

In just three hours, you’ll see so much of what Calgary is known for, including the Bow River, Peace Bridge, Prince’s Island Park, the Chinese Cultural Centre Museum, St. Patrick’s Island Nature, the beautiful neighbourhood of Inglewood, parts of Fort Calgary, and the grounds of the world-famous Calgary Stampede. You’ll also see 17th Avenue Retail & Entertainment District A.K.A The Red Mile, the Beltline Hip neighbourhood closest to downtown, and more.

Our guide, Dan, was wonderful! Very knowledgeable and accommodating! It was just my husband and I on the tour and we loved every minute! It was a great way to see the city and learn all about it!! – Happy Customer ( see more reviews )

When it comes to Calgary tours, this is a great option for getting some exercise at the same time. This 3-hour Calgary Bike Tour includes:

• Use of bicycle
• Helmet (if wanted)
• A bicycle lock
• A Guided tour you won’t forget

6. Kananaskis River Rafting Adventure

Located only an hour west of Calgary, the Kananaskis is one of the most beautiful regions in the entire country. If you’re looking for a fun and exciting activity that combines some absolutely stunning mountain scenery, you’ll definitely want to book yourself in for a Kananaskis Rafting Tour .

Combine sightseeing with an adrenaline-pumping adventure on this small-group day tour from Banff or Canmore. You’ll soak up the sights as you raft down the Kananaskis River, one of Alberta’s most pristine waterways. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as bald eagles, bears and deer as you navigate the periodic rapids.

Our rafting guide was Tom and he was a lot of fun, very interactive and made the day extraordinary. Huge shout out to Tom who worked his butt off to make the day a hit for my family. – Happy Customer ( see more reviews )

Take in the Rockies scenery as you raft down the Kananaskis River on this small-group adventure (maximum seven guests). This ensures your guide’s full attention and this activity is great for all levels of whitewater rafting experience, even beginners.

When it comes to Calgary tours outside the city combined with adrenaline, this is it! This four-hour experience includes:

• Approximately two hours on the water
• Optional swim at the end
• All necessary equipment (wetsuits, lifejacket, helmet, rainjacket, wetsuit booties and gloves)
• Free photos of your rafting adventure are available online

7. 2-Hour Horseback Trail Ride in Kananaskis

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Escape the hustle and bustle of Calgary by riding into the serene Alberta backcountry, which is only an hour’s drive away. This small-group horseback riding adventure will have you exploring forests and traversing a mountain ridge for excellent views of the entire Kananaskis Valley, something you’ll never forget. The tour is suitable for all skill levels, from novice to experienced riders.

Our two-hour Ridge Ride is the most popular adventure offered. On top of the magnificent views, you might catch a glimpse of the wildlife that resides in this unique ecosystem. Plus, you’ll also pass by our Teepee Village with one of the Teepees that was in the Movie The Revenant , starring Leonardo DiCaprio. Remember to bring your camera to capture the incredible scenery.

What an amazing experience! The ranch itself was beautiful and extremely well maintained. Everyone who worked there was very nice. The trails were beautiful and the horses were well trained and behaved. I will for sure be going back again. – Kirsten ( see more reviews )

This two-hour horseback riding tour includes:

• All taxes and fees
• A professional and experienced guide
• Use of horse and all necessary equipment

8. Experience Banff National Park & Lake Louise | Moraine Lake – PRIVATE DAY TOUR

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  9 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Very few places in the world can rival the beauty of Banff National Park and luckily for you, this magical place is only a couple of hours from the city. Immerse yourself in the scenery of the Canadian Rockies and enjoy a personalized experience of Banff National Park on this private tour from Calgary .

Explore at your own pace as your guide shares the history of Canada’s first national park and takes you to some of the most famous sites including Lake Louise, Moraine Lake and Lake Minnewanka.

Canoeing Moraine Lake, hiking, gondola ride, sightseeing Lake Louise…jam packed day! The most beautiful day filled with beautiful memories. Thank you to our great guide, Manny, and everyone at ABest Tours for making this possible. – Dawn ( see more reviews )

This comprehensive Banff National Park tour is ideal for those with limited time and includes:

• Private Transportation in Van or SUV
• A personalized experience
• Hassle-free pickup from your Calgary Metro area accommodations
• Flexibility to adjust the itinerary to your own preferences
• Park Entrance Fee
• Bottled water

9. Discover Banff National Park – Day Trip

⭐️  RATING:  4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  11 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Few places compare to the beauty of Banff National Park and this semi-private day trip will take you to some of the most popular places, such as Canmore, Lake Minnewanka, Banff, Castle Mountain, and Lake Louise. You will be laughing and enjoying the ride in between every incredible destination.

Not only will you see some stunning landscapes and possibly some wildlife, but you’ll also have a personal photographer the entire day so you can make friends back home jealous about your trip to Banff! You will do a short hike if you’re up for it, or walk a bit on an area with low elevation gain if you prefer. One thing is for sure, YOU will love the entire day in the Canadian Rockies. This trip is all about wowing you and hearing ahs and ohs all day long!

The tour guides Murray and Patrick were wonderful. We spent an adequate amount of time at every stop and the views were out of this world. It looked like all the wonderful pics that you see online. The tour was upbeat and lively and by the end I felt like I made 10 new friends. I really enjoyed myself. Patrick is a hoot, young, energetic and simply charming. I personally think that everyone is a bad driver but myself but I felt completely safe with maurray at the wheel. It was a great day. – Takesha ( see more reviews )

Your adventure starts when the guide picks you up at your hotel in Downtown Calgary (extra fees for hotels further away). You can even be dropped off in places like Banff and Canmore! When it comes to Calgary tours outside the city, this is an excellent option. This 10-12 tour includes:

• Private transportation
• Ice cleats for shoes
• Park entrance

10. Lake Louise Moraine Lake Tour from Calgary or Banff

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  9 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Immerse yourself in the incredible Canadian Rockies on this guided tour from Banff to Moraine Lake and beyond. Marvel at Moraine Lake’s opalescent waters, learn about the human history of the landscapes, look for wildlife such as moose, bear, and elk, and make a stop at Lake Louise to snap photos of its world-famous turquoise waters.

If you’ve only got a day and want to “see it all”, this is a great option. Not only will you see some of the top sights in Banff National Park, but you’ll even make it to the world-famous Moraine Lake. In the winter, you’ll visit British Columbia and Yoho National Park instead.

Our guide, Alan, was so knowledgeable. Perfect amount of time allowed at each stop. So nice having someone else do the driving and parking. Highly recommend this tour. – Cyndy ( see more reviews )

When it comes to Calgary tours outside the city, this is a great option. This 8-10-hour Lake Louise and Yoho tour includes:

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Bilingual Tour Guide
• 20-Minute free Snowshoeing for the Winter itinerary (Nov to mid-Apr / Weather Dependent)
• Traffic Accident Insurance (10M liability)
• National Park Fee

11. Banff Area 1-Day Tour from Calgary or Banff

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  8+ hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Explore many of Banff National Park’s top sights without doing any of the driving! This full-day tour from Calgary or Banff sets off in an air-conditioned coach with visits to key landmarks such as Sulphur Mountain (upgrade for a gondola ride) the dramatic Bow Falls, Johnston Canyon, and even some leisure time for wandering the town of Banff and enjoying lunch (own expense).

Amazing trip! And views! Bus tour guide was so friendly and helpful! Saw Beautiful places! Will definitely do this trip again with friends! Lunch was delicious we had in Banff town! – Marina ( see more reviews )

Leave the logistics and navigation to your driver on this seamless round-trip trip tour from Calgary or Banff. This trip includes:

• Free Crampon for Winter itinerary (Nov to mid-Apr)

12. Lakes, Glaciers & Thrilling Peaks | Off the Beaten Path | Exclusive Private Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  8+ hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

This exclusive private tour will make you feel like a traveller rather than a tourist and is the only tour in the winter months that will take you to the Alpine Zone in Banff National Park. However, whether you join in the summer or in the winter, learning ancient native culture and colonial history will make for an unbelievably meaningful travel experience. This is the best tour for witnessing the most stunning lakes of Banff National Park.

You’ll get to see Herbert Lake, Bow Lake, and Peyto Lake along the spectacular Icefields Parkway as well as Lake Louise and even Moraine Lake during the warmer months. Free pick up and drop off from Calgary, Canmore, Banff, and Lake Louise. No hidden fees.

