Explore the Best of Calgary, Canada

Calgary, located in the province of Alberta, Canada, is a vibrant city known for its stunning natural beauty, western charm, and modern urban amenities. Surrounded by the majestic Canadian Rockies, Calgary offers a dynamic mix of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and urban excitement. Whether you're exploring its renowned festivals, enjoying outdoor activities, or discovering its rich heritage, Calgary has something to offer every type of traveller.

Getting to Calgary

Calgary is well connected by air, road, and rail, making it easy to reach from various parts of Canada and the world.

• Calgary International Airport (YYC): Located just 17 kilometres northeast of downtown Calgary, YYC is one of the busiest airports in Canada and offers both domestic and international flights.

Transportation Options:

• Airport Shuttle: Many hotels provide shuttle services to and from the airport for convenience.
• Public Transit: Calgary Transit offers buses and the C-Train light rail system, making it easy to get around the city.
• Taxis and Rideshares: Available at the airport and throughout the city.
• Car Rentals: Ideal for exploring Calgary’s surrounding natural attractions, such as Banff National Park.

Top Attractions in Calgary

1. Calgary Tower

One of Calgary’s most iconic landmarks, the Calgary Tower offers stunning 360-degree views of the city and the surrounding Rocky Mountains from its observation deck. Don’t miss the glass-floored observation area for a thrilling experience.

2. Calgary Stampede

Known as "The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth," the Calgary Stampede is an annual rodeo and exhibition held every July. It features rodeo events, concerts, carnival rides, and a celebration of Western heritage.

3. Banff National Park

A short drive from Calgary, Banff National Park is one of Canada’s most scenic destinations. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and emerald lakes, it’s perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and wildlife watching.

4. Glenbow Museum

Explore the art, culture, and history of Alberta at the Glenbow Museum. The museum features rotating exhibits, art collections, and exhibits that showcase the indigenous cultures of Canada.

5. Calgary Zoo

Home to over 1,000 animals, the Calgary Zoo is one of the best family-friendly attractions in the city. It includes exhibits like the Canadian Wilds, Prehistoric Park, and the African Savannah.

6. Heritage Park Historical Village

Step back in time at Heritage Park, Canada’s largest living history museum. Experience the life of early settlers with over 180 exhibits, including a steam train ride, heritage buildings, and costumed interpreters.

7. Prince Island Park

Located along the Bow River, Prince Island Park is a lush green space perfect for picnics, walking, cycling, and outdoor concerts in the summer. It’s also home to the Calgary Folk Music Festival.

Outdoor Adventures in Calgary

1. Calgary’s Pathway System

Calgary boasts an extensive network of pathways and bike lanes that run through the city and along the Bow and Elbow Rivers. Whether you’re walking, jogging, or cycling, you can explore Calgary’s natural beauty in an eco-friendly way.

2. Canada Olympic Park

Built for the 1988 Winter Olympics, Canada Olympic Park (COP) offers year-round activities, including skiing, snowboarding, zip-lining, and bobsledding in the winter and mountain biking in the summer.

3. Nose Hill Park

One of Calgary’s largest parks, Nose Hill offers over 11 square kilometres of prairie, wildlife, and hiking trails. It’s a perfect place for those looking to escape into nature while still being close to the city.

4. Bow River

The Bow River offers excellent opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. For a more relaxing activity, take a scenic boat cruise down the river and enjoy Calgary’s downtown skyline.

Dining in Calgary

Calgary’s food scene is diverse, offering everything from local delicacies to international cuisine. The city is particularly known for its exceptional beef, as well as a growing number of fine dining and farm-to-table restaurants.

• Alberta Beef: Try a tender Alberta steak at renowned steakhouses like The Cattle Baron and Vintage Chophouse.
• Canadian Cuisine: For a taste of Canada’s culinary heritage, try dishes like poutine, butter tarts, and wild salmon at places like Charcut Roast House and Sky 360.
• International Cuisine: Calgary’s multicultural