calgary tourist information

17 Top Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in Calgary

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Visit during the Calgary Stampede

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

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

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

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

Address: 1410 Olympic Way SE, Calgary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 1900 Heritage Drive SW, Calgary

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

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

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

Address: 101 9 Ave SW, Calgary

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

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

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

Address: 88 Canada Olympic Road SW, Calgary

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

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

Address: 698 Eau Claire Ave SW, Calgary

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 130 9 Ave SE, Calgary

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

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

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

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

Address: 850 4 Street SE, Calgary, Alberta

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

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

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

Address: 15979 Bow Bottom Trail SE, Calgary

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

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

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

Address: 8900 48 Ave NW, Calgary

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

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

Address: 4629 McCall Way NE, Calgary

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

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

Address: 750 9th Ave SE, Calgary

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

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

Address: 4520 Crowchild Trail SW, Calgary

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

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

Address: 18011 Spruce Meadows Way SW, Calgary

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

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

Address: 400 - 317 7 Ave SW, Calgary

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

Luxury Hotels:

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

Mid-Range Hotels:

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

Budget Hotels:

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

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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

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

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

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100+ Things to Do In and Around Calgary

Looking for places to visit in Calgary? Things to do? Start exploring the incredible activities, events, attractions, festivals, museums, shopping, and nightlife that make Calgary a vibrant place to visit. Whether it’s your first visit or you are hosting friends and family in the city, there are always exciting things to do in and around Calgary.

Updated: April 2024

Save money at some of Calgary's top attractions with the  FREE Calgary Attractions Pass . Check in at participating locations to access special deals and discounts at Calgary attractions, exclusive prizing, and chances to win a weekend getaway in Calgary!

Servus Calgary Marathon

Join the Servus Calgary Marathon, Canada's longest running marathon, on Sunday, May 26! Choose from 6 different distances starting with a 1.2km kids race to a 60km ultra! All runners will receive a special 60th anniversary medal & ASICS shirt, plus a big 60th year post-race party with fun surprises! 

New this year: $20 entry for youth 18 & under

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.

Calgary's Best Art Galleries, Theatre & Cultural Activities

Check out the top museums, galleries, theatre groups, dance performances, and classical music in Calgary.

Museums in Calgary

From downtown galleries at glenbow to music memorabilia at studio bell, explore history, culture, sports and art with interactive activities and events at these memorable museums..

Alberta Craft Gallery

Details: Discover contemporary and traditional fine craft from Alberta-based artists working across ceramics, furniture, jewellery, wood, textiles, and glass. 

Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre Museum

Details: Community centre serving the community with educational and cultural programs to enrich the lives of all Calgarians.

Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame

Details: 40,000 square feet of sports galleries and a collection 100,000 pieces of memorabilia at the home of the 1988 Winter Olympic Games in Calgary.

Please note: Canada's Sports Hall of Fame is currently closed.

Contemporary Calgary

Details: Art exhibitions, speaker series and education programs at Canada’s newest modern and contemporary art gallery.

Esker Foundation

Details: Largest privately funded, non-commercial contemporary art gallery in Calgary, hosting exhibitions, contextual talks, tours and hands-on workshops.

Gasoline Alley Museum at Heritage Park

Details: Return to the golden age of the automobile with memorabilia ranging from collections of antique vehicles to gas-related artifacts.

Glenbow Museum

Details: One of the largest museum collections in Canada with over 150,000 artifacts

Please note: Glenbow is temporarily closed for major building renovations. Visit the satellite gallery Glenbow at The Edison – this space is hosting touring exhibitions until Glenbow’s renovated building re-opens to the public.

Lougheed House

Details: National and Provincial Historic Site offering unique historic experience with immersive and dynamic exhibits and events.

Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre

Details: Explore five floors of music memorabilia that tells the story of music in Canada, with Canadian Halls of Fame and Rolling Stones Mobile Studio.

The Hangar Flight Museum

Details: Take flight with aircraft and exhibits that tell the story of flight in Western Canada.

The Military Museums

Details: Second largest military museum in Canada, telling the stories of Canada's navy, army, and air force.

YouthLink Calgary

Details: Discover the world of policing through interactive exhibits, stories of true crime and facts.

Beyond Calgary

Pioneer Acres of Alberta Museum (Irricana)

Details: Two museums dedicated to preserving Alberta’s pioneering heritage.

Remington Carriage Museum (Cardston)

Details: The world's largest carriage museum, the Remington houses over 250 coaches, carriages, wagons and sleighs.

Royal Tyrrell Museum (Drumheller)

Details: Canada’s only museum devoted exclusively to palaeontology celebrates the diversity of life on Earth.

Public Art in Calgary

Discover some of the best public art in Calgary from the Peace Bridge and Wonderland to the Corridor of Connection and the Centre Street Lions. 

Best Live Music Venues in Calgary

From small music venues and bars with live music to headlining stadium shows and live music downtown, these are the best places to see live music in Calgary.

Things to Do Outdoors in Calgary

Calgary is the perfect place for outdoor activities. home to expansive parks and rivers, while also neighbouring the canadian rocky mountains and banff national park, there are endless experiences for you to get fresh air and have memorable adventures. .

‣ An Insider's Guide to the Top Hiking Experiences in Calgary

‣ 6 Hikes Near Calgary That Everyone Will Love

‣ 10 Best Lakes Near Calgary for Swimming and Summer Fun

‣ Why Calgary is a Fly Fishing Paradise

‣ 10 Epic Bike Pathways in Calgary

‣ Canadian Rocky Mountain Ski Resorts Near Calgary

‣ Cross-Country Skiing In and Around Calgary

Outdoor Winter Activities in and Around Calgary

Discover the best outdoor activities to try in and around Calgary during the winter.

Outdoor Summer Activities in and Around Calgary

There is nothing like summer in Calgary, the sunniest major city in Canada with the longest trail network in North America.

Calgary Attractions

From the wilder institute/calgary zoo to heritage park historical village, discover awe inspiring things to do at attractions in calgary you will never forget..

Aspen Crossing (Mossleigh)

Details: Family friendly fun with historic dining car, replica train station gift shop, big rig friendly campground, glamping caboose cabins and a full-size train themed excursions.

Bow Habitat Station

Details:  Explore Alberta's fish, wildlife, water, and aquatic ecosystem with family friendly interactive exhibits and activities.

Butterfield Acres Children’s Farm

Details:  Get the real farm experience with interactive kids activities, pony rides, and goat milking.

Calaway Park

Details:  Fun for the whole family with Western Canada's largest outdoor family amusement park.

Calgary Farmyard

Details: Barnyard petting farm, miniature train rides, giant slides, zip lines, mini golf, jumping pillows, paintball, gemstone mining, and giant mazes.

Calgary Tower  

Details:  Iconic Calgary destination with 360 degree panoramic views of the city from 191 metres in the air.

Downhill Karting

Details:  More than 50 twists and turns take you down an 1,800 metre track on a purpose built kart everyone in the family can ride.

Fort Calgary

Details:  Past meets present at this family friendly attraction with the story of how Calgary came to be.

Granary Road

Details:  Family friendly fun with a 36 acre Play and Learn Park and local farmers' market with over 30 vendors for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Details:  Take flight with aircraft and exhibits that tell the story of flight in Western Canada.

Heritage Park Historical Village

Details: Over 180 exhibits on 127 acres of land tells the story of Western Canadian history from the 1860s to 1950s at Canada’s largest living history museum. 

Spruce Meadows

Details:  World renowned equestrian venue featuring indoor and outdoor tournaments and home to the Cavalry FC and International Christmas Market.

TELUS Spark Science Centre

Details:  Ignite your curiosity with the thrilling overlap of science, art and technology with over 200 hands on experiences and the largest Dome theatre in Western Canada.

Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo

Details:  Home to nearly 1,000 creatures from around the world, including the Penguin Plunge and Land of Lemurs.

Details: Year round sports facility with downhill karting, mini golf, mountain biking, skiing, snowboarding and Western Canada's largest tube park.

Top Attractions in Calgary for Families

Whether you're in the city for a vacation or are passing through on your way to the mountains, these attractions are a must for the whole family.

Indoor Attractions in Calgary

Explore exciting indoor attractions no matter what the weather is like in Calgary.

Sports, Fitness, & Games in Calgary

Get into the game with world class sports facilities, activities, and professional teams in calgary., adrenaline activities.

Activate Calgary South West

Alpine Air Adventures

Calgary Harley Davidson

Calgary Shooting Centre

Capture the Flag Paintball & Airsoft

iFly Indoor Skydiving

LaunchPad Golf

The Rec Room Calgary

The Shooting Edge

TracksVR Virtual Racing

Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tours

Vortex Sports

Professional Sports Teams

Calgary Flames (NHL Hockey)

Calgary Wranglers (AHL Hockey)

Calgary Hitmen (WHL Hockey)

Calgary Roughnecks (NLL Lacrosse)

Calgary Stampeders (CFL Football)

Cavalry FC (CPL Soccer)

Calgary Surge (CEBL Basketball) 

The Calgary Flames Game Day Guide

Experiencing a  Calgary Flames  game is a must-do experience for any sports fan in Calgary.  

The Calgary Stampeders Game Day Guide

Everything you need to know to attend a Calgary Stampeders game at McMahon Stadium.

The Cavalry FC Game Day Guide

Game day for the  Cavalry FC  is a one-of-a-kind sports experience and a chance to see professional soccer in Calgary.

Golf Courses in & Around Calgary

Blue Devil Golf Club

Coyote Creek Golf & R.V. Resort

D’Arcy Ranch Golf Club

HeatherGlen Golf Course

Heritage Pointe Golf Club

Kananaskis Country Golf Course

The Links of GlenEagles

McKenzie Meadows Golf Club

Serenity Golf Club

The Track Golf Course

Golf Courses In & Around Calgary

Calgary is home to world class golf courses in and around the city for all skill levels.

B-Line Indoor Bike Park

Bow Cycle E-Bikes

Bow Cycle & Sports

Escape Rooms & Laser Tag

The Locked Room

Equestrian Activities

Anchor D Guiding & Outfitting

Banff Trail Riders

Boundary Ranch

Century Downs Racetrack and Casino

Homeplace Ranch

Rocky Mountain Show Jumping

Timberline Tours

River Activities

Chinook Rafting

Fish Tales Fly Shop

Foot & Chain Fly Fishing Exchange

Harvie Passage

Lazy Day Raft Rentals

Out Fly Fishing Outfitters

The Paddle Station

Surf Anywhere

Squatchy Water Fly Fishing

Swimming Pools

Acadia Aquatic & Fitness Centre

Bob Bahan Aquatic & Fitness Centre

Canyon Meadows Aquatic & Fitness Centre

Foothills Aquatic Centre

Glenmore Aquatic Centre

Inglewood Aquatic Centre

Killarney Aquatic & Recreation Centre

Renfrew Aquatic & Recreation Centre

Shouldice Aquatic Centre

Sir Winston Churchill Aquatic & Recreation Centre

Southland Leisure Centre

Thornhill Aquatic & Recreation Centre

Village Square Leisure Centre

Venues & Facilities

Practice your soccer skills at the Calgary Soccer Centre .