It was amazing. He customized our tour due to weather and it turned out awesome. He did far and beyond touring. We couldn’t ask for more. Will definitely recommend and will do it again. – Jane ( see more reviews )

This 8-10-hour private tour includes:

• All Fees and Taxes
• Private Guide
• Small private group maximum 2 travellers

13. Fatbike Frozen Waterfall Tour

The countryside outside Calgary in the Rocky Mountains offers a world of outdoor adventure, but few pursuits offer as much fun as fat-biking. On this tour, hop into the saddle and peddle your way through the Canadian wilderness by fat bike, tackling the snowy terrain with ease. With a safety kit included and your guide to lead the way, you’ll get to visit a frozen waterfall and enjoy uninterrupted views of spectacular wintery scenery without worries. Explore the wilderness of the Canadian Rockies on this popular fat-bike cycling tour .

We had an amazing time on the fat bike tour. Our guide, Paul was extremely helpful with great tips on how to use the bikes properly. He made the morning really enjoyable and the tour had a great pace and was a fun ride. Everything was extremely well organized from start to finish. – Happy Customer ( see more reviews )

This 2-3 hour tour includes:

• Professional guide

14. Snowshoeing in Kananaskis

Embark on a winter snowshoeing journey in the Kananaski s, which is just west of Calgary. Accompanies by a professional guide, you’ll get to focus on the scenery and the sound of your footsteps crunching into the snow rather than trying to find the right direction. You’ll learn the history of the Kananaskis through guided commentary, facts about the local flora and fauna, and how different species survive this harsh season.

This is a great opportunity to discover this 6000-year-old mode of transportation. Embrace the winter by walking across the thick snowpack instead of going through it. This tour runs from 10 am till 12 pm or 1:30 pm til 3:30 pm every day. This tour is ideal for everyone aged 6+. However, younger kids are welcome if the parents are up to the challenge.

Excellent experience. The rental snowshoes were in perfect condition and the price of a full day rental was very reasonable. The advice on snowshoe trails in Kananaskis was very helpful. We ended up at a beautiful location that was suitable for our fitness level that we would not have chosen on our own. Covid precautions were in place and being followed by the employees. Rental equipment returns were being sanitized. – Happy Customer ( see more reviews )

When it comes to Calgary tours outside the city, this is a good option in the winter. On top of all the beauty, this tour includes:

• Hot Beverage and Cookies

15. Stargazing Tour – Kananaskis After Dark

Banff National Park is famous for its spectacular scenery, but after dark, the landscape takes on a whole new look and feel. On this Kananaskis Afer Dark tour , you’ll get to strap on some snowshoes and stomp into the Kananaskis forest on a guided moonlit hike. Stop in open clearings and peek at the stars through a telescope. Admire the beauty of the stars with very little light pollution.

Be dazzled by a sky full of more stars than you can possibly imagine. This hike will open your senses and change your perspective. Even a familiar trail looks different when the sun goes down. You are welcome to bring a camera and tripod to try out some astrophotography or to just hang out with the group and chat about astronomy. Please note: the use of snowshoes for this tour depends on snow levels.

Weren’t sure what to expect. We’ve never snow shoed before! Lots of fun, wintery scenery was wonderful. Great guide. Clouds cleared and we saw alot of stars… Even a couple shooting stars! – Tara ( see more reviews )

With a hot drink and cookie included, marvel at the wonders of nature in the Canadian wilderness. This two-hour tour includes:

• Hot Beverage and cookie
• Use of Headlamp and Snowshoes (if required)
• Coffee and/or Tea

16. Mohkinstsis Walking Tour – Calgary’s Indigenous History

Another side of Calgary is revealed on this walking tour with Indigenous guide , Tarra Wright Many Chief. Explore St. Patrick’s Island as she shares stories of the region’s Blackfoot people and the cultural significance of the land you’re walking on.

On this small-group tour, immerse yourself in the nature of the island as the Bow and Elbow Rivers flow around it. Learn from your Indigenous guide (a member of the Kainai Nation, also known as the Blood Tribe) about the history and culture of the area.

Exceeded all my expectations. The tour guide was extremely knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and a really delightful person! I left with an entirely new pair of glasses to see indigenous life. – Happy Customer ( see more reviews )

Your Indigenous guide will meet you at the George C King Bridge and guide you along a 2.5 km walking tour through Calgary’s St. Patrick’s Island while you learn from your Indigenous guide about the Indigenous history of Calgary and the traditional territory of the Blackfoot People. The tour is approximately 90 – 120 minutes depending on the speed of the group the very welcomed questions.

This tour includes:

• Stories of growing up on a reserve, Indigenous traditions and stories

17. Calgary to Royal Tyrrell Museum | Drumheller | Badlands – PRIVATE DAY TOUR

Everyone heads west to the mountains but did you know that the area east of Calgary is known as the Dinosaur Capital of the World? Explore Drumheller Provincial Park and the Canadian Badlands on this all-day private sightseeing tour from Calgary, Alberta. Travel at your own pace with your own group via a luxury sprinter van. Visit Horseshoe Canyon, walk among the hoodoos (tall, thin spires of rock), visit the Atlas Coal Mine, and stop at the Royal Tyrrell Museum, Canada’s only museum dedicated to paleontology.

Excellent service and tour. Arnel was a wonderful guide. He was attentive to all our requests and doubts. The van was clean and sanitized. All the covid restrictions were followed. The Tyrrell Museum is a wonderful place to visit, but also the city of Drumheller. It is amazing to see all the city involved with the dinosaur theme. Bravo! – Happy Customer ( see more reviews )

When it comes to Calgary tours to Drumheller, this is one of the only options. This full-day tour to Drumheller includes:

• Private Sightseeing tour at your own pace
• Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected)
• Transport by Licensed and Insured Commercial vehicle
• All taxes, fees and handling charges, including fuel surcharges

If you’re looking for Calgary tours, you’re probably going to be spending some time in the city. For more information on Calgary, check out these guides below:

• Best Hotels in Calgary
• Best Breweries in Calgary
• Best Calgary Coffee Shops
• Calgary in the Winter

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 .

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Southern Alberta’s likeable main city, CALGARY is a mere hour’s drive east of where the prairies buckle into the Rockies to form some of the continent’s most magnificent scenery. So it takes self-restraint to give this city at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow rivers the day or two it deserves. It’s best known as the home of the Calgary Stampede , a veritable cowboy carnival that takes place over ten days every July. It inspires most of the city and plenty of tourists to indulge in a boots-and-Stetson image that’s still a way of life in the region. As such, Calgary’s “Cowtown” nickname still has resonance – but a lot less relevance, given the wealth the oil and gas industry has brought to the city in recent decades. These riches have seen the city’s population grow to over one million, many of whom live in an ever-expanding cookie-cutter suburban sprawl – albeit with the occasional superb view of the Rockies. Despite this Calgary is still an energetic place, harbouring a burgeoning arts scene, excellent restaurants and cafés, splendid parks and some lively neighbourhoods that are good for strolling.

The Calgary Stampede

Stampede events, stampede practicalities.

Compact, high-rise downtown Calgary, loosely centred on the largely pedestrianized Stephen Avenue Mall (8th Avenue between 1st Street SE and 3rd Street SW), is a cluster of mirrored glass and polished granite. A monument to oil money, the area is sleek as can be, but short on sights, other than the prestigious Glenbow Museum , where any city tour should start. A jaunt up the Calgary Tower , across the street, will help you get your bearings. Much of the rest of the central city lends itself to wandering on foot; Eau Claire offers a riverfront focus opposite Prince’s Island , the nearest of many parks and something of an epicentre for Calgary’s excellent 210km system of walking and bike paths. A twenty-minute stroll west leads to Kensington , a gentrified, faintly bohemian shopping and café district north of the Bow River. A similar walk south of downtown, 17th Avenue SW , packed with more shops, restaurants and cafés. The appeal of attractions further afield – Fort Calgary , Heritage Park , Telus Park and Calgary Zoo – will depend on your inclinations. These and other sights can be easily reached by bus or light railway (C-Train). The city is also a great hub for day-trips to the dinosaur remains in the strange Badlands around Drumheller to the east and to Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump .

Brief history

Modern Calgary is one of Canada’s largest and youngest cities. It was once the domain of the Blackfoot , who ranged over the whole area for several thousand years. About three hundred years ago, they were joined by the Sarcee , forced south by war from their northern heartlands, and the Stoney , who migrated north with Sitting Bull into southern Saskatchewan and then Alberta.

