Going Awesome Places
Detailed itineraries + travel guides
3 Day Calgary Itinerary – Adventure in the City to the Mountains
Last Updated January 10, 2024 William Tang
You are here: Home » Travel Itineraries » 3 Day Calgary Itinerary – Adventure in the City to the Mountains
If you have a weekend or 3 days to work with and you’re looking to do an easy trip to a beautiful west coast city in Canada that has that perfect balance of drop dead scenery, adventure, culture, and culinary, then look no further than Calgary.
This is an adventurous 3 day Calgary itinerary that has you based in the city and allows you to explore the best of Calgary, Canmore, and Banff.
Read more about Canada
- 6 day itinerary for Banff in winter
- The best things to do in Richmond BC
- A 1 day itinerary in St. John’s, Newfoundland
- The Best Weekend Getaways from Calgary
- 3 day Niagara Falls itinerary packed with adventure and wine
Where to stay in Calgary
- Look no further than Booking.com for your place to stay in Calgary. We stayed at the Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Calgary Airport .
Here's what we're covering:
Map of Calgary Itinerary
Day 1: exploring the city, day 2: caving in canmore, day 3: banff canyons, lakes, and horses, quick calgary travel guide, bottom line, 3 day calgary itinerary.
With the eastern face of the Rockies as its backdrop, the history of the 1988 Winter Olympics in its wake, and the rowdy rodeo events of the Calgary stampede, there’s actually a lot you can see and do from a city that some nickname “Cowtown”.
If you have a weekend or long weekend to spare and thinking about exploring a new Canadian city, this is a perfect 3 day Calgary itinerary that’s packed with a ton of adventure and answers the call of the mountains. While based in the city, you’ll see what this Alberta cosmopolitan has to offer while also heading to the allure of the Rocky Mountains with visits to Canmore to Banff.
Here’s a map of all the places we visited in this 3 day Calgary itinerary. I’ve found over the years that having something like this with you on-the-go is extremely valuable when paired with a well-planned itinerary.
Maps are a bit of staple when it comes to our itineraries including our 2 week Greek island hopping , 2 days in Istanbul , 2 days in Hong Kong , and 2 weeks in French Polynesia .
TIP: Open this map in a new tab and create a copy. From there, you’ll be able to access this map on desktop, mobile, and in the Google Maps app. Note that you’ll need data to be able to see all the pins on the app.
Whether you’ve arrived in Calgary the previous night or you’re taking an early morning flight, you’re going to hit the ground running!
First things first, make sure you have your rental car picked up from the airport because you’re going to be doing a ton of driving
BEFORE YOU CONTINUE
You need to know this trick to make sure you save hundreds on your car rental in Calgary.
Save Money Now
Your first stop is the WinSport Canada Olympic Park .
It may seem like a distant memory but the 1988 Winter Olympics were held in Calgary. For a place that’s over 30 years old, it’s definitely kept well. In the summer, ski jumping, bobsleigh, and the ski hill itself are closed for the season but what makes this a great destination are the activities that are available.
Start off by spending some time learning the history of the events that happened here and also the sights of the ski jumping platforms and bobsledding track
Something that you have to do while you’re here is the Downhill Karting at Skyline Luge which features a unique wheeled gravity ride that takes you 1.8 kilometres of twists and turns that drop in over 100 meters of elevation.
Operated by the same company that runs the downhill karting in Queenstown, New Zealand , you start off with the gondola and make your way up the mountain. With your helmet on and after a quick lesson, your group will line up together on the starting line. Once ready, you’re given the green light to go and you let gravity do the rest.
Steering around wide sweeping corners and evading others on the track, you’ll find this so much fun that you’ll be yelling wildly as you pass (or get passed) around the 50+ twists and turns.
Other activities you can look into doing while you’re here are mini golf , free fall bungee , monster zipline , summer bobsleigh , and mountain biking in the summer. Many of these activities require advanced planning so make sure to make reservations in advance.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Address: Winsport Canada Olympic Park, 88 Canada Olympic Road SW, Calgary, AB T3B 5R5
Hours: Mon-Fri 1PM-7PM, Sat-Sun 10AM – 5PM (open in the summer subject to weather)
- 2 rides – $24
- 3 rides – $30
- 4 rides – $35
- 5 rides – $39
- Family packages are also available
Website: Downhill Karting with reviews here .
- The karts are pretty safe and even at full speed, never something where you’ll feel out of control or at the cusp of flipping.
- 1 lap of the course takes approximately 15 minutes
- Helmets are provided but you can also bring your own
- The speed of the karts are dependent on you as you have control of the brake as you’re going downhill. The karts are easy to operate but will require the first run to master.
- Children (17 or younger) must be at least 110cm tall to ride alone.
- Children under 110cm tall are considered a PeeWee and can ride in tandem with an adult (20+)
Parking: WinSportCanada Olympic Park has a huge parking lot that’s also free so you shouldn’t have any issues finding parking.
Before you go, make sure to drive your car up to the top of the hill where you can get a different vantage point of the ski jumping towers and also the city down below.
Your next stop is the Calgary Farmers’ Market which will be perfect timing to refuel and re-energize.
Open all-year round, this market features a wide variety of food stalls, fresh produce, and also many crafty boutique shops. Spend your time browsing around and eventually picking up a few yummy dishes and drinks.
There are plenty of tables to eat indoors and also picnic benches outside.
Address: 510 77th Avenue SE, Calgary, AB T2H 1C3
Hours: Thurs – Sun 9AM – 5PM
Website: Calgary Farmers’ Market
Parking: Parking is free with over 800 spaces all around the market. There are also additional street parking spots on 77 Ave and 5 St. SE.
READ REVIEWS
Next, head into the Calgary downtown core where you’ll get to see up-close a real slice of the city and daily life.
I recommend that you start off around Calgary Tower . You can go up to get panoramic views of the city but personally, I’d skip it if you’ve been up to places like CN Tower, and Top of the Rock.
From there, make your way to Stephen Avenue Walk , a pedestrian street that’s lined with shops, restaurants, and busy office buildings.
After peeking into a few stores and perhaps grabbing a latté on the way, it’s time to start your urban sculpture hunt!
Something that’ll really surprise you about the downtown district is just how many examples of public art there are scattered throughout. These are a few standout ones you’ll find which I recommend that you check out as you roam from Stephen Avenue Walk to Olympic Plaza .
- Galleria Trees – These are easy to spot right at the intersection of 8 Ave SW and 3 St SW and part of Stephen Avenue Walk. LED lights bring these towering trees to life at night.
- Wonderland – Created by Spanish artist, Jaume Plensa, this giant wire sculpture of a young girl’s head stands impressively at 12 metres high and is easy to spot as you wander through Calgary. You can even walk inside the sculpture.
- The Conversation – Two businessmen have an important conversation on Stephen Avenue.
- Sadko and Kabuki – Red and yellow painted bronze sculptures by Sorel Etrog that stands in front of Bow Valley Square.
- Famous Five – In Olympic Park you’ll find this sculpture of 5 important women in Canada that challenged British Canadian law to include women as “person’.
- NEW Van Gogh Monumental – Unveiled in late 2020, this can be found at the corner of 10th Ave and 1st St SE featuring portions of Van Gogh’s body, a common feature to Bruno Catalano’s work.
Beyond these sculptures, you’ll stumble upon many other graffiti and public art works as you meander through.
Before you leave downtown, make sure to drive by Calgary’s stampede area and take a look at the Saddledome. This is where the NHL team, Calgary Flames play, and is a major venue for other events throughout the year. Notice how the stadium is built to look like a horse’s saddle.
- Parking downtown, as you’d expect, is flat out a pain. You’ll find that the commercial lots in the area are quite expensive.
- If you happen to be here on Friday, you’re in luck! In the Centennial, McDougall, City Centre, James Short, and City Hall (this is the most convenient) Green P lots, the price is only $5 from 11AM to 6AM on Saturday.
- Weekend and evening rates are the cheapest and those rates typically start after 4PM on weekdays.
- On-street parking is free after 6 pm and before 9 am Mondays through Saturdays.
- Check out SpotAngels or BestParking to find out where the cheapest parking is for the time you’ll be downtown for.
Drive up to the affluent neighbourhood around McHugh Bluff . Perched on an outcrop that overlooks downtown Calgary, this is easily one of the best spots for a view of Calgary and Bow River that runs right north of it.
The bluff has an elevated view that follows Crescent Rd. NW. For an easy walk, you can park on the street and walk along its sidewalk or if you’re looking for a bit more exercise, you can make your way to the Lookout Point and take the wooden stairs down and back up for views of varying heights.
You can’t visit Calgary and not see the Peace Bridge . Spanning the Bow River, this was designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. This is the same architect that designed the Milwaukee Art Museum, the atrium of Brookfield Place in Toronto , and the architectural wonders of Valencia .
This bridge is a pedestrian walkway with a designated cycling path through the middle.
While it reminds me of a DNA helix, the locals have nicknamed this “Finger Trap Bridge” because from afar, it’s similar to a finger trap puzzle.
Photography: I found that that the best place to photograph it is from the Bow River Pathway on either side of the bridge and getting right down to the rocks by the river.
- There’s no convenient parking to see the Peace Bridge.
- Driving along Memorial Dr. W heading northeast doesn’t have any street parking. There is street parking going the other direction but will require crossing the street and median.
- You can also park on the street along the perpendicular 8 St NW.
End off your first day in Calgary by having an extraordinary meal at Pigeonhole . A reservation is a must!
I first discovered this restaurant reading the Air Canada EnRoute magazine when it was touted as one of the best new restaurants of 2015. Since then, it’s been ranked the Number 16 restaurant on Canada’s 100 Best .
It sure didn’t disappoint with each dish that came through in rapid succession tapas style. The highlight of your meal will no doubt the charred cabbage . The name itself doesn’t quite do it justice but wow were our minds blown when we had it. Somehow one of my least favourite vegetables turned into this explosion of flavours, erupting from the pan-charred wedges, and healthy dose of grated mimolette cheese on top.
Day 1 Summary
What you’ll see:
- WinSport Canada Olympic Park
- Calgary Farmers’ Market
- Calgary Tower
- Stephen Avenue Walk
- Olympic Plaza
- Scotiabank Saddledome
- McHugh Bluff
- Peace Bridge
What you’ll do:
- Downhill Karting by Skyline Luge
Where you’ll eat:
- Lunch – Calgary Farmers’ Market – Plenty of food stalls in this market to make you hungry.
- Dinner – Pigeonhole – Easily the best meal of the whole trip. Make sure to order their charred cabbage.
Where you’ll stay:
- Hampton Inn Calgary Airport
After a day in Calgary, it’s time to head west to an area known as Canmore in Alberta. Nestled in the Rockies, this former coal-mining town is open of my favourites because it’s a bit off-the-beaten-path. Surrounded by craggy summits, lakes, trails, canyons, and an underground labyrinth, there’s a ton to do here.
A secret of Canmore’s is the extensive cave systems that sits under Grotto Mountain. There’s one particular cave that you can visit and it’s the Rat’s Nest Cave. While a provincial historic site, its caretaker is Canmore Cave Tours which operate adventure caving experiences inside.
The tour that you want to pick is the Adventure Cave Tour , a 4 hour tour underground, making it their longest tour they offer. This allows you to see all of the main highlights of Rat’s Nest Cave including a couple of fun maneuvers.
The experience starts off at their main office where you’ll be introduced to your guide and fitted with the gear that you’ll need. They provide coveralls, kneepads, gloves, helmet, headlamp, harness, and safety lanyard. The helmet and headlamp stay on and the rest goes into a waterproof backpack they provide.
This is just the beginning though because you then drive your own car and follow your guide to the parking lot and trailhead to the cave.
The hike up to the cave is remarkable and there are a few openings along the way with beautiful vistas of the mountains.
Right outside the cave, they have a temporary shelter set up where you’ll be able to suit up with your technical gear you brought in with you.
From there, the caving experience begins as your guide takes you through a series of walk, crawl, squeeze and repels through a cave. There are times in the cave where it’ll look like there’s no way you can get through a passage but with a simple twist and push through, you manage to find a way.
Along the way, your guide will point out unique geological features inside the cave, examples of local fossils found, and the cave’s history. Eventually you’ll reach the largest room in the cave known as the Grand Gallery and also the Grotto and its crystal clear pool with stalactites and stalagmites.
The whole time you’ll manage your way through with the beam of your headlamp, the echo of your caving-mates, and sometimes even pure silence.
By the end of it, you’ll come out with your jumpsuits completely plastered with dust and physically exhausted.
Without a doubt, this will be the highlight of your 3 day Calgary itinerary. There aren’t many places in the world where you get to do something like this. You’ll come out of it amazed at what you saw and even more impressed that you somehow made it through all of those obstacles.
This is focused on the Adventure Tour package.
Address: 202-129 Bow Meadows Crescent, Canmore, Alberta
Hours: There are tour departures all days of the week at 8:45AM, 10:15AM, and 11:45M
- Adult – $175 + tax
- Youth (12-15) – $145 + tax
Website: Canmore Cave Tours . Read the reviews here .
- Total length of time is 6 hours so this is a half-day experience.
- Note that they don’t provide shuttle services from their main office to the trailhead so you’ll need to have your own car.
- Reservations are a must.
- You need to arrive at least 10 minutes prior to start time.
- Difficulty – There’s a 30-40 minute uphill trail to get to the entrance to the cave. Inside the cave, the footing isn’t flat, there is a lot of maneuvering, and there are no handrails or fixed lighting. This is a very raw cave in every sense of the word. I’d classify this as challenging.
- Maximum size – The safety harness fits to a waist size of 46″ (116cm) and leg size of 33″ (84cm). They say that fitness is more a concern over size though.
- Plan on bringing – Energy bar, water, sturdy shoes with good tread and be dressed in layers for warmth (i.e. long pants, long sleeved shirt, etc.) Also, bring outdoor gear for the hike to the cave that is appropriate for the weather.
- Warm clothing – It’s 5 degrees C inside so make sure you have long pants, long sleeves, and sweater/hoodie.
- Photography – You can’t bring any backpacks inside and as a result, cameras aren’t allowed beyond a small point and shoot and/or your smartphone. You can request a helmet with a GoPro mount and that’s how I captured some of the footage that you see in the video. Make sure to bring a couple of extra GoPro batteries. Everything else that you can’t bring inside will go in the backpack they provide which will just hang outside in the staging area outside of the entrance.
- Are there bats or rats? – Our guide, Chris explained to us that the name of the cave came from nests of cute rodents native to the area. Bats are a rare sight here as well as it’s not a location they hibernate in. We saw neither during our caving experience.
Parking: There is easy parking at both the Canmore Cave Tours office complex and the trailhead.
You’ll be pretty exhausted at this point after you return back to the Canmore Cave Tours to drop off your gear and you say goodbyes.
Before you grab dinner though, you’ll have to muster a bit more energy to see another highlight of Canmore.
Grassi Lakes is part of the Kananaskis Country park system and made up of two picturesque turquoise lakes – one upper and one lower. From the Upper Grassi Lake, you get postcard worthy shots of the mountains, Canmore, and Bow Valley.
There are a network if hike trails here and if you had a full day, I’d recommend doing the complete Grassi Lakes Trail but since you’ll only have time to catch the view from Upper Grassi Lake, I recommend taking the shortcut that isn’t so obvious from Google Maps but trust me, it’s there.
Trail Instructions: It might seem like you won’t have time to do this but a local tip we learned was that you can do a short version of the full Grassi Lakes Trail. From your parking spot, head north along the main road until you get to the end of the pond. This is when you can make a right. At this point, you’ll be able to descend into the pass that takes you to the crag where you’ll see limestone walls packed with rock climbers. Keep going and you’ll see the opening to Upper Grassi Lake. The best trail map can be found on AllTrails .
- As you drive south along Three Sisters Parkway, you’ll pass by Whitemans Pond. Eventually halfway things widen and you’ll see many cars parked on the left and right-side of the road. Park by this pond. There’s usually plenty of spots here but may be packed during high season. This spot is marked on the map .
To wrap up the day, head into downtown Canmore and have dinner at Rocky Mountain Flat Bread Company .
Without reservations, there might be a wait so try to do this before you leave for Calgary. That said, a short wait wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world because you’ll be able to explore a bit of the town.
Their flatbread pizzas made in a traditional wood burning oven are hearty, locally sourced, artisanal pieces of thin crust goodness.
Before you head home, grab an ice cream at Old Schol Bus Ice Cream in town.
Day 2 Summary
- Grassi Lakes
- Canmore Cave Tours
- Breakfast – Continental breakfast at the hotel.
- Lunch – Snack bars – There won’t be time for a proper lunch but there will be a snack stop during your caving tour where you’ll be scarfing down your granola bars and other snacks you pack in your pocket.
- Dinner – Rocky Mountain Flatbread Co. – Local eatery best known for their pizzas/flat breads. They also have a great selection of local beers and BC wines.
- Dessert – Old School Bus Ice Cream – Fun ice cream shop inside a yellow school bus with tons of flavours.
For your final full day based in Calgary, you’ll be starting off with something that’s so iconic to what the city is best known for – the Stampede. This love affair of horses and cowboys is something you need to experience in person.
During our trip, we visited Griffin Valley Ranch located in Rocky View County however as of Spring 2020, they closed their doors so instead, I have a couple of recommendations for horseback trail riding that will suit equally well for this itinerary.
Depending on interest and skill level, here are the best ones:
- 2-Hour Horseback Ride in Kananaskis with Burger Lunch [9:30AM, 1PM] – This is a rustic Alberta mountain adventure operated by Boundary Ranch. You’ll travel high above the Kananaskis Valley that ends with a delicious BBQ lunch. No previous riding experience is required.
- Covered Wagon or Horseback Ride in Banff with Western Cookout [4PM, 5PM] – Saddle up along the Bow River in Banff like days gone by. This is an afternoon experience that includes a BBQ meal. For this experience you can either ride a horse or you can be in the comfort of a wagon.
- 1-Hour Horseback Trail Ride in Kananaskis [9:45AM, 11AM, 1:30PM. 3PM and 4:15PM] – If you want to spend more time in Banff, choose this horseback riding experience suitable for beginners and children over 6.
- 1-Hour Bow River Ride [11AM, 1PM, 2PM, 3PM]- Similar to the above except you’ll be riding on the trails of the Bow River or Spray River in Banff National Park.
After your epic ride through some of Alberta’s beautiful backcountry, hit the road again and make your way into Banff National Park .
While driving westbound along the main Trans-Canada Highway, you’ll eventually reach the East Banff gate. To your left is a pass-through lane which you can take if you purchased a ticket online already. If not, you can go to the manned kiosks on the right to purchase your day pass. This will allow you explore right away.
Price: Pass prices are calculated per person per day
- Adult $10 (age 18 to 64)
- Senior $8.40 (age 65 and up)
- Youth 17 and under is free
- Family/group $20 (up to 7 people in a single vehicle)
Website: Banff National Park .
- Buy the pass online – This is the most convenient way to ensure you don’t waste any time buying passes on the day of. If your dates are locked in, you might as well buy them online through Banff and Lake Louise Tourism . There are no extra costs for purchasing this online. Day passes can be printed at home.
- Remember to display – Make sure to place your passes prominently on the left-handside of the windshield.
Frequently asked questions:
- Where else can you buy the pass? There’s a Parks Canada Tourist Office in town at 224 Banff Avenue. You can also buy it at Wilson Mountain Sports in the Samson Mall of Lake Louise.
- Should I get a Family/Group pass? This becomes economical when you have 3 or more adult.
- Should I get a Discovery Pass? This is only valuable if you plan on spending 7 continuous days in the Rocky Mountains Parks.
- When do day passes expire? They are valid the day purchased and expires at 4PM the day after.