Train, learn, and connect with your community at The Genesis Centre of Community Wellness .

Active your health & wellness routine at UCalgary Active Living .

Enjoy a public skate at the Olympic Oval .

Train, swim, and get active at the MNP Community & Sport Centre .

Experience live concerts and high energy sports at the Scotiabank Saddledome .

Summer and winter activities at the home of Calgary’s Olympic legacy at WinSport .

Festivals & Events in Calgary

Feel the energy of live events and fill your calendar full of festivals and events in calgary..

Alberta Beer Festivals (various events)

Details:  Bringing the beer world together with hundreds of breweries and hundred of beers to taste.

Beakerhead (September)

Details:  Beakerhead is a smash-up of art, science and engineering with artists, performers, engineers, designers, makers, scientists and inventors. 

Block Heater (February)

Details:  The Calgary Folk Music Festival's annual winter music extravaganza.

Calgary Comic & Entertainment Expo (April)

Details: Celebration of all things pop culture including comics, sci-fi, gaming, fantasy, horror and more for fans of all ages.

Calgary Dragon Boat Festival (August)

Details:  Calgary’s premier water sport festival brings together over 1000 competitors, 4000 spectators for an exciting cultural experience. 

Calgary Folk Music Festival (July)

Details:  Annually featuring 70 artists from over 16 countries on nine stages on Prince's Island Park. 

Calgary International Blues Festival (July/August)

Details:  A week of Calgary’s best bass-slapping blues rhythm from around the world covering multiple genres.

Calgary International Film Festival (September)

Details:  Showcase of the year's must-see movies from around the world in-cinema.

Calgary International Salsa Congress (April)

Details:  World class salsa dancing featuring some of the best salsa dancers in the world, local professionals, and troupes from all over North America. 

Calgary Marathon (May)

Details: A challenging, competitive, and fun event with a race designed for everyone at any level.

Calgary Midwinter Bluesfest (February/March)

Details: Full week of blues workshops, concerts & dance parties featuring some of the best blues musicians in the world.

Calgary Pride (August/September)

Details:  Celebrating Calgary's diverse and inclusive community with a variety of events throughout the week.

Calgary Stampede (July)

Details:  The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth features world’s top rodeo, chuckwagon races, First Nation culture, Agriculture showcase, live music and much more. 

Carifest (August)

Details: Calgary's celebration of Caribbean music, costumes, tradition and culture.

Chinook Blast (January/February)

Details: Calgary's midwinter festival showcasing the best of Calgary’s art, music, theatre, sport and recreation.

Funnyfest Calgary Comedy Festival (May/June)

Details: Memorable shows and amazing laughs for 11 days & nights of pure comedy from multiple venues, from theatres, hotels, and pubs.

GlobalFest (August)

Details:  Celebrate Calgary’s diversity through song, dance, food and five nights of mind blowing firework displays.

High Performance Rodeo (January)

Details:  Theatre, music, dance and comedy come together at Calgary's International Festival of the Arts.

Honens International Piano Competition & Festival (August/September)

Details: Listen to one-of-a-kind collaborations or inspiring solos from the world’s top piano talent.

Inglewood Sunfest (August)

Details:  Free family festival with over 200 vendors, artisans, community organizations, live music, entertainment, and kid's activities.

Lilac Festival (June)

Details: Shake off the winter blues and jump into festival season with a pedestrian-friendly zone of patios, bands, free kids’ activities and more.

Once Upon A Christmas at Heritage Park (November – December)

Details: Family friendly holiday fun with wagon rides, food, shopping, and a visit from Santa.

Otafest (May)

Details: All ages Japanese anime and pop culture festival with meet and greets, video game tournaments, and merchandise.

Pet-a-Palooza (July)

Details: The social event of the year for pets and their people. 

Rocky Mountain DanceSport Grand Prix (October)

Details:  Featuring dancers from So You Think You Can Dance, top ballet and contemporary companies, and concluding with an exciting after party each night.

Roundup MusicFest (July)

Details: Internationally acclaimed artists take the stage in a first class outdoor music festival format.

Sled Island Music & Arts Festival (June)

Details:  Dozen unique venues around the city featuring amazing performers from around the world. 

Spruce Meadows International Christmas Market (November)

Details: Traditional European style holiday market with food, beverage, artisan, craft, and local vendors. 

Taste of Calgary (August)

Details:  Calgary's best outdoor food and beverage festival with live music and entertainment.

The Imaginairium by Wordfest (October)

Details: Calgary's top destination for connecting audiences with the world's best writers.

ZOOLIGHTS at Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo (November – January)

Details:  Calgary's award winning, magical holiday tradition glows for six weeks of festive family-friendly fun.

Festivals in Calgary

Plan your next trip to Calgary around one of these must-attend festivals and discover how every season is festival season in Calgary.

Things to Do in Calgary at Night

Keep the party going after the sun sets and explore calgary’s nightlife scene., calgary casinos.

Ace Casino Airport

Ace Casino Blackfoot

Century Downs Racetrack & Casino

Cowboys Casino

Elbow River Casino

Grey Eagle Resort & Casino

PURE Casino Calgary

Nightclubs in Calgary

Get on the dance floor with the best nightclubs in Calgary.

Calgary's Best Craft Breweries

With more than 40 breweries to explore, you won’t go thirsty. Now is the time to get a taste of Calgary beer.

Shopping in Calgary

Shopping centres & department stores.

Bankers Hall

CF Chinook Centre

CF Market Mall

The CORE Shopping Centre

CrossIron Mills

Holt Renfrew

Hudson’s Bay Downtown

La Maison Simons

Marlborough Mall

SAKS Fifth Avenue

Southcentre Mall

Sunridge Mall

Westbrook Mall

Shopping Districts

17th Ave Retail & Entertainment District

4th Street BIA

Britannia Plaza

Crescent Heights

Downtown Calgary

East Village

International Ave BRZ

Kensington Village

Montgomery on the Bow

Victoria Park

Local Farmers’ Markets in Calgary

Meet the farmers and producers that bring farm to table in and around Calgary.

Calgary Farmers’ Market South

Calgary Farmers' Market West

Crossroads Market

Granary Road Farmers' Market  

Hillhurst Sunnyside Farmers’ Market  

Millarville Farmers’ Market 

7 Local Shops in Calgary

Calgary is home to many unique shops and brands that are making waves throughout the city. 

Things to Do in the Calgary Area

Alberta Prairie Railway (Stettler)

Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site (East Coulee)

Badlands Amphitheatre (Drumheller)

Banff Gondola (Banff)

Banff Lake Cruise (Lake Minnewanka)

Banff Upper Hot Springs (Banff)

Bar U Ranch National Historic Site (Longview)

Canadian Badlands Passion Play (Drumheller)

Frank Slide Interpretive Centre (Blairmore)

Glacier Adventure (Icefields Parkway)

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump National Historic Site (Fort Macleod)

Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site (Rocky Mountain House)

Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary (Cochrane)

Day Trips from Calgary

Explore our great region with attractions just outside of Calgary.

Where to See Dinosaurs near Calgary & Drumheller

Dig up something prehistoric with the top places to see dinosaur attractions near Calgary & Drumheller.

Tours in and around Calgary

Expert guides bring your trip to calgary and the canadian rockies alive with tips and tricks only the pros know. add these tour activities to your itinerary., calgary city tours.

Airport Shuttle Express

Alberta Blue Sky Tours

Alberta Food Tours

AM PM Limo & Party Bus Calgary

BUMP Mural Tours

CalgaryWalks & Bus Tours

RTB Tours & Shuttles

Toonie Tours

Adventure Tours from Calgary 

Alpine Helicopters

LR Helicopters

Mountain View Helicopters

Rockies Heli Canada

Rocky Mountain Sidecar Adventures

Springbank Air Training College

Things to do Beyond Calgary 

Anderson Vacations

Banff Jasper Collection

Calgary Tour Company

Canada Rail Vacations

Canadian Scenery Travel

Canadian Tours International

Alberta Food Tours

Discover Banff Tours

Explore Rockies Tours

What to do in Calgary this week

Free Things To Do in Calgary

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Things to Do in Calgary, Canada - Calgary Attractions

Things to do in calgary.

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

1. Pedal Pub Calgary

2. The Shooting Edge

3. Escape Hour

4. Lazy Day Raft Rentals

5. Rocky Mountain Trips

6. Exige Medi Spa

7. BATL Axe Throwing

8. Escape Capers YYC

9. Toonie Tours Calgary

10. Walk the YYC

11. The Locked Room - Southland Drive

12. Big Rock Brewery

13. CalgaryWalks & Bus Tours

14. Hammerhead Scenic Tours

15. The New Central Library

16. The Military Museums

17. The Locked Room - Calgary Northeast Branch

18. Calgary Food Tours Inc.

19. Gasoline Alley Museum

20. Confined Escape Rooms

21. Spruce Meadows

22. Banff Everyday Tours

23. Downhill Karting at Skyline Luge Calgary

24. Calgary Pathway System

25. Fish Creek Provincial Park

26. Bow River

27. Brewster Express

28. Heritage Park Historical Village

29. Prince's Island Park

30. Level 1 Escape

What travelers are saying.

Must-see attractions in Calgary

National Music Centre

Looking like a whimsical copper castle, this fabulous new museum is entirely entertaining, taking you on a ride through Canada's musical history with…

Calgary Zoo

More than 1000 animals from around the world, many in enclosures simulating their natural habitats, make Calgary's zoo one of the top rated in North…

Heritage Park Historical Village

Want to see what Calgary used to look like? Head down to this historical park (the largest in Canada!) where all the buildings are from 1915 or earlier…

Prince's Island Park

For a little slice of Central Park in the heart of Cowtown, take the bridge over to this island, with grassy fields made for tossing Frisbees, plus bike…

Calgary Tower

This 1968 landmark tower is an iconic feature of the Calgary skyline, though it has now been usurped by numerous taller buildings and is in danger of…

Telus Spark

You'll wish science class was as fun as the Telus Spark. Kids get a big bang out of this user-friendly and very interactive science center. There is a…

Contemporary Calgary

This inspiring modern-art gallery has three floors of temporary exhibits that change every four months. The gallery is now in the former Centennial…

Esker Foundation Contemporary Art Gallery

This small, private art gallery hosts fabulous temporary exhibitions in its beautiful 4th-floor location. Past exhibitions have considered everything from…

Inglewood Bird Sanctuary

Get the flock over here. With more than 260 bird species calling the sanctuary home, you're assured of meeting some feathered friends. It's a peaceful…

Fish Creek Provincial Park

Cradling the southwest edge of Calgary, this huge park is a sanctuary of wilderness hidden within the city limits. Countless trails intertwine to form a…

Calaway Park

Children of all ages will enjoy Calaway Park, western Canada's largest outdoor family amusement park. It features 30 rides from wild to mild, live stage…

Military Museums

Seven galleries cover Calgary's military background – air force, army and navy – from 1885 to modern peacekeeping operations and current conflicts in the…

Bow Habitat Station

Raising and releasing up to 1.5 million trout each year, this working hatchery is a favorite with kids for its aquariums, hands-on exhibits and chance to…

This cresent-shaped glass skyscraper soars 58-storeys and 236m-high in the sky and is home to one of the many oil companies in town. Until 2016 it was the…

Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre

Inside this impressive landmark building, built by skilled Chinese artisans in 1993, you'll find a magnificent 21m-high dome ornately painted with 561…

Fort Calgary Historic Park

In 1875 Calgary was born at Fort Calgary. The site today is occupied by a replica of a military barracks that stood here in the 1880s (the original fort…

More destinations you need to see

The top 10 attractions in Calgary

Things to do

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

Calgary Stampede

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

Calgary Olympic Park

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

Nose Hill Park

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

Dinosaur Provincial Park

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

Prince’s Island Park

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

Heritage Park

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

Calgary Tower

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

Glenbow Museum

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

Western-wear shopping

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

Rocky Mountaineer

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

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

Plan your trip now at the Visit Calgary website.