Europeans first began to gather here in the late 1700s; explorer David Thompson wintered here during his travels, while the Palliser expedition spent time nearby en route to the Rockies. Settlers started arriving from around 1870, when hunters moved into the region from the United States, where they had hunted buffalo to the edge of extinction. In 1875, soon after the creation of the first North West Mounted Police stockade at Fort Macleod, a second fort was built further north. A year later it was christened Fort Calgary , named after the Scottish birthplace of its assistant commissioner. The word calgary is Gaelic for “clear running water”; it was felt the ice-clear waters of the Bow and Elbow rivers were reminiscent of the “old country”.

By 1883 a station had been built close to the fort, part of the new trans-Canadian railway . The township laid out nearby quickly attracted ranchers and British gentlemen farmers, cementing an enduring Anglo-Saxon cultural bias. By 1886, fires had wiped out most of the town’s temporary wooden buildings and tents, leading to an edict declaring all new buildings should be constructed in sandstone and, for a while, Calgary was nicknamed “Sandstone City”. It achieved official city status in 1894, something it had taken rival Edmonton over a hundred years to achieve.

Cattle and the railway generated exceptional growth, though the city’s rise was nothing compared with the prosperity that followed the discovery of oil . The first strike took place in 1914 in nearby Turner Valley. An oil refinery opened in 1923 and since then Calgary has rarely looked back. When prices soared during the oil crisis of the 1970s, the city exploded, becoming a world energy and financial centre – headquarters for some four hundred oil-related businesses.

Crucially though, Calgary has diversified into light manufacturing, high-tech, film, transportation and tourism, with 4.6 million visitors to the city every year.

The annual Calgary Stampede brings around 1.25 million spectators and participants to the city for ten days in early July. This is far more than a carefully engineered gift to Calgary’s tourist industry, however, for the event is one of the world’s biggest rodeos and comes close to living up to its “greatest outdoor show on earth” billing.

The competition end of things is taken very seriously and the combined prize money exceeds $2 million. The first show in 1912 put up $100,000 and attracted sixty thousand people to the opening parade, with a line-up that included two thousand Aboriginal people in full ceremonial garb and some of Pancho Villa’s Mexican revolutionary bandits in an event billed as “The Last and Best Great West Frontier Days”.

Things officially kick off on the first Friday of the Stampede with a parade at 9am, though many spectators are in place along the route at 6am. The two-hour march involves around 170 entries, four thousand participants and 750 horses. For the duration of Stampede, downtown’s Olympic Plaza (temporarily renamed Rope Square) offers free pancake breakfasts (8.15–11.30am) and entertainment every morning; events include live music, mock gunfights and Aboriginal dancing, and square dancing also fills parts of Stephen Avenue Mall at 10am. To really experience how the city celebrates Stampede move outside this central area, where you’ll find entire neighbourhoods, shops, bars, churches and even local luminaries organizing their own festivities (usually a pancake breakfast). Nightlife is a world unto itself, with Stampede locations giving way to music, dancing, mega-cabarets, plus lots of drinking, eating (it’s barbecue heaven), fireworks and general partying into the small hours.

The Stampede’s real action – the rodeo and allied events – takes place in Stampede Park , southeast of downtown, best reached by C-Train to Victoria Park–Stampede Station. This vast, open area contains an amusement park, concert and show venues, bars, restaurants and a huge range of stalls and shows that take the best part of a day to see. Entrance is $16, which gives you entry into everything except the rodeo and chuck-wagon races. Entertainments include: the Indian village, where members of the Blackfoot, Blood, Sarcee, Stoney and Piegan First Nations set up a teepee village; the World Blacksmith Competition; the Centennial Fair, which hosts events for children; the Agricultural Building, home to displays of cattle and other livestock; the outdoor Coca-Cola Stage, used for evening concerts; and Nashville North, an indoor country music venue.

To see the daily rodeo competition – bronco and bull riding, calf roping, steer wrestling, barrel racing and the rest – you’ll need another ticket and unless you’ve bought these in advance it’s hardly worth it: you’ll likely be in poor seats and miles from the action or have to stand. You’ll also need a ticket (also best bought in advance) to watch the other big event, the ludicrously dangerous but hugely exciting chuck-wagon races. Both events are held in the Stampede Park grandstand.

If you’re coming to see the Stampede, plan ahead. Accommodation is stretched and prices can skyrocket for the duration. Tickets for the rodeo and chuck-wagon races range from $20–400; tickets for the finals of both events are a few dollars more; all tickets include park admission. For ticket and all other general information, check w calgarystampede.com .

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The Best Time to Visit Calgary, Canada

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The best times to visit Calgary are either June through August when the weather is at its best and most of the city's special events and festivals take place and November through March when ski season is in full swing. The winter months are considered the low season as the city’s sub-zero temperatures may not be appealing to those not interested in winter sports. As temperatures drop though, so do rates for hotel rooms, which can come as a plus for the budget traveler (so long as you don’t mind the cold). There will also be far fewer crowds in the winter aside from on the ski hills.

Hotel prices are at their highest during the summer when the temperature is ideal for outdoor sightseeing. If you're hoping to save money without having to be in the city during the coldest months, it may be best to plan your visit for April or October when visitor numbers are still down, but the weather is more favorable.

Popular Events and Festivals

Calgary has a number of worthwhile events throughout the year that attract visitors from all around the world, especially during the summer. These events cover everything from art and culture to food and local beer (and so much more). Not to mention, Calgary's wide array of things to see and do are a draw for all ages. No matter what you might be interested in, there will likely be a summer event that piques your interest. If you’re interested in visiting Calgary but not planning on attending any summer events, it might be better to time your visit with shoulder or off-peak season (April and May, September and October) to see the city without the crowds.

Weather in Calgary

Toronto has four distinct seasons: summer, fall, winter, and spring with temperatures dipping quite low in the wintertime. Daytime highs during the summer are normally 68 to 77 degrees F (20 to 25 degrees C) but can reach the mid to upper 90s Fahrenheit (30s Celsius). While in the winter, the coldest months are January and February where daytime temperatures range from 5 to 23 degrees F (-15 to -5 degrees C). They can drop as low as -22 to -40 degrees F (-30 to -40 degrees C) for short periods of time.  

While many might prefer to visit during the warm summer months, each of Calgary’s four seasons offers something different, depending on your interests. For example, snow sports enthusiasts may want to take advantage of Calgary’s proximity to Banff for excellent skiing during the winter months.

This is the off-season for Calgary (unless you’re a skier) so crowds should be relatively minimal and hotels and other accommodations are usually cheaper. Attractions are open and much less busy than during warmer months. But the city is cold, so pack accordingly.

Events to check out:

• Get your fix of music, local beer and art at Calgary’s Big Winter Classic , which happens towards the end of the month in January.
• High Performance Rodeo , Calgary’s International Festival of the Arts, takes over the city’s downtown area for three weeks in January with events including theater, dance, music, film, free lunchtime concerts, late-night cabarets and more.

February tends to be the coldest month of the year in Calgary so remember to dress in layers. Other than avid skiers, snowboarders, or anyone else interested in winter activities, this remains the low season for Calgary.

• Winefest is the ideal festival for those who want to sip a wide variety of wines and enjoy tasty food samples.
• Bundle up and embrace the colder weather at Glow Winter Festival , a free family-friendly event featuring live music, winter activities, outdoor lounges and light displays.

While temperatures begin to inch up in March, this month can still be quite cold in Calgary with the possibility of snow still fairly high. There are warm days, but it’s still important to come prepared for inclement, unpredictable weather. Ski season is still going strong in March.

• The YYC Food & Drink Experience is perfect for foodies or anyone interested in trying a meal (or two) from some of Calgary’s top restaurants. The festival features multi-course prix fixe value-priced menus, chef collaborations, and winemaker’s dinners.

The city is slowly warming up in April, but the weather can still be unpredictable. You might get some sunny days, but April also sees rain and sometimes snow. Because the weather is decent, schools are still in session and it's not yet peak season for tourists, this is a good time to check out local attractions while they are less busy.

• Calgary Expo is a four-day pop-culture convention held in Stampede Park that occurs each April. Visitors have the chance to shop hundreds of vendors and exhibitors, check out panels and workshops and meet various stars and creators. Editor's Note: Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Calgary Expo was rescheduled for July 30 - August 2, 2021.
• The Calgary Dance Stampede is Canada's largest and longest-running country, west coast swing and line dance event featuring international dance competitions as well as of instructional workshops led by world-class instructors.