- Visiting Lake Louise
- Using a picnic area
- Stopping in Banff town to buy food
- Stopping at a viewpoint or pullout
- Driving along Bow Valley Parkway or Icefields Parkway
- Do they check passes? Yes, they definitely do. When we went, there was a checkpoint along Bow Valley Parkway.
- When do I not need a park pass? If you plan on driving right through Hwy 1 without stopping anywhere in the national park, you don’t need to buy a pass.
- Are bears a concern? During the summer, there will be bear warnings for certain trails all around Canmore and Banff. This particularly impacts backcountry hikes such as Lake Morraine and Lake Minnewanka where it’s required you to travel in groups of 4 and to carry bear spray . This typically does not apply to Johnston Canyon. Make sure to check the weekly bear report by Parks Canada.
With your passes proudly displayed on your dash, exit onto the scenic Bow Valley Parkway (Hwy-1A). There are so many stops along the way that you can take but where I recommend that you invest your time on is Johnston Canyon .
Before that though, you’re probably hungry so an awesome trick to solve two problems is to make reservations at the Blackswift Bistro which is the restaurant that’s part of Johnston Canyon Lodge and Bungalows. This property is literally right next to the trailhead. While you won’t be staying here, this is a great spot to refuel, has dedicated parking, and lets you in if Highway 1A is closed.
Johnston Canyon is composed of two main waterfalls – upper and lower. Much of the trail follows the steeply carved limestone bedrock and fast-running Johnston Creek.
As you walk further in, the first waterfall you encounter is the Lower Falls , roughly around 30 minutes inn. There’s an iconic tunnel that you can walk to which brings you mere metres from the falls.
For the Upper Falls , you’ll have a bit of work ahead of you. Taking roughly around 1 hour with a good amount of elevation gain through the forest, you’ll eventually see where the water you saw earlier came from. Dropping a dramatic 40 metres below to a deep turquoise pool, you’ll be able to see it from a viewing platform at the base of the falls and another at an overhang in the gorge.
While this trail is quite touristy, it certainly doesn’t diminish the beauty of this part of the national park.
If you find that you have a lot of extra time, you can go further in (extra hour) to see the Ink Pots which are a set of emerald pools that bubble and swirl like a witches’ cauldron.
Address: Bow Valley Pkwy, Improvement District No. 9, AB T1L 1K2
Hours: 24 hours
Price: Included with your park pass.
Website: Johnston Canyon Day Hikes
Facilities: There are washrooms at the parking lot.
- Go early or late – The best time to visit is right in the morning before 8AM or going after 5PM. Anytime in between during high-season can be a zoo.
- Check Banff Now – Parks Canada has a Banff Now page which marks various events of notice within the park including information about the Johnston Canyon trails, parking, and access to Bow Valley Parkway.
- Take Roam Transit – Instead of dealing with insane parking, take Roam Transit Route 9 (seasonal and starts May 21, 2021) which can be accessed from the Town of Banff. The cost is $10 round trip for adults.
- Book a meal at Blackswift Bistro – If the highway is closed or want to avoid the parking situation, one way to bypass this is by making a reservation here so they’ll let you through.
- Is the hike to the Upper Falls difficult? There is some elevation gain and it’s a long trail but by no means difficult. If you’re planning to do this hike, make sure to bring water and snacks.
Parking: Spots are extremely limited and becomes overwhelmingly busy in the summer months and they’ve clamped down on parking along the highway which means that you’ll have to wait for a spot to open up. However, if you do see a line up of cars parked on the side of the road, you should be safe to do so.
With a few hours of sunlight to spare, you still have time to drive up to iconic Lake Louise and Chateau Lake Louise . There’s something majestic about the glistening emerald water and imposing Victoria Glacier that provides the backdrop.
Grab a seat, watch the last few canoes head back to the boathouse as the sun begins to set.
To round out the night, make our way over to the town of Banff which has a welcoming ski-town vibe. We had a quick stroll along the main street and then head over to The Juniper Bistro for dinner which will seem off-the-beaten path but is quite superb.
Find out more ways to explore Lake Louise and Banff here!
Day 3 Summary
- Johnston Canyon
- Lake Louise & Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
- Town of Banff
- Horseback riding experience
- Lunch – Blackswift Bistro – A great spot for breakfast or lunch with the bonus of reservations getting you into the area if the Bow Valley Parkway is closed and you get free parking for Johnston Canyon as well.
- Dinner – The Juniper Bistro – You don’t quite expect such a high quality restaurant in a hotel off the main strip of Banff but they consistently serve amazing local-inspired food.
In this weekend in Calgary itinerary, you’ll want to stay in the city for the entire trip. With that, there are a number of hotel recommendations to get you started on where to stay in Calgary.
WHERE WE STAYED
HAMPTON INN CALGARY AIRPORT
This is a no-frills type of hotel that’s conveniently located right by the airport, includes breakfast, and is both modern and comfortable. The property is also one of the most affordable in the city.
BEST WESTERN PLUS DOWNTOWN
Another extremely affordable option is located in the Beltline part of the city and not far from Pigeonhole. This Best Western, similar to the Hampton Inn, is one of those “you know what you’re going to get” – great value, comfy, and convenient.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
LE GERMAIN CALGARY
I’ve stayed at a few Le Germain hotels and they are simply incredible experiences. Located right in the middle of downtown Calgary, you’ll be treated to uniquely modern, clean, and comfy rooms with also superb service.
FAIRMONT PALLISER
The epitome of luxury, this is an iconic 5-star hotel that has great views, is extremely comfortable, features a world-class spa, and is located right in the heart of the city.
Here are a few need-to-knows when it comes to a trip to Calgary that also spans Canmore and Banff.
Money – The local currency in Calgary is the Canadian Dollar or CAD . It’s best to avoid money changers at the airport and in the city. Instead, rely on exchanging for CAD in your home country or use the ATMs in Canada. If you’re using an ATM, just make sure to keep an eye out for machines that charge its own fee.
When is the best time? – Calgary experiences extremely cold winters and since this is a summer itinerary, the recommendation is to come between June and August. This is when the weather is the most pleasant. That said, this is also high-season. For a good balance of climate and crowds, consider coming in late May or in September after Labour Day.
Getting here – Calgary International Airport (YYC) is the primary hub for flights into the city and is not far from the downtown core (17 minutes drive). Calgary is also easily reached by car and can be perfectly paired if you’re coming from Vancouver or interior BC (i.e. Kelowna) as you’re crossing the Rocky Mountains or coming south from Edmonton.
How do I get around? – Due to the distances between sights, lack of tourist-friendly transportation in the city and into the Rocky Mountains, your best bet is to rent a car. This way, you’ll have maximum flexibility to get to where you need to go. Make sure to use this trick to save a lot of money.
Where should I stay? – The above “ Where to stay in Calgary ” section is a good place to start. Overall, I recommend tapping into Booking.com because they have an awesome inventory of properties including B&Bs.
Do I need travel insurance? – As always, travel insurance is highly recommended. My philosophy is that you want to make sure you’re covered in case the unknown happens. With the amount of travel that I do, I always get basic travel insurance that’s good for multiple trips and lasts the full year. World Nomads is the best balance of coverage and price for anyone looking for travel insurance. Make sure to read my full review of why and a breakdown of how they work. For a more broader look at travel insurance, make sure to read this .
Calgary doesn’t always get the best reputation but as a first-time visitor, I was really surprised with everything the city has to offer. Yes, they’re best known for one of Canada’s biggest festivals, the Calgary Stampede, but come here in the summer and you’ll enjoy an incredibly walkable and friendly city, award-winning restaurants that’ll surprise you, a fresh take on street art, and great green spaces.
While I know some of you will say that this 3 day Calgary itinerary really only includes 1 full day in the city itself, I think it’s perfectly reasonable to answer the call of the Rocky Mountains. The hope was to show that you can absolutely see the gems of Canmore and Banff in a weekend without having to change hotels.
Come to Calgary and do this adventure-driven trip. You won’t regret it!
What you should read next
- Things to do in Richmond BC
- Free things to do in Toronto
- Unforgettable Weekend Getaways from Vancouver
- 4 day Newfoundland itinerary from St. John’s
About William Tang
William Tang is the Chief of Awesome at Going Awesome Places which is focused on off-the-beaten-path, outdoor adventure, and experiential travel. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring others to travel, writing detailed trip itineraries to help others plan their own trips, and providing helpful tips and tricks to guide readers to travel better. Make sure to learn more about William Tang to find out his story and how Going Awesome Places started. He is a member of Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Travel Massive. He has also featured in Reader's Digest, Entrepreneur, Men's Journal, and Haute Living.
Leave a Reply Cancel reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
Find us on social media
- New Zealand
An Awesome One Day in Calgary Itinerary (2024)
Due to the global pandemic, travel looks different right now depending on where you're going from/to. Please check for travel restrictions and adhere to all local guidelines before planning a trip to any destination you may read about on this site. Please note: this post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something by clicking the links, I will get a small compensation, at no extra cost to you.
Sharing is caring!
This March I spent some time in Banff, Canada on my own, but halfway through the trip, my fiancé started his spring break, so he joined me! That meant he was flying into Calgary, so I grabbed a rental car and waited to pick him up…that is until his flight got delayed and delayed and delayed. I ended up spending a day in Calgary discovering the city!
Luckily, I had just spent days in Banff with a Calgary local and got lots of great recommendations on things to do in Calgary for 1 day. Here’s how to spend a memorable one day in Calgary including local gems, top attractions, and some food recommendations.
Map of your Calgary itinerary
How to Spend One Day in Calgary
Before we dive in, I know you’re busy planning your travels , so if you want a quick version, I’ve condensed this itinerary down into a free downloadable version. It has links to all the activities and a map, just tell me where to send it.
Fuel up with local coffee
First, start your Calgary itinerary at Phil and Sebastian Coffee Rosters in Calgary Place . This will put you in a central location for the rest of the itinerary and of course, you can fuel up with caffeine. Next door is Hoopla Donuts . You know (or at least now you do) that I LOVE donuts, so this is a must!
Enjoy the Devonian Gardens (the most underrated activity in Calgary)
One of my favorite stops on my day in Calgary was my trip to the Devonian Gardens , recommended to me by my local friend. These are a collection of indoor, free gardens including fountains, ponds, greenery, flowers, and art all located inside a mall!
When I was there, it was the perfect place to warm up and relax by the fountains. There was even a pianist playing “Once Upon a December” from Anastasia when I was there. Not to mention, the glass windows surrounding the gardens provide some great views of Calgary and you’ll forget you’re in a mall.
Relax and grab lunch at Prince’s Island Park
From there, head to Prince’s Island Park where you can see some more great views of the city. Relax by the water on a bench or take a walk along the Chevron Learning Pathway, an educational walkway that has signs to teach about environmental education. You’ll learn about the wetland (that you’re walking around), wildlife of the area, and the importance of maintaining this habitat.
@periodicadventures Started and ended day 3 in Banff but really spent the day in Calgary waiting for my fiancé to arrive on his flight! More Banff activities coming tomorrow! #banff #calgary #calgary_yyc #calgaryyyc #calgary🇨🇦 #thingstodoincalgary #thingstodoincalgary2023 #devoniangardens #calgarytower #calgarytowerfun #calgarytowerdowntown #calgarytowerview #farmandfirebanff ♬ WTF – YoungBoy Never Broke Again & Nicki Minaj
For lunch, on Prince’s Island Park is a lovely restaurant, called River Café . They serve Canadian seasonal cuisine with elevated dishes including roasted eggplant, pan seared Yukon arctic char, and a fish and game board appetizer. Plus, all meals are served with rye sourdough bread.
Admire the architecture at the library
This next activity may seem odd, but the architecture of this building is worth the trip! I’m sending you to the Calgary Central Library . Completed in 2018, it was designed by Snøhetta to reconnect the city and acts as a portal and a bridge allowing visitors from multiple sides of the city to interact and explore the library easily.
Explore the collections, admire the interior, and if needed, charge your phone at the library’s many outlets (one of my favorite travel hacks).
Take in the views at Calgary Tower
You can’t visit Calgary without visiting the Calgary Tower . This iconic structure was built in 1967 and finished a little over a year later. The Tower was renovated in 1985, a glass floor was added in 2005, and in 2018 a theatre room was opened.
The lobby on the ground floor has a gift shop where you purchase tickets to the observation deck and houses the hostess podium for checking into the Sky 360 Restaurant, which sits on the top of the tower and rotates once an hour.
On the second floor, you’ll also find a Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse.
The main attraction is the Observation Deck, located 626 feet high. You can walk on the glass floor, learn the history and architecture of the tower, and of course, take in all the views of Calgary and the Canadian Rockies. Fingers crossed for clear weather! Don’t forget to watch the informational videos in the theatre room.
Tickets are $19 CAD if purchased ahead of time online or $20 CAD if purchased in person as a walk-up.
Choose your own dinner at a food hall
For dinner, I highly recommend First Street Market , a food hall just a few blocks from Calgary Tower.
Inside, you’ll find a collection of some fantastic restaurants serving Indian, Italian, Vietnamese, smoothies, burgers, and also a bar. I opted for Indian at Saffron Street and y’all, it was SO GOOD. Super flavorful and delicious.
There’s lots of seating inside so you can eat at one place, grab a drink from the bar, and have dessert at another spot.
Alternatively, dive in to Calgary’s foodie scene a bit at Rodney’s Oyster House !
This is where my day ended in Calgary because I had to go to the airport and pick up my fiancé. But, I do have one final evening activity if you have more time than I did. If I had more time, this is what I would have done!
Cap off the evening at a speakeasy
I would have visited Betty Lou’s Library , a speakeasy and cocktail lounge with jazz bands and dancers. When you arrive at the address, there is a phone that you use to speak the password and enter.
If you’re a walk-up, you speak the word “Gatsby” into the phone. If you have a reservation, which is recommended, you’ll be texted a password to speak into the phone. You’ll want to make a reservation for around showtime, which is 7pm so you can stay for the duration of the show! Looks like such a fun spot!
How to get to Calgary
The main international airport in Calgary is YYC where there are often flight deals from the US cities of Dallas, Atlanta , Los Angeles , and New York for as little as $200!
You can also drive there as part of a larger road trip. Calgary is ~8 hours from Missoula, Montana and ~12 hours from Seattle .
How to get around Calgary
If you can rent a car , that is certainly easiest and best to maximize your time since you’re only visiting Calgary for a day. (I like browsing on RentalCars.com , which is a rental car price aggregator — meaning it compares prices from a bunch of sites and compiles it one spot).
Many of the activities on this itinerary are also within walking distance. I personally rented a car but parked centrally and walked mostly everywhere.
You can also take public transportation run by Calgary Transit . To get from YYC to the city center, you’ll have to take bus route 57 and train route 202.
Where to stay in Calgary for one day
If you’re only visiting for one day, you may not need a hotel here. I didn’t stay the night. However, if you are spending the night, I’d go with Homewood Suites (~$140+ per night) near the Central Library or Fairmont Palliser (~$160+ per night) near the Calgary Tower. I haven’t stayed in either place, since I went back to Banff for the night, but the reviews and locations look good!
How much does one day in Calgary cost?
Activities – $20
Transportation – $10
When is the best time to visit Calgary?
Calgary has true seasons where winter in December and January are truly cold with temperatures in the mid to high 20s (Fahrenheit). Summer is most pleasant weather-wise with temperatures in the mid-70s peaking in July – this makes summer Calgary’s peak season and therefore, most crowded.
I visited in shoulder season (spring in March) and it was still very cold with temperatures in the high-30s, but with no crowds whatsoever. I basically had Calgary Tower to myself!
I recommend a shoulder season if you don’t mind cold weather or summer if you’re searching for that warm weather. Summer is also a great time to road trip through Canada and specifically the Canadian Rockies, although Banff in winter is spectacular as well!
Still planning? Check out these helpful posts:
- Canada travel guide
- Things to do in Banff in winter
- Review of Banff’s Mount Royal Hotel in downtown
- International travel checklist
- Ultimate guide to easy trip planning
- How to find things to do when traveling
My Travel Essentials
- Travel Insurance – Going on an international trip? Don’t forget travel and medical insurance with SafetyWing .
- Travel Card – If you’re new to travel hacking, fear not! My favorite card for beginners gives you $750 in rewards when you spend $4,000 in the first 3 months, plus lounge access, 10x points on hotel bookings, and free TSA pre-check!
- Get Your Guide – Check out Get Your Guide for a one-stop-shop for booking travel activities.
- Booking.com – This is my favorite hotel search aggregator, specifically for reading reviews. On Booking.com , the reviews can be searched for keywords like WiFi, breakfast, pool, amenities, etc.! So helpful!
- Anti-pickpocket bag – Worried about having your valuables swiped? PacSafe makes the best travel bags with zippers and straps that lock and with mesh steel enforced fabric.
- Give the Gift of Travel – This is the perfect gift for travelers in your life! Tinggly allows you to gift experiences around the world, perfect for birthdays, weddings, or anniversaries.
- Staycation Idea – Check out Resort Pass , which gives you day passes to resorts so you can use their pool, spa, and fitness center, a great staycation idea!
Save to Pinterest
previous post
Alanna Koritzke
Recent PhD graduate and hyper-planner of Periodic Adventures, my goal is to share travel inspiration, budget tips, detailed guides, and fun travel stories!
Related Posts
The Perfect 1 Day in Paris Itinerary (with a map!)
A Pleasantly Packed Yet Totally Doable 1 Day in Istanbul Itinerary
An Incredible 3 Day Istanbul Itinerary Full of Food, History, and Gems
Supraja Lakshmi N
Hi Alanna, I really enjoyed reading your one-day itinerary for Calgary. You covered a lot of ground and gave some great tips for exploring the city. I especially liked your photos of the Calgary Tower. They look amazing! I have never been to Calgary, but your article makes me want to visit someday.
Thank you! I hope you get a chance to visit. It’s a great city, especially for a day trip.
post a comment cancel reply
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .
Privacy Overview
Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Calgary Trip Planner
Top attractions in calgary.
Other notable attractions
Top searches in Calgary
Popular road trips from calgary, all road trips from calgary.
- Calgary to Banff National Park drive
- Calgary to Las Vegas drive
- Calgary to Banff drive
- Calgary to San Francisco drive
- Calgary to Seattle drive
- Calgary to Vancouver drive
- Calgary to Jasper National Park drive
- Calgary to Los Angeles drive
- Calgary to Chicago drive
- Calgary to San Diego drive
- Calgary to Jasper drive
- Calgary to Drumheller drive
- Calgary to Victoria drive
- Calgary to Yellowstone National Park drive
- Calgary to Portland drive
- Calgary to Glacier National Park drive
- Calgary to Denver drive
- Calgary to Lake Louise drive
- Calgary to Branson drive
- Calgary to Colorado Springs drive
- Calgary to Sedona drive
- Calgary to Saint Louis drive
- Calgary to Grand Canyon National Park drive
- Calgary to Salt Lake City drive
- Calgary to Page drive
- Calgary to Santa Fe drive
- Calgary to Edmonton drive
- Calgary to Tucson drive
- Calgary to Phoenix drive
- Calgary to Monterey drive
All related maps of Calgary
- Map of Calgary
- Map of Banff National Park
- Map of Las Vegas
- Map of Banff
- Map of San Francisco
- Map of Seattle
- Map of Vancouver
- Map of Jasper National Park
- Map of Los Angeles
- Map of Chicago
- Map of San Diego
- Map of Jasper
- Map of Drumheller
- Map of Victoria
- Map of Yellowstone National Park
- Map of Portland
- Map of Glacier National Park
- Map of Denver
- Map of Lake Louise
- Map of Branson
- Map of Colorado Springs
- Map of Sedona
- Map of Saint Louis
- Map of Grand Canyon National Park
- Map of Salt Lake City
- Map of Page
- Map of Santa Fe
- Map of Edmonton
- Map of Tucson
- Map of Phoenix
- Map of Monterey
Calgary throughout the year
- Calgary in January
- Calgary in February
- Calgary in March
- Calgary in April
- Calgary in May
- Calgary in June
- Calgary in July
- Calgary in August
- Calgary in September
- Calgary in October
- Calgary in November
- Calgary in December
Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Calgary ?