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Your Trip to Calgary: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to Calgary & Banff National Park

Calgary is a vibrant city with many things to offer, including a robust culinary scene, close proximity to the Rocky Mountains, and vast green spaces. Whether you’re interested in hiking and biking, shopping, museum-hopping, or simply soaking up the energy of the city by exploring Calgary’s unique neighborhoods, you’ll likely find what you’re looking for here. For anyone thinking of planning a trip, read on for tips and information on what to see and do, how to get around, where to stay, and what to eat and drink.

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.
• Currency : The currency used in Calgary is the Canadian dollar (CAD)  .
• Getting Around : Calgary Transit makes for an easy and car-free way to get around the city. There are more than 1,100 buses operating throughout the city with over 160 routes. The CTrain, Calgary's light rail transit system, has 44 stations on two lines traversing the city. The transit system’s website offers a planning tool to find out how to get where you're going.
• Travel Tip : While there are many worthwhile attractions in downtown Calgary, make time to check out some of the city’s unique and vibrant neighborhoods like Inglewood and Uptown 17 th Avenue.

Things to Do

Outdoor enthusiasts and those who prefer city-based activities will find something to do in Calgary. In terms of outdoor adventure, the city enjoys close proximity to both the majestic Rocky Mountains and Banff National Park . You will also find Fish Creek Provincial Park (Canada’s second largest provincial park) in the south end of Calgary, so there are near-boundless chances for hiking, wildlife viewing, and canoeing. There are also numerous museums and galleries to browse, as well as an excellent range of restaurants to suit any foodies.

• Enjoy Nature in Banff National Park : Canada’s first national park   is comprised of stunning Lake Louise and the charming town of Banff. Year-round outdoor activities range include hiking and biking, camping, wildlife viewing, fishing, canoeing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
• Experience the Calgary Stampede : For 10 days in July, the Calgary Stampede takes over the city. Visitors can watch cowboys and cowgirls compete at the Stampede Rodeo, enjoy live music nightly, fuel up with free pancake breakfasts, go on rides and play games at the Calgary Stampede Midway, and much more.
• Take in the Views from Calgary Tower : Calgary Tower offers 360-degree views of the city below as well as the Rocky Mountains from its observation deck. Or, get a bird's-eye view of Calgary beneath your feet from the glass floor.

Explore more attractions with our full-length articles on the best things to do in Calgary , the best time to visit Banff National Park , and the best day trips from Calgary .

Where to Eat and Drink

No matter what you happen to be craving while in Calgary, there’s a good chance you’ll find it. From fine dining establishments to street eats, options are varied and wide ranging. In terms of what types of food the city is known for, Alberta beef is near the top of the list. Bison, too, is a protein found on many menus. Alberta’s large Vietnamese population means that banh mi sandwiches are a popular choice in Calgary, as are pierogis, thanks to a Ukrainian influence.

Calgary also boasts a growing craft beer scene. In fact, there are more than 30 breweries in the city as well as two distilleries and a cider house. The tourism board has put together a handy beer map to help direct visitors to the best brews.

Check out our article on the best foods to try in Calgary for an intro on what to have on your culinary radar.

Where to Stay

Calgary's hotels cater to a wide range of budgets, from basic chain hotels to boutique options and more upscale accommodations. If you’re new in town, basing yourself in the downtown area may be your best bet, as the bulk of the city’s main attractions, shopping, and dining can be found here. Downtown hotels tend to be a bit more expensive due to the location, but you will have more options in terms of getting around on foot. Alternatively, 17th Avenue SW is a bustling area with lively nightlife, trendy restaurants, and cafés, while Beltline (just south of downtown) is home to a variety of eateries as well as the city’s Design District.

Getting There

Getting to Calgary by air is easily done. Calgary International Airport (YYC) is a hub for Air Canada and WestJet, offering direct flights to the US, Mexico, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, and Central America. The airport is located in the northeast of Calgary, around 20 minutes from the heart of downtown; rental cars, taxis, limousines, and airport shuttles are available here. If you’re going to be staying in or around downtown, you shouldn’t need to rent a car in order to get around thanks to an efficient public transit system.

Money Saving Tips

• Calgary’s Glenbow Museum offers free admission from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the first Thursday of every month, making that a great opportunity to discover the collection of Western Canadian art and culture.
• If you’re looking to save money on getting around, keep in mind that the CTrain is free in the downtown area along 7th Ave between 10th St SW and 3rd St SE.
• Get to know the city via Walk the YYC , a free walking tour company offering guided tours throughout the city. Tours can be booked online and reservations are necessary.
• Calgary is home to numerous parks and green spaces that are all free to access. Some great options include St. Patricks’ Island (which features walking trails and a natural play area) and Prince’s Island Park.
• Bird watchers may want to check out Inglewood Bird Sanctuary for a chance to spot more than 270 bird species   that call the park home.

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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!

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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

• Last Updated: February 8, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

1) Visit the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book your tickets in advance on Get Your Guide .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ MORE: 17 amazing things to do in Quebec City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can find more than just showjumping in the park.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Find the full price list on their website .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You are sure to have a blast at Calaway Park!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Enquire on their website about brewery tours.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Calgary Travel Guide

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

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

Best Accommodation – Where to Stay in Calgary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Restaurants in Calgary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lindsay Harvey

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• 1 Districts
• 2.1 History
• 2.2 Climate
• 2.3 Tourist information
• 3.1.1 Domestic airlines
• 3.1.2 International airlines
• 3.1.3 Ground transportation
• 3.4 By train
• 4.1.1 LRT/tram
• 4.1.2 Fares
• 4.2 By taxi
• 4.3 By ride hailing
• 4.5 On foot
• 4.6 By bicycle
• 5.1 Landmarks
• 5.2 Museums & educational attractions
• 5.4 Sports complexes
• 5.5 Architecture
• 6.1 Events and festivals
• 6.2 Places to visit
• 6.3 Spectator sports
• 6.4 Performing arts
• 13.1.1 Hospitals
• 13.1.2 Urgent Care Centres
• 13.1.3 Walk-in Clinics
• 14.1 By mail

Calgary is Alberta 's largest city and Canada's third-largest, and is near where the prairies end and the foothills begin. That makes it the eastern gateway to the Rocky Mountains and an important centre of trade and tourism for the western prairies. It is your best point of access for Banff and Jasper , and a worthwhile destination in its own right. Calgary is the heart of the largest metropolitan area between Toronto and Vancouver , with over 1.3 million people as of 2021 (1.5 million in the metropolitan area), making it Canada's fifth largest metropolitan area. Nicknames of Calgary include The Stampede City (for the Calgary Stampede) and YYC (for the city's airport).

Districts [ edit ]

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ].

Calgary was founded as Fort Brisebois by the Northwest Mounted Police (NWMP) in 1875. (The name was changed to Fort Calgary in 1876, named after Calgary Bay on the Isle of Mull.) The NWMP was sent west to ensure that Canada would not have an American-style "Wild West". Grave concerns about this were raised after the Cypress Hills Massacre of natives by drunken wolf hunters in 1873. Calgary was one of several forts established in Western Canada by the NWMP to ensure a police presence before the arrival of settlers.

In 1883, the railway reached Calgary. It started to grow in every direction and became an agricultural and business hub. In 1884, Calgary was incorporated as a town in what was then the North West Territories. By 1894, Calgary's population had grown to 3900 people and it was incorporated as a city.

Alberta's first major oil and natural gas field was discovered in 1914 at Turner Valley, 60 km south of Calgary. Subsequent discoveries kept the oil and gas scene active in the Turner Valley area for the next 30 years. When the Turner Valley fields were depleted, the next major oil and gas find was at Leduc (near Edmonton) in 1947. By then, Calgary was already established as a centre of oil and gas business.

During the 1950s, oil became big in Calgary and major American oil companies started heading to Calgary and opening offices. The boom extended into the next twenty years, bringing the city to 720,000 people in the metro area by 1985. The relatively low-key low-rise downtown became filled with a sea of skyscrapers, starting with the Calgary Tower and some other towers in the 1960s. By the 1980s, Calgary's luck turned, and a drop in oil prices sent the Calgary metro economy downward. Unemployment raged, vacancies surged, and growth was slow or even negative in some years.

In 1988, Calgary hosted the Winter Olympics and brought world attention to Calgary. By the 1990s, it was on the rebound and began growing again. Calgary today has become a more cosmopolitan city of over one million inhabitants with genuine attempts to diversify its economy and expand its attractiveness to outside visitors.

Onward! , the official motto of the city, was never more apt than in the wake of the major flooding the city experienced in June 2013. A year later, the casual visitor would have been hard-pressed to find any traces of the flood.

Climate [ edit ]

Calgary is sunny and rather dry, with wide seasonal and daily temperature ranges. Summers tend to be sunny and mild, highs averaging about 23 °C (73 °F) in July/August, usually accompanied by short afternoon storms. June is normally the wettest month, although the Stampede in July is notorious for at least a few heavy showers, so be prepared if you plan to visit during this time. Hot weather greater than 30 °C (86 °F) is rare, occurring on average five times a year. Also, temperatures typically drop dramatically on wet days as well; there's always a couple days in the summer months that barely manage highs over 10 °C (50 °F).

Winter can also vary quite a bit. Temperatures can get extremely cold, below −20 °C (−4 °F), at times between November and March, while −30 °C (−22 °F) is possible (on average five times a year). Though average highs in January are about −2 °C (28 °F) based on a current 30-year average, there's nothing average with Calgary's weather. Because of the regular but unpredictable chinooks (warm Pacific winds), there's no guarantee of when the cold weather may strike. One of the coldest months in the last ten years was a March (about −6 °C (21 °F) for average high), while one January was very mild, +6 °C (43 °F) average high. Temperatures can swell into the 15 °C (59 °F) range one day, and drop back into the sub-zero (sub 32°F) range several days later. A typical chinook rolls in fast and is very windy. The warming effects will usually linger for several days to more than a week. In strong chinooks, you can see a chinook arch to the west: an arch of cloud with clear sky below. Calgary can be very dry in winter, with humidity as low as 20%, causing dry skin and making it challenging for contact lens wearers.