The spring season starts up in May in Calgary when the temperature begins to climb, but is considered part of shoulder season. There are still fewer visitors to the city making May an appealing time to plan a trip. But do note that as the weather warms up, parks, trails, and other outdoor spaces can get muddy.

• Calgary International Beerfest is the city’s largest beer festival and brings together over 700 beers from more than 200 breweries.
• Runners take note: the Calgary Marathon takes place towards the end of May. The annual event also includes a half marathon as well as 10K run and a 5K family walk/run. Editor's Note: Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Calgary Marathon was rescheduled for September for the 2021 year.

June is much more reliable weather-wise in Calgary, with more consistent sunshine and warmer weather. While June doesn’t represent peak season, the city does begin to see more tourists at this point in the year.

• Early June marks the start of festival season in Calgary, which kicks off with the Lilac Festival . This free one-day event along pedestrian-friendly 4th Street features musical talent, artisan vendors, live entertainment, and more.
• Calgary’s Sled Island Music & Arts Festival brings together over 200 bands as well as comedians, films, and artists in over 30 venues throughout the city.

Summer has arrived in Calgary by July and as such, tourist season will now be in full swing. Expect a wide variety of events and festivals, pop-ups, and packed patios.

• Starting the first Friday in July after Canada Day is the annual Calgary Stampede , known as the “Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.” Expect thrilling rodeo shows, live music, midway rides, agriculture showcases, chuckwagon races, and much more.
• The last weekend July is when visitors can enjoy the Calgary Folk Music Festival , with over 70 artists.

Like July, August is a warm month in Calgary and remains a popular time for visitors eager to spend time sightseeing outdoors and soaking up the sun in and around the city.

• The Calgary International Blues Festival is a week of blues music from around the world, which takes place over the last weekend of July and first week of August.
• Chasing Summer is an outdoor electronic music festival that brings popular DJs to Calgary for a two day festival over the August long weekend.

The fall shoulder season in Calgary is another good time to visit if you are hoping to see the city while the weather is still decent, but while summer’s crowds have thinned out. You may see lower room rates during this time.

• Celebrate Pride in Calgary over the long Labour Day weekend which attracts more than 60,000 visitors each year.
• Film fans will want to consider checking out the Calgary International Film Festival , which brings over 200 feature and short films to the big screen each fall at the end of September.

The weather gets steadily cooler during the end of September and into October, but weather-wise, this is still a good time to visit the city, minus the crowds.

• Imaginairium by Wordfest is an annual October event featuring writers from around the world for ten days of live experiences, talk-show style conversations, variety shows, and live storytelling.

This time of the year, the weather grows steadily cooler as fall starts turning into winter, getting windier and often rainy. You may even see some snow in Calgary in November.

• For four days in November, you can get your fill of holiday lights, crafts, hayrides, and music at the Millarville Christmas Market .
• Early November is when you can enjoy the Calgary European Film Festival at the Globe Theatre, which features international films from more than 20 countries.

December starts to get cold in Calgary and there is a likelihood of snow. Days can still be milder and remain relatively comfortable if you’re dressed in layers. Expect holiday lights and festive events throughout the city.

• Get into the holiday spirit and do some shopping at the Granary Road Christmas Market which also offers fun family activities during the festive season.
• Ring in the New Year in Calgary at the city’s annual New Year’s Eve celebration with a fireworks display at midnight from the Calgary Tower.

The best times to visit Calgary is either June through August, when the weather is at its best, or November through March, when ski season is in full swing.

June is the rainiest month in Calgary, with an average of 17 days of rain and an accumulation of 2.5 inches (65 millimeters) of precipitation.

Calgary one of Canada's most expensive cities and a tough place to visit on a limited budget. However, if you stick to free activities, you can save some money.

Current Results. "Calgary AB Average Temperatures by Month." Retrieved February 16, 2021.

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10 of the most surprising style and beauty finds in calgary, canada.

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Explore the surprising beauty of Calgary through its fashion, style, spas, art and culture scenes.

If you think Calgary, Canada is a city composed of just meat & potatoes, cowboy & cowgirls, oil & gas barons, think again….in the last decade they’ve emerged as a shockingly chic spot—and a place that’s not just merely a pit stop to the mountainous beauty of Banff and crystal waters of Lake Louise. Instead, visitors have made a determined effort to explore the city’s development and all it has to offer.

Terry Rock, President & CEO of Platform Innovation Centre , attests to Calgary’s style and cultural development, “when people visit the city, their first reaction is that it’s shockingly beautiful. We’ve long held this reputation of being a prairie province where our cattle outnumber its people. But since we are (factually) the sunniest city in all of Canada, I’d like to think that our positive attitude and optimism reflects this.” Rock is referring to the boom of tech start-ups, the city’s urban infrastructure, a stylish place to work and play, a burgeoning hub for arts and culture, and a surprising Mecca for award-winning culinary creations. “Make no mistake, we still honor our old-world cattle rancher roots such as with the Calgary Stampede —but we’ve since evolved from that, where new and pioneering trailblazers work together to shape this place with more modernist sensibilities.”

Explore this urban oasis in the heartland of the prairies through its fashion, dining, spa, and culture scenes.

Here are the Top 10 experiences you cannot miss out on.

10 Studio Bell/ National Music Centre

Opened in 2017 and heralded as a musical masterpiece, this museum and performance centre celebrates ... [+] Canadian talents and beyond.

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Opened in 2017 and designed by Brad Cloepfil of Allied Works Architecture, the striking museum and performance venue features smooth geometric forms cast around salvaged pieces of brass musical instruments. With five stories spread across nine interlocking towers (in the shape of a guitar via an aerial view), the structure is a sublime shrine to Canadian musicians and the Rocky Mountain landscape of Alberta.

This soundscape space is a homage to the music in Canada, spotlighting talents in the country (and beyond). The museum includes exhibitions about those in the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, as well as interactive instruments where you can test your musical skills and vocal talents in their sound booths. Additional highlights include performance costumes from a range of global artists from the likes k.d. lang, Deadmau5, and Shania Twain. Also be on the look out for Elton John’s songwriting piano, and a working Rolling Stones Recording Studio (for professionals who can opt to book it out).

9 Marlow Design

This local jewelry shop creates custom jewelry designs that use sustainably sourced gems and metals.

Marlow Marshall, Founder & Senior Jewelery Designer, started his company in 2015 with a desire to help people “wear their special moments”. With this ethos, his bespoke designs (which echo a delicate nod to the wilds of Alberta) can be realized via virtual consultation and in-person appointments when you visit the city. Then classic sketches and 3D renderings further bring your vision to life. In having worked in the industry since he was 13, he’s learned from the best tradespeople, jewelers, and goldsmiths regarding design, procuring conflict-free mined diamonds, sourcing lab-grown varieties, and utilizing recycled metals for all pieces.

Custom creations can take several weeks so if you’re in a time-crunch, you can order from their pre-existing catalog of designs and have it shipped directly to your home. Another unique service is their ‘jewelry restyling’ where you can breathe new life into heirloom pieces— helping you upcycle beautiful pieces all while allowing it to echo your personal style.

8 Junction 9 Yoga and Pilates

Serenity for your mind, body, and soul at Junction 9 Yoga & Pilates.

Founders Jilaine and Kailey Beddoe have created a space that makes it feel like your second home the moment you step inside. Particularly for those who have just sat on an airplane for hours, this yoga and pilates studio is wholly restorative. “We created a space based on community and compassion, as well as created routines to help support a happier life,” they explain. Here, it’s all about accessibility, openness to all-walks-of-life, and no judgment. The studio offers drop-in yoga, pilates, and even virtual classes. Top recommendations include their zen like Yin By Candlelight (yoga) class which aims to help people develop a slower practice in order to focus on connective and deeper tissues in the body; and Reformer Align (pilates) class which allows you to cultivate awareness and appreciation with muscles you never knew you had. “This is an alignment based class, designed to challenge you to rediscover your posture, and find balance and stability, as you strengthen your body in new ways,” per the class description.

Additionally, check out their retail section which proudly curates Canadian and independent female-founded brands such The Peace Labs (wellness products derived from Traditional Chinese Medicine and enhanced with aromatherapy), Wrinkle and Creas e (custom greeting cards, motivational notebooks/planners, art prints), Parts + Labor (one of a kind Calgary-based streetwear line), MoveActive (fitness gear that spans from grip socks and yoga mats to reformer mats and gym accessories), Great Soles (functional fashion in the form of socks and shoes created by a Pilates instructor, and Salt & Stone (award-winning line of all-natural deodorant, body mists, washes, and hand/body creams).