Get inspired for your trip to Calgary with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:
- 1-Day Calgary Itinerary
- 2-Day Calgary Itinerary
- 3-Day Calgary Itinerary
- 4-Day Calgary Itinerary
- 5-Day Calgary Itinerary
Q&A about Calgary
Weather in calgary, add places from guides with 1 click, collaborate with friends in real time, import flight and hotel reservations, optimize your route, get personalized suggestions, export your places to google maps.
4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play
One Day in Calgary Itinerary and Guide
Love it? Share it!
Looking for the perfect one day in Calgary itinerary? We’ve got you covered!
Calgary is a vibrant city located in the province of Alberta, Canada. It has been our hangout spot for a few years now (since 2011, actually). In this post, we share our favorite places in Calgary, plus hotel and travel tips.
One Day in Calgary Itinerary & Guide
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Our experience and how to use this guide
Salil and I have been visiting, exploring, and staying in Calgary (for long periods) for more than a decade. Living in Edmonton , we visit Calgary often for work and social commitments. You will find insider tips below from our first-hand experience in the city at different times of the year.
The guide has all the sightseeing stops for one day in Calgary, followed by day trips and a suggested itinerary for the Canadian Rockies (we get a lot of emails from readers asking for an itinerary from Calgary, so we had to include it).
Finally, we will leave you with tons of travel tips 🙂 We have included additional Calgary attractions, which you can swap or remove depending on the time you have for this itinerary. We recommend starting bright and early morning to check off most spots.
Things to do in Calgary in one day
- Start with breakfast at OEB
- Check out the RiverWalk
- Explore Downtown Calgary
- Wander Stephen Avenue
Climb the Calgary Tower
- Stop by the Wonderland Sculpture
- Visit Glenbow Museum
Stop by the Calgary Studio Bell – The National Music Center
- CORE Shopping Center & Devonian Gardens
Explore Fort Calgary
- Late Afternoon at the Heritage Park
- Dinner at Kensington Village
Sightseeing Map: One day in Calgary itinerary
Start your day with breakfast in Calgary
If you are staying at the airport area, you will earn a free breakfast. And if you are downtown, you should head to one of the local cafes for breakfast.
One of our favorites is Sidewalk Citizen Bakery. Located in the Simmons Building in the Downtown East Village, the Sidewalk Citizen Bakery is a perfect spot for breakfast. They offer freshly baked goods from bread, croissants, and sandwiches.
Other options include OEB Breakfast, Cafe at ARTS Hotel downtown, Suzette Bistro, and 1886 Buffalo Cafe.
Note (if staying at an airport hotel): Take Alberta Highway 2 (AB-2) towards the south of the airport hotel, then merge onto Memorial Drive to reach downtown Calgary. Travel time is 20 minutes.
Check out (or walk) the RiverWalk
There will be a lot of walking, strolling, and relaxing in Calgary downtown area, so wear comfortable shoes.
Near the Simmons Building in the East Village, you will find the RiverWalk on the southern bank of the Bow River.
Beginning just off the west end of the RiverWalk is the Peace Bridge, a bright red and white diamond-like pedestrian bridge. Enjoy a walk here.
If you have additional time on hand, opt for a bike ride. The Peace River is a stunning landmark in the city, and it offers a convenient option for pedestrians to head to the downtown core and Eau Claire Park.
Wander Downtown Calgary
With a healthy and filling breakfast, head to walk the beautiful Calgary downtown.
Walking the area is a good idea, so park your car at the many designated public parking areas or take the transit to the Downtown Core.
As soon as you arrive, you will be welcomed by tall buildings, beautiful green spaces, and a tower that follows you everywhere.
Calgary downtown is the perfect place to shop, pig out in amazing restaurants and cafes, and, most importantly, enjoy some beautiful architectural gems. The lanes of downtown Calgary are clean and sprinkled with street art and heritage structures.
Book: A guided tour of Calgary
Explore Stephen Avenue Walk
One of our favorite things in Calgary is exploring the beautiful Stephen Avenue Walk. Lined with vintage-looking stores and buildings, this lane is a delight during summers, with local artisans and shop owners showcasing their craft.
Located in Downtown Calgary and stretching for 8 blocks between 1st Street SE to 4th Street SW, it is one of the most iconic streets in Western Canada.
The origin of the name “Stephen” comes from Lord George Mount Stephen, who was the first president of the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) and a major contributor to the development of Calgary.
You can see little bits of history and historical facts jotted on different pillars as you stroll. And with so many outdoor cafes, you won’t be hungry!
Head to the Calgary tower next. The Calgary Tower is a free-standing tower located in the downtown core. In 1968, when it was first opened, it was the tallest freestanding structure in North America.
It is still one of the tallest in the city, and the observation tower offers amazing views of Downtown Calgary and beyond.
There is a 360-degree viewing observation deck with a glass floor, where you can view the city and take awesome Instagram photos!
There is also a restaurant in the observation tower, which is an excellent choice for lunches, romantic dinners, or celebrating with friends and family. Here is a detailed guide to Sky360 Revolving Restaurant in Calgary.
There is an entry fee to access the observation deck of the Calgary. The entry fee for Calgary Tower is CAD 21 per adult. If you book a table at the restaurant, you do not have to pay to get to the top of the tower (however, you won’t be able to visit the glass floor viewing area).
On the tower’s ground floor is a souvenir store and the visitor center.
The tower is a must-visit because of the amazing views of the city of Calgary.
Take photos of the Wonderland Sculpture by the Bow Building
As you wander the Downtown Core area, you will cross this landmark building in the shape of a bow called the Bow Building. Right outside the building is a 12-meter, bent-wire girl’s head sculpture created by a Spanish sculptor.
Stop by and take photos to capture this unique creation in the middle of downtown!
Glenbow Museum
The Glenbow Museum is an art and history-culture museum in the downtown core. Their art collection comprises over 33,000 works of art from the 19th century to today.
Their historical archives are massive, with tons of details from individuals, families, organizations, and businesses from Western Canada. Many include textual records, photographs, film footage, and sound recordings.
Their library also contains 100,000 books, periodicals, newspapers, maps, and pamphlets with archival material about Western Canada and beyond.
Access to the Glenbow Museum will be free after its renovation is completed.
Just within a 10-minute walk from the Glenbow Museum is the stunning Studio Bell – home to Canada’s largest music-related museum. What is unique about this museum is its stunning building, including its mind-blowing performance hall!
Pro Tip: If interested, book a show at the National Music Centre in the evening and finish with dinner at the Calgary Tower – your date night is set!
CORE Shopping Center & Devonian Gardens
If Studio Bell is not your thing, head to the CORE Shopping Center, shop, and eat. This indoor shopping area is home to over 120 shops, including large department stores like Holt Renfrew and Simons. You will also find a wonderful food court inside.
The Shopping center has a beautiful indoor tropical garden called the Devonian Gardens.
The garden spans over three acres and is home to waterfalls, 500 trees, and thousands of plants. You can grab food and sit in the designated areas in the garden or just admire the displays and tranquility!
Up next is the Fort Calgary National Historic Site. From the downtown area, drive away to Fort Calgary. You can also walk for 20 minutes to arrive here.
Fort Calgary National Historic Site is the birthplace of the city of Calgary. It is the site where the North West Mounted Police built a fort at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow Rivers. This site is a must for history lovers, as it is filled with heritage remnants and is a great visit if you wish to know more about Calgary’s past.
There is a museum and a gift shop as well. Spend a couple of hours here exploring museum exhibits about Treaty 7, Métis influence in Alberta, and the founding and early stages of the city of Calgary. You will also find a replica of the 1888 Barracks for special exhibitions.
Fort Calgary offers a variety of regular programs throughout the year, including winter camps and corporate tours. When visiting for a day, consider opting for a self-guided audio tour to learn about parklands and understand why it was a place of significance to Indigenous peoples long before 1875, when the North West Mounted Police established Fort Calgary.
The entry fee to the Fort Calgary site is 10 CAD for adults.
Late Afternoon at the Heritage Park
Late afternoon, head to the Heritage Park Historical Village.
This is a unique museum – a living history museum and park in Calgary. This heritage park is one of the most visited sites in Canada and is perfect for families with young children, couples, and solo travelers.
Inside the park, you will find historical buildings transported and reserved here. You will be welcomed by people in vintage clothing from the 17th and 1800s to the 1950s.
There are antique automobiles, including horse-drawn vehicles, and a museum showcasing the province’s industrialization story. That’s the Heritage Park for you – fun, vintage and informative.
You can also learn about the history of Indigenous people and the Hudson’s Bay Company. There are tipis and other items (like cookware, fur, and cots) laid out outdoors for guests to enjoy. The Gasoline Alley Museum (located near the Village entrance) is a must-visit.
You can expect to spend around 3-5 hours here. The entry fee is CAD 27 per adult for single-day admission, including ride access and the Gasoline Alley Museum. You can also purchase a 2-day summer or annual pass at discounted prices.
Dinner and signing off for the day
Calgary is a city that comes alive in the evening. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene with endless dining and hanging-out options.
One of the most popular destinations for dining and hanging out in the evening is Kensington Village. This eclectic neighborhood is known for its trendy restaurants, unique shops, and lively bars. You can find a variety of cuisines to satisfy any craving, from local Canadian fare to international dishes.
It is also a popular pedestrian-friendly neighborhood in Calgary. It is within walking distance from downtown via Louise Bridge. You can also use LRT to get there. In Kensington, head to the outdoor alleyway bar – The Container Bar!
After dinner, head to one of the many bars or pubs in the area for some drinks and live music. Kensington also hosts various events throughout the year, such as street festivals and outdoor movie nights, making it a must-visit spot in the evening.
If you prefer a more upscale experience, Downtown Calgary is the place to be. The downtown core houses some of the city’s high-end restaurants and cocktail bars. You can enjoy a delicious meal and breathtaking views of the city’s skyline.
After dinner, head to one of the stylish lounges or rooftop bars for a classy night out. Many of the city’s best clubs and live music venues are also located downtown, making it a prime spot for those looking to dance the night away.
Here are more options for dining in Calgary.
- Dine at the Sky 360 – Calgary Tower
- Fine dining at the Fairmont Calgary
- Or head to a cool neighborhood like Inglewood
Inglewood, located east of the city center and East Village, is perfect for craft beer lovers. Once upon a time, Inglewood was home to the Calgary Malting and Brewing Company, the Brewery Flats. Opt for dining at Ol’ Beautiful Brewing Co. or High Line Brewing.
More Places to visit in Calgary
If you are staying in Calgary for more than one day, we have some ideas for you
Olympic Park
Canada Olympic Park in Calgary was the site of the 1988 Winter Olympics. Today, it is a popular place for people looking to go skiing without driving out to the mountains.
If you are short on time and want to see the site, you can pay a quick visit and get pictures taken by the compound with all international flags from Olympic participants. You can see the ski lifts from a distance or when you drive out to Banff from Calgary.
If you plan to explore, remember there is an entry fee. It is CAD 79 per adult for single-day admission. You can also purchase a 2 day summer or annual pass at discounted prices (starts at $499+).
On our first trip to Calgary, we visited the Olympic site complex in the early summer days and subsequently explored it for winter activities.
WinSport, who manages the complex, conducts ziplining and other sports courses. You can also hit the slopes and enjoy winter tubing.
Alberta has seven signature products – bison, beef, canola, honey, Saskatoon berries, root vegetables, and Red Fife Wheat. So booking a food tour to experience the local delicacies would be a great idea.
Most food tours last about 3 – 3.5 hours, which includes hopping and tasting different staple food items from different restaurants.
River-Front, Segway Tours & Eau Claire Park
A wonderful way to experience the riverfront of Calgary is to take a segway tour. The River Valley Adventure group, located in the Riverfront area, provides training and conducts segway tours in the river valley area. It’s a fun way to explore the city.
If you wish to explore independently, head to Eau Claire Park, a delightful green space where you can hang out, read a book, and relax. Prince Island Park is also located in the neighborhood.
Calgary Stampede Park
This is a must-visit and must-do Canadian bucket list item. The Calgary Stampede is an annual event that occurs every July. It’s a ten-day rodeo festival that attracts millions of visitors every year.
This event dates back to the 19th century, and now the area even hosts a museum, market, and exhibition. The museum on-site can be visited all year round.
The Saddledome
Scotiabank Saddledome is an indoor arena also home to the Calgary Flames of the NHL. It is located in Stampede Park in the southeast end of downtown Calgary. It is one of the most recognizable structures in the city.
The Saddledome is best viewed from the Calgary Tower. Inside the Saddledome, there are restaurants, and it also hosts events other than sports.
Exploring Canadian Rockies for a day trip or more from Calgary
And, of course, from Calgary, the Canadian Rockies are just an hour away. It is perfect for a romantic weekend getaway, nature therapy, adventure tour, or a quick day trip.
Here is a Banff itinerary sample that you can use after completing one day in Calgary,
- Day 1 – Explore Calgary
- Day 2 – Drive from Calgary to Banff, driving time 1 hour. Head to Banff town and check into your hotel. Explore nearby areas – Sulphur Mountains, Banff Gondola, Vermillion Lakes, Bow Falls, and Fairmont Banff Springs. Read Banff Trip Inspiration
- Day 3 – Take the less traveled and winding Bow Valley Parkway from Banff to reach Lake Louise. If you are into hiking , stop at Johnston Canyon . Explore Lake Louise and stay there for the night. Hike in Lake Louise or canoe in the pristine waters. Stop by (or stay at) the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise for dinner!
- Day 4 & 5 – Drive to Jasper National Park from Lake Louise, taking one of the scenic routes in the Canadian Rockies; this will be a road trip to remember!
- Stay at least 2 days in Jasper to visit the town and natural attractions like Pyramid and Patricia lakes, Icefields Parkway , Athabasca Falls/Glacier, Maligne Canyon, and Sunwapta Falls, to name a few.
- Day 6 – Return to Calgary to fly out. Or explore more of Calgary.
More Day Trips from Calgary
Besides the iconic Banff and the Canadian Rockies, there are more day trip options from Calgary. Here are a few of our favorites from the past few years,
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump:
For history buffs, a trip to Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is a must. Located just two hours south of Calgary, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a glimpse into the lives of Indigenous peoples and their traditional hunting techniques.
You can also visit the nearby towns of Fort MacLeod and Lethbridge to learn more about the history and culture of the region.
Drumheller:
If you’re looking for something more adventurous, consider a trip to Drumheller, which is known as the “Dinosaur Capital of the World”. This charming town, located two hours east of Calgary, is home to the Royal Tyrrell Museum, which showcases a vast collection of dinosaur fossils.
You can also explore the unusual landscape of the Badlands and even participate in a real-life dinosaur dig.
Sylvan Lake:
Sylvan Lake , located just an hour and a half from Calgary, is another popular day trip destination. This picturesque town offers a variety of water activities such as swimming, boating, and paddleboarding on the stunning Sylvan Lake.
You can also enjoy some delicious food at one of the many lakeside restaurants or take a stroll along the quaint main street.
Sheep River Falls:
Sheep River Falls is another hidden gem, located just an hour from Calgary. This scenic waterfall offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city with its tranquil surroundings and stunning views.
Bragg Creek:
Bragg Creek , known for its charming streets and beautiful scenery, is also just an hour’s drive from Calgary. This quaint town is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
You can enjoy a short hike to the Elbow Falls and soak in the views of the cascading falls.
Read: Best day trips from Calgary Alberta
Hotels Calgary: Where to stay in the city
When planning a trip to Calgary, one of the biggest decisions you must make is where to stay. With so many diverse and unique neighborhoods, it can be overwhelming trying to narrow down your options. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
In this guide, we’ll break down some of the best neighborhoods in Calgary and recommend the top hotels in each area.
Calgary offers state-of-the-art hotels like Fairmont and Sheraton Hotels (both in Downtown Calgary). Hotel prices range from CAD$ 300+ for 5-star hotels.
There are budget Calgary hotels available, with free parking and breakfast. Hotel prices start at CAD$ 70-100+ for motels and budget styles.
Downtown Calgary
Downtown Calgary is the city’s heart, with its towering skyscrapers and bustling streets. This neighborhood is perfect for those looking to be in the center of all the action. It’s home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Calgary Tower and Stephen Avenue Walk. You’ll also find various shopping, dining, and entertainment options in this area.
Best Hotels in Downtown Calgary
- The Fairmont Palliser : This historic hotel is a landmark with its grand Victorian architecture. It’s also conveniently located near the Calgary Tower and other popular attractions.
- Hotel Le Germain Calgary : Sleek and modern, this boutique hotel offers luxurious rooms with stunning city skyline views.
- The Westin Calgary : Located in the heart of downtown, this hotel offers spacious rooms and top-notch amenities such as a rooftop pool and fitness center.
Read: Best Calgary downtown hotels with a pool
Other hotels close to Calgary downtown
- Alt Hotel Calgary East Village : Located near the Stampede grounds, this eco-friendly hotel boasts a sleek design and stunning views of the city.
- Hotel Arts Kensington : This trendy hotel offers a unique blend of art, culture, and luxury. It’s also located close to some of the best restaurants in Calgary.
Calgary International Airport Area
For travelers looking for convenience and easy access to the airport, staying in the Calgary International Airport area is a great option. This neighborhood offers a variety of hotels and is just a short drive away from downtown Calgary.
We enjoy staying near the airport during our trips.
Newer Calgary hotel options with great rooms are available in and around the airport area. It is a perfect spot for an overnight stay before heading to Banff, long-term accommodation, or group and family stays.
Best Hotels near Calgary International Airport
- Delta Hotels by Marriott Calgary Airport In-Terminal : Located right inside the airport, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and convenient amenities for travelers on the go.
- Wingate by Wyndham Calgary Airport : This hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport, as well as spacious rooms and a fitness center.
- Hampton Inn by Hilton Calgary Airport North : With modern rooms and a complimentary breakfast, this hotel is a great option for those looking for comfort and convenience near the airport. Check hotel rates here
Resources: Find the best hotels to stay in Calgary
Planning your trip to Calgary, Alberta
Calgary is a beautiful city located in the province of Alberta, Canada. When planning to visit Calgary, here are some helpful travel tips to keep in mind,
How to reach Calgary?
Calgary is well connected via roads and airways.
Nearest Calgary Airport: Calgary has an international airport. (YYC) If flying into Canada internationally, you will most likely arrive in YYC (Calgary) or YEG (Edmonton).
- By taxi – Calgary Airport to the city center is 20 minutes away.
- By transit – 30 minutes travel time, one way. Route 300 Airport-City Centre is an express bus service that connects the airport to the downtown area. Available from 05:00 am to midnight every day.
By Road : Calgary is well-connected by road from Edmonton, Canadian Rockies, and other cities in Canada like Vancouver , Toronto , etc.
Accessibility and getting around:
Calgary has an efficient public transportation system that includes buses and trains. The train network is called the C-Train and it connects all major areas of the city. It’s safe, fast and convenient. There are 2 CTrain lines in the city:
- The Red Line runs from the northwest to the south,
- and the Blue Line starts in the northwest and travels to the west.
You can purchase a day pass or pay per ride using cash or a ticket at the station.
If you prefer to drive, renting a car is also an option. Calgary roads are well-maintained and easy to navigate. You can also pick up a car rental from the airport to drive to the Rocky Mountains.