Regardless of the time of year, temperatures usually drop quickly at night. Lows in summer hover around 8 °C (46 °F), while in winter they average about −13 °C (9 °F). Because of the higher elevation and dramatic temperature drops, snow can fall as late as June and as early as September. These unseasonable snowfalls usually result in chaos in the city, as they tend to be heavy and wet, with fallen trees being a major threat. Calgary's weather can be quite unpredictable and can vary dramatically from year-to-year. Check the forecast ahead of time, because it will usually give you a good idea of what you will need to prepare for.

First-time visitors to Calgary should be careful to bring sunglasses (even in winter) as Calgary is the sunniest city in Canada, and the sun can make things quite hard on your eyes, especially in the winter as it reflects off of the snow.

Tourist information [ edit ]

• Visit Calgary website

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ], domestic airlines [ edit ].

Direct flights to Calgary within Canada include from Edmonton (1 hour), Halifax (5.5 hours), from Jasper - Hinton (1.25 hours), from Kelowna (1 hour), from Montreal (4.5-4.75 hours), from Ottawa (4.25 hours), Prince George (1.5 hours), from Regina (1.5-1.75 hours), from Saskatoon (1.25 hours), from Toronto (4 hours), from Vancouver (1.5 hours), from Victoria (1.5-1.75 hours), from Whitehorse (2.5 hours), from Winnipeg (2 hours), and from Yellowknife (2.25-2.5 hours). Major airlines in Canada serving Calgary include:

• Air Transat , ☏ +1-514-636-3630 , toll-free: +1-877-872-6728 . Canada's third largest airline with some year round destinations and specializing in seasonal flights to vacation destinations (Europe in the summer and warmer, southern international destinations in the winter). ( updated Apr 2022 )
• Jasper By Air , 530 8 Ave, SW, Calgary , ☏ +1 403-470-8000 , toll-free: +1 888-276-6660 , [email protected] . A Calgary-based company offering daily scheduled flights to Calgary from Jasper - Hinton airport schedules and pricing information is available on the website. $210 . ( updated May 2022 )

International airlines [ edit ]

• Aerom e xico , daily flights from Mexico City
• American Airlines , multiple daily flights from Dallas /Ft. Worth (3.75 hours) and Chicago (3.5 hours)
• Alaska Airlines , multiple daily flights from Seattle (1.5 hours).
• British Airways . Daily flights to/from London Heathrow.
• Delta , daily flights from Minneapolis (2.75 hours), Salt Lake City (2.25 hours), and Seattle (1 hours).
• Horizon Airlines , multiple flights from Seattle . Owned by Alaska Airlines, but uses smaller aircraft.
• KLM . 5 weekly flights from Amsterdam (8.75 hours).
• Lufthansa [dead link] . Daily flights from Frankfurt (9.5 hours) and London (8.75 hours)
• United . Several daily flights from Denver (2.5 hours), Chicago (4 hours), Houston (4.25-4.5 hours), New York City (5 hours), San Francisco (2.75 hours).

From Europe there are non-stop charter flights from London , Glasgow , Manchester , Paris , Amsterdam and Frankfurt .

While the airport is connected quite well to other Canadian cities, there are fewer options for Americans in neighbouring states, with most flights to the US going to major airline hubs. In some cases, it may be better to drive from locations just across the border—especially northwestern Montana . The four closest U.S. airports that have service to Calgary are Seattle , Salt Lake City , Denver , and Minneapolis .

Since it's a major Canadian airport, Calgary International has US border pre-clearance facilities; if your flight goes from Calgary to the States, you will go through American customs and immigration immediately after check in at the International Terminal. Thus you get off the plane at your stateside destination as if you were on a domestic flight and make quicker connections there. The price for this perk is that you should budget more time when departing ; most airlines recommend for you to check in at least 90 minutes before flight time when travelling to the U.S. Passengers are not permitted to access US security more than 2 hours before their flight departs.

Ground transportation [ edit ]

Like most large airports, there are many options for getting into the city, which is 18 km (11 miles) south of the airport:

• Simplest : Taxi (metered, $40–45 typically) from Arrivals Doors 1, 9, and 15. Should take 20 minutes on a good day. Uber (the only airport authorized ride-share operator) can pick up pre-arranged rides on the Arrivals level at Doors 3, 12, or 15 (ensure vehicle has TNC sticker on back window, bottom left side).
• Easy : Private shuttles ($15 per person) These offer scheduled service to downtown hotels. Many airport-area hotels also have a free shuttle bus service to pick up and drop off their guests at the airport. As of September 2013, no downtown hotels have free shuttles.
• Easy : Private charter. Private service between Calgary Airport & addresses in Calgary.
• Still easy : Calgary Transit bus route 300 BRT Airport/City Centre ($11.25 adult / free ages 12 & under if you board at the airport, $3.60 adult / $2.45 youth 13–17 / free 12 & under if you board at any other stop). Both airport bus stops at the domestic terminal and international terminal have ticket machines that accept coins (no bills) and credit/debit cards, or you can pay cash to the operator (no change given), or buy a ticket with the Calgary Transit "My Fare" smartphone app (recommended). This fully accessible express bus with luggage racks leaves the airport every 30 minutes running from 5:30am to midnight daily. Board at bus bay 7 across from Arrivals Door 2 of the domestic terminal or at bus bay 32 across from Arrivals Door 15 of the international terminal. Travel time to downtown is 30–40 minutes. While the ticket from the airport is expensive, it includes/makes sense if you need an unlimited-use day pass for that day.

• Cheapest (and slowest) : Calgary Transit bus route 100 McKnight-Westwinds and C-Train (LRT/tram) route 202. ($3.60 adult / $2.45 youth 13–17 / free 12 & under, exact change on bus, or use coins (no bills)/credit/debit cards at the ticket machine at either bus bay, or buy a ticket with the Calgary Transit "My Fare" smartphone app) Take the 100 McKnight-Westwinds bus (NOT route 100 North Pointe, which travels in the opposite direction) to McKnight-Westwinds LRT station and board a downtown-bound C-Train. The bus runs every 20–30 minutes, until 1am on weekdays and earlier on the weekend. Since the train isn't designed for air travellers, there is little room for luggage, especially during rush hour. However, the bus and all stations are fully accessible and have elevators. Board the bus at bay 7 on the arrivals level of the domestic terminal, or bay 32 of the international terminal. Travel time is around 60 minutes.
• Also possible : Car rentals are also available.

For connections to other parts of the city by transit, consult the Calgary Transit website , or call their service centre at +1 403-262-1000.

It is also possible to fly into the Edmonton International Airport, a 2 1/2-hour drive from Calgary.

By car [ edit ]

Calgary is roughly 90 minutes' drive east of Banff on Highway 1 ( Trans-Canada Highway ), and about 3 hours south of Edmonton on Queen Elizabeth II Highway, aka Highway 2. From the U.S., use the I-15 (east side) or U.S. Hwy 93 (west side) from Montana or U.S. Hwy 95 from Idaho . Calgary is about 320 km (200 miles) north of the border.

By bus [ edit ]

• Banff AIrporter ( Banff Airporter is located inside the airport on the arrivals level between exit doors 5 and 6. Please meet your driver inside the airport. ), ☏ +1-403-762-3330 , toll-free: +1-888-449-2901 , [email protected] . To Banff, first bus departs at 10am and last departs 10:30pm. From Banff, first bus arrives at 7am and last arrives 9:30pm . Operates between Calgary Airport, Canmore , and Banff . Travel time from Calgary Airport to Canmore is 1 hour, 20 minutes and to Banff is 2 hours. Operates daily, departing every 1–2 hours. $84 one-way for adults / $76 seniors 65+ / $42 child 6–17 / free ages 5 and under, no discount for round trips (prices include 5% GST tax, do not include driver tip). Advance tickets should be bought online or by phone if possible, or at Calgary Airport desk (space permitting) . ( updated Jun 2023 )
• Brewster Express , toll-free: +1-866-606-6700 . From Banff, the first bus arrives at 8:30 am and last bus arrives at 9:45 pm. To Banff, the first bus departing leaves at 9:30 am and last bus departing leaves at 10:00 pm. . Bus service throughout the year between downtown Calgary and Lake Louise including stops at Calgary International Airport, at Kananaskis Village (some trips), in Canmore and in Banff . Some trips operate between Calgary International Airport and Banff. From May to mid-October, a trip extends beyond Lake Louise to and from Jasper . Travel time to downtown Calgary from Canmore is 2 hours, from Banff is 2.5 hours, from Lake Louise is 4.25 hours, and from Jasper is 7.25 hours. On most trips, travel to Calgary International Airport international airport is about 30 minutes shorter than traveling to downtown Calgary. Buses operate daily with the portion of the route between Calgary International Airport and Banff having buses departing throughout the day every 1.5 to 2 hours. $74 one way and $126 round trip for adults traveling between Calgary and either Banff or Canmore. Discounted rate for children . ( updated May 2022 )
• Cold Shot , ☏ +1 587-557-7719 , [email protected] . Operates bus services primarily in Alberta with some service reaching British Columbia . ( updated Feb 2021 ) Operates a route between Calgary and Edmonton including a stop in Red Deer .
• Ebus , toll-free: +1 877-769-3287 . Operates several routes in British Columbia and Alberta . ( updated Mar 2022 ) Operates a route between Calgary and Edmonton including a stop in Red Deer . Travel time to Calgary from Edmonton is 5 hours and from Red Deer is 2.25 hours. Operates twice daily.
• FlixBus . Service from Edmonton and Lethbridge . ( updated Apr 2024 )
• Mountain Man Mike's Bus Service , ☏ +1-778-382-7729 , [email protected] . Weekly service between Calgary and Kaslo with stops in Okotoks , High River , Claresholm , Lethbridge , Fort Macleod , Pincher Creek , Sparwood, Fernie , Cranbrook , Creston , Salmo , Nelson , and Balfour . Travel time to Calgary from Lethbridge is 3 hours, from Sparwood is 5 hours, from Cranbrook is 7 hours, from Nelson is 10 hours, and from Kaslo is 11 hours. This service provider also offers a twice per week service between Kaslo and Vancouver via Nelson. ( updated Mar 2022 )
• Between Edmonton and Calgary including a stop in Red Deer . Travel time to Calgary from Edmonton is 3.25-4 hours and from Red Deer is 2-2.25 hours. Operates multiple times daily.
• Between Lethbridge and Calgary International Airport including stops in Fort Macleod , Claresholm , and downtown Calgary. Travel from Lethbridge to downtown Calgary is 3 hours and 3.75 hours to Calgary International Airport. Operates several days per week.
• Bus service along the Trans-Canada Highway between Vancouver and Calgary, operating multiple days per week. Service from Vancouver (14.25 hours), Surrey , Abbotsford (13 hours), Chilliwack , Hope (12 hours), Merritt , Kamloops (9 hours), Chase, Sorrento, Salmon Arm (7.5 hours), Sicamous , Revelstoke (6 hours), Golden (3.5 hours), Lake Louise (2.5 hours), Banff (1.75 hours), and Canmore .
• Bus service between Edmonton and Calgary with a stop in Red Deer operating multiple days per week. Travel time to Calgary is 4-4.5 hours from Edmonton and 2-2.25 hours from Red Deer. From Edmonton, service is available from Saskatoon .
• The Canada Bus , ☏ +1-403-668-9600 , [email protected] . Service from Edmonton . Red Deer , Banff , and Lethbridge ( updated May 2022 )
• On-It . Commuter service from Cochrane and Okotoks ; summer-only service from Banff and Canmore . ( updated May 2022 )
• J&L Shuttle , ☏ +1 403-528-8851 , toll-free: +1 877-217-5577 , [email protected] . Shuttle service to Calgary from Medicine Hat . ( updated Oct 2023 )

By train [ edit ]

Get around [ edit ], by transit [ edit ].