7 Sumptuous & Stylish Dining

Dining in a versant landscape surrounded by top shelf libations that's coupled with ... [+] Asian-Mediterranean dishes.

There is no shortage of great food in this city. And at first, it comes as a bit of a surprise—the once steak-centric city has matured and now emphasizes local talents, heritage cooking, and regional cuisine styles from all over the globe. Celebrity Chefs like Chefs Connie DeSousa and Darren MacLean brought the initial spotlight to the area about 10 years ago, and today, we find a culinary goldmine of eats that’s ever growing. Also of note: the style also matches the substance (every single spot is wildly Instagrammable/TikTok worthy).

Orchard : This verdant oasis, complete with a sky-high library wall of top shelf spirits, is emboldened by the culinary direction of Chef Jenny Kang and her Mediterranean/East Asian fare that is infused with French techniques.

On the plate, expect thoughtful flavor combinations such as silky salmon crudo laced with refreshing apple, cucumber, radish, and feisty gochujang vinaigrette; and rougie duck breast featuring confit, potato pave, king oyster mushrooms, and finished with chirizu (Japanese dipping) sauce.

Fortuna’s Row : Chef Mikko Tamarra welcomes you to his Latin American supper club whose appetizing journey takes guests to Mexico, Peru, and Colombia. You’re first greeted by the sprawling restaurant which was thoughtfully conceived by Mera Studio Architects. Mesoamerican motifs take center-stage here and the 10,000sq.ft dining space is dotted with wood accents, woven leather, rattan furnishings, plant-life, and mosaic tiling.

In these earthy confines, enjoy Calabaza: zucchini flowers stuffed with soft cheese, sitting in a squash purée, and finished with smoked pumpkin seeds; and hearty Costillo: charred grilled short rib, with “lomo saltado” sauce, finished with peppers and crispy agria potatoes.

A 'Greenhouse'-inspired restaurant offering Israeli and Mediterranean fare.

Park by Sidewalk Citizen : Step inside this serene and sustainable ‘solarium/greenhouse’-themed restaurant whose wood lattice ceiling pays homage to the natural surroundings and the honeybees that call the area home. Founded by Michal Lavi and her husband Aviv Fried, the duo bring the tastes of their homeland of Israel to Calgarians and visitors alike.

The streets of Rothschild Boulevard in Tel Aviv and Ben-Gurion Boulevard in Haifa come alive on the plate with creations from their brunch menu like signature shakshuka where poached eggs are cradled in smoked tomatoes, feta, and served with house pita bread; and unctuous lamb neck wrap fortified with tahini, pickles, chuma chili paste, labneh, and feta.

Cōchu Chocolatier is conveniently located next to Calgary Public Library

Cōchu chocolatier : These sweets are like couture for your mouth. Award-winning chocolatier Anne Sellmer attributes her success to her three sons who asked her what her passion was and that she should pursue it. Completely self-taught but drawing from her Industrial design background—Sellmer is blessed with a natural born talent for the craft, and her small batch artisan chocolate company was born with profound intention and details into the artistry of this tasty confection.

Launched in 2017, then opening a brick and mortar operation in 2022 in a historic building, she continues to build key relationships within the community through her chocolate—from growers and suppliers to distillers. Ultimately, her award winning confections (with 87 accolades and counting) knows no bounds.

Top sellers include her roster of truffle bonbons with flavors like Cherry Gin (whose spirit is sourced from Eau Claire Distillery); Blood Orange and Balsamic; and Balvenie & Prune (14-year Caribbean Cask Scotch Whisky ganache with Scotch Whisky Prune Compote).

Ten Foot Henry : A hip and bustling spot that is plant-forward but isn’t preachy about it. Instead, they make eating your greens a playful prospect when they offer their healthy, vibrant fare of which include a tomato melange of herbs and feta slathered onto a toasty sourdough toast; gigli pasta in the shape of rosettes al bound together with kale pesto, grana padano, and pistachio; and silky, yielding salmon with horseradish almondine that’s finished with refreshing grape gastrique.

Major Tom Bar : Aside from the famous Calgary Stampede, Calgarians don’t frequently dress up, due to their laid-back demeanor. This spot is an exception. As a place to be seen and heard with its contemporary aesthetic, dark tones, and sprawling rooftop bar, there’s no better time than now to don some urban cowboy/girl attire (think slip dresses with rodeo boots for the women; and leather blazers and dark jeans for the men) while dining amongst the clouds at this restaurant that’s located on the 40th floor of the Scotia Centre.

Try their famous Alberta prime rib with hearty sides such as butter-ladened sweet potatoes, veloute of cheese and broccoli, and mini pretty-as-a-picture bites like their major (tater) tots that are saddled with smoked Sturgeon and pickled onions.

6 Luxury Consignment and Vintage Shops

Founder Tammy Phan of Luxe Du Jour.

If you want pre-loved luxury goods that are in fantastic condition, you don’t need to venture all the way to Tokyo, Japan — rather Calgary is a hidden gem filled with designer goods, owned and operated by local talents.

Luxe Du Jour : Founded in 2016 by Tammy Phan, this intrepid entrepreneur has always had a love of luxury and via her company, has democratized the buy/sell pre-loved landscape thanks to her low commission rates (compared with competitors they cite like Fashionphile and The RealReal). In cultivating relationships with her community of followers, she quickly garnered a reputation for being a leading source of top quality pre-loved Chanel, Hermés, Louis Vuitton, Van Cleef and Arpel, and more—initially starting with bags and now offering jewelry, accessories, footwear, and a menswear division.

To further appeal to her audience base and its needs, she founded her bag rental service in 2021 and in-house spa/restoration program. Today her empire consists of her Calgary HQ and Irvine, California locations. The former doesn’t have a showroom but encourages walk-ins and appointments (you peruse their site or app prior) and they show you the requested items upon your visit.

Vespucci Consignment : Opened in 1986 by her mother and now helmed by daughter Britt Rawlinson, this family-run shop (which also has a sister stores in Toronto and Edmonton) carries an endless array of curated luxury goods - much of which looks like it came straight from the runway. They also offer helpful buying guides such as staff picks, event dressing, deals, vacation edits, icons, and more. Their sartorial journals offer insights into the world of fashion with analysis on current trends, runway looks, the history of beloved couture brands, and more. Vespucci carries women’s clothing, men’s clothing, bags, shoes, accessories, and jewelry.

Genuine Design : Founded by Thomas Barnicki, whose team has a combined 20 years of retail experiences, are all committed to providing customers with a sustainable way of shopping through their curated and quality consigned items. “My fashion philosophy is to simply always dress your best. One of my favorite quotes is ‘Good clothes open all doors’ by Thomas Fuller. I truly believe this and have experienced it many times in life myself. The metaphorical ‘doors’ can be anything from conversations with a stranger to dating to career opportunities...I believe everyone's style should reflect who they truly are and their unique personality,” Barnicki adds.

Genuine Design offers high end luxury and emerging streetwear items that span from tops and bottoms, to grooming goods and fragrances (popular luxury brands they offer include Hermés, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Tom Ford, Gucci, Versace, Valentino, Prada, Miu Miu, Burberry, Fendi, Cartier, and more. Genuine Design also carries their own line of branded homeware, clothing, and accessories.

Wilder’s Consignment : This shop offers very competitive pricing for their pre-loved luxury bags, accessories, and jewelry. For instance, they currently have this Chanel Vanity bag for $1225 USD; and this Gucci Treasure Bag for $450USD. Overall, you’ll find a curation of contemporary and vintage pieces for oftentimes up to 50% off the retail price (the sale section is where you can score the biggest deals and their site and Instagram frequently provides updates on new pieces that have come into the store).

5 Calgary Central Library

National Public Library in Calgary, Canada.

Breathtakingly beautiful —this place is more than a library—it’s a dynamic destination and social hive to learn about the arts, culture, style, and design. Conceived by architecture firm Snøhetta, the structure greets you with its crystal-geometric façade and wood paneled archway. “The form references the Chinook cloud arches common to the region. The triple-glazed facade is composed of a modular, hexagonal pattern that expresses the library's aims to provide a space that invites in all visitors,” the firm adds.

