Ultimate Travel Guide to Calgary, Alberta

Welcome to Calgary, Alberta! This vibrant city, located in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, is renowned for its rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or a culture lover, Calgary has something for everyone.

Things to Do in Calgary

1. Explore Calgary’s Downtown

• Calgary Tower: Start your adventure with a trip to Calgary Tower, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Rockies from its observation deck. Don’t forget to walk on the glass floor!
• Stephen Avenue: This historic pedestrian mall is lined with shops, restaurants, and art installations. It’s an ideal spot for people-watching and enjoying Calgary’s urban vibe.
• Glenbow Museum: Discover Alberta’s stories through art, culture, and history. With impressive exhibitions, the museum showcases Indigenous art, contemporary pieces, and historical artifacts.
• BMO Centre & Stampede Park: If you’re in Calgary in July, the Calgary Stampede is a must-see! The 10-day event features rodeos, concerts, and a taste of Western heritage.

2. Parks and Nature

• Prince’s Island Park: Located on the Bow River, this park features walking trails, ponds, and picnic areas. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll, especially during the warmer months.
• Fish Creek Provincial Park: One of the largest urban parks in North America, Fish Creek offers hiking, biking trails, and picnic areas amidst stunning natural scenery.
• Calgary Zoo: Home to over 1,000 animals, the Calgary Zoo is a great family-friendly destination. Don’t miss the prehistoric park with its life-sized dinosaur exhibits.

3. Cultural Experiences

• Heritage Park Historical Village: Step back in time at Canada’s largest living history museum. With over 180 exhibits, you can experience life in the 1860s up to the 1950s.
• National Music Centre: Explore Canadian music history with interactive exhibits and live performances. Check for special concerts and events.
• Theatre Calgary: Catch a show at this iconic theatre that produces a mix of classic and contemporary plays. Be sure to visit the Arts Commons, which also hosts various art exhibitions.

Culinary Delights

Calgary has a vibrant food scene that showcases both local and international cuisines.

Must-Try Dishes

• Alberta Beef: Known for its rich flavor, don’t miss trying a steak from one of Calgary’s renowned steakhouses like Charcut Roast House or Hy’s Steakhouse.
• Poutine: Sample the Canadian classic made with fries, cheese curds, and gravy at a local eatery like The Big Cheese Poutinerie.
• Bannock: A traditional Indigenous bread, try it at The Banquet or Kitsune where it’s incorporated into various dishes.
• Noodle dishes: Indulge in Calgary’s diverse Asian cuisine, especially at places in the community of Kensington or along 17th Ave, known for its excellent ramen spots.
• Craft Beer: The city has a thriving craft beer scene. Visit local breweries like Trolley 5 or Brewsters to sample unique brews.

Popular Restaurants

• Una Pizza + Wine: Famed for its delicious thin-crust pizzas and extensive wine selection.
• Native Tongues Taqueria: An outdoor eatery renowned for its fresh tortillas and Mexican street food.
• Ten Foot Henry: Known for its vegetable-focused menus, this popular spot offers a fresh twist on Canadian cuisine.

Day Trips from Calgary

Calgary is a perfect base for exploring the natural beauty and attractions of Alberta. Here are some great day trips you can take:

1. Banff National Park (1.5 hours drive)

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Rockies. Explore the charming town of Banff, visit the iconic Lake Louise, and take a gondola ride for stunning vistas.

2. Kananaskis Country (1 hour drive)

Perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and skiing. The picturesque views and trails are less crowded than Banff.

3. Drumheller (1.5 hours drive)

Known for the Royal Tyrrell Museum, which houses one of the world’s largest dinosaur displays. Explore the stunning Badlands landscape and visit the iconic Hoodoos formations.

4. Lake Minnewanka (1 hour drive)

This glacial lake offers activities such as boating, hiking trails, and stunning views. Perfect for a summer picnic or a scenic drive.

5. Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump (1.5 hours drive)

A UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers an insight into the history of buffalo hunting and Indigenous culture.

Festivals and Events

• Calgary Stampede (July): A world-famous rodeo event featuring bull riding, agricultural showcases, live music, and a gigantic midway.
• Calgary Folk Music Festival (July): A celebration of folk music featuring artists from around the world.
• Calgary International Film Festival (September): Showcases international films, including independent Canadian cinema.
• Beakerhead (September): Celebrating art, science, and engineering through a series of creative installations and events across the city.

Getting Around Calgary

Public Transport

• C-Train: Calgary’s light rail system is an efficient way to get around downtown and access key attractions.
• Buses: Extensive bus routes connect you to various points of interest.

Car Rentals and Rideshares

Renting a car is a great option for day trips outside the city. Taxis and rideshare options like Uber are readily available.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (June – August): Ideal for outdoor activities and festivals, with warm temperatures.
• Autumn (September – October): Beautiful fall foliage and milder weather, less crowded attractions.
• Winter (November – March): Perfect for skiing and winter sports; however, be prepared for cold temperatures.
• Spring (April – May): Great for seeing blooming nature and fewer tourists.

Conclusion

Calgary is an exciting city that combines the charm of urban life with the beauty of the Canadian Rockies. With its outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and delectable food options, there is no shortage of things to do and see. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey to Calgary!