It can be fairly easy to get to most destinations of interest by bus and/or light rail transit (LRT, trams). In the downtown core, 7th Avenue South is for public transit only.

Calgary's public transit system was established in 1909. The first leg of Calgary's LRT (tram) system was completed in 1987 as part of preparation for the 1988 Winter Olympics. Today, the LRT lines are the backbone of Calgary Transit. Calgary's LRT is called the C-Train (or CTrain) and runs reliably, frequently, and is entirely accessible, with elevators at every station. In the downtown, you can ride the C-Train for free for 14 city blocks along the length of 7th Avenue.

Information about the transit system is available on Calgary Transit's website , or by phoning their information line +1 403-262-1000 from 6AM–9PM, local time. Train times are displayed on large electronic signs at stations, using Calgary Transit's real-time information system. Next bus information can be obtained by calling Teleride at +1 403-974-4000, or texting 74000 with the bus stop number, which can be found on the bus stop sign. Both services now offer real-time information when available (e.g. the next bus).

Calgary Transit offers a real-time bus information system that displays stop and schedule information on buses.

LRT/tram [ edit ]

There are two LRT lines, both of which run on 7th Ave downtown: Route 201 (red on Calgary Transit maps) will be most useful to visitors, while Route 202 (blue) is more useful for locals. Route 201 runs from Tuscany Station in the northwest to Somerset/Bridlewood station in the southern suburbs, passing through the city centre and serving attractions such as the Stampede grounds. Route 202 serves mostly residents and runs from Saddletowne station in the northeast, passes through downtown, and ends at 69th St station in the southwest. LRT platforms are labelled with reference to downtown rather than by compass direction, and the trains are well signed.

Trains run every 10 minutes during weekday off-peak hours and 5 minutes during peak hours. Train will run every 15 minutes on weekends. First trains are between 4 and 5AM, and last trains are between 1 and 2AM—slightly earlier on Sundays. During the Calgary Stampede and on New Year's Eve, the C-Train runs all night and some bus routes have extended hours of service. Check Calgary Transit's website for details if you'll be visiting at this time.

Although buses come along less often, and tend to serve commuters more than tourists, it is still possible to get around to the main places without too much difficulty. Bus routes usually service either downtown or an LRT station, and run from around 5AM–1AM. Depending on the route, frequencies can be as low as one per hour in outlying suburbs, although 20 or 30 minutes is more typical. Buses numbered in the 300–399 range are rapid buses intended to provide service like a train: they only stop at major streets and large bus terminals, and run relatively frequently. This includes four "MAX" bus routes, which are designed to be have more frequent service and less stops. Bus routes with the word "express" in their name only run during rush hour and take commuters to and from downtown. Most major bus routes use low-floor buses equipped with ramps; the express routes are the exception, using 1970s-era buses.

Fares [ edit ]

As of Oct 2022, transit tickets ($3.60/adult, $2.45/youth 17 and under) permit 90 minutes of travel on trains and buses, with round trips allowed. Day passes ($11.25/adult, $8.25/youth) and books of 10 transit tickets ($36/adult, $24.50/youth) are also available at most convenience stores. Ticket machines at C-Train stations and platforms sell day passes and regular tickets. These machines accept coins (but not bills), credit cards, and debit cards. A monthly pass can also be purchased for unlimited usage within the pass's designated month ($112/adult $82/youth), but is not cost justified unless you intend to commute to downtown daily. The ticket machines allow you to purchase multiple tickets (e.g. multiple day passes) in one transaction but you must press the "Multiple" button before selecting the type of ticket.

The C-Train operates on a "proof of payment" honour system. This means there are no turnstiles, but inspectors (usually "peace officers" employed by Calgary Transit) randomly check for valid tickets, transfers, or passes. There is a minimum $150 fine for transit riders unable to present proof of payment. There is no charge for travel on the C-Train in the downtown free-fare zone. An automated onboard announcement is made when trains enter and leave this zone.

By taxi [ edit ]

• Associated Cab , ☏ +1 403-299-1111 . Offers app to hail their cabs. ( updated Jul 2022 )
• Calgary City Cabs , ☏ +1 403-605-9999 . ( updated Jul 2022 )
• Calgary United Cabs , ☏ +1 403-777-1111 . Offers an app to hail their cabs. ( updated Jul 2022 )
• Checker Cabs , ☏ +1 403-299-9999 . Offers an app to hail their cabs. ( updated Jul 2022 )

By ride hailing [ edit ]

• Uber . ( updated Jul 2022 )

It is easy to be confused by Calgary's quadrant address system at first, but it is very logical and systematic.

Streets run north-south and avenues run east-west. Centre Street and Macleod Trail divide the city into east and west, while the Bow River (west of Deerfoot Trail) and Centre Avenue and Memorial Drive (east of Deerfoot Trail) divide the city into north and south. Together these split the city into NE, NW, SE, and SW: the four quadrants. Thus any time you get an address on a numbered street, you must get whether it was NE, NW, SE, or SW. Street and avenue numbers—and thus address numbers—increase as you move away from Centre St or Centre Ave.

Many of Calgary's roads are numbered, but this is less common in the newer developments. Important roads are often named "Trails," but there are many exceptions. Newly-built neighbourhoods may not yet appear on maps, either paper or GPS. If you are travelling to these places, it may be a good idea to ask for directions beforehand.

The names of small suburban roads usually incorporate the community name at the start of the names of all roads in that community. This means that Taralake Garden , Taralea Place , Taralea Bay , Taralea Way , Taralea Green , Taralea Circle , and Taralea Crescent are all separate roads, in the same community – Taradale. It can be very confusing for tourists and locals alike to navigate an area where very small differences in street names are so important to finding your way. If travelling in the suburban communities, have a map or directions and pay attention to the full, exact name.

Calgary's downtown core is bounded by the Bow River to the north, the railway tracks to the south (between 9th Ave S and 10th Ave S), 11 St W, and 4 St E. Almost all of the roads in the downtown core are one-way , so look carefully at your map for the direction of traffic on each road when planning your trip. When driving in downtown, watch for one-way signs. 7th Avenue S in the downtown core is for Calgary Transit buses and C-Trains (trams) only; cars driving on 7th Ave may be ticketed and will definitely draw stares and glares from waiting transit commuters.

For many years, parking in downtown Calgary has been the second most expensive in North America, after New York City's. Parking fees of over $25/day are not unusual. Street parking in downtown (and many other parts of the city) is through the city's ParkPlus system . You will find a ParkPlus pay station in every block. Before you leave your parking spot, note the 4-digit ParkPlus zone number on a sign near your car. Also note your rental car's licence plate number. Go to the ParkPlus pay station, where you will need to type in that information, and pay for your parking either with a credit card or with coins ($2, $1, $0.25). If you set up a ParkPlus account before your visit, you can pay using your cell phone. The MyParking app can help you find available parking more quickly.

In general, the city's driving situation is a result of rapid, unanticipated growth, so prepare for the roads being grossly inadequate and gridlocked during rush hour. Outside of rush hour, traffic is not usually a problem. Also watch for lane reversals during peak times on weekdays (6:30AM–8:30AM and 3:30PM–6:30PM) when going in and out of downtown on some larger streets (e.g. Centre Street, Memorial Drive, 10 Street NW). This increases the traffic flow in one direction by "borrowing" a lane normally going the other way.

Winter driving is very different from driving in other seasons. Major roads are ploughed, salted, and sanded, but smaller residential streets have very little snow removal or winter maintenance. The city bans snow route parking: after a heavy snowfall priority routes in the city – marked as snow removal routes with blue snowflake street signs – become no parking zones for 72 hours; this includes some residential streets, so bear this in mind if you have parked on the street during the winter.

As confounding as driving in Calgary may be, driving is still the best way to explore and see the city.

If you need to hire a car to explore the city or head out into the surrounding area check the prices from agencies on Macleod Trail, you may get a better deal than in downtown or at the airport.

On foot [ edit ]

Downtown Calgary is a compact area which is easily accessible on foot. The pathway system, Eau Claire Market area and Stephen Avenue Walk (8th Avenue) are the primary walking destinations of downtown workers in the warmer months. In the wintertime, everyone navigates their way around the downtown core via the Plus 15 system , so called because the enclosed walkways joining buildings are approximately 15 feet (5 m) above ground.

By bicycle [ edit ]

With approximately 760 km of paved pathways and 260 km of on-street bikeways within its boundaries, the City of Calgary boasts the most extensive urban pathway and bikeway network in North America. Pathway are available online and are available from Calgary swimming pools and leisure centres in the warmer months.

Calgary has cycle tracks in the downtown core. (A cycle track is a bike lane that is protected from other traffic by physical barriers, such as concrete medians.)

• The 7th St SW cycle track goes from the Bow River to 8th Ave SW.
• There are cycle tracks along 5th St W, 8th Ave S-Stephen Avenue Walk-9th Ave S, and 12th Ave S.

Check the City of Calgary's cycle track map for details.

Downtown, there are many pathways along the rivers and park areas. Though Calgary can be thought of as a safe city, use common sense when biking at dusk and at night. This is particularly true on the east side of downtown along the river (close to the neighbourhood of East Village), which is a rougher end of town.

Calgary has a good network of off-street bike paths, although motorists are sometimes less than courteous. Weather is unpredictable, and snowy cycling conditions may occur any time from September to May. Some bike paths are cleared of snow in winter. Bike racks are fairly common, especially in shopping areas. Be sure to use the bike racks provided, or another solid object to lock you bike to; as simply locking your back wheel will not provide sufficient security. Calgary Transit has bike racks at C-Train stations, allows bikes on the C-Trains during off-peak hours (at no additional fee), and is in the process of adding bike racks to all buses. Cycling is not allowed on 7th Avenue SE/SW in downtown Calgary, between 1st St SE and 8th St SW. This section of 7th Avenue is reserved for Calgary Transit vehicles and emergency vehicles; offenders risk a $350 ticket. Bicycles are also prohibited from using the Deerfoot Trail freeway (Hwy 2).