Top highlights include opportunities to meet with an Indigenous Elder or Knowledge Keeper from the Treaty 7 and Calgary area to hear stories, learn about language and culture, reconciliation, and anything else that piques your interest (such as ceremonial clothing, songs, cuisine, etc). Additionally, the library’s dedicated section to Stampede Style is also unique to note and includes book recommendations and deep-dives into the importance of Denim (in classic and contemporary settings), cowboy boots (relevance in the cattle ranching/rodeo industries into current pop culture), trailblazing cowgirls; and much more.

4 Kate Hewko

This clothing brand helps you treat life like it's a runway with its rocker-chic aesthetic.

Unabashedly loud and lavish, this size-inclusive brand is for those who want their clothing to do the talking for them. Founded in Calgary in 2016, Hewko started out as a jewelry designer making custom creations—and from this success, she began to expand into clothing, accessories, and shoes.

She frequently making sojourns to Asia to connect with local artisans, purchases their items, then ‘edits’ them further with her signature brand of cool extravagance (think voluminous tulle overlay dresses, sequin blazers, and shimmering batwing dresses).

“Our products are made in small batches, supply chains are free of exploitation, and a living wage and equal opportunities are provided to our diverse team (aged 19-65) who are based in Calgary and Asia,” Hewko adds. This fashionable label has been worn by the likes of Miley Cyrus, Cyndi Lauper, and Idina Menzel.

3 The Dorian Hotel

Stylish digs with an overarching literary theme, drawing inspiration from the scintillating novel ... [+] 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' by Oscar Wilde.

This stylish outpost pays homage to none other than the infamous novel ‘The Picture of Dorian Gray’ by legendary Irish writer Oscar Wilde. Locally owned by PBA Group’s Patricia Phillips, she explains that the genesis of the idea for this themed property was due to the book being her father’s favorite piece of literature.

Seven years in the making and a part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection (a collective of one-of-a-kind unique properties from around the world), this hotel opened in July 2021, offering 8 spacious suites and 137 guests rooms. The hotel was envisioned by studio CHIL (based out of Vancouver)—with the overall tone exuding a ‘uniquely eccentric’ sentiment thanks to the use of rich tapestries, bold wallpaper, and custom brass lighting that channel the luxe spirit of 19th-century interiors while weaving in flourishes of modernism.

Peppered throughout the hotel are promiscuous and playful thoughts from Oscar Wilde himself, offering conversational touchpoints through the dynamic space about life being his muse and not caring about the thoughts and judgments of others. Also, be on the lookout for the interactive and shapeshifting ‘portrait’ of Dorian Gray himself (it’s another one of those vivid elements that makes your stay here more quirky and memorable).

If you’re wanting to channel his brand of hedonism, the hotel has a rooftop restaurant and respective patio called The Wilde on 27th which features award-winning culinary creations by Chef Joshua Dyer and pays homage to the diverse bounty of ingredients Canada has to offer; top sellers include their Fort McLeod Shio Koji bison striploin; and Alberta braised beef short rib.

2 SKA City Thermal Spa

Zen in the heart of the city, thanks to this new spa which offers hydrotherapy, custom massages, and ... [+] facials.

Founded by Gaurav Gupta, this owner and wellness guru opened this city-specific hydrotherapy oasis to appeal to the needs of locals and visitors. “A lot of people journey to the mountains (Banff) for this form of rejuvenation and relaxation but I brought the experience to them when I opened SKA in 2022.”

Studies have shown the endless benefits of hydrotherapy circuits of which includes reduction of stress, inflammation, pain, swelling, and much more. Here, they have a streamlined version that includes their cold plunge, dry/wet steam rooms, hot saunas, and recovery area. Follow-it-up with their organic hydration facial and/or custom massage therapy (with addition of cupping and hot stones).

Lastly, one of the most unique services they offer here is their morning Thermal Flow Classes - which feels like an intersection of hot yoga, stretching, light exercise, and breath work that’s combined with their hyrdotherapy circuit. The spa team asserts that it’s a great way to start your day: “You will feel revitalized, energized, and ready to conquer any obstacle that comes your way.”

Pro-tip: the spa is very popular on the weekends and weekday nights; if visiting, book for a weekday morning.

1 Alberta Boot Company

Pioneers in handmade cowboy boots who remain industry leaders for their craftsmanship and creative ... [+] designs.

The Alberta Boot Company is a legacy brand founded in Calgary in 1978, and it continues to be a frontrunner in marrying their history of crafting premium western attire, boots, and footwear with today’s discerning customer. Their flagship shop and showroom is located in downtown Calgary and features large windows to peer into their factory and glimpse firsthand how their 250 step, hand-crafted boots are made .

With this company, to them, it’s not just about appeasing to (only) of-the-moment trending styles but also fabricating long wearing and functional footwear for your everyday needs—in fact, the brand is so highly regarded for durability that customers have included Catherine, Princess of Wales and William, Prince of Wales; The Royal Canadian Mounted Police; The Canadian Olympic Team; Leonardo DiCaprio; Kevin Costner; The Calgary Stampede—and of course, one of their most important clientele—cattle ranchers.

The Alberta Boot Company asserts that their enduring success is due to the that everything is proudly Canadian made, their fabrics and leathers are all ethically sourced and 100% traceable—and they specialize in bespoke, personalized designs— all of which appeals to those seeking a modern Western aesthetic and something that speaks better to their individuality. The company’s approach to slow fashion (only about 30 pairs are made a day) means that there’s accountability and attentiveness to every detail, down to the last stitch. So whether you’re stepping into their signature boots for the first time or the thousandth time, the team stands behind every pair they’ve made and continues to make.

The most popular styles include these Men’s rich chocolate Nanton Boots with square toe design and protective rubber outsoles (named after a town located in the south of Calgary known for its robust farmland); and these knee-high Women’s Cowgirl Boots made with cowhide, pigskin lining for comfort, and finished with tonal stitching.

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The Lyrids are here: How and when to see the meteor shower peak in 2024

Get ready for another show in the sky, space fans. This time it will be a shooting star show.

The Lyrid meteor shower will peak in 2024 starting late Sunday night on April 21 and last through dawn on Monday April 22 .

The Lyrids, one of the oldest known Metroid showers , began April 15 and runs through April 29 but the weekend will be the best time to get a glimpse of the show which NASA said can be seen by people across the world.

The first recorded sighting of a Lyrid meteor show, dates back to 687 BC by the Chinese , astronomers say.

Here's all you need to know about the phenomenon including what time to watch it and the best place to see it.

Lyrid meteor shower 2024: Visual guide to the celestial show

What are meteoroids? What are meteors? What is a meteorite?

Meteoroids  are small rocks that are still in space. When they enter the Earth's atmosphere, they burn up, and create a tail of debris as they disintegrate before hitting the ground. During that point, they are are called meteors.

Those that survive a trip through the atmosphere and hit the Earth's ground are called a meteorite. Some of the small pieces of an asteroid have been traced as far away ask the moon and Mars. 

Lyrids are known for their fast meteors, according to NASA, and can produce the occasional bright flash called a fireball.

Where is the best place to see the Lyrid meteor shower?

According to NASA, the best view in the Northern Hemisphere of the shower after moonset and before dawn.

Here are tips from the space agency:

• Pick an area well away from city lights or street lights.
• Bring a sleeping bag, blanket, or lawn chair.
• Lie flat on your back with your feet facing east and look up.
• Be patient. About 30 minutes in the dark your eyes should adapt and you should begin to see meteors.

Watch video: Meteor, fireball lights up sky in New Jersey, other east coast states

How many Lyrids will we see per hour?

Meteor showers are typically named after constellations, stars, and even asteroids.

If the sky is dark, and the moon is absent during this year's show, experts say, at peak viewers can expect to see 10 to 15 Lyrids each hour.

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X @nataliealund.

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A local’s travel guide to Austin: what to eat, see and do in three days

Standout spots include food truck parks, honky-tonk hangouts and Lady Bird’s wildflower sanctuary

A ustin has become one of the most popular places in the US to move to, and also to visit. Droves of people descend on the city in March for the South by Southwest tech, film and music festival and in the fall for the Austin City Limits music festival. And Austin is one of the top five destinations in the US for bachelorette parties. Don’t let the bachelorettes scare you away, though. Austin is a great place to spend a few days, so long as you do it like a local.

My family and I moved to Austin 12 years ago, after living in New York for many years. I’ve also lived in Washington DC , the San Francisco Bay Area and Philadelphia. Austin has a feel all of its own: it has a world-class music scene, great food that now goes well beyond Tex-Mex and barbecue, Texas history and fun shopping and museums – all with less hassle than bigger cities in the US.