Good to know: The city of Calgary is divided into 4 quadrants: Southeast (SE), Southwest (SW), Northeast (NE), and Northwest (NW). They are numbered and laid out in a grid, especially in the downtown core. The Bow River flows eastward to the city and continues to form the South Saskatchewan River (and it joins the Oldman River in southern Alberta).
Visa Requirements:
Visitors from European nations (and certain other countries) must get an ETA before flying to Canada. It costs CAD 7 and takes a few minutes to apply online. Many international travelers, including those with Indian passports, must apply for a Canadian Tourist visa beforehand.
Citizens from the United States must have a valid passport or passport equivalent, such as a passport card or NEXUS card.
Best Time to visit Calgary:
The best time to visit Calgary is during the summer months, from June to August. September is also a good time for fall/autumn experiences, and it is an off-season, so air travel and accommodation prices are cheaper.
We have visited Calgary in almost all months of the year, and we like it during winter, too. However, weather can be quite unpredictable in winter, and you won’t be able to walk around as temperatures could drop below -15 degrees Celsius on some days in December and January.
Food in Calgary:
Calgary’s diverse population has led to many culinary options in the city. You can find everything from traditional Western Canadian cuisine to international dishes.
Remember to try some local specialties, such as Alberta beef and poutine, a classic Canadian dish made with french fries, gravy, and cheese curds.
Calgary has a wonderful coffee and cafe culture. You will also find locally owned restaurants serving a variety of foods, from baked goods to ice cream and everything in between.
Safety in Calgary:
Calgary is generally a safe city, but practicing common sense while traveling is always important. Keep your belongings close to you and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
If you need help or have any concerns, don’t hesitate to ask a local or contact the authorities. Exercise caution when traveling alone at night.
Is one day in Calgary enough?
We love Calgary and would love to live here. It is one of the most livable cities in the world for a reason. The downtown area is walkable and has trendy cafes and shopping areas.
It is possible to explore Calgary city highlights in one day. Focus on the downtown areas, relax, eat, and sightsee. You can also use this one day Calgary itinerary as a stopover before heading (or leaving) to Banff National Park.
We hope you enjoyed our 1 – 2 days itinerary and Calgary travel guide. Most people touch down in Calgary for work or to visit the Canadian Rockies. We highly recommend setting aside a day or two to enjoy this beautiful city. It has a lively nightlife, food culture, magnificent nature, and a great urban scene!
Have a great time in Calgary!
Additional Read:
- Small Towns in Alberta: Top picks for Alberta towns
- Banff Airbnbs : Stay at one of these Banff Airbnbs
- Canadian Rockies : Canadian Rockies Road Trip Guide
- Edmonton: Guide to best restaurants in Edmonton
Last Updated : 2024
Pin: One day Itinerary for Calgary Canada
Mayuri Kashyap is an Indian Canadian traveler, writer and photographer based in Alberta. She moved to Toronto as a student in 2009, and has been calling Canada home ever since. She started the blog - Canada Crossroads - to share her travel and living experiences in the Great White North!
A History graduate and an MBA, Mayuri is a destinations marketing expert. She loves traveling with her husband, Salil and soaking in experiences across Canada, India and Europe.
Similar Posts
18 Top Things to do in Waterton Lakes National Park
Waterton Lakes National Park is a place of beauty and wonder. It’s the only park in Canada that borders two countries! The landscape is diverse, with rolling prairies, lush wetlands, towering mountains, and deep canyons – it really is an adventure for all seasons. Here are the top things to do in Waterton Lakes National…
Johnston Canyon Winter Hiking Guide
Visiting Johnston Canyon in winter is a must for travelers to Banff National Park in Alberta. The canyon and surrounding areas are blanketed in snow, making it the perfect place to enjoy some outdoor activities. Imagine…..the stunning views of Johnston Canyon from a different perspective as you wander through the snow-covered trails. Read our Johnston…
15 of the Best Edmonton Photo Spots
From its stunning river valley vistas to its vibrant downtown core, Edmonton has something for every type of photographer. In this guide, we’ll be exploring some of the best Edmonton photo spots and providing helpful tips for each location. Whether you are looking for a nature shot or an urban portrait, there are plenty of…
Red Rock Canyon Waterton Park: Complete Guide
Red Rock Canyon Waterton Park is one of the most scenic and geologically rich places inside the National Park. Home to easy trails, with tons of hiking and biking opportunities to picnic tables surrounded by the gushing sounds of rivers and falls, Red Rock Canyon is a must-add to your Alberta itinerary! In this Waterton…
38 Absolute Best Things to do in Canmore in Winter for 2023-24
Looking for amazing things to do in Canmore in winter? We got you covered. Canmore is one of our absolute favorite mountain towns in the Canadian Rockies – a place we have been visiting since 2011. It is often overlooked by visitors traveling to Banff, and hence it is less crowded! Recently we spent 2…
16 Fun Things to do in Regina Saskatchewan
Regina is the capital city of the Canadian Prairie province of Saskatchewan. We lived in Saskatchewan for over 4 years, and in this post we will uncover the best things to do in Regina! 16 Things to do in Regina Saskatchewan Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. As an Airbnb and Booking Associate, we may…
So many things to do! Calgary and around looks so incredible *w*
Fab post Mayuri! I have to admit, we have never been the whole way to Calgary…we always get so excited in the Rockies that we never went the whole way to the city. It does look like a great place to stay though. I wouldn’t mind living there with such close access to the mountains!
I still need to head over to Calgary and explore the city – thanks for all the great tips!
My husband and I loved the Sulphur Mountains. This has been a perfect trip for us. We will be coming back soon.
Leave a Reply Cancel reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
11 Epic Things to Do in Calgary (Perfect First Time Visit)
Things to do in calgary: the 11 best places to visit (all highlights).
You want to visit Calgary during your next trip?
Great idea!
Perched between the majestic Canadian Rockies and sprawling prairies, Calgary makes for a fantastic starting point to visit the national parks of Banff and Jasper . So, if you’re planning an itinerary through western Canada , make sure to put Calgary on the map!
In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this guide of the 11 best things to do in Calgary , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.
In addition to my list of things to do and activities, I will also give you optimized itineraries to visit Calgary in 1, 2, or 3 days as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.
So, what are the best things to do in Calgary? Where to stay?
1. The Calgary Tower
2. glenbow museum, 3. kensington village, 4. heritage park historical village, 5. st. patrick’s island, 6. the calgary zoo, 7. canada olympic park, 8. the calgary stampede, 9. dinosaur provincial park and the royal tyrrell museum, 10. banff and jasper national parks, 11. waterton lakes national park, how many days to visit calgary, one day in calgary, 2 days in calgary, 3 days in calgary, where to stay in calgary, where to eat in calgary, how to get to calgary, tourist map of calgary, you’re traveling in canada these articles will help you, visit calgary: all must-see attractions.
If you’re planning to visit Calgary as part of a Canadian tour spanning several days or weeks, I’ve prepared detailed itineraries that include a city visit .
You’ll find day-by-day steps and my hotel suggestions for each spot. Just click on the orange links below:
- Itinerary : 10 days in Canada : All my advice to plan your 10-day trip to Canada!
- Itinerary : 2 weeks in Canada : Explore Western Canada in 15 days.
- Itinerary : 3 Weeks in Canada : A step-by-step adventure through Western and Eastern Canada for 21 days
They’ll make planning your trip super easy!
And if you have any questions, please feel free to post them in the comments at the end of the article. I will gladly help you organize your stay.
The Calgary Tower is the city’s main attraction . To the locals, it’s more than just a landmark; it’s the very symbol of Calgary.
From the top of the tower, which soars 190 meters into the sky, you can access a 360° panoramic platform and enjoy a stunning view over Calgary, the Rockies and the prairies . The Calgary Tower also features a glass floor —perfect for a little thrill!
As in the observation towers of Vancouver and Toronto , you’ll find a revolving restaurant at the top where you can savor an excellent meal while admiring the view. The SKY 360 completes a full rotation in 60 minutes for dinner or in 45 minutes at lunchtime.
You’ll also find another restaurant, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, on the tower’s second floor. It’s known for serving up some tasty meats. So, meat lovers, take note!
To visit the Calgary Tower , I recommend buying your skip-the-line ticket in advance to avoid waiting in line. Just click on the green button below :
Located downtown, the Glenbow Museum is Calgary’s main museum. This museum is all about delving into the captivating history of the city and the Alberta region .
With its collection of nearly 33,000 works of art dating from the 19 th century to the present, it’s the largest art museum in Western Canada ! Its collection of artifacts related to the First Nations is truly impressive, making it a great opportunity to learn more about the lifestyle of the plains Indigenous peoples !
The museum is really well organized, with a visit taking between 2 and 3 hours .
In the museum’s library , you’ll also have access to numerous documents, books, and brochures outlining the history of Western Canada .
Plan your visit to the Glenbow Museum by checking out its official website .
For me, Kensington Village is the coolest neighborhood in Calgary. It’s entirely pedestrian, allowing for peaceful and relaxing strolls!
There, you’ll find a slew of unique boutiques for a bit of shopping and a ton of cafés and great restaurants . Now you know where to go for a foodie break in Calgary !
And if you’re in the mood for more shopping in Calgary, check out 17th Avenue, Stephen Avenue, or the CORE Shopping Centre , Calgary’s only shopping mall. The mall even houses an indoor tropical garden with fish-filled ponds, fountains, and tropical plants. Quite a surprise in the heart of Western Canada!
To visit Calgary and gain insights into the various districts and monuments , I recommend booking a guided tour . You can choose from (click the orange links to book):
- A 2-hour guided walking tour of downtown Calgary
- A 3-hour guided bus tour , perfect for exploring many of Calgary’s tourist attractions like the City Hall, Zoo, East Village, Heritage Park, and the Olympic Park.
Heritage Park is a major tourist hotspot that’s a must-do when you’re tripping around Calgary .
At this 51-hectare park, you’ll dive headfirst into a typical Western Canadian town from the last century. From a blacksmith’s forge to a bakery, a school, a church, and a bunch of other little shops brought to life by costumed actors, you’ll find it all here. It’s the perfect place to learn a bunch of interesting facts about life back then .
Incredibly, some of these buildings are authentic , and they were brought there to be preserved. So, these aren’t just any old replicas.
At the park, you can also ride on a genuine steam locomotive , or, for that Tom Sawyer vibe, try a paddle steamer . It’s a great family activity to do in Calgary.
You’ll need at least 2 hours to explore as the park is quite expansive.
Start planning your Heritage Park visit now by buying your entrance ticket via the green button below. It covers access to all attractions, exhibitions, rides, and train and boat tours.
St. Patrick’s Island sits right in the heart of downtown Calgary , nestled in the middle of the Bow River.
The island is the oldest city park . It went through a complete makeover in 2015, transforming it into a top tourist spot in Calgary. It’s also quite a hit with the locals. A new bridge even lets you get there directly from the East Village .
On the island, you’ll find bike trails for cycling, walking trails , a playground for kids, a picnic area, and even a beach for a quick dip . The island also includes an amphitheatre and a man-made 9-meter high hill specifically built for admiring the view over Calgary.
It’s truly the perfect spot to take a stroll in Calgary when you’re craving a break from the urban hustle and bustle.
St. Patrick’s Island hosts a load of events and festivals throughout the seasons. They even arrange outdoor film screenings !
You’re going to Calgary?
You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!
And that’s even worse in big touristic cities like Calgary 😅.
The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Calgary on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!
Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!
So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Calgary.
And if you see a good offer, book it!
Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.
To check the current best deals for your hotel in Calgary, simply click on the green button below 😎:
Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Calgary!
The Calgary Zoo is a must-see, especially if you’ve chosen to visit Calgary with family .
It’s home to about 1,000 animals from around the world , including hippos, giraffes, lemurs, grizzlies, and gorillas. Of course, a part of the zoo is dedicated to Canadian animals like bears, wolves, and cougars.
You’ll also discover a botanical garden and a dinosaur-themed prehistoric park , which is quite a sight to behold.
With its vast collection of animals and well-structured layout, the zoo makes for a fantastic afternoon out with your kids.
And guess what? The zoo also houses 4 giant pandas !
If you’re keen on visiting the Calgary Zoo, you can find all the information on the official website .
The Canada Olympic Park is located to the west of the city. This is where the 1988 Winter Olympics took place.
Today, the park still serves as a training ground for future Olympic champions , and you can tour the facilities . Even better, you can try out a few of them!
On the agenda, you can experience a bobsleigh ride on the same track where the famous Jamaican team crashed – a story that inspired the movie Cool Runnings.
Or how about a thrilling zipline descent from a ski jump? It’s the fastest and longest in North America !
In winter , the park transforms into a ski resort , complete with toboggan runs, snow rafting, and ice hockey.
The Canada Olympic Park also houses a Canadian Sports Hall of Fame , a place that celebrates Canadian athletes and their achievements through interactive exhibits.
Find the list of all the activities you can do on the official website .
The Calgary Stampede is one of the largest festivals held in Canada each year . Drawing over a million visitors annually, it’s become a major tourist attraction in Calgary.
During this 10-day festival held every July , you’ll mainly get to watch rodeos , but there are also parades, barrel racing, performances, and country music concerts . Every morning, you can also enjoy a free pancake breakfast served at various stands throughout the city.
Don’t miss a spin at the Midway fair , where you can try the rides and the Ferris wheel.
And that’s not all! By the banks of the Bow River, you can explore the fascinating history of the First Nations through a meticulously recreated village, complete with traditional tipis .
Time to put on your cowboy hat and explore the West!
The Stampede park, where the festival takes place, is open all year round.
Guided tours are arranged to explore the permanent facilities.
The tour lasts 2 hours, and you can book it online by clicking here !
Best things to do around Calgary
Once you’ve explored the city, it’s time to extend your Canadian adventure by visiting the surroundings of Calgary .
To ensure you don’t miss a thing, I’ve compiled my list of places to see around Calgary .
Though it’s about a 2.5-hour drive from Calgary, I’d urge you to take some time out to visit Dinosaur Provincial Park .
The park is nestled in the Badlands , a rugged and barren landscape located southeast of Calgary . The Badlands are famous as the world’s largest dinosaur fossil graveyard and have rightfully earned their UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Over 500 specimens from 35 different species, dating back to 75 million years, have been discovered here.
Inside the park, you’ll find dinosaur exhibits and can even check out the fossils unearthed on site . It’s also a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the region’s geology and the unique conditions that have preserved these precious relics from ancient times.
The park’s sprawling expanse is serviced by minibus tours to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
You can also hike to take in the stunning landscapes .
To top off your visit, swing by the Royal Tyrrell Museum, a museum dedicated to paleontology. You’ll find it in Drumheller, about a 90-minute drive from Calgary . Around forty complete dinosaur skeletons are on display. The museum is truly fantastic and very well put together!
All the information for your visit can be found on the park’s official website and the museum’s website .
As I mentioned before, Calgary is often just a pit stop on a Canadian journey before going to visit Banff and Jasper National Parks .
The city is just an hour’s drive from the entrance to Banff National Park , making it the perfect base camp.
Banff National Park is famed for its gorgeous natural landscapes and super photogenic, stunningly colored lakes ! It’s the perfect opportunity for some breathtaking nature hikes.
Next, you can take the Glacier Highway to get to Jasper Park , which is every bit as stunning as Banff.
This national park is located a 2.5-hour drive south of Calgary in Alberta. It is home to mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and canyons .
Among the sites to see and activities you’ll find:
- The Prince of Wales Hotel , built in 1926. It is nowadays a national historic site
- A cruise on Upper Waterton Lake.
- Cameron Falls
- Red Rock Canyon , known for its vivid red and green minerals.
- Panoramic routes – Red Rock Parkway and Akamina Parkway are the most famous.
- Numerous hikes suitable for all levels.
Departing from Calgary, you can book a full-day excursion with transportation included to the national park, featuring a guided tour.
Two days are enough to take in the main sights of Calgary.
On the third day, you can hit the road to reach the most famous national parks in Western Canada.
To visit Calgary in a day , try the following itinerary :
- A visit to the Glenbow Museum to learn about the First Nations.
- Climb up the Calgary Tower (tickets available here!) .
- Lunch break
- Explore the Heritage Park Historical Village .
- Finish off the afternoon with shopping and dinner in Kensington Village .
To visit Calgary in two days , I’d recommend following the one-day itinerary and adding:
- A visit to Dinosaur Provincial Park.
- Discover the Royal Tyrrell Museum on your way back
- If you have a little time to spare, take a stroll on St. Patrick’s Island in the late afternoon.
As you may have noticed, you can easily cover the must-sees of Calgary in just 2 days . For your third day, why not embark on a journey to explore the beautiful surroundings of Calgary and its region by taking the path to Banff National Park ?
If you have time, on the route between Calgary and the park, I recommend you stop at the Olympic Park to try out the bobsleigh run!
- Wicked Hostels : This youth hostel is located opposite the Calgary Stampede. Bunk in a dorm from €25, breakfast included. Strong points: the central location, the full breakfast, the warm atmosphere, and free laundry. This is a fantastic budget-friendly accommodation choice in Calgary !
- Coast Calgary Downtown Hotel & Suites by APA : Located right in the city center, 900m from Calgary Tower. Cozy and comfortable studio with kitchen from €130 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the central location, the full breakfast, the cleanliness. It’s my favorite for its value for money in Calgary !
- Grey Eagle Resort : Located a 10-minute drive from the city center. Modern and comfortable double room starting at €160 per night. Strong points: the indoor swimming pool, the room size, the hospitality.
- Residence Inn by Marriott Calgary Downtown/Beltline District : Located 800m from the tower. Modern, spacious, and fully decorated studio with kitchen, from €210, breakfast included. Strong points: the abundant breakfast, the view from the rooms, the location.
- Hôtel Le Germain : The hotel is located right opposite the Calgary Tower, ideal for exploring the city on foot. Modern and spacious double room from €250 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: exceptional hotel with attentive staff, delicious breakfast, comfortable rooms, the size of the bathrooms. The best hotel in Calgary for a luxury stay !
- River Café : Restaurant located on Prince Island Park. It was voted among the top 100 restaurants in Canada in 2017! The dishes are delicious and really well presented. During the summer, you’ll have the delightful option of dining on the terrace overlooking the water, surrounded by a charming ambiance. Reservation recommended.
- Cactus Club Café : Located slightly away from the city center, on 39 th Avenue. If you love burgers, this is the ideal place, they are simply delicious.
- Ten Foot Henry : Located 200 meters from the Glenbow Museum. The dishes are not only delicious but also of outstanding quality. The warm and inviting atmosphere, along with the charming decor, makes for a delightful dining experience. Besides, the prices are very reasonable for Canada. Be sure to book and secure your seats in advance to ensure availability.
Calgary has an international airport , so you can choose to land there directly.
If you are already in Canada, you can also opt to take a domestic flight from Vancouver (1h35 flight) or Montreal (4h30 flight) for instance.
By car, it takes at least a 3-hour drive to reach Calgary from Edmonton, a 10-hour drive from Vancouver, and a 37-hour drive from Montreal!
Since flight prices to Calgary can vary enormously, it’s a good idea to compare them as early as possible. For this, you can use our flight comparison tool, in partnership with Skyscanner. This ensures you get the best price. Once on the results page, don’t hesitate to compare several websites to make sure no fees are added to the final prices.
To give you a better idea of the city’s layout, I’ve created a tourist map of Calgary, with all the best things to do and must-see attractions.
You can display the map’s legend by clicking the button with a small arrow located in the top left corner.
And now I’m curious, what exciting plans do you have in store for exploring Calgary? Share your thoughts in the comments! Safe travels and happy adventures!
Discover all my articles about Canada : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Canada are listed there.