Cyclists must obey the same rules of the road as other vehicles. All cyclists must have a working bell on their bike, and cyclists under the age of 18 are required to wear a helmet. Only cyclists under 14 may ride on sidewalks.

Each major body of water in the city (Bow River, Elbow River, Glenmore Reservoir) has city parks with bike paths. These bike paths are heavily used during the morning rush hour to work, but can provide hours of scenic pedalling. A scenic route starts in downtown and head along the Bow River pathway as it heads south to Fish Creek Provincial Park. Here, leave the banks of the Bow River and cycle though Fish Creek park along the main cycle path path until you reach the Glenmore Reservoir (a good place for lunch). At the reservoir, as the bike path crosses the dam, leave the Bow River pathway for the Elbow River pathway. This highly scenic path will take you back to downtown. Cycle time: 4–6 hours (with lunch).

Another major pathway extends north up Nose Creek valley just east of the zoo, including two overpasses to cross Deerfoot Trail (a busy freeway). While there is a pathway that leads to the airport, connecting to it requires crossing an industrial area, which is not recommended for novice cyclists.

Lime has an e-bike dockless rental operation in Calgary. Download their app to hire.

See [ edit ]

The pamphlet titled "Calgary attractions" has discount coupons for 14 tourist attractions. Some coupons are modest such as $1 off Calgary Tower admission, but others can be substantial such as 50% off a second admission to Heritage Park Historical Village. The pamphlet is available at the Tourism Calgary airport kiosk (arrival level) or in the ground floor lobby of the Calgary Tower. (Jun 2016)

Landmarks [ edit ]

• Calgary Tower ( in City Centre ). The Calgary Tower may not be quite as impressive as the CN Tower in Toronto, but it still commands a great view over the city and the surroundings. On a clear day you can see the Rockies to the west. It features a revolving gourmet restaurant, a bar, and an observation deck. The tower is best approached from 8th Avenue, as the 10th Avenue side is dominated by railway tracks, parking lots, & parkades.
• Stampede Park ( in City Centre ). The site of Calgary's world-famous exhibition and rodeo, the Calgary Stampede grounds are east of the Beltline in Victoria Park. Not only are the grounds the site of the excitement of every July's Calgary Stampede, they also house a conference and exhibition centre (the BMO Centre) and a casino.

Museums & educational attractions [ edit ]

• Calgary Central Library (in City Centre ). Flagship branch of the Calgary Public Library, opened on November 1, 2018. 240,000-square-foot (22,000 m 2 ) interior centres around a four-storey central atrium topped by a skylight. The lower floors contain the library's meeting spaces and activity centres, while the upper floors feature book stacks with space for 450,000 titles and a reading room. Also features a 340-seat theatre, conference rooms, and small café. Named one of the 12 Most Anticipated Buildings of 2018 by Architectural Digest.

• Calgary Zoo ( in Northeast ). The world-class Calgary Zoo is home to over 1,000 animals from all over the world, as well as to the Botanical Garden and a Prehistoric Park for dinosaur lovers. It is the second largest zoo in Canada.
• Fort Calgary ( in City Centre ). Fort Calgary, a Northwest Mounted Police (NWMP, now RCMP) fort was built in 1875 at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow rivers (near modern Inglewood). It became the nucleus around which Calgary grew. The original fort was destroyed decades ago. Today's Fort Calgary is a museum and historic site focusing on the history of the city and of the RCMP.
• Glenbow Museum ( in City Centre ). Western Canada's largest museum, with over 93,000 ft² (8,600 m 2 ) of exhibition space on three floors. More than 20 galleries are filled with artifacts from Glenbow's collection of over a million objects, emphasizing local history. Permanent exhibitions include Indigenous Cultures, Western Canadian History, Asian Art, West African Art, and Military History. The Glenbow has changed focus to be more of an art gallery, and this is reflected in the temporary exhibitions.
• Heritage Park ( in Southwest ). One of the largest living historical villages in North America, on 66 acres of land near the Glenmore Reservoir. Attractions include a working passenger train, 155 historical exhibits, a candy store and bakery, old fashioned amusement park, and riding on the S.S. Moyie , a paddlewheel boat. In the winter, only a few attractions are open.
• Telus Spark ( in Northeast ). It is a place where people of all ages and abilities can put their imagination into action. It features over 100 hands-on exhibits, four exhibit galleries, plus a travelling exhibition gallery, a Creative Kids Museum, Calgary's only HD digital Dome Theatre, and a 4 acres (1.6 hectares) outdoor park.
• The Military Museums ( in Southwest )]] One of the few military museums in Western Canada, the Military Museums features 4 museums dedicated to the regiments in the Calgary area. There is also an extensive library and archives centre is in the museum which is run by the University of Calgary.

Parks [ edit ]

• Fish Creek Provincial Park (in Southeast ). Fish Creek Provincial Park is one of North America's largest urban parks, covering 13.5 km². This natural area park stretches along the banks of Fish Creek and the Bow River in south Calgary, from roughly 14 St SW in the west to the Bow River in the east.
• Olympic Plaza ( in City Centre ). This public square was built as the site of medal presentations during the 1988 Winter Olympic Games.
• Prince's Island Park ( in City Centre ). Calgary's largest inner city park is an island with a number of pleasant trails for walking and relaxing.

• Nose Hill Park ( in Northwest ). Nose Hill Park, one of the largest municipal parks in Canada and North America, is in the northwest quadrant of Calgary, Alberta. It is a natural environment park, commonly regarded as a retreat from city life and a place to enjoy nature. It is the second-largest park in Calgary, surpassed in size only by Fish Creek Provincial Park.

Sports complexes [ edit ]

• WinSport (Canada Olympic Park) ( in Northwest ). Take a tour of the site of the 1988 Winter Olympics, which includes going to the top of the ski jump for a fantastic view. Four runs are available for your skiing pleasure during the winter months, and Canada's Sports Hall of Fame museum is open year-round.
• Scotiabank Saddledome ( City Centre ). On the Stampede Grounds, Calgary's largest hockey arena plays host to the Calgary Flames (ice hockey), the Calgary Hitmen (junior ice hockey), the Calgary Roughnecks (box lacrosse), and many concerts.
• Spruce Meadows ( in Southwest ). Just south of the city on Highway 22X, Spruce Meadows is a world-renowned show jumping and equestrian facility. The facility also houses ATCO Field , a soccer stadium that's home to Cavalry FC, a soccer team in the Canadian Premier League.

Architecture [ edit ]

While Calgary is no Rome , Tokyo , or Paris for architecture, Calgary does have some interesting highlights those interested in architecture. The Bow is a modern masterpiece of glass and steel and would be a shame to miss. (But really how could you? The crescent-shaped Bow building pierces through the skyline from pretty much any angle.) Stephen Avenue (8th Ave S in downtown core) and Atlantic Avenue (9th Ave S in Inglewood) both have an abundance of tightly packed, small, old commercial buildings with great architectural details; follow this link for downloadable self-guided historic walking tours. Calgary's Peace Bridge , a pedestrian bridge crossing the Bow River from the downtown core, opened in 2012. It was designed by Santiago Calatrava and is a change from the cable-stayed bridges he is known for. The Calgary Tower is a beautiful early modern tower with a minimalist design. Even if you don't care for the design, you shouldn't miss the views from the top. Talisman Centre , a large sports complex opposite the Stampede grounds just south of the downtown core, has a unique arch-shaped roofline which is the suspension point for a fabric roof. You could also stroll the construction mazes of Macleod Trail and Scarth St/1 Street SE for many beautiful modern condominiums. Out in suburbia, the pyramid-shaped Fish Creek Library (near Southcentre Mall) is a local landmark.

Do [ edit ]

Events and festivals [ edit ].

In date order:

• 0 0 1 High Performance Rodeo ( in City Centre ). ( January , 3 weeks) This unconventional international festival of theatre, dance, music, comedy, visual art, and more has been gracing Calgary venues of all sorts for over 25 years.  
• Calgary International Salsa Congress , Hyatt Regency Calgary, 700 Centre St SE ( in City Centre ), [email protected] . ( March , 2 days) Weekend of all-night salsa parties and Latin dance performances featuring both world-class and local talent. Includes qualifiers for the World Latin Dance Cup. $50-80 .  
• Calgary Spoken Word Festival ( various locations ). ( April , 2 weeks) Canada's largest spoken word festival takes place in bars, pubs, bookshops, and an intimate theatre setting. Poetry slams, workshops, and the Golden Beret Award.  
• Sled Island Festival ( various locations ), ☏ +1 403-229-2901 , [email protected] . ( June , 4 days) Independent music and visual arts festival, which takes place at over 30 venues.  
• Carifest , Shaw Millennium Park ( in City Centre ), ☏ +1 403-774-1300 , [email protected] . ( June , 1 day) Calgary's annual festival celebrating the city's large West Indian population starts with a parade downtown to Shaw Millennium Park for the day's festivities. Free .  
• Shakespeare by the Bow , Prince's Island Park ( in City Centre ). ( July & August , 4 weeks) Shakespeare presented in an outdoor setting, an annual co-production of Mount Royal University and Theatre Calgary. Donations welcomed .  
• Historic Calgary Week ( various locations ), ☏ +1 403-261-4667 . ( Late July & early August , 10 days) Learn about local history through talks, behind the scenes tours, and walks. Free, donations welcome .  
• Calgary International Bluesfest ( various locations ). ( late July & early August , 4 days) Calgary's got the blues! Many performers at a variety of venues.  
• Calgary Fringe Festival ( various locations ), ☏ +1 403-451-9726 , [email protected] . ( August , 10 days) Calgary's festival of uncensored & unjuried theatre takes place at a variety of traditional and unconventional venues.  
• GlobalFest , Elliston Park - 1827 68 St SE ( in Southeast ), ☏ +1 403-569-9679 , [email protected] . 6-11:30PM . ( August , 5 days) Fireworks competition and multi-cultural festival at Elliston Park. There is no parking at Elliston Park, but there is a shuttle bus from Marlborough Mall for $6. $20 per night, or $75 for 5 nights (early bird pricing also available) .  
• Taste of Calgary , Eau Claire Festival Plaza, 200 Barclay Parade SW ( in City Centre ), ☏ +1 403-293-2888 , [email protected] . 11AM-9PM . ( August , 4 days) Enjoy a wide variety of foods at Calgary's outdoor dining festival. Music at the Taste Stage. $1 per sampling ticket; each sample requires 2-5 tickets .  
• Dragon Boat Race and Festival , North Glenmore Park ( in Southwest ; catch shuttle bus from Mount Royal University ). ( August , 2 days) Dozens of 20-person dragon boat crews race to the beat of their drummers on Glenmore Reservoir. Kids' activities, food, and entertainment are all available in the park. Free .  
• WordFest ( various locations ). ( October , 7 days) Banff-Calgary International Writers Festival includes readings, panel discussions, performances, interviews. Festival des mots in French, some programming in Spanish.  