Here’s my guide to a long weekend there. In addition to picks for adults, I’ve included some recommendations for families that our kids (now teenagers) have loved through the years. And I’m vegetarian, so I’ve chosen some of the city’s best veggie eats options. Don’t worry, my meat-eating wife made sure that I included great barbecue choices, too.

Day 1: Pool party & pickles

Start your day with a walk or run on the trail at Town Lake (it’s officially labeled on maps as Lady Bird Lake, but locals refer to it as Town Lake). This 10-mile (16km) trail on both sides of a dammed portion of Texas’s Colorado River (a different Colorado River than the bigger and more famous one) is tree-shaded, beautiful and one of Austinites’ favorite places to exercise. If you have time, walk through Zilker Park, which is right next to the trail. If you have kids, go to the new and very fun playground at Butler Park, complete with a splash pad just up the path from the playground.

Austin was one of the cities that started the food truck scene in the US several decades ago, and now there are more than 2,000 food trucks in the city. Some are located in trailer parks that have multiple truck options and picnic table seating. After your morning at Town Lake and Zilker Park, have lunch at the Picnic food truck park, or the nearby original location of local favorite Chuy’s (the Tex-Mex chain is now expanding throughout the US). Other great lunch options include Green Mesquite and Carpenters Hall .

In the afternoon, go for a swim at Barton Springs Pool . Open year-round, this massive basin measures three acres and is fed by underground natural springs. It’s open throughout the day, and it’s free before 8am and after 9pm.

Head back to your hotel or Airbnb for a rest, and then get ready for dinner. Tonight is casual: barbecue at Terry Black’s , or if you’re vegan, the food truck Rollin Smoke for a fantastic vegan barbecue sandwich made with baby portobello mushrooms, spicy slaw, barbecue sauce and pickles. It’s my favorite vegan barbecue sandwich in Austin (who says you can’t have barbecue if you’re veggie?), and it’s located in a food truck park with beautiful old trees shading the tables. Rollin Smoke has very good meat options, too (I’m told).

If you have young children, head to Phil’s Icehouse . They have burgers and a full playground where the kids can play before or after dinner. Just don’t put them on the spinning flower after the meal. And be sure to get some ice-cream after dinner at Amy’s Ice Creams , a longtime favorite of Austinites. Amy’s is located next to Phil’s, and it’s so good we had an Amy’s truck serve dessert at our wedding.

After dinner, head out to see some music at one of Austin’s many local music venues. One of our favorites is the Continental Club . There’s a main club downstairs and the intimate Continental Gallery upstairs, where you can see local musicians in a cozy space. Other great venues include C-Boy’s and the new Moody Amphitheater . For full local music listings on any night, check the Austin Chronicle . And if it’s summer, look to see if Blues on the Green has a free concert that night. If you have kids, take them to the free Rock the Park concert series, produced by local radio station KUTX.

Day 2: Breakfast tacos, books & bats

Start your day back at the lake with a rowing workout that’s almost, but not quite, on the lake. Rō Fitness is a local studio that has outdoor rowing classes by the water. It’s way more fun than working out at an indoor studio.

You’ll need fuel after your workout. Grab a breakfast taco at Veracruz or Tacodeli or Tamale House East . Breakfast tacos are an Austin staple (they are to Austin as bagels are to New York), and all three of these places have delicious options.

Today is a shopping day. Start out at BookPeople , one of the greatest bookstores in the US. It’s locally owned and independent, but the size of a superstore. BookPeople also dares to take a stand on issues, including being one of two bookstores that recently sued Texas state officials over a newly passed book ban law. It has an excellent kids section, and organizes live readings by kids’ authors.

After you’ve gotten your book fix, head across the street to Waterloo Records , one of the best record stores in the US. Waterloo carries new and used vinyl, CDs and merchandise from rock to jazz to local Texas music. For more shopping options, head over to the stores along South Congress Avenue and South First Street (including Roadhouse Relics , a neon art store and gallery that is one of our favorites), and if you want to go thrifting, our teens say Austin Pets Alive Thrift and Texas Thrift are the best.

After all of the shopping, it’s time for lunch. If you’re near BookPeople and Waterloo, head over to Soup Peddler, a local place for homemade soups, smoothies and fantastic grilled cheese sandwiches (trivia: Soup Peddler got its name because the founder started out delivering homemade soup by bike before opening full store locations). Or if you’re near South Congress and South First, go to the food trucks on South First or Underdog or Fresa’s .

As you’re heading back to rest up, grab an ice-cream at Amy’s, a gelato at Dolce Neve or cupcakes at Sugar Mama’s .

Some good dinner options for tonight include Loro , Suerte or Este . And if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, one of my favorite veggie restaurants is Bouldin Creek Cafe . It’s casual, with a great menu that includes vegan chips and queso. If it’s nice out, take a seat on the patio.

Tonight’s activity could be going to see the bats at the Congress Street Bridge. Austin has the largest urban bat colony in North America, and in season they live in one of the bridges that crosses the Colorado River (they migrate to Mexico in the cooler weather). Bat-watching is a lot more fun than you might imagine from horror movies (and these bats look more like birds than vampire bats). If you’re not in the mood for bats, head to the legendary Broken Spoke . Get there early for dance lessons, then hoof it at this classic Texas honky-tonk.

Day 3: Live oaks & Lady Bird wildflowers

It’s your last day in Austin, and it’s a good one for visiting a museum. Some of our favorites include the Bullock Museum to learn all about the history of our state (bonus fact: Texas was once its own country , and some people want it to be its own country again ). If you’re a fan of 1960s history, visit the excellent LBJ Presidential Library , which is the home of the 36th president’s papers. It has good exhibits on the US civil rights movement and 1960s US history in general. Another excellent museum option is the Blanton Museum of Art , or you could tour the Texas capitol (Austin is, after all, the capital of Texas). If you’re a nature fan, head to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center . And if you have kids, the Thinkery is an excellent children’s museum.

For lunch, it’s time for more barbecue (you’re in Austin, don’t fight it). Two terrific barbecue trucks are Mickelthwait and LeRoy and Lewis . And LeRoy and Lewis has another of my favorite vegetarian barbecue options: cauliflower burnt ends.

In the afternoon, head back to Town Lake. This time, get out on the water by renting a kayak, stand up paddleboard or paddle boat (a kid-friendly option). If you have time and energy for a drink, head over to the ABGB for happy hour. They have a great beer selection, lots of outdoor seating and local bands playing music.

For your farewell dinner, a few of our favorite restaurants that are a bit on the fancier end are Hestia , Uchi or the Lenoir wine garden, where dinner is served under live oak trees more than a hundred years old. And for a fantastic vegan option, go to Fabrik for a seven-course vegan tasting menu. You’ll need a reservation well in advance (they’re currently booking four to six weeks out). And for your final night in Austin, head out to another music venue. Or if you have kids, take them to the Austin favorite Peter Pan Mini Golf , which has been around for 75 years, or check Do512 Family for family events that are happening the dates you’re in town.

Question Time

When is the best time of year to visit austin.

There’s no dispute: it’s hot in the summer in Austin . A great time to visit is between October and May. From June through September, many days will be over 100F. If you’re here in the summer, spend lots of time at the Barton Springs pool.

Is Austin expensive?

Austin hotels can be expensive during big events like South by Southwest or the Formula One weekend. But for most dates, it’s less expensive than larger cities like New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Will I need a car to get around Austin?

Most of the places that I’ve recommended are within walking distance from downtown. You can also rent bikes and scooters to get around. Austin’s public transportation is primarily through local buses, which can take you further out if needed. And car-share options are easy as well.

Steve Sachs is managing director of the Guardian US. He has worked at large and startup media companies for more than 20 years. He loves all kinds of music, and his most recent favorite concert, the Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame Show, featured a host of singer-songwriters including Lyle Lovett and Emmylou Harris

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Every Chef I Talked to Loves This Tortilla Press

If you’ve ever had a made-from-scratch tortilla fresh off a comal, you understand: No premade grocery-store tortilla can possibly compare. Whether it’s a fragrant, slightly sweet corn tortilla or a still warm, slightly nutty flour tortilla, the difference between the homemade kind and the discs sitting in plastic on the shelf is so vast they may as well be totally separate food groups.