- 20 Best Things to do in Canada
- 20 Best Things to do in Quebec – All best places to visit in the French-speaking province!
- Itinerary: One week in Canada: The perfect itinerary to visit Canada in 6, 7 or 8 days!
- Itinerary: 10 days in Canada: All my best tips for organizing your 10-day trip to Canada
- Itinerary: 2 weeks in Canada: How to visit Western Canada in 15 days.
- Itinerary: 3 weeks in Canada: My epic itinerary to visit Western and Eastern Canada in 21 days
- Itinerary: 1 month in Canada: How to visit Eastern Canada in a month!
- Itinerary: One week in Quebec: How to visit Quebec in 6, 7 or 8 days, with all my best tips!
- Itinerary: 10 days in Quebec: An amazing 10-day itinerary in Quebec
- Itinerary: 2 weeks in Quebec: All my best tips to visit Quebec in 14, 15 or 16 days
- Itinerary: 3 weeks in Quebec: the perfect 3-week road trip in Quebec !
- Road trip in Canada: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month
- Road trip in Quebec: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15 and 21 days
- Calgary : Top 11 things to do during your visit
- Montreal : 33 best things to see and do
- Ottawa : 15 epic places to visit
- Quebec City : Top 17 things to do and see
- Toronto : The 17 things to do during your stay
- Vancouver : Top 25 places to visit and activities
- Toronto in 3 days – The perfect itinerary to visit the city in 72 hours!
You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!
Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.
Related Stories
2 days in Los Angeles: the Epic Itinerary + tips
3 days in Los Angeles: the perfect Itinerary + tips
Where to stay in New York? The best areas and places to stay
Leave a reply cancel reply.
Your Name (required)
Your Email (required)
Your Website (optional)
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
- Middle East
- North America
- Cheap car rentals: my best advice
- Back to Homepage
Nomadic Matt's Travel Site
Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer
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
Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.
- Where To Stay
- Transportation
- Booking Resources
- Related Blogs
2 days in Calgary itinerary: Places to go in Calgary for 2 to 5 days
Love it? Share it!
Welcome to Calgary! This city is more than a gateway to the Canadian Rockies and is full of exciting things to do, see, and experience that will make your trip unforgettable. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or relaxing getaways, there’s something for everyone in this bustling urban hub. In this post, we will share the perfect 2 days in Calgary itinerary, with day trip ideas and travel tips!
Our very first trip to Calgary was in the summer of 2011, and once moving to Alberta we often visit a few times in a year! Hahaha…. We love the restaurants and downtown area so much!
But there is more….from the world-class ski runs at Canada Olympic Park to the historic Heritage Park Historical Village, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy during your visit. Plus, with its delicious cuisine and lively nightlife scene, the possibilities are endless in Calgary.
2 days in Calgary Itinerary: Places to go in Calgary Alberta + nearby
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Calgary is a vibrant city located in the province of Alberta in Canada. A city that’s bustling with activities, opportunities, and life.
While many people visit Calgary for work or to travel to the Canadian Rockies, I have found it to be the perfect destination for a vacation with its exciting nightlife, diverse food scene, breathtaking nature, bustling urban environment, and beautiful moonlit nights.
Here is a quick look at what you can explore in 2 days in Calgary itinerary
Calgary Itinerary 2 days
- Day 1 of the 2 days in Calgary itinerary: Fort Calgary, Calgary Downtown, Calgary Tower, Stephen Avenue Walk, Eau Claire Park, Calgary RiverWalk, Peace Bridge, Kensington neighborhood
- Day 2 of the 2 days in Calgary itinerary: Heritage Park Historical Village, Olympic Park, Calgary Zoo, Food tour, Scotsman’s Hill
Keep reading for your ultimate Calgary guide!
Planning a trip to Calgary for 2 to 5 days: Guide to Calgary Alberta
❤︎ Getting to Calgary:
Getting to Calgary can be done in several ways, depending on your budget and preferences. The most popular route is by air, as the city has a major international airport with multiple daily flights from cities all over the world.
Nearest Airport: Calgary has an international airport, so most likely you will be arriving at YYC (Calgary) or YEG (Edmonton) if flying into Canada internationally
By Road : Calgary is well-connected by road from most Canadian cities including the capital city of Alberta – Edmonton
Visa Requirements: It’s important to note that visitors who do not have citizenship or permanent residency in Canada may need to apply for a travel visa before embarking on their trip.
Travel Documents: Visitors from European nations (and certain other countries) have to get an eTA before flying to Canada . It costs CAD $7 and takes a few minutes to apply online. It is valid for 5 years or until your passport expires.
Get a free quote for Safety Wing Travel Insurance
❤︎ Exploring Calgary:
Once in Calgary, getting around town is easy and convenient with several options available. The city’s public transit system includes buses, light rail, and commuter trains that can get visitors to any destination quickly and safely.
Accessibility: Bus service and LRT are very good in Calgary. It’s safe, fast, and convenient. Alternatively, there are also plenty of taxi and car rental services available.
For visitors looking to explore Calgary’s vibrant downtown area, walking is the way to go. With its wide sidewalks and numerous attractions, it’s easy to get around on foot and take in all that the city has to offer.
For those who prefer a more scenic approach, cycling is another great option with plenty of bike trails available throughout the city.
If you plan on traveling outside the city, renting a car is your best bet. With its highways and intercity roads, it’s possible to travel to neighboring towns like Banff or Canmore with ease.
Reserve Car Rental: Prepare Ahead
If you need a car rental, we recommend comparing and checking prices on Discovercars.com to book yours.
Plus, there are numerous car rental agencies located throughout Calgary making it easy for travelers to pick up a vehicle of choice.
❤︎ Where to stay in Calgary:
When it comes to accommodation in Calgary, there are lots of choices that cater to a variety of budgets and preferences.
The downtown area is the perfect place for those who want to experience the hustle and bustle of city life, while airport hotels provide great convenience after a long flight and perks like free parking and access to the mountains quickly!
Calgary offers state-of-the-art hotels like Fairmont, and Sheraton Hotels (both in Downtown Calgary). Hotel prices range from CAD$ 300+ for 5-star hotels.
There are budget hotels also available, with free parking and breakfast. Hotel prices start at CAD$ 70-100+ for motels and budget styles.
No matter where you choose to stay, you’re sure to find something that will make your stay in Calgary memorable. Our top favorites are below:
The Westin Calgary
For those looking to explore downtown, the first recommendation is the Westin Calgary . Located in the heart of the city, this modern hotel offers spacious rooms and suites with a range of amenities. There is a pool and a spa onsite.
Plus, it’s just minutes away from some of Calgary’s most famous attractions including the Calgary Tower and Stephen Avenue Walk.
✅ Check prices and book your stay at the Westin Calgary by clicking here
Fairmont Palliser
Another great option for Calgary downtown is the Fairmont Palliser . With its prime location close to major attractions like the Calgary Tower, it’s perfect for those wanting to experience all that the city has to offer.
And its luxurious facilities and amenities make it one of the most popular hotels in town.
✅ Check prices and book your stay at the Fairmont Palliser by clicking here
Read: Best hotels in Calgary downtown
Residence Inn by Marriott Calgary Airport
For travelers arriving by air, there are several airport hotels to choose from. The Residence Inn by Marriott is a great option for airport travelers.
Boasting large rooms and plenty of amenities, this hotel is perfect for those who want to relax after a long flight.
Plus, its free parking is great if you are renting a car!
✅ Check prices and book your stay at the Residence Inn by clicking here
Hampton Inn
The Hampton Inn is one of the top choices, as it’s located within a short distance from the Calgary International Airport.
With its modern amenities, this hotel is perfect for those who want convenience without sacrificing comfort.
✅ Check prices and book your stay at the Hampton Inn by clicking here
Tip : Newer hotels with great rooms are in and around the airport area. Find the best hotels to stay in Calgary
Day 1 of the 2 days in Calgary itinerary: Fort Calgary, Calgary Downtown, Calgary Tower, Stephen Avenue Walk, Eau Claire Park, RiverWalk, Kensington neighborhood
If you arrive in Calgary the night before, then kickstart your Calgary itinerary in the East Village neighborhood.
Grab some coffee and baked goodies from Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters, or Sidewalk Citizen Bakery (both located at the Simmons Building), and then go sightseeing!
Fort Calgary
Fort Calgary National Historic Site is the birthplace of the city of Calgary. It is the site where the North West Mounted Police (now known as the Royal Canadian Mounted Police) built a fort at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow Rivers.
This site is filled with history and a great visit, if you wish to know more about Calgary’s past.
The purpose of the fort was to provide law and order in Western Canada, but it also became a hub for trade, commerce, culture, and exploration.
Today, you can see a replica of the 1888 fort, and learn more about its history. There are several buildings on the grounds, including barracks, a museum, a gift shop, and craft workshops.
The site also features interactive exhibits that tell stories of the fort’s past (Fireside Stories).
For those who wish to explore further, Fort Calgary offers a variety of guided tours. These range from historical walking tours to self-guided audio tours, allowing visitors to learn more about this amazing site.
Fort Calgary is a great place to visit if you’re looking for an educational and fun day out. You can easily spend 2-3 hours here.
- Website : Fort Calgary
- Address : 750 – 9th Avenue SE Calgary, Alberta, T2G 5E1
- Price: $10 CAD per adult
Downtown Calgary Attractions
A vibrant downtown, Calgary has lots to offer. Tall buildings, shopping, amazing restaurants and cafes, and most importantly nature and parks within the downtown core.
When visiting downtown Calgary, there are plenty of things to see and do.
Read: Get the ultimate things to do in Calgary downtown here
Here’s a look at some of the highlights in the downtown area:
The Glenbow Museum is a great place to start your visit. This museum features an impressive collection of cultural and historical artifacts from around the world. Plus, there are also interactive exhibits that allow visitors to gain a deeper insight into the history of Calgary and of Indigenous Peoples.
For those looking for outdoor activities, Eau Claire Market Park is a great option. Located near the Bow River in downtown Calgary, this park features several trails for walking as well as plenty of green space for picnics and games.
The park pictured above is Eau Claire Market Park.
Shoppers will find plenty to love in downtown Calgary as well. The CORE Shopping Mall is one of the city’s popular shopping malls with a beautiful Devonian Garden and a food court.
If you prefer a walking tour, here is a 2 hour introductory tour of Calgary Tower. Click to check it out here
Now, one of the primary landmarks in Calgary downtown is the Calgary Tower, and we highly recommend spending a few hours here (including lunch, if you prefer).
Calgary Tower
The iconic Calgary Tower is one of the city’s must-see attractions. This 190.8-meter tall structure offers amazing views of the city skyline from its observation deck, and it’s also a great spot for taking pictures or watching sunsets.
There is an entry fee to visit the observation tower which also has a glass floor! The ground floor has a souvenir store and informative exhibits – this part of the Calgary Tower is free to enter and explore.
The glass floor is a fun addition and is perfect to see the city from above. We also planned a pre-Christmas dinner date at the Calgary Tower and loved the experience.
When you reserve a table at Sky 360 at the Calgary Tower , you can access the tower top for free, enjoy your meal and soak in those amazing views!
A meal for two will be around $100 CAD (two entrees and drinks).
- Website : Calgary Tower
- Address: 101 9 Ave SW, Calgary, AB
- Price : $19 CAD per adult
✅ Click to buy an admission ticket for the Calgary Tower by clicking here
We rate this tower – a must-visit, because of the amazing views of the city of Calgary.
Stephen Ave Walk
Whenever we visit Calgary, we look forward to taking a stroll on Stephen Avenue Walk. Every time we have visited, there are tons of activities going on, on this street.
I so love its vibe and energy!
This pedestrian street is located in the heart of the city’s downtown core, and it’s packed with shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Here’s what you can expect when visiting this popular destination:
The first thing you will notice is the array of unique boutiques and stores. From clothing and jewelry to books, art, music, and more, there’s something for everyone in Stephen Avenue Walk. Plus, most of the businesses are independently owned and operated, giving shoppers a chance to support local entrepreneurs.
The street is also lined with restaurants offering up dishes from all over the world. Whether you’re craving Italian, Mexican, Indian, or something else entirely, you’ll be sure to find what you’re looking for in Stephen Avenue Walk.
As you stroll along, you can see little bits of history and historical facts jotted on different pillars.
Throughout the year, Stephen Avenue Walk also hosts a variety of special events and festivals. From art shows to farmers’ markets and outdoor movies, this vibrant street is always buzzing with activity.
- Price: Free
Studio Bell
Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre in Calgary, is one of the city’s premier cultural attractions. Located in East Village, this five-story building celebrates music and its history with a variety of interactive exhibits and collections.
Here’s what you can expect when visiting Studio Bell: The first thing you’ll notice is the stunning building itself.
Designed by Canadian architect Brad Cloepfil, the structure is both modern and eye-catching.
Inside, the five floors are filled with interactive exhibits that let visitors explore music from around the world.
The Studio Bell Music Gallery is a must-see, featuring instruments from different eras and cultures. This collection includes everything from guitars to wind instruments to drums and more, giving visitors the chance to experience music from around the world.
You can also learn more about some of Canada’s greatest musicians and their accomplishments (through exhibitions and guided tours such as the Behind-the-Glass guided tour or a Backstage Pass guided tour).
- Website : Studio Bell
- Address: 850 4 St. SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0L8
- Price : $18 CAD per adult
Calgary Riverwalk | Peace Bridge (evening)
From the East Village Neighborhood make your way to Calgary Riverwalk. This scenic route takes you along the Bow River, offering breathtaking views of downtown Calgary and some of its most iconic landmarks.
East Village is very pedestrian friendly, and the Riverwalk is also good for cycling.
The Riverwalk path is also very well-maintained, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll. As you walk, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery and the flowing waters of the Bow River. You can expect to see plenty of wildlife such as ducks, geese, and other birds along your journey too.
Along the way, you’ll come across several food trucks in the summer.
As you walk along the path, plan to get to the Peace Bridge, a stunning reddish-orange pedestrian bridge that spans across the Bow River. This will bring you to the neighborhood of Kensington where you will have dinner!
Kensington is a great location for grabbing coffee or taking a walk by the river since it provides quick access to both the Peace Bridge and Prince’s Island Park.
Kensington Neighbourhood (for dinner)
Finally, no trip to downtown Calgary would be complete without visiting one of the many restaurants and bars located in the area.
Located to the north of the Bow River and known for being one of the most pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods in Calgary, Kensington is home to historic buildings, local shops, and eateries!
This is perfect for dinner and drinks after a busy day of sightseeing!
Day 2 of the 2 Days in Calgary itinerary: Heritage Park Historical Village, Olympic Park, Calgary Zoo, Food tour, Scotsmen Hill view
Kickstart your day 2 in Calgary with breakfast in a nice cafe. If you are staying Downtown opt for GoodEarth Coffee, or Chocoland Cafe, or hit Kensington again and grab a latte at the Analog or Monogram Coffee!
When staying by the airport, you will most likely have free breakfast included!
Now for day 2, we recommend this 3-hour bus tour (we took a similar tour years ago when we visited Calgary without a car). This 3-hour sightseeing tour takes you to the Heritage Park and the Olympic Park.
✅ Click to book this 3-hour sightseeing tour by clicking here
If you have access to a car, you can skip the bus tour, and visit on your own!
Heritage Park
Heritage Park Historical Village is a living history museum and park in Calgary. This heritage park is one of the most visited sites in Canada. Many of the buildings are historical and were transported and preserved in the park.
My personal favorite was the Gasoline museum and the train stations – it does take you to the 1960s. Certain buildings and amusement buildings are re-creations.
Imagine, being welcomed by people in historic costumes, and antique automobiles including horse-drawn vehicles. That’s the Heritage Park for you – educational, yet fun.
In this park, you can also learn about the history of Indigenous people and the Hudson’s Bay Company. There are tapis and other items like cookware, fur, cots, etc. on display.
You can expect to spend around 3-5 hours here. They are open every day from 10:00 am to 05:00 pm. There are educational and cultural events available at Heritage Park.
- Website : Heritage Park of Calgary
- Address: 1900 Heritage Dr. SW, Calgary, AB T2V 2X3
- Price : $34.95 CAD per adult for single-day admission. You can also purchase a 2 day or summer or annual pass at discounted prices
✅ Click to buy an admission ticket for the Heritage Park by clicking here
Olympic Park
Canada Olympic Park in Calgary was the site of the 1988 Winter Olympics. Currently, the area is operated by WinSport and they conduct ski and zip-lining courses.
Canada Olympic Park is a popular place for people looking to go skiing without driving out to the mountains.
If you are short on time and just want to see the site, you can pay a quick visit and get pictures taken by the outside complex that has all international flags from Olympics participants.
While you approach the site, the ski lifts are visible from a distance, making it a great spectacle to look at!
- Website : Olympic Park (Winsport)
- Address : 88 Canada Olympic Road SW Calgary, AB T3B 5R5
- Price : Starts $26 CAD per adult for single day admission. You can purchase a 2 day or summer or annual pass at discounted prices (ranges from $499+)
3 hour food tour
Alberta has seven signature products – bison, beef, canola, honey, Saskatoon berries, and root vegetables. and Red Fife Wheat. So it will be a great idea to book a Food Tour to experience the local delicacies.
Several food tours feature those unique products. Food tours last 3 – 3.5 hours and involve walking 4 to 16 blocks. You can also join a walking food tour in a market such as the Calgary Farmer’s Market.
Price: CAD 65+ per person. Some of the popular tours are listed below
- Calgary Farmer’s Market Food Tour
- Guided Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting and Transfers
- Street Art & Craft Beer Walking Tour with Tasting
Scotsman’s Hill for views + Dining
When the sun goes down, some of Calgary’s best bars and nightclubs come alive. Here, you can experience live music from both local and international artists. Plus, there are plenty of pubs and lounges for those looking for a more laid-back evening.
Or you can hit Scotsman’s Hill for epic city views. This is one of the best places to view Calgary’s iconic skyline with the Saddledome and other buildings – perfect for summer picnics or sunset strolls.
Other things to do and add to your Calgary Itinerary 2 to 5 days
Here are some additional things that you can swap with or add to your Calgary Itinerary. We have also included some seasonal activities,
Calgary Stampede
Let us start with the obvious, Calgary Stampede. The Calgary Stampede is an annual event that occurs every July in Calgary . It’s a ten-day rodeo, exhibition, and festival that attracts millions of visitors every year.
This event dates back to the 19th century and now the area even hosts a museum, market, and exhibition. The museum can be visited all year round.
- Website : Calgary Stampede
- Address: 1410 Olympic Way SE Calgary, AB
- Price: Varies as per events, and packages. Typically, $18
The Saddledome
Scotiabank Saddledome is an indoor arena, which is also home to the Calgary Flames of the NHL. It is located in Stampede Park in the southeast end of downtown Calgary.
The Saddledome is best viewed from the Calgary Tower. Inside the Saddledome, there are restaurants and it also hosts events other than sports.
- Address : 555 – Saddledome Rise S.E. Calgary, Alberta
- Price: Variable (tickets available at Ticketmaster )
Riverfront & Segway Tours
A wonderful way to experience the riverfront of Calgary is to take a segway tour.
The River Valley Adventure group located in the Riverfront area, provides training and conducts the segway tours in the river-valley area. It’s a fun way to explore the city.
- Website : River Valley Segway Tours
- Address: Sien Lok Park Riverfront Ave & 1st Street, SW Calgary AB
- Price: Starts at $60+
Telus Spark Science Museum
Telus Spark in Calgary is an interactive science center that offers something for the whole family. This vibrant learning center features a wide range of hands-on exhibits and activities designed to spark curiosity and inspire people of all ages to explore the world around them.
There are both permanent and temporary exhibitions offered at Telus Spark, including a collection of interactive displays. You can learn about robotics, genetics, and more!