Places to visit [ edit ]

• Calaway Park , ( in Northwest ) ( Hwy 1 (Trans-Canada Hwy) exit 169, just west of Calgary's city limits ). Western Canada's largest amusement park, roughly 15 minutes west of Calgary. Gate admission pays for all rides; games, food cost extra.  
• Harvie Passage ( in Southeast ). The area around Calgary Bow River Weir was remade into a Class II and III white water park for paddlers. Harvie Passage is meant only for experienced canoe and kayak paddlers; all others should portage around it. Free .  

Spectator sports [ edit ]

Calgary is home to a number of professional and amateur sport teams. The Calgary Flames of the National Hockey League (NHL) are the most recognized team and play at the 19,289-seat Scotiabank Saddledome, located inside Stampede Park in the City Centre . Tickets are available, but games are routinely sold out, and tickets must usually be bought from a broker at higher prices. The major junior Calgary Hitmen of the Western Hockey League (WHL) also play at the Scotiabank Saddledome, while several junior 'A' teams play in and around Calgary. Tickets to these games are available at the door.

The Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League (CFL), 2018 holders of the Grey Cup (league champions), play at the 35,400 seat McMahon Stadium, located at the University of Calgary in the Northwest . Good seats can be bought in advance, but few games are sold out (a notable exception being the annual Labour Day Classic against the rival Edmonton Eskimos) and tickets can be purchased at the door. The Calgary Roughnecks of the National Lacrosse League (NLL) play box lacrosse at the Scotiabank Saddledome, and are holders of the 2019 Champions Cup (league champions). Cavalry FC of the Canadian Premier League play professional soccer at ATCO Field on the grounds of Spruce Meadows in the Southwest . There is no professional baseball in Calgary, but the collegiate Okotoks Dawgs play at Seaman Stadium in Okotoks .

For varsity athletics, the three major post-secondary institutions have comprehensive athletic programs, though not at the high profile as their American counterparts:

• Calgary Dinos , University of Calgary ( in Northwest ). Ice hockey (men's & women's teams), field hockey (women), Canadian football (men), basketball (men & women), rugby (women), soccer (men's & women's), swimming, track & field/x-country, volleyball (men & women), wrestling.  
• MRU Cougars , Mount Royal University ( in Southwest ). Ice hockey (men's & women's teams), basketball (men & women), soccer (men & women), volleyball (men & women).  
• SAIT Trojans , Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) ( in Northwest ). Ice hockey (men's & women's teams), basketball (men & women), soccer (men & women), volleyball (men & women).  

Performing arts [ edit ]

Calgary has a very vibrant theatre scene. It seems that Calgary has live theatre for every taste: avant-garde (One Yellow Rabbit), traditional (Theatre Calgary, ATP), mystery (Vertigo), lunch breaks (Lunchbox), improv (Loose Moose), clown arts (Green Fools), and more. The two daily newspapers provide some theatre coverage. The City Centre contains Arts Commons which hosts multiple live theatre companies, as well as the Jack Singer Concert Hall , home of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra. Other live theatre venues are located in the City Centre, as well as the National Music Centre (Studio Bell), which features a performance hall and museum.

The Northwest is home to the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium , a large concert hall and home to Calgary Opera and Alberta Ballet. The Southeast contains some small live theatre venues as well as the Stage West Dinner Theatre , while Jubilations Dinner Theatre is located in the Southwest .

Learn [ edit ]

Places of study within the city of Calgary include:

• University of Calgary (U of C) ( in Northwest ) is Calgary's largest degree-granting facility composed of 14 faculties and over 85 research institutes and centres. The main campus is located in the Northwest and a smaller south campus is located in the City Centre .
• Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) ( in Northwest ) provides polytechnic and apprentice education, granting certificates, diplomas, applied degrees, and bachelors degrees.
• Mount Royal University ( in Southwest ) offers 12 degrees and 32 majors.
• Ambrose University ( in Southwest ), private Christian liberal arts university.
• Alberta University of the Arts ( in Northwest ), formerly known as Alberta College of Art & Design (ACAD) , art and design university.
• Bow Valley College ( in City Centre ), offers year-round career programs that lead to certificates, diplomas, and post-diploma certificates, as well as adult upgrading and English language learning. Branch campuses are located in Airdrie , Banff , Canmore , Cochrane , High River , Okotoks , and Strathmore .
• Columbia College ( in Northeast ) is a vocational education institution offering certificate and diploma qualifications in a range of subjects, as well as adult upgrading and English language learning.
• St. Mary's University ( in Southeast ) is a private Catholic university and offers degrees in the liberal arts, sciences and education.

Work [ edit ]

• Busking is common in the summertime, along Stephen Avenue downtown at lunch time, near Eau Claire on weekends, and along 17th Avenue at night. Busking permits are available for Stephen Avenue; busking in Eau Claire Market proper is restricted to auditioned performers, ruling this option out. 17th Avenue has potential, if you can deal with drunken hecklers.
• One common pick-up spot for day labour is Centre Street south, between 12th and 13th Avenues. Arrive early for black market jobs, especially in the summer (construction) season. Can also check out Calgary Job Board .
• Calgary is a city with a strong volunteer spirit, which was embraced during the 1988 Winter Olympics and continues to be a foundation of the community. Volunteering is a great way to meet people in any city you visit. If you are unable to find a volunteer opportunity on your own, try Single Volunteers of Calgary .

Buy [ edit ]

• 17th Avenue ( in City Centre ). 17 Avenue S between 14 Street SW and Macleod Trail SE is Calgary's best-known urban business street and a major venue for boutique shopping, bars, pubs and restaurants.
• Downtown ( in City Centre ). Includes Stephen (8th) Avenue pedestrian walk, Barclay Parade, and The Core Shopping Centre which contains approximately 160 retailers on four levels.
• Kensington Village ( in Northwest ). Centred on 10 Street NW and Kensington Road NW, Kensington is home to art galleries, fashion retailers, and antiques.
• Inglewood ( in Southeast ) Centred on 9 Avenue SE, east of the Elbow River, Inglewood is an urban shopping area and historic district that highlights are the coffee shops, art galleries, trendy clothiers, and upscale furniture shops.
• Chinook Centre ( in Southwest ). Calgary's largest indoor mall and one of the best shopping experiences in the city for variety and amount of retail shops.
• CrossIron Mills ( in Northeast ). This large indoor mall is in the neighbouring hamlet of Balzac, north of Calgary. Similar in format to other "mills" malls, it has many well-known stores and outlets as the first new enclosed mall to be built in the Calgary area in a generation.
• Market Mall ( in Northwest ). Calgary's second largest indoor mall.
• Southcentre Mall ( in Southwest ). Calgary's third largest indoor mall.

Calgary is also home to numerous farmers' markets such as the Calgary Farmers Market and Crossroads Market , both located in the Southeast .

Eat [ edit ]

Calgary offers a wide variety of dining options. While Calgary doesn't have a single signature dish, residents are very proud of Alberta beef, and Calgarians are discerning customers of steakhouses. Speaking of beef, the popular Chinese-Canadian dish of ginger beef was invented in Calgary in the 1970s. Chocolaterie Bernard Callebaut (also called Cococo), winner of international awards for chocolate-making, is based in Calgary, with many stores in the city.

Calgary is also home to a very culturally diverse population, with a very wide selection of international restaurants, especially from East and Southeast Asia, and the Mediterranean from Italy through Lebanon. Calgary is, however, generally lacking in decent Mexican food, and the inland location means that a good meal of seafood is sometimes hard to find. The highest density of restaurants are located along 17th Avenue (Beltline), 4th Street (Mission), or Stephen (8th) Avenue - all located in the City Centre district.

Restaurants in the downtown area are very busy between noon and 1PM on weekdays due to the lunch crowd of office workers; if you can, try to stagger your lunch to start around 11:15 or 1:30. You'll face much shorter lineups. Buffets are often only prepared once for lunchtime, and visiting a buffet after 12:15 or so will typically be a depressing dining experience.

Calgary is also the city of founding for major Canadian restaurant chains Hy's , JOEY, Jugo Juice, Edo Japan, CRAFT Beer Market, OPA! of Greece, Smitty's, Original Joe's , and Moxies . (The original Calgary Hy's Steakhouse closed in 2006.)

Calgary's most abundant ethnic specialty is Vietnamese. Most neighbourhoods have at least one Vietnamese noodle shop or Vietnamese sub (banh mi) joint.

Drink [ edit ]

Calgary is the original home of the Caesar cocktail, sometimes called Canada's national cocktail. There are many bars throughout the city, although the core is where the trendiest clubs are. There is also the ever-popular 17th Avenue SW (in City Centre ), home to the Red Mile .

• CRAFT Beer Market . 100 local and international beers, including a one-of-a-kind weekly cask brew, and an extensive list of wine, cocktails and spirits. Three locations throughout Calgary.
• National . Restaurant & entertainment venue inspired by North American tastes, with games and events, extraordinary food, and select craft beers. Three locations throughout Calgary.
• Ranchman's Cookhouse and Dance Hall (in Southwest ). Year-round destination for all things Western: line dancing, country music, and more. Very popular during Stampede Week.

Calgary has a large selection of craft breweries and craft distilleries located throughout the city.

• Wild Rose Brewery . A Calgary-based brewery founded in 1996. Popular beers include their IPA and their Velvet Fog wheat ale. ( updated Jun 2019 )
• Bridgeland Distillery , 77 Edmonton Trail NE, Calgary . A Calgary-based distillery showcasing Tradition, Innovation and Terroir: Brandy and Whisky Makers. Guided Tours on Friday-Saturday-Sunday. Book tour online ( updated May 2023 )

Cafés [ edit ]

Starbucks and Tim Horton's are everywhere in Calgary. If you're looking for something different, try one of these.

• Analog Cafe . Local coffee chain serving Fratello coffee (sister company). Seven locations throughout Calgary.
• Good Earth Coffeehouse and Bakery . Calgary-based Good Earth has nearly 30 locations across Calgary, and others across Western Canada. Many of their cafes have patios.
• Rosso Coffee Roasters . Local coffee company with direct sourced coffee. Offers grab-and-go as well as a pour over bar. Seven locations throughout Calgary.
• Waves Coffee House . "Waves" refers both to the Vancouver origin of this coffee chain, and also to the fact that every location has free wi-fi. Nearly 10 locations across Calgary.

Sleep [ edit ]

Accommodations are mainly located in the City Centre , Motel Village in the Northwest near 16 Avenue NW and Crowchild Trail, and in the Northeast near the Calgary International Airport and along Barlow Trail. There are hostels located in the City Centre.