The most essential tool to making fresh tortillas at home is a good tortilla press. Sure, you can use a rolling pin or a wine bottle to flatten them out individually, but as I found out firsthand when I took up tortilla-making as a pandemic hobby, hand-rolling each of them gets old fast, particularly since I rarely made tortillas in batches of fewer than a dozen. Not only is a tortilla press much quicker at flattening the masa for tortillas into a pliable circular shape ready for griddling, it helps ensure that the thickness of your tortillas is consistent, which means that they’ll cook more evenly. Plus, you can use it to make other flatbreads at home, like roti, parathas, naan, or pita. I’ve even used mine to flatten pie dough.

A press is a pretty simple gadget. It’s essentially two flat plates attached with a hinge that allow you to put something in between them. You use a handle to press down on the contents inside, applying even pressure to flatten them. (Typically, you line the press with a plastic bag or parchment paper to prevent the tortilla dough from sticking, another lesson I learned the hard way.) When I started looking into tortilla presses, I learned that there are two major genres. The first is a circular press, usually made out of aluminum or cast iron. The second are square presses, usually also made of metal, though sometimes wood.

One square press stood out in my research: a jewel-colored, sleek, metal number that popped up repeatedly among the Mexican chefs I follow on social media. I noticed it in the Instagram Stories of Bricia Lopez , co-owner of Guelaguetza in Los Angeles and author of Asada , and in the kitchen behind Mi Cocina writer Rick Martinez in his videos of his kitchen in Mazatlán. When I reached out to Martinez to ask, he confirmed: It was the Doña Rosa Tortilla Press, an artisan-made press from Oaxaca distributed in the U.S. by the masa harina brand Masienda.

“I love this press so much,” Martinez told me. “I have two of them. It is so beautiful that it makes me want to make tortillas from scratch just so I can pull it out and use it.”

The press is made out of powder-coated rolled steel, which means that not only is it an appealing pop of color for your kitchen — it comes in a cobalt blue, a seafoam green, a bright, poppy yellow, white, and black — it also is a serious piece of equipment. The weight of the press, Martinez explained, is key. It means that it doesn’t wiggle back and forth while you use it. “I love the heft of it. It is virtually indestructible, and lasts forever, which is why a lot of restaurants and taco stands in Mexico use them,” Martinez said. (Plus, when Mi Cocina came out, the brand released an edition in pink to match the cover of the book.)

It’s not just Martinez, though. As I reached out to chefs for their thoughts on the best tortilla press, time and time again, I got the same answer: the Doña Rosa . Ana Castro, the New Orleans–based chef-owner of Acamaya, is also a huge fan. “They are the real deal; they are made in Mexico by Doña Rosa, she’s a master of her craft and has been producing them for longer than I have been alive,” Castro said. Plus, she appreciates that with the Doña Rosa , unlike the traditional circular cast-iron models, you can adjust the thickness of the tortilla that you’re serving. “This tortilla press is the last one you’ll ever buy,” Castro said.

It’s also the press that Chef Fermín Núñez uses in his masa-centric restaurants in Austin. “Masienda’s Doña Rosa Tortilla Press is what we use at both of our restaurants, Suerte and Este, to make fresh corn tortillas daily,” Nunez explained. “A good tortilla press should be high quality and have some weight to it. Masienda’s has both, which is exactly why we use theirs in the restaurants.”

When I got my hands on a Doña Rosa press to try it out, I had to agree. (I chose the seafoam-green one.) Though I am far from a master at making tortillas, the Doña Rosa tortilla press was a joy to use. It’s sturdy enough that I never worry about it slipping on the counter, and it quickly and evenly flattens masa into discs. The adjustable-thickness option makes it particularly versatile for use with other flatbreads, too. And it’s a pleasing object to have in my kitchen — always at the ready, reminding me that fresh tortillas aren’t that far away.

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• A Brief Guide to All the Key Hotels in Washington D.C.

Seven hotels earned at least one MICHELIN Key in Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. MICHELIN Keys Travel Hotels

On April 24, 2024, the MICHELIN Guide announced its very first Key hotels in the United States — a brand new distinction recognizing the most outstanding hotels in the country. We're thrilled to report that, in Washington D.C., seven hotels earned at least One Key. And while hotels in the capital have historically skewed towards the traditional, our seven Key hotels run the gamut of styles. Among the newest and hippest, the Eaton DC sports a boho aesthetic and a firm commitment to a progressive ethos — this hotel, set downtown on K Street, is a launchpad for progress, where rotating art exhibits fill the first floor and activists and political groups make use of its radio station, screening room, and co-working space. Representing the more traditional luxury hotels, the Hay Adams has been an institution — set in a monumental Italian Renaissance building just across from the White House — since 1928. Here, the feeling is of old-world elegance. Between the Eaton and the Hay Adams, we find the rest of our Key hotels somewhere in the stylistic middle. For waterfront views try the Pendry , with its modernist, Parisian-influenced aesthetic set on the Potomac in the city’s Southwest Waterfront. Or head to Georgetown and the Rosewood , where vistas from the rooftop bar overlook the C&O Canal. Other highlights: the  Dupont Circle Hotel , one of the only hotels privileged enough to set up in Dupont Circle, with its sophisticated restaurant and a swanky cocktail bar. The Jefferson , another option downtown, has the Quill, an upscale cocktail bar and lounge in its historic building dating back to 1923. At the Riggs , in the city’s Penn Quarter, there’s both an enchanting cafe and a subterranean bar. You can hardly go wrong. Below, explore the map of every Key hotel in Washington D.C. And scroll down to learn more each accommodation.

The Seven MICHELIN Key Hotels in DC:

The Jefferson - 2 Keys

Pendry Washington DC – The Wharf - 1 Key

Eaton DC - 1 Key

Riggs Washington DC - 1 Key

The Dupont Circle Hotel - 1 Key

The Hay-Adams Hotel - 1 Key

Rosewood Washington, D.C. - 2 Keys

Top image: Riggs DC

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Calcary Airport to Red Deer Bus

Exploring the Best Bus Ticket Options from Calgary to Canmore

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Introduction

Planning a trip from Calgary to Canmore? It is essential that you obtain the best bus ticket to make your travel experience smooth and enjoyable. This detailed guide examines the available alternatives, emphasizing on their key aspects, benefits as well as hints helping you in making an informed choice.

Convenience and Comfort

When it comes to travelling between Calgary and Canmore, the use of buses offers maximum convenience and comfort. The modern buses are equipped with comfortable seats, enough space for legs, air conditioners and onboard facilities thus ensuring a soothing journey for all generations of passengers.

Ticket Flexibility

Flexibility in ticket options is one of the major advantages of bus transport. Whether you plan a one way trip or require multi-stop or return ticket options; there are different types offered by bus companies serving Calgary-Canmore route for various needs of travelers.

Cost-Effectiveness

Compared to other means of transportation, bus tickets from Calgary to Canmore are relatively cheaper hence may be preferred by budget-conscious travelers. With competitive rates and occasional promotion discounted prices while still maintaining quality standards or comfort levels enable individuals save significantly more.

Booking Options

Booking bus tickets from Calgary to Canmore has been made easy thanks to various online platforms as well as ticketing agents. You can book directly through a company’s website or go for a reliable third party platform where choices exist for easy securing of your tickets.

Departure and Arrival Schedule

Bus services running between Calgary and Canmore follow fixed schedules whereby many times in day buses leave these two places throughout this flexibility means taking an ideal departure time according to travel plans resulting in seamless travel experiences.

Scenic Routes and Sightseeing

Taking a bus ride from Calgary toward Canmore enables passengers enjoy breathtaking scenic routes throughout along this journey leading through landscapes with beautiful features that will remain evergreen within their minds. So lean backwards peacefully while traveling through these magnificent sites which border on Canadian Rockies by covering such glorious paths.

Onboard Amenities

Modern bus services on the Calgary-Canmore route provide a variety of amenities during travel. Whether you are in need of Wi-Fi, some entertainment options, refreshments or even restrooms, everything is available to make your journey comfortable.

Safety and Reliability

Passenger safety is highly paramount for most coach companies hence they have strict security measures during their operations aimed at ensuring a safe and reliable trip. This makes it possible for passengers to enjoy a seamless journey thanks to experienced drivers, well maintained vehicles and compliance with safety regulations.

In conclusion, one of the important steps towards planning your itinerary when travelling from Calgary to Canmore is securing the best bus ticket. Bus travel therefore offers an ideal alternative for those who want to explore these picturesque landscapes considering its convenience, affordability, safety and comfort features. By buying your ticket today, you can start an unforgettable journey across Alberta’s breath-taking scenery.

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