In addition to exhibits, Telus Spark also offers a variety of special programs and activities for visitors of all ages. These include workshops on astronomy, green energy, and coding, as well as family-friendly performances.
Adults can enjoy programs such as Spark after Dark at the science center. Plus, there are also special events held throughout the year such as holiday activities and science camps.
- Website : Telus Spark
- Address: 220 Saint George’s Drive Northeast, Calgary, AB T2E 5T2
- Price: Starts at $26
Calgary Zoo
Located in Bridgeland, Calgary Zoo is home to over 100 species of animals including lions, tigers, bears, giraffes, and more.
Visitors can take part in a variety of educational programs and activities such as guided tours, safe animal encounters, and learning stations.
You will also find plenty of places to eat and shop within the zoo grounds. Calgary Zoo is accessible via public transportation.
- Website : Calgary Zoo
- Address: 210 Saint George’s Drive NE, Calgary, AB T2E 7V6
- Price: $34.95 CAD per adult
Calgary New Central Library
The Central Library in Calgary is an incredible building and is home to over 450,000 books from different genres. This modern library, located in the downtown core features an oval shape and a huge central atrium lit with a skylight.
Stop by the building to admire its architecture, and if you have time on your hands do step inside and check out the library interiors.
- Website : Central Library
- Address: 800 3 St SE, Calgary, AB T2G 2E7
Calgary 2 day Itinerary Sightseeing Map + Travel Guide
Where to eat for your 2 day calgary itinerary.
When it comes to food, Calgary won’t disappoint you – from traditional Canadian dishes to international flavors, the options are plentiful.
Whether you’re looking for something casual or a fine dining experience, there’s sure to be something that will tantalize your taste buds.
International cuisines
For those seeking a more casual atmosphere, one of the best options is the eclectic Calgary street food scene.
Here, you’ll find a mix of global flavors from all corners of the world, including Mexican tacos, Greek gyros and Indian curries. Plus, many vendors offer vegan or vegetarian options as well.
Favorite restaurants for international cuisine:
- Cinnamon Indian Cuisine & Bar
- Gate of India Fine Indian Cuisine
- The Moose and Poncho (Mexican)
- Teatro Ristorante (Italian)
- Pathway Burgers and Momo
Canadian and pub fare
If you’re in search of classic Canadian cuisine, there are plenty of options as well.
- Chairman’s Steakhouse
- O’sullivan’s Restaurant & Bar
- Modern Steak Kensington
Coffee shops, sweets and bakeries
Finally, for those with a sweet tooth, Calgary has plenty of dessert options to choose from.
Top Picks (Cafes + Bakeries):
- Sidewalk Citizen Bakery
- Eclair de Lune, Patisserie & Catering
- Crave Cookies and Cupcakes
- Higher Ground Cafe
Day trips from Calgary Alberta Canada
When visiting Calgary, there are plenty of great day trips to take. From tranquil parks to bustling towns, the area around Calgary offers some amazing sights and experiences.
Here’s a look at some popular destinations:
Fish Creek Provincial Park
Fish Creek Provincial Park is one of the largest urban parks in Western Canada. Covering over 13 square kilometers, this park is full of trails and natural beauty. The park is great for hiking (even in winter), summer picnics, biking, and bird-watching.
Drive from Calgary : 25 minutes
Drumhellar Provincial Park
Drumheller Provincial Park is another great spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Located near the town of Drumheller, this park features stunning badlands scenery, hoodoos, and plenty of wildlife.
Don’t miss the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology while you are there. Here is a full guide to visiting Drumheller from Calgary .
You can also book a day tour from Calgary to Drumhellar and the Badlands
Drive from Calgary : 1 hour 50 minutes
Cochrane
Cochrane is a great destination for anyone looking for an authentic small-town experience. Here, you’ll find quaint cafes and boutiques as well as plenty of outdoor activities like fishing and hiking.
You can also visit the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary, and join a guided tour to learn about wolfdogs.
Drive from Calgary : 30 minutes
Sheep River Falls
Located in the Kananaskis Country is the Sheep River Provincial Park! This provincial park straddles the Rockies to the west, and the foothills to the east, and here you will find the Sheep river falls.
Perfect for a nice day trip from Calgary, the area is popular for hikes and walks and perfect for summer.
Drive from Calgary : 1 hour 20 minutes
Gateway to the Canadian Rockies | Canmore, Banff, and Lake Louise | Rocky Mountains
And of course, when in Calgary, the Rockies are closer than you think. You can drive an hour or so to reach the beautiful Canadian Rockies.
I envy Calgarians for this – they have a heavenly detox right at their door-step – a perfect weekend getaway, nature therapy, adventure tour, you name it and Rockies has it all <3
- Price : Admission fees to Banff National Park – $19/vehicle of 4 passengers for 1 day
- Read Banff Trip Inspiration
Calgary and Canadian Rockies Road Trip Idea
A 10 day trip in the Canadian Rockies is an amazing experience in which you can explore Calgary for one to two days and then continue on to the mountains.
Here is how to make the most of your 10 days!
Day 1 to 3 : Calgary, Dumhellar and Canmore
Spend one day, exploring Calgary.
Then starting from Calgary, plan to visit some of the most beautiful landscapes and charming towns in Canada.
Head to Drumheller on day two, for some incredible badlands scenery and amazing hikes. Here you can also explore the Royal Tyrrell Museum which features an impressive collection of dinosaur fossils.
On day 3, enjoy some outdoor adventures around Canmore and Kananaskis Country including Bow Valley Parkway. With its mountains and rivers, this charming town is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. You can enjoy easy strolls or a hike on the Grassi Lake trail.
Stay overnight in Banff National Park.
Day 4 to 5: Banff town and lakes
Up next is Banff National Park where visitors can experience some of Canada’s most stunning landscapes.
Enjoy a scenic drive through the park, check out Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, take a gondola ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain, or simply take in the stunning views from one of its many lakes like Two Jack Lake, and Lake Minnewanka.
Activities like hiking, biking, skiing, canoeing, etc. are all available here as well. Just don’t forget to grab bear spray in the summer.
Day 6: Moraine Lake and Lake Louise
One of the most stunning attractions is Moraine Lake, which has become a symbol of the Canadian Rockies. Its beautiful shades of blue are breathtaking, and its surrounding mountains make for some incredible picturesque views.
In the winter, you won’t be able to access the lake, so visit Johnston Canyon for ice walks instead!
Plan to get there early in the morning and then explore Lake Louise, known as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. With its turquoise waters framed by soaring peaks and glaciers, this lake is something to behold.
In the winter, get cozy and enjoy a lovely afternoon tea at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise!
Day 7: Yoho National Park, BC
Take a day trip to Yoho National Park from Lake Louise, or Banff town, and explore one of the powerful falls in Canada – Takakkaw Falls.
Check out the Natural Bridge, Emerald Lake, and the Spiral Tunnels.
Day 8 : The Icefields Parkway
The Icefield Parkway is another must-see on any trip to the Canadian Rockies. This highway, which winds through Banff and Jasper National Parks , is considered one of the most scenic roads in the world.
Along this road are some of Canada’s most breathtaking landscapes, from cascading waterfalls to stunning peaks and glaciers.
Day 9 to 10: Jasper National Park
Finally, no trip to the Canadian Rockies would be complete without visiting Jasper National Park . Here, you can marvel at some of the most stunning views in Canada. Popular activities include hiking, biking, canoeing, and more.
Explore Patricia Lake, Pyramid Lake, Maligne Lake, and Maligne Canyon.
Is Calgary worth visiting for 2 days?
Overall, Calgary is a great city to visit for 2 or more days. Whether you’re looking for historical sites, outdoor activities, shopping experiences, or dining options, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant metropolis.
Plan to spend a weekend here before heading to the Rockies, we are sure you will enjoy it!
Pin: Essential Guide to Calgary Itinerary – Places to go in Calgary Alberta
Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond.
Similar Posts
One day in Amalfi: Coast Itinerary + Trip Ideas
Planning to spend one day in Amalfi town? Or a road trip whilst soaking in the gorgeous views? Here is everything you need to know about crafting the perfect one day in Amalfi Coast itinerary! Italy is unique for many things, so besides visiting the popular hot spots of Rome and Venice it is highly…
7 day Canadian Rockies Itinerary: A Canada Road Trip
Planning a trip to Banff and Jasper? We have an epic 7 day Canadian Rockies itinerary that you must follow to explore some of the finest places in the Great White North! Banff and its nearby areas are like a monthly retreat for us. We live four hours away from both Banff and Jasper National…
One Day in Cardiff Itinerary: Visit Cardiff in a day
Cardiff is the capital and largest city in Wales, located about 150 miles from London. It is a major tourist destination, known for its castle, museums, shops, restaurants, and nightlife. So here is an epic one day in Cardiff itinerary to make the most of your visit! We have included sightseeing attractions and travel tips,…
Perfect 10 days in Italy Itinerary (5 samples + tips)
Italy is one of those European destinations that deserve multiple trips. But if you only got ten days, and wondering what to do, and where to go, then you will find our guide useful. We have included 5 samples for 10 days in Italy itinerary, focusing on regions we covered, as well as fast-paced sightseeing…
Best Time to Visit Banff National Park : Find the best time to go to Banff
Banff National Park is AMAZING at any time of the year. Trust me. If you are wondering when is the best time to visit Banff National Park, then you are not alone. In this guide, we have included a month by month breakdown on the best time to go to Banff National Park, with activities…
One day in Zagreb Itinerary: What to do in Zagreb in one day
Wondering what to do in Zagreb in a day? We got you covered. In this one day in Zagreb itinerary and guide, we will showcase the best spots and landmarks to easily explore and make the most of your time in the stunning capital city of Croatia. Zagreb brought back memories of Central/Eastern European cities….
32 Comments
I’m Canadian, but from Toronto :). I would actually really love to visit Calgary! Looks like talking a walk down Stephen Ave will be a must, and the food from that food tour looks beyond incredible! Thanks for writing and sharing!
You should definitely visit!
FOOD TOURS!! Sorry haha I just got really excited – these are my favorite things! You learn so much!! Shamefully, I’m Canadian and I’ve yet to travel to Calgary, but it’s in the works!! I love your post – will use your suggestions when I go x
Thank you so much <3
We’re hoping to visit Calgary next year so this will be handy!
Thank you, glad it was useful
Great article, and wonderful photos! The Heritage Museum definitely sounds like my kind of thing! I’ve really got to get to Canada sometime soon.
You should definitely plan a visit here
A family friend lives in Calgary and in the first days of having internet at home, when I was sharing an email address with my mom, I remember gettng pictures of the tonnes of snow he’d get every winter 😀 He loved sharing that with us and got me stoked on that. Would love to experience one winter there, even if just for a week!
You will love all winter festivities here
This is a part of Canada that I haven’t had a chance to explore yet! And I go to that country from time to time! I would love to come to this wonderful city one day and your guide has some great tips!
Thank you for reading! Hope you enjoy your stay here
Hah! We were JUST talkling about our endof year holiday and whether or not to visit Calgary. It looks lovely and I rekcon ‘d love Stephen Avenue Walk. Thought we could then get a car and drive to Banff but it will be the dead of winter and was wondering if that was a good idea! But I can only imagine how stunnng it would be.
For winter travels, I did recommend Banff as its so picturesque and beautiful. Consider Lake Louise as well. You wont be able to walk on Stephen Ave during winters though
oh that street looks amazing to stroll down. Is it a bit lame I’m excited at the thought of a food tour? LOL
That is a good thing. I LOVE food tours too
I really only remember Calgary because of the winter olympics when I was a kid, so I was suprised to see it looking so nice and temperate in your photos.
Thanks for the informative guide! I only spent a couple of days in Calgary between exploring the rest of Alberta and wish I knew about this while I was there!
I still haven’t been in Canada but this post is making me want to visit! I would definitely want to do a food tour as well.
I would like to visit Canada one day, and had Toronto, Montreal and even the Rockies in mind, but I never really had Calgary in mind! Checked out the website for the Olympic park, looks insane!
I almost made it to Calgary in February but the flight prices were just a little out of reach!! This post is making me wish I could’ve made it there though!
Loving this guide and the photography! Such beautiful photos. It makes me regret that I did not make it up to Calgary and to Banff before I moved away from the states. Def saving this for my future travel inspiration when I make it back over stateside again!
I checked out the olympic park website, looks insane! Canada is totes on my someday list, including Montreal, Toronto and even the Rockies, but I didn’t think to go to Calgary. Thanks for the guide!
This looks like such a fun place to explore! You’ve inspired me to add Calgary to my list of places to visit.
I’ve wanted to visit Calgary ever since my brother told me how much he enjoyed staying a few years ago! It sounds like a wonderfully vibrant place, and being so close to the mountains is my dream! Thanks for sharing such a great guide 🙂
The view from Calgary tower is incredible! I haven’t been to Canada in ages, but this city looks like it’s worth a visit.
Perfect guide you have here! Planning on going to Canada actually next year, not sure if will have time to stop by Calgary – the stampede sounds like a great time though.
Wow I had no idea Calgary is so gorgeous. The Stampede and Stephen Ave Walk are my top picks. I love exploring streets like these, that one looks so vibrant. Hope to visit Canada one day.
Calgary seems so beautiful! Thanks for the informative guide. Added Calgary to my bucket list.
I have always spoken about New Zealand and Canada in the same breath – pretty but boring. Your post has changed my perspective though! I wasn’t expecting so much culture and history.
I am glad! Canada is a nature’s paradise – lots of things to see. There is some history in certain cities for sure, especially the capital cities of provinces.
Your post is well-written and also your post pictures are amazing. This city is so beautiful, I would like to visit here.
Leave a Reply Cancel reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .
Plan Your Trip To Calgary
Calgary is a thriving city graced with the vibrant beauty of nature. Divided by the winding Bow River, Calgary's east and west face are joined by a series of bridges and lined with several kilometers of trails to jog, walk and explore. A city infused by a lively ambiance, friendly hospitality, and rich, diverse cultural experiences Calgary opens its hearts to visitors who delight in the city's mix of events, festivals and attractions.
Alberta's largest city provides convenient amenities, yet an inviting natural setting. A refreshment break is easy in Calgary - rejuvenate with an espresso in the trendy Kensington shopping district or enjoy delicious authentic local cuisine in one of many fine restaurants. We promote the local experience. We help you discover the city's best local restaurants, eateries, cafes, local breweries that are sure to tempt your taste buds.
Your heart needs travel. It doesn't matter where you're from or your age or ability, your heart needs travel. So follow your heart and whatever it needs to Calgary.
Every heart needs something a little different, but the power in all of these moments calls us to venture forward.
Arts and Culture in Calgary
Get a front row seat to world class live arts and entertainment experiences in calgary..
Alberta Ballet
Details: Canada's second largest ballet company performing everything from classics to contemporary.
Alberta Dancesport
Details: Calgary's best place to dance for beginners to professionals in ballroom, salsa, country, and Latin dance.
Alberta Theatre Projects
Details: Celebrating the art of live theatre with new works by Canadian playwrights and contemporary theatre from around the world.
Arts Commons
Details: One of Canada's largest and most vibrant art centres and home to the world-class Jack Singer Concert Hall.
Broadway Across Canada
Details: Bringing the best of Broadway theatre to the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium in Calgary.
Calgary Opera
Details: One of Canada's most innovative professional opera companies, featuring fresh new works and timely masterpieces.
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
Details: More than 80 concerts each season offer orchestral music from the classics to popular songs.
Decidedly Jazz Danceworks
Details: Professional dance company dedicated to evolving the art of jazz dance.
Jubilations Dinner Theatre
Details: Interactive musical comedies take on the best in pop culture and served with a four-course dinner.
Lunchbox Theatre
Details: Noon hour theatre serving shows to downtown audiences during their lunch hour.
Mount Royal University Conservatory
Details: Hosting regular performances from both established talent and up-and-coming faces at the beautiful Leacock Theatre.
One Yellow Rabbit Performance Theatre
Details: Award-winning theatre company that has created over 80 original productions, noted for intricate physical movement and musicality all over the world.
The Shakespeare Company
Details: Calgary’s award winning classical theatre company offering premium productions throughout the year.
Stage West Theatre Restaurants
Details: Live theatre productions paired with a Grand Buffet.
Theatre Calgary
Details: Theatre Calgary brings Canadian and international plays to life on stage, entertaining locals and visitors since the 1940s.
Details: Calgary's culture house for contemporary live arts including local, national, and international theatre, dance, and music.
Vertigo Theatre
Details: Add a little mystery to your life with Canada’s only professional theatre dedicated to the mystery genre.
The city of Calgary is often overlooked when planning a trip through Canada, and to be honest I’m not sure why. This beautiful city is a perfect hub to plan outdoor adventures in places like Banff and Drumheller in addition to having a a slew of arts, cultural, and other activities to enjoy in the city proper. If you are planning a trip through Calgary take a look at our Ramblin’ Calgary Travel Guide for a great selection of things to do in the city.
It’s no secret that Lauren and I are absolutely head over heels in love with the city of Calgary. Heck, we love Calgary so much we’ve spent months in the city exploring it and even consider Calgary our second home. Calgary is Canada’s fourth largest city , and is a rich hub for tons of arts and culture. On top of all that, it’s easy access to the farms and ranches just outside of the city which mean that local restaurants have been on the forefront of the farm-to-table movement and have put together some exciting (and delicious) menu offerings. With all it has to offer, Calgary truly is a cosmopolitan city with the heart of a small country town and should be very high on your list of Canadian cities to visit. So without further ado, we present our Ramblin’ Guide to Calgary, and assure you that you can’t go wrong partaking in any, or all, of these awesome activities.
Things to Do in Calgary
Calgary zoo.
As the second largest Zoo in Canada, the Calgary Zoo does a fantastic job of representing the local diversity of the wildlife that calls the Canadian Rockies home while also featuring exhibits from across the world. The Zoo is so diverse they even have an entire section dedicated to dinosaurs. On top of the great exhibits, the Calgary Zoo also features neat events like their annual Zoo Lights to keep things fun and fresh.
Click here to see our full post about the Calgary Zoo .
Telus Spark
While most science museums have been relegated to the world of families and small children, the Telus Spark does a fantastic job of making their exhibits accessible to children of all ages. Then to make it super adult friendly, the Telus Spark Science Centre offers an Adults Only Night on the second Thursday of every month that’s the perfect setup for a fun date night. The evening starts off at 6 PM and features cocktails, special exhibits, and DJ’s spinning tunes all night.
Click here to see our full post about Telus Spark .
Aero Space Museum of Calgary
Located in a retired flight training hangar built in 1941, the Aero Space Museum of Calgary brings you up close and personal with Alberta’s rich military aviation heritage. With a large collection of lovingly restored aircrafts, it’s a fascinating window into early aviation technology. Visitors can take a guided tour which lasts about 2-hours or you can explore on your own.
Click here for more information on the Aero Space Museum of Calgary .
Heritage Park
Opened in 1964, Heritage Park is Canada’s largest living history museum. It features a surprisingly wide range of activities that allows you to both learn about and interact with the past covering the period from the 1860’s to the 1950’s. It allows you to truly understand what life was like for a Western Canadian settler by visiting actual historical buildings and towns from 5 key periods in Canadian History. In addition to the historical buildings, Heritage Park is also home to Gasoline Alley which features a deep collection of vehicles and other automotive memorabilia from the golden age of automobiles. Although the Park is closed for the Winter, you can visit Gasoline Alley year round, as well as attending special events like Once Upon a Christmas .
Click here to see our full post about Heritage Park and Gasoline Alley .