There are several campgrounds near Calgary, but only one is inside the city limits.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Although Calgary is generally a very safe place, walking at night should be avoided in the East Village and Victoria Park areas of downtown (generally speaking, this is the area adjacent to the Stampede Grounds and north to the Bow River). Calgary's 2011 murder rate of 1.1 murders per 100,000 inhabitants was, for example, roughly one-tenth the murder rate of Minneapolis and one-twentieth that of Memphis. Always keep your wits about you when the bars close, regardless of the area of town.

Calgary drivers are typical drivers for a mid-sized western North American city. Culturally, Calgary is a mash-up of small town culture and big city living, and driving in Calgary is no exception. If you come from a small town in rural North America, the drivers would be considerably more aggressive than you are used to. If you are from a larger busier urban area, or are from Europe for instance, Calgary drivers can be considered quite timid and under-skilled. A driver from New York, London or even Montreal and Toronto would consider the Calgary driver to lack confidence more than anything. Calgarians are generally quite aware of pedestrians and usually give pedestrians right of way, as required by law. Calgarians are generally safe and cautious (some consider overly cautious) drivers, though.

Calgary freeways are nowhere near as congested and confusing as L.A. freeways or the 401 in Toronto, but Deerfoot Trail is to be avoided if you're not comfortable with 100 km/h freeway driving, and even by experts at rush hour (accidents occur on a daily basis). A second freeway, Stoney Trail, now exists on the northwest, west, north, and east sides of the city providing an alternate, less hectic route.

Be aware of lengthy wait times at the emergency rooms of the city's hospitals. It may take 1 to 2 hours or more to see an emergency doctor. There is a web page where Alberta Health tracks the current wait times for Calgary emergency departments . Serious emergencies are triaged and see medical attention immediately.

Panhandlers are a sight in Calgary's downtown core. The majority of them just need to be told 'No' but some can be persistent. A great number of agencies exist to assist the disadvantaged in Calgary and true charity cases receive assistance from them regularly; money is far better spent donating to these agencies as it ensures that those truly in need will receive it. For that reason, visitors are encouraged not to give money to strangers in the street. Panhandlers have also been found at signalized intersections, holding a cap or hand out to drivers stopped at red lights.

Take care when crossing LRT (tram) tracks , as the trains are quiet. There are no electrified rails. There are usually bells and barriers at pedestrian crossings; heed them.

Boaters on the Bow River should note the Calgary White Water Park (Harvie Passage) just downstream of the Calgary Zoo; heed the warning signs. People have perished here, the strongest swimmers among them.

Winter driving always requires caution. The key to winter driving is to slow down, as the main hazard in winter is slippery roads due to snow, ice, or slush. Remember, your vehicle – whether it's a compact car or an SUV – relies on four surfaces, each the size of the palm of your hand, to grip the road. When you drive faster, or drive on a slippery surface, that means less traction. So the solution for slippery roads is to slow down to give your car a better grip on the road surface. (Winter tires help too: If renting a car in winter, request winter tires, because not all rental cars have winter tires equipped.) In the worst winter driving conditions, you may see drivers on 100 km/h roads drop down to 60 km/h for safety. By slowing down and significantly increasing your following distance, you can safely navigate through most winter road conditions. Winter road conditions are available online from Alberta Transportation and the Alberta Motor Association .

Although Calgary doesn't get a lot of heavy snow, temperatures below freezing can allow ice to form on many roads. The most dangerous condition is when the ice is a clear sheet which resembles the road, called "black ice". Black ice is most commonly seen on bridge decks and other elevated roadways such as on- and off-ramps, where the road surface cools more quickly and so is more prone to freezing. Black ice most dangerous times to drive in these conditions are the two or three days immediately following the first major snowfall of the year. Black ice can also form after a period of warmer weather, such as in late fall, early spring, or after a winter chinook, when melting snow can turn to ice overnight. Freezing rain is not often seen in the Calgary area, but sometimes happens in late fall or early spring, when an evening shower is followed by overnight lows that drop below freezing, covering the roads with ice.

Weather in Calgary is unpredictable from fall through spring. It is always best to dress in layers and come prepared for extremes, even within the same day.

Medical information [ edit ]

• 811 Health Link , ☏ 811 , toll-free: +1-866-408-5465 . 24 hours / 7 days a week . Registered nurses provide telephone advice and information about health symptoms and concerns. Health Link nurses help find appropriate services and health information. ( updated Jun 2023 )

Hospitals [ edit ]

All hospitals operate 24-hour emergency departments.

• 51.074764 -114.14847 1 Alberta Children's Hospital , 2888 Shaganappi Trail NW , ☏ +1 403-955-7211 . For patients aged 17 and under. Look for the multi-coloured building near the top of the hill. Patients over age 17 should go to the Foothills Medical Centre, which is close by.  
• 51.064913 -114.133578 2 Foothills Medical Centre ( Foothills Hospital ), 1403-29 St NW , ☏ +1 403-944-1110 . For patients aged 15 and older. Patients under 15 years of age should go to Alberta Children's Hospital, which is very close to Foothills Medical Centre.  
• 51.079003 -113.98394 3 Peter Lougheed Centre ( Peter Lougheed Hospital ), 3500-26 Ave NE ( Just north of Sunridge Mall ), ☏ +1 403-943-4555 .  
• 50.98989 -114.09668 4 Rockyview General Hospital , 7007-14 St SW , ☏ +1 403-943-3000 .  
• 50.883 -113.952 5 South Health Campus , 4448 Front St SE , ☏ +1 403-956-1111 . 24-hour emergency, visiting hours 11AM-9PM . This new hospital was fully operational in July 2013. Located at southeastern edge of Calgary.  

Urgent Care Centres [ edit ]

Urgent care centres deal with issues which are not life-threatening but require attention within the same day or evening. For serious and life-threatening health concerns always go to your nearest emergency department, or call 911. Problems which urgent care centres typically deal with include broken bones, sprains, asthma, cuts, dehydration, infections, and pain.

• 50.902617 -114.058787 6 South Calgary Health Centre , 31 Sunpark Plaza SE ( Shawnessy district ), ☏ +1 403-943-9300 . 8AM-10PM .  
• 51.041215 -114.071842 7 Sheldon Chumir Health Centre , 1213 4 St SW ( Next to Central Memorial Park ), ☏ +1 403-955-6200 . 24hrs .  

Walk-in Clinics [ edit ]

There are many walk-in medical clinics across the city that deal with routine medical concerns. Medi-Centre is a chain of walk-in clinics with locations across the city, but there are also many independent walk-in clinics .

Connect [ edit ]

The area codes in Calgary are 403 and 587 , however calling between the codes does not involve long distance charges so long as the phones are within the local calling area.

• Public Wi-Fi (city program)
• WiFi Hotspots in Calgary

By mail [ edit ]

• 51.04863 -114.0759 8 Calgary Main Post Office ( Canada Post ), 639 5th Ave SW Suite 100 ( SE of the intersection of 5th Ave SW & 6th St SW ). (retail counter) M-F 9AM-6PM . Postcodes for the greater Calgary area are T1Y and T1Z; and range from T2C through T2Z; and from T3C to T3Z. Neighbourhood post office branches are located within and operated by London Drug, Shoppers Drug Mart, Rexall Drugstores and other retail stores contracted by Canada Post. They are marked with the red "Canada Post" signage and logo.  

Cope [ edit ]

• Emergency Services 911 (City of Calgary only) – Fire, Police, Ambulance, Hazardous Materials Spills.
• Non-Emergency Ambulance (403) 261-4000
• Non-Emergency Police Service (403) 266-1234

Go next [ edit ]

• Banff and Lake Louise . Nearby, well-known winter ski areas and mountain summer escapes.
• Brooks . 2 hours east of Calgary; 50 kilometres away from the 73 km 2 Dinosaur Provincial Park , one of Alberta's 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites , boasts one of the best dinosaur fossil beds in the world.
• Cardston . The Remington Carriage Museum houses the largest collection of horse-drawn vehicles in North America with over 250 carriages, wagons and sleighs.
• Diamond Valley . Turner Valley Gas Plant National and Provincial Historic Site is a pioneering natural gas plant 45 minutes (by car) south of Calgary, where the Dingman No. 1 well's centennial was celebrated on May 14, 2014. See how natural gas from Canada's largest gas field was processed prior to WWII.
• Drumheller . 90 minutes east of Calgary. The world famous Royal Tyrrell Museum houses many palaeontological specimens.
• Edmonton . The nearest urban, metropolitan centre to the North is host to North America's largest mall and has a vibrant cultural scene. It is a 3-hour drive north of Calgary on Highway 2.
• Fort Macleod . A 90 minute drive south of Calgary. Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, one of Alberta's 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites , is 18 km NW of Fort Macleod with an excellent interpretive centre open year round.
• Jasper . A well-known mountain destination about 4 hours drive northwest of Calgary.
• Kananaskis Country and Canmore . Mountain destinations about an hour car travel away.
• Red Deer . A city with its own list of attractions, halfway between Edmonton and Calgary.
• Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park . A 3-hour drive south of Calgary.

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Calgary   Travel Guide

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Why Go To Calgary

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

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

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Best of Calgary

Best hotels in calgary.

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

Best Things to Do in Calgary

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

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Calgary Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

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

Weather in Calgary

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

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

How to Save Money in Calgary

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

Culture & Customs

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

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

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

What to Eat

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

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

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

Getting Around Calgary

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

Entry & Exit Requirements

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

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

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Even frosted with a crunchy carpet of snow, the city of Calgary still manages to shake out a warm welcome. A comfortable drive from the natural beauties of Banff National Park, visitors can enjoy a day of skiing and retreat to urban nightlife for fine dining and evening entertainment.

Escape winter temperatures at one of Calgary's cold-weather attractions. Whether you're wanting to spend time appeasing your artistic side at a city gallery or fancy something a little more scientific - like aviation history at the Aero Space Museum- options aren't an issue. Get some Canadian lore at the Glenbow Museum or take in panoramic views of the city from the top of Calgary Tower. Shoppers will find the mall more than adequate for any unexpected formal occasion or outdoor apparel accessorizing.

When summer brings out Calgary's colorful side, sidewalk patios spill into the sunshine and parks assume green lush attire. Whiling away a quiet afternoon beside the river may be just the ticket for the weary traveler. For wild fun, meander through the zoo or test your gold-medal talent with a trip to the Olympic complex. Host to the Olympic Games in 1988, the sports facilities here still get used by everything from bobsleds to luge to sports observers.

Summer brings out bikers in force and with an athletic facility on an Olympic scale so close at hand, there's no need to worry about getting a spot of exercise. Should this all sound too tame however, sign up for a white-knuckle rafting trip, a wilderness hike or a jarring mountain bike ride ? contact local operators for a fix. Anglers can enjoy a day of fly-fishing or try for bigger game on a wilderness hunting expedition. If this range of activity leaves adrenaline junkies unsatisfied, try getting a high climbing some of the rock out of town.

Calgary is 184 miles south of Edmonton and just under 500 miles west of Regina, Saskatchewan.

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