Canada Olympic Park
There aren’t many places in the world where average humans like you and I have the opportunity to train side by side with Olympic Athletes. Here in Calgary though, you can do just that at the Canada Olympic Park. It’s the kind of place where an average can learn to luge, play hockey, ski, snow board, and even figure skate. Located on the site of the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, the COP is dedicated to one thing: training high-performance winter athletes. If you are looking for winter adventure I recommend the bobsledding . If summer time fun is more your thing they also have a zip line course and mountain biking trails.
Click here to see our full post about Canada’s Olympic Park .
Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame
Canada has a rich sporting tradition that is honored in this international award winning Sports Hall of Fame. With galleries dedicated to everything from Hockey to Curling and Motor Sports to Swimming there’s a little bit of something for everyone. What makes the Hall of Fame especially fun, is the fact that many of the exhibits have interactive touch and experience displays that let you see what it feels like to be a world class athlete.
Learn more about Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame .
Military Museums
The Military Museums is western Canada’s largest museum dedicated to military history, art and education. Interestingly the facility is actually a collection of 8 separately curated regimental museums located under one roof. The Military Museums feature much more than just the usual guns and medals though, as their mission is more than just historical preservation. The museum has a well curated collection of arts that depict the social impact of military conflict.
Click here to see our full post about the Military Museums .
Rocky Mountain Sidecar Adventures
Taking road trips is something we are known for. We spent many months covering ground in Alberta and seeing as much of the province as we could by car. After one trip with the team at Rocky Mountain Sidecar Adventures and I’ve had a change of heart. Fair warning: once you try this, traveling by car will never be the same. With tours that take you into the heart of the Rockies, through the lovely city itself, or through Okotoks and along the Cowboy trail, there’s something for everyone. It’s one of the most unique ways you’ll ever see Alberta and it’s worth every penny.
Click here to see our full post about Rocky Mountain Sidecar Adventures .
Arts and Culture in Calgary
Calgary opera.
Featuring 4 – 5 key performances each season the Calgary Opera is a fantastic chance to experience the opera in a warm and inviting environment. With world class performances from Canadian artists, the Calgary Opera has made a commitment to the development of local talent as well as the development of new productions.
Click here to learn more about current performances for the Calgary Opera.
National Music Centre
Being a lover of All Things Music, the National Music Centre holds a special place in our hearts. With two distinct missions in place, visiting and supporting the centre is an absolute must for any fan of music. The NMC is dedicated to to the development and support of Canadian musicians and seeks to strengthen relationships and explore the power of music. As if that weren’t a worthy enough goal to support, the NMC goes a step above by housing a massive collection of historical musical artifacts. The NMC’s collection can be toured or you can take in one of their many live music performances year-round.
Read more about the National Music Centre .
Glenbow Museum
The Glenbow Musuem boasts the largest art collection in Western Canada and features an eclectic blend of classic and modern art. One of the things that makes the Glenbow unique though, is the fact that it also features an entire floor dedicated to the history of Alberta. It’s not often that you get to observe art and then learn it’s historical context in the same building, but that’s exactly what you get at the Glenbow.
Read more about the Glenbow Museum .
Stage West Dinner Theater
I never thought I’d say this, but if you find yourself looking for a fun date night, dinner theater is the way to go. We had a chance to see a production at Stage West and found the performance fun and engaging. The food, served buffet style, was the star of the evening though with blend of fresh and inventive recipes. Stage west hosts quite a few different shows each season from Locally Written plays to nationally acclaimed productions like Spamalot so there’s definitely something for everyone.
Learn more about the Stage West Dinner Theater .
Where to Eat in Calgary
Calgary farmers market.
Visiting farmers markets is always a fresh and fun way to discover local foods and recipes, and the Calgary Farmers Market is no exception. Featuring over 70 vendors you can find everything from freshly cured meats to succulently prepared meat pies, to delectable baked goods. In addition to vendors the Farmers Market also has a food court with a wide variety of local and international cuisine that represents the ethnic diversity of the city.
More information on the Calgary Farmers Market .
Canadian Brewhouse
It’s not often that we feature or recommend chain restaurants, but the Canadian Brewhouse is a small chain of sports bars that offers great food in a fun environment without having to head into downtown. Featuring a strong collection of pub food served with a twist you can’t go wrong with selections like bacon wrapped jalapeno poppers, fully loaded poutine, and burgers stacked two patties high and smothered with fried mushrooms, bacon and cheese.
Read our full review of The Canadian Brewhouse .
Ox and Angela
Located at the heart of Calgary’s 17th Ave Downtown District, Ox and Angela is serving up Spanish style tapas with a Canadian twist. With an energetic and warm environment, it’s a lovely spot to stop in for a snack and a drink after work, or a great venue for an evening of fun with a group of friends. – note: Ox and Angela has been renovated and renamed to Ox Bar de Tapas .
Read our full Ox And Angela Review
It’s not often that you can effectively mix fine dining with a casual and comfortable environment. Somehow though, the team at Muse has managed to do just that. Located in the trendy Kensington neighborhood just outside of downtown Calgary, Muse is a great spot to relax and enjoy a romantic evening while also pleasing the most refined of pallets.
Read our full review of Muse
The brainchild of award winning executive chef Dave Bohati and restauranteur Vanessa Salopek, Market features a menu composed of regional and seasonal cuisine. With dishes like Spicy Lamb Tartare, Octopus and Chorizo, and a Pork Belly Hot Pot you know any trip to Market will always be a culinary adventure.
More information on Market .
Tango Bistro
Located just South of downtown, Calgary Tango Bistro takes the concept of Spanish Tapas and combines it with traditional Canadian dishes to make a fun and unique dining experience. If the just the thought of dishes like Smoked Duck Poutine, Wonton Crusted Prawns, Wild Boar Bacon Wrapped Beef, and a fresh Seafood Tower make your mouth water, Tango Bistro is a place for you.
Read our full review of Tango Bistro
River Cafe
Tucked away on the tiny Prince’s Island Park, the River Cafe provides fine dining in a unique setting. There is no parking on the actual island so a trip to the river cafe requires a short jaunt through the park. Upon arrival at the cafe you are treated to a culinary journey through some of Calgary’s best regional cuisine. The River Cafe’s unique setting and comfortable yet romantic atmosphere make it an exceptional choice for a romantic evening.
More information on River Cafe
If you are looking for more places to eat in Calgary, you might want to take a look at out post that features the most unique and best brunches in Calgary .
Calgary Craft Breweries
Village brewery.
Craft Breweries are popping up all across North America bringing innovative and finely produced beers to the masses. Even though we’ve visited literally hundreds of breweries and brewpubs the Village Brewery in Calgary still stands out as one of the best. Not only do they make a fantastic brew (try the Blacksmith or Brünette) they also have a huge commitment to their local community and have even gone as far as brewing their Gardner beer with only locally grown hops and honey. They truly do prove that it takes a Village to brew a great beer. Village does offer limited tours, and also features an onsite tap room with growler fills.
read our full review of Village Brewery
It’s not often that you find a craft brewery that’s proud to tell you that you can’t have their beer. That’s exactly what you’ll find though when you visit the Wild Rose Brewery. If you ask them, they’ll tell you that they started their craft brewery with the single mission of freeing themselves from “the tyranny of boring beer”. If you ask me, they’ve succeeded. The only catch is, you have to be in Alberta to get it. Wild Rose currently offers limited tours at their new brewery, or offer pints and growlers at their classic taproom in the Currie Barracks.
read our full review of Wild Rose Brewery
Big Rock Brewery
Founded in 1985 Big Rock Brewery is one of Alberta’s oldest craft breweries and they’ve made it their mission to produce “deliberately different” craft beers. With a deep selection running from a traditional Brown Ale to a Steel Cut Oatmeal Rasin Stout there’s something for everyone. You can book a tour of the brewery and sample quite a few of their brews, or just stop in to their bottle/gift shop and pick up a sampler. Either way you won’t lose.
more info on Big Rock Brewery
Pet Friendly Hotels In Calgary
Thanks to the growing art, music, and fine dining scene, Calgary has developed as Alberta’s cultural hub. Sitting at the center of this young and rapidly growing city is Hotel Arts. As Calgary’s first boutique hotel of it’s kind, it serves as a great downtown location for taking in what the city has to offer. By combining the white hat service Calgarians are legendary for with beautiful fine art in a luxury and pet friendly environment the team at Hotel Arts in Calgary have put together a destination that is truly unique.
Read out full review of the Pet Friendly Hotel Arts
Aloft Calgary University
Located outside the downtown core the Aloft Calgary University is an excellent choice if you want to visit the cities attractions but stay somewhere away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Aloft hotels are pet friendly without a fee, and offer nice amenities including an indoor pool, fitness center, and an onsite bar with restaurant. Plus with their arf pert friendly program, your pooch is as comfortable in the room as you are.
More info on the Aloft Calgary University
We hope you enjoyed this Calgary travel guide, if we missed any of your favorite things to do in Calgary let us know in the comments.
We’d be honored if you would subscribe to our newsletter or connect with us via social media on Facebook , twitter , +Kenin , tumblr , Pinterest , and YouTube !
Share this:, 12 thoughts on “ the ramblin’ calgary travel guide and trip planner ”.
I lived in Calgary for 20 years and there’s a few things here that even I haven’t done. Nice list!
Thanks Raymond! The funny thing is we left off some nice places to eat and see because the list was getting too big. This is a wonderful city.
Wow, you really prove Calgary has a ton to offer! Would love to check it all out, especially the Heritage Museum and the fresh markets!! Thanks for sharing!
I’m surprised you haven’t been to Calgary yet. You have to visit Calgary and make a trip to Banff while you’re at it.
Wow what an in depth guide to Calgary. It wasn’t on my radar before, but I’m thinking I might have to fly up there soon. Great post!
Calgary is an awesome city to visit, and it also serves as a great hub for outdoor activities in the surrounding National Parks.
Don’t forget about the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra – it’s one of the best in North America, and they do everything from classical to popular music. It’s one of my favourite things about Calgary!
Also, Lougheed House is a tiny gem – if you’ve never been there, I highly recommend it.
will be filing this away for a future trip to canada, especially the parts on where to eat and drink. bring on the canadian breweries!
What a great post! I’ve never been to Calgary (and have spent embarrassingly little time in Canada at all), but this puts a new destination on my list!
If you plan on coming in the Winter Laura, we’d be happy to show you around :-)
Great guide guys! If the variety of activities hadn’t completely convinced me, once I got to the food section I was completely drooling. I always have a great time in Canada and would love to spend more time exploring there.
Jennifer, You definitely need to spend some time in Calgary, we could show you around :-)
Comments are closed.
Weather & Climate
Calgary International Airport Guide
Day Trips From Calgary
Top Things to Do
Food to Try
Best Restaurants
Nightlife in Calgary
Banff National Park Guide
Best Time to Visit
Things to Do in Banff
What to Do Near Lake Louise
The Best Time to Visit Calgary, Canada
Bryan Mullennix / EyeEm / Getty Images
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.
The Best Time to Visit Spain
The Best Time to Visit Sweden
The Best Time of the Year to Visit Norway
The Best Time to Visit Dubai
The Best Time to Visit Cape Town
The Best Time to Visit Boston
The Best Time to Visit Naples, Italy
The Best Time to Visit the Bahamas
The Best Time to Visit France
The Best Time to Visit Toronto, Canada
The Best Time to Visit Disney World
The Best Time to Visit the Czech Republic
The Best Time to Visit Canada
The Best Time to Visit Bermuda
The Best Time to Visit Melbourne
The Best Time to Visit Quebec City
- Skip to primary navigation
- Skip to main content
- Skip to primary sidebar
- Skip to footer
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.
Related Posts
Sharing is caring!
Before Footer
We're here to help you plan your Alberta vacation with real, local advice!
- Destination Guides
- Route Guides
- Driving Advisories
- Alberta Driving Guide
- Alberta Weather
- Alberta itineraries
Play Alberta Road Trip Bingo!
We've created FOUR Alberta specific bingo games to make your road trip even MORE fun. Included are some insider tips on what to see and eat in the province!
100+ Things to Do in Calgary
Accommodations Overview
Hotel Packages
Plan Overview
Official Visitor Guide
Facebook Messenger
Deals Overview
Calgary Attractions Pass
Locals Overview
Best Things to Do Outdoors
Submit an rfp.
Ready to make Calgary the host for your next event?
Submit your RFP
Client Portal
Access to your secure Meetings & Conventions Calgary portal.
Login My Portal
Become a Local Champion
Help us bring Calgary's vision to life.
Partners Home
Sports Overview
Travel Trade Home
10 Reasons Why the Calgary Stampede and Banff are the Ultimate Vacation
The Calgary Stampede and Banff National Park are bucket list experiences you have to see for yourself. Start your trip in Calgary with The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth and continue your journey to the jaw-dropping scenery of Canada’s first national park. One week is the perfect amount of time to enjoy the energy of the Calgary Stampede and natural beauty of Banff. Here’s how to include both of these incredible experiences in your Alberta summer vacation.
Calgary Stampede
The Calgary Stampede (July 7-16, 2023) is the ultimate festival experience and has been a marquee Calgary event for over 100 years, attracting over 1 million visitors annually. For ten days each year, jeans and boots are standard attire, free pancake breakfasts start the day, and a spectacular fireworks display lights up the night sky.
Calgary Stampede Parade
The Calgary Stampede Parade is where it all begins. The iconic parade has been the official kickoff to The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth since 1912, with a collection of floats, marching bands, and horseback riders travelling through downtown Calgary. Everyone from Walt Disney and William Shatner to ‘Heartland’ actor Amber Marshall and Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield have been the Stampede Parade Marshal over the years. Check the Calgary Stampede website for the official parade route.
Local tip: Find a spot along the parade route early as popular downtown locations fill up quickly each year. You can even bring a folding chair to watch the parade.
Calgary Stampede Rodeo
The world’s best rodeo competitors and animals compete in the Calgary Stampede Rodeo . Get a front row seat for barrel racing, bull riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, saddle bronc, and bareback - six events and ten days of rodeo action! It all comes down to Showdown Sunday, the richest day in rodeo, when $1.5 million in prize money is awarded, and champions are crowned in each event. The Calgary Stampede Rodeo takes place daily at 1:30 p.m.
Local tip: Calgary Stampede Rodeo tickets purchased in advance include admission to Stampede Park on the day of the ticketed event.
Thrill seekers and gamers will love the Calgary Stampede Midway . Take your shot and win the big prize or put your hands in the air with classic rides, including midway favourites like Crazy Mouse, Wave Swinger, Zipper, Polar Express, and the Mega Drop. You can purchase coupon packs or unlimited ride passes to get in on the all the fun.
Local tip: Level up with a Ride All Day Wristband and the Fast Pass (Midway Express Access Pass) add-on that takes you to the front of the line for faster entrance to each ride.
Nashville North
Live music is an essential part of any trip to the Calgary Stampede. Nashville North is a legendary venue for live music, hosting country music all day long. House bands keep the party going all day with a nightly headliner. This 18+ venue is included free with park admission.
Local tip: Check the Nashville North headliners list ahead of time and arrive early to get a spot in line for the big show. Lineups can start in the early afternoon and get busier after the Rodeo finishes for the day.
Calgary Stampede Evening Show
It’s a great idea to start planning your visit to the Calgary Stampede with the Evening Show . This entertainment doubleheader takes place nightly at 7:45 p.m. that includes all the action of the Rangeland Derby Chuckwagon Races followed by the entertaining Bell Grandstand Show, a variety show of song and dance numbers, acrobatics, and live music. The show wraps up with a spectacular fireworks finale to finish another day at The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth. This is a must-see event at the Calgary Stampede.
Local tip: Evening Show tickets purchased in advance include admission to Stampede Park on the day of the ticketed event, and are separate from Rodeo tickets.
The Calgary Stampede Parade (Photo Credit: Calgary Stampede/Tye Carson)
Calgary Stampede Rodeo Saddle Bronc Event (Photo Credit: Calgary Stampede/Tye Carson)
Planning a Trip to Calgary?
Tourism Calgary's virtual Visitor Information Hub has trip planning tools like maps & visitor guides, deals, event information, and ways to connect directly with our local experts!
Banff National Park
Time for some outdoor adventure and the breathtaking scenery of Banff National Park. More than 4 million people visit Banff National Park each year, making it one of the most popular destinations in the world. Discover the incredible views and essential experiences for your time in Banff, just 90 minutes west of Calgary.
Johnston Canyon
Hiking in the Canadian Rockies is a must-do part of any Alberta vacation. That’s what makes Johnston Canyon one of the most popular destinations in Banff National Park . Walk the well maintained pathways and explore the Lower Falls, about 30 minutes from the parking lot, or take an extended hike beyond the Upper Falls to the Ink Pots, a series of green coloured mineral springs. Johnston Canyon has limited parking and can be accessed via Roam Transit Route 9 from May to October from the Town of Banff.
Local tip: Beat the crowds and visit Johnston Canyon during the week, early in the morning, or mid evening, for the best access to this incredible natural place.
Location: Bow Valley Pkwy, Alberta
Lake Louise
One of Canada's most iconic landscapes, Lake Louise is a two-hour drive along the Trans-Canada Highway from Calgary. Experience the beautiful turquoise waters of Lake Louise with canoe rides, horseback tours, and legendary hikes. You can walk around the Lake Louise Shoreline Trail to the Victoria Glacier at the opposite end of the lake, or if you are looking for more of an adventure, hike to the famous Lake Agnes Tea House for pastries and a pot of fresh brewed tea.
Local tip: Rent a canoe from the Lake Louise Boathouse for an epic Instagram shot with the Canadian Rockies as your backdrop.
Location: 111 Lake Louise Dr, Lake Louise
Moraine Lake
Located in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, Moraine Lake is near Lake Louise and another bucket list location in Banff National Park. Once you arrive, it’s a quick walk up the moraine rock pile for incredible views of the turquoise waters below. You might overhear locals referring to Moraine Lake as the “Twenty Dollar View” because it once graced the back of the Canadian $20 bill. It continues to be one of the most photographed locations in Canada.
Local tip: Moraine Lake Road is closed to personal vehicles year-round. Be sure to book a Parks Canada shuttle or ticket on Roam Public Transit ahead of time.
Location: 55 km west of Banff, Alberta, on the Trans-Canada Highway
Banff Gondola
The Banff Gondola takes you on an extraordinary trip from the base of Sulphur mountain to panoramic views of six mountain ranges. The gondola ride takes eight minutes with plenty of activities to explore at the top. Check out the family-friendly Above Banff Interpretive Centre or take the boardwalk to the Sulphur Mountain Cosmic Ray Station , a National Historic Site. Weekdays are the best time to avoid the lines and take in views of six mountain ranges just an hour and a half from Calgary.
Local tip: Dine 7,486 feet in the air at Sky Bistro , with a distinctly Canadian menu and mountain views in every direction. You’ll see why they call it a dining sanctuary in the sky.
Location: 100 Mountain Ave, Banff, AB
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise just might be the most iconic hotel property in Canada, surrounded by mountain peaks with breathtaking views of the Victoria Glacier and Lake Louise. Originally built for outdoor enthusiasts over 100 years ago, this luxury resort in Banff National Park is a must visit destination whether you are checking in for a stay, relaxing at the spa, or enjoying a cocktail from the Lakeview Lounge. Afternoon Tea is served daily from 12:00pm to 2:30pm in the Fairview Bar & Restaurant, a once in a lifetime experience in the heart of Banff National Park.
Local tip: Add the Fairmont Banff Springs to your historic hotel tour, welcoming visitors from around the world for over 130 years to the “Castle in the Rockies.”
Location: 111 Lake Louise Dr, Lake Louise, AB
Johnston Canyon in Banff National Park (Photo credit: Banff & Lake Louise Tourism/ROAM Creative)
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise (Photo credit: Travel Alberta)
Exploring Calgary and Banff without a Car
Everything You Need to Know About the Calgary Stampede
Newsletter signup.
10 things to do in Calgary on Family Day weekend
There are plenty of local events and activities you can check out in Calgary this weekend.
Here's a look at just 10 things happening around the city:
Wildlife Festival
- What: Meet a sloth, wrangle a Wallaby or pose with a porcupine at Cobbs Exotic Animal Rescue's Wildlife Festival .
- Friday, Feb. 16 from 1 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., and then 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. (adults only)
- Saturday, Feb. 17 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Sunday, Feb. 18 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Monday, Feb. 19 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Where: Nutrien Western Event Center, 1800 Stampede Trail S.E.
- Cost: Free for kids three and under, $16 in advance ($20 at the door) for general admission and $26 in advance ($30 at the door) for adults-only night.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Wildlife Festival (@thewildlifefest)
- What: Head to the Bow Habitat Station for Calgary's 12 th annual Fishtival. The vent includes family-friendly games and activities, fish feeding and theatrical performances.
- When: Saturday, Feb. 17 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Where: Bow Habitat Station in Pearce Estate Park, 1440 17A St. S.E.
- Cost: Children (three and under) are free, youth (four to 17) are $6, seniors (65+) are $8 and for adults (18-64) tickets are $10. Family passes (two adults and four kids) are available for $30.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bow Habitat Station (@bowhabitatstation)
Chinook Blast
- What: Chinook Blast is a celebration of community, culture and civic pride featuring art, music, theatre, sport and recreation.
- When: Until Feb. 19.
- Where: Various venues throughout Calgary.
- Cost: Prices vary depending on the event, but some are free.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chinook Blast (@chinookblast)
Family Day Brunch at Heritage Park
- What : Round up your loved ones and celebrate Family Day with brunch at Heritage Park .
- When: Monday, Feb. 19 from from 9:30 to 2:30 p.m.
- Where : Gasoline Alley Museum Mezzanine, Heritage Park, 1900 Heritage Dr. S.W.
- Cost: $43.95 for adults (16+), $28.95 for children (three to five) and free for children two and under.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Heritage Park YYC (@heritageparkyyc)
YYC Hot Chocolate Fest
- What: Dozens of vendors will be selling specialty hot chocolates for charity during Calgary's annual YYC Hot Chocolate Fest. A portion of the sales go to Calgary Meals on Wheels.
- When: Until Feb. 29.
- Where: Various locations throughout Calgary.
- Cost: Prices vary
View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝐘𝐔𝐌𝐌𝐘 𝐘𝐘𝐂 (@yummy.yyc)
- What: Kids and their family members can head to Loose Moose to watch a performance of Thumbelina , aimed for those between four and 10 years old.
- When: Loose Moose Theatre, 1235 26 Ave. S.E.
- Where: Saturdays at 1 p.m. and Sundays at 1 p.m and 3 p.m., until Feb. 25.
- Cost: $18.89
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Loose Moose Theatre Company (@loosemooser)
Heist at Vertigo Theatre
- What: Heist is a play about a diamond heist gone wrong, described by the Vertigo Theatre as fast-paced and full of guns, lasers and betrayal.
- When: Until Feb. 25
- Where: Vertigo Theatre, 115 Nine Ave. S.E.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vertigo Theatre (@vertigotheatre)
Flames vs. Red Wings
- What: The Calgary Flames take on the Detroit Red Wings in a matinee game at the Saddledome.
- When: Saturday, Feb. 17 at 2 p.m.
- Where: Scotiabank Saddledome, 555 Saddledome Rise S.E.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Calgary Flames (@nhlflames)
Flames vs. Jets
- What: The Calgary Flames take on the Winnipeg Jets in a matinee game at the Saddledome.
- When: Monday, Feb. 19 at 2 p.m.
Roughnecks vs. Thunderbirds
- What: The Calgary Roughnecks take on the Halifax Thunderbirds at the Saddledome.
- When: Sunday, Feb. 18 at 5 p.m.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Calgary Roughnecks (@nllroughnecks)
Calgary Top Stories
Dog owner pleads guilty to two bylaw charges in mauling death of Calgary woman, agrees to euthanize pet
Driver killed in crash with CTrain on Memorial Drive: Police
Calgary man charged in Southland Leisure Centre indecent exposure incidents
American teenager fatally injured while skiing at Sunshine Village
'Book a vacation': Canmore man wins $100K
Dinosaur fossils discovered in a box at a Calgary Goodwill
Dinos vs. Cougars: Battle of Calgary U Sports style takes to the ice this week
Alberta Health Services parking fees will increase April 1
Ctvnews.ca top stories.
BREAKING | Canada summons Russian ambassador in protest of Alexei Navalny's death
Canada lambasted the Kremlin's ambassador in Ottawa today over the reported death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny in Russian custody.
Trend Line | Poilievre's support continues to rise as fewer think Trudeau should be leader, new Nanos surveys find
The federal Conservatives have increased their support as the party Canadians would vote for and the Liberals are at a statistical tie with the New Democrats, according to the latest Nanos Research tracking.
Montreal woman first in the world to receive promising new breast cancer treatment
A Montreal woman is the first person in the world to undergo a new treatment combination for triple-negative breast cancer.
BREAKING | Canadian Soccer Players' Association files $40M lawsuit against Canada Soccer board members: TSN
A $40-million lawsuit has been filed by the Canadian Soccer Players' Association (CSPA), the union representing players on the women's senior national team, against 15 current and former Canada Soccer board members, TSN reports.
ArriveCan technical issues violated Charter rights, alleges new class-action application
ArriveCan's 'arbitrary, inaccurate, incorrect and unreliable results' interfered with Canadians' Charter rights, a class-action application alleges.
Poilievre against transgender women in female bathrooms, changing rooms, sports
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre says he believes "biological males" have no place in sports or change rooms that are labelled female.
'Ungraded beef' from Mexico is showing up on store shelves. Here is what you need to know.
If you have spotted "ungraded beef" at your grocery store recently – it's not mystery meat. In fact, officials say it's completely safe to consume.
Ewen MacIntosh, star of British comedy 'The Office,' dead at 50
British actor Ewen MacIntosh, best known for his role in BBC comedy series “The Office,” has died at the age of 50, his representatives confirmed.
Boeing removes head of 737 Max program in wake of safety incidents
Boeing removed executive Ed Clark, the head of its 737 Max passenger jet program, in the wake of several safety and quality-related incidents.
Shopping Trends
The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop. Read about us.
Editor's Picks
There's a total solar eclipse coming up in canada, and here’s how to protect your eyes, here are 21 of the best deals you'll find on amazon canada right now, 11 ipad accessories that'll make you want to use your tablet even more, 11 of the best makeup removers you can get online right now, 12 budget-friendly beauty products that are dupes of more expensive items, 11 of the best liquid and cream blushes you can get online right now, 17 unique gifts from amazon canada to get the person who has everything, 22 last-minute valentine’s day gifts from amazon canada that’ll arrive on time, 17 brilliant valentine's day gifts if they're not into roses and champagne, 5 of the best extra-large tumblers you can get in canada right now, 19 practical, problem-solving amazon canada products that don't cost an arm and a leg, 13 kitchen gadgets that’ll make cooking a breeze.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith set to give state-of-the-province TV address
Premier Danielle Smith is set to deliver a television address tonight to update Albertans on her government's plan ahead of the spring legislature sitting.
Security guard dead after fight in downtown Edmonton parkade: police
A security guard is dead after an altercation in an Edmonton parkade, the Edmonton Police Service has confirmed.
Bouchard on scoring pace unseen for an Oilers defenceman since the 1980s
Evan Bouchard is on a roll that the Edmonton Oilers haven't seen since the 1980s. The 24-year-old defenceman is on pace to score a point a game this National Hockey League season, a level a defenceman playing for the Oilers hasn't reached since Paul Coffey recorded 67 points in 59 games played in the 1986-87 season.
BREAKING | Emergency crews called to 'industrial accident' at Oakridge Park development in Vancouver
Police have closed a four-block stretch of Cambie Street Wednesday afternoon due to what they are describing as an "industrial accident" at the Oakridge Park development.
B.C. scrapping Land Act amendments plagued by 'misinformation,' minister says
The B.C. government has backtracked on proposed Land Act amendments intended to facilitate joint decision-making agreements with First Nations, including on major resources projects.
All aboard, Swifties: BC Ferries adds 22 sailings for weekend of Vancouver Eras Tour stop
In anticipation of a surge in demand from Swifties, BC Ferries has already added extra sailings to its most popular route on the weekend of the pop star's Vancouver shows.
Iriving Shipbuilding confirms name of employee who died at Halifax shipyard
Irving Shipbuilding has confirmed the name of the employee who died while working at the company’s Halifax shipyard Monday.
Halifax homelessness director says he's aware of rat problems at Victoria Park encampment
A recent rodent problem at a Halifax tent encampment is part of the reason why the city will close some of the city's encampments on Monday.
Waterloo Street encampment residents set to move into shipping containers
Melanie Vautour is the executive director of Fresh Start, a non-profit organization that overseas the tent encampment on Waterloo Street in Saint John, N.B.
Vancouver Island
B.C. budget deficit to rise without cuts to people or services, finance minister says
British Columbia Finance Minister Katrine Conroy says the province should prepare for a fiscal deficit in the upcoming budget — but there won't be cuts that result in a "deficit of services".
B.C. man wanted after missing court appearance on organized crime charges
British Columbia's anti-gang police agency is searching for a Vancouver Island man after he failed to appear in court on charges related to organized crime as part of a suspected drug trafficking ring.
Nanaimo RCMP cleared of wrongdoing after man seriously injured in holding cell
British Columbia's police oversight agency has cleared the Nanaimo RCMP of any wrongdoing after a man collapsed in a police holding cell and sustained a serious injury late least year.
Toronto police officer docked week's pay over 'range' of inappropriate remarks
A Toronto police officer has been docked a week’s pay after he was found to have made a number of derogatory remarks to colleagues and civilians.
Ontario's top doctor issues memo warning of 'potential outbreaks' of measles
Ontario’s top doctor is warning public health units to be prepared for more cases and 'potential outbreaks' of measles amid a rise of infection in Europe.
Toronto Blue Jays share new video of revamped Rogers Centre
“It’s beginning to look a lot like baseball.” That’s the message attached to a recent video update on the Toronto Blue Jays $300-million Rogers Centre renovations.
MUHC closes 6 beds in cancer ward due to staffing shortages
Six beds at the cancer ward at the MUHC Glen site have been closed due to staff shortages, CTV News has learned.
Can Quebec lure more nurses back into the public system after going private?
Quebec is trying to bring nurses who went into private health care back into the public system. The province reached an agreement with the CSN union to allow nurses to maintain some seniority but many say that does little to deal with why they left in the first place.
Ottawa Bylaw says police warned officers not to ticket 'Freedom Convoy' demonstrators due to 'risk of escalation'
The City of Ottawa's general manager of emergency and protective services says there is no double standard when it comes to how Ottawa Bylaw issues tickets to protesters after some took issue with tickets not being given to Freedom Convoy protesters.
Opening date for Trillium Line still uncertain with final tests underway
OC Transpo officials are still not committing to an opening date for the Stage 2 Trillium Line, but are hinting that "very good news" might be on the way next week.
No measles confirmed in Ottawa: Public health monitoring re-emergence
Ottawa Public Health says there is a risk of re-emergence of measles, citing the disease’s re-emergence in different parts of the world.
Little pantry, big problem: Dispute between city and homeowner heads towards March deadline
A little free pantry has turned into a big headache in the City of Cambridge.
Police response to mental health calls back in spotlight after Kitchener shooting
A 31-year-old was fatally shot by police on Monday in Kitchener, nearly a decade after 20-year-old man was shot and killed by a police officer on the same street.
Waterloo drivers are going slightly slower, new report says
Drivers in the City of Waterloo have slowed down slightly, but not by a lot, according to a new report.
'State of shock': Sask. teachers detail violent classroom incidents
Chairs thrown across the classroom, destroyed equipment and violent outbursts from students are just some of the working realities for Saskatchewan teachers.
Two Saskatoon boys face manslaughter charge in death of 12-year-old
Greg fertuck says he won't take the stand in his murder trial.
The end is near for a first-degree murder trial spanning more than two years.
Northern Ontario
Would-be social media star from the Sault charged with murder in L.A.
A man from Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., who documented his travels across the U.S. on social media, is in jail in Los Angeles, Calif., and charged with murder, CTVNewsNorthernOntario.ca has confirmed.
Vagnini died of ‘medical causes,’ foul play ruled out
A post-mortem revealed that Sudbury politician Michael Vagnini died of “medical causes,” Greater Sudbury Police said Wednesday.
Winning $70M lottery ticket purchased in this central Ontario community
The newest multi-millionaire is advised to sign the back of their winning ticket immediately and head to a retailer to have it validated, so the OLG is notified.
'Anything you can do to reduce': 90K Winnipeggers asked to cut back on water use to combat pipe leak
A sewage saga continues in Winnipeg, as 90,000 residents are being asked to cut down on their water use while the city battles a pipe leak that has spewed over 200-million-litres of untreated sewage into the Red River.
Investigation underway after person found dead in Glenwood home fire
A person has died after a fire broke out at a home in Winnipeg’s Glenwood area.
Manitoba second youngest province, Millennials making up largest portion of population: new data
Millennials are now the largest generation by population in Manitoba and the province as a whole is the second-youngest in Canada, according to new data.
Sask. judge says White City teen enacted 'pornographic' fantasy in sexual assault
A White City, Sask. teen recently convicted of sexual assault and assault by choking was enacting a pornographic fantasy, according to the judge presiding over the case.
Sask. government says it is now recognized as province's singular natural gas distributor
The Saskatchewan government has confirmed it is now being recognized as the individual supplier of natural gas by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) as it continues to contemplate whether to remit carbon tax for January.
IMAGES
VIDEO
COMMENTS
Plan Your Trip to Calgary Start planning your next great bucket list adventure in Calgary. Now is the perfect time to start dreaming of your next bucket list vacation in Calgary. Make Calgary the basecamp to your next great Canadian adventure and explore from city to mountains with day trips to Banff National Park and the Canadian Rockies.
Planning Your Trip Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Calgary are 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. Language: English is the predominate language spoken in Calgary.
Day 1: Exploring the City Day 2: Caving in Canmore Day 3: Banff Canyons, Lakes, and Horses Where to stay in Calgary Quick Calgary travel guide Bottom Line 3 Day Calgary Itinerary
1 Map of your Calgary itinerary. 2 How to Spend One Day in Calgary. 2.1 Fuel up with local coffee. 2.2 Enjoy the Devonian Gardens (the most underrated activity in Calgary) 2.3 Relax and grab lunch at Prince's Island Park. 2.4 Admire the architecture at the library. 2.5 Take in the views at Calgary Tower.
Ready to plan your trip to Calgary? Organize and map your itinerary with our free trip planner. Top attractions in Calgary 1. Calgary Zoo 4.6 ( 17310) Zoo Outdoor Activities Zoo featuring a huge variety of animals & a park filled with models of dinosaurs. Best place to spend a day inside the city. I liked watching penguins the most.
Check out (or walk) the RiverWalk Wander Downtown Calgary Explore Stephen Avenue Walk Climb the Calgary Tower Take photos of the Wonderland Sculpture by the Bow Building Glenbow Museum Stop by the Calgary Studio Bell - The National Music Center CORE Shopping Center & Devonian Gardens Explore Fort Calgary Late Afternoon at the Heritage Park
Things to Do in Calgary: The 11 Best Places to Visit (All Highlights) You want to visit Calgary during your next trip?. Great idea! Perched between the majestic Canadian Rockies and sprawling prairies, Calgary makes for a fantastic starting point to visit the national parks of Banff and Jasper.So, if you're planning an itinerary through western Canada, make sure to put Calgary on the map!
Money-Saving Tips Where to Stay How to Get Around When to Go 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.
Planning a trip to Calgary for 2 to 5 days: Guide to Calgary Alberta Day 1 of the 2 days in Calgary itinerary: Fort Calgary, Calgary Downtown, Calgary Tower, Stephen Avenue Walk, Eau Claire Park, RiverWalk, Kensington neighborhood Fort Calgary Downtown Calgary Attractions Calgary Tower Stephen Ave Walk Studio Bell
Updated: Jun 6, 2022 Calgary is a city of a little more than one million residents.
A 5 Day Trip Itinerary for a getaway to Calgary, Canmore and Banff National Park. Get ready to hit the road and embark on a journey through Alberta's Cow Town all while enjoying breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies and surrounding areas. You may also like: 15 Day Alberta Itinerary. Trip To Edmonton. Day 1: Calgary Downtown
Plan Your Trip To Calgary. Calgary is a thriving city graced with the vibrant beauty of nature. Divided by the winding Bow River, Calgary's east and west face are joined by a series of bridges and lined with several kilometers of trails to jog, walk and explore. A city infused by a lively ambiance, friendly hospitality, and rich, diverse ...
12:40 Calgary Tower. Enjoy amazing 360 panoramic views of the bustling city from the 190.8-meter tall tower. . 4 mins. 13:45 Prince's Island Park. A lush green urban city park with plenty of wildlife and recreational options.
This beautiful city is a perfect hub to plan outdoor adventures in places like Banff and Drumheller in addition to having a a slew of arts, cultural, and other activities to enjoy in the city proper. If you are planning a trip through Calgary take a look at our Ramblin' Calgary Travel Guide for a great selection of things to do in the city.
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.
Plan a Perfect Trip to Calgary Learn More Start Planning Calgary Trips We are pleased to present you with one of the most picturesque cities in Canada - Calgary. A great city, surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains and magnificent parks, will leave a lasting impression that you will remember for a lifetime.
Private Day Tour - Calgary to the Royal Tyrrell Museum. 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.
You'll get to see dreamy rivers, rocks, mountains, and trees on your Alberta road trip I don't know if you heard, but there is currently a pandemic-caused global rental car shortage, plus a run on motorhomes and RVs. If you need to rent a set of wheels, do it ASAP. Here are our favorite providers: 🚗 Best Car Rental Site - Discover Cars.
Trip planning, looking up schedules and real-time bus arrivals on the go just got easier! Available today for IOS or Android is our very own Calgary Transit App - Powered by Transit App. The new app lets you look up nearby stops, look up schedules, route maps and trip plan from one screen. Read More Plans & Projects
LAIDBACK TRIP Calgary Stampede is one of the greatest annual events happening in Calgary, a city in Alberta Province, every July. In this Calgary Stampede travel guide, we share everything you need to know before visiting this event. From how to buy tickets, how to get, what to wear to what you can expect, we've got you covered.
The Calgary Stampede (July 7-16, 2023) is the ultimate festival experience and has been a marquee Calgary event for over 100 years, attracting over 1 million visitors annually. For ten days each year, jeans and boots are standard attire, free pancake breakfasts start the day, and a spectacular fireworks display lights up the night sky.
When: Sunday, Feb. 18 at 5 p.m. Where: Scotiabank Saddledome, 555 Saddledome Rise S.E. Cost: Prices vary. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by Calgary Roughnecks (@nllroughnecks) The 2024 ...
While new to us, consumers will be familiar with this approach as it's used by other tourist attractions in Alberta, airlines, hotels, and Uber.". According to their website, prices for pre-purchased tickets currently range from $27.95 to $35.95 depending on the day. One Reddit user says they saw some for as high as $38.45.
Travel comfortably from Astana (NQZ) to Calgary (YYC) Discover our menu and enjoy a comfortable flight from the start of your journey from Astana (NQZ) to landing in Calgary (YYC). Whether you are planning a business trip or a family holiday, brusselsairlines.com offers the best choice and always attractive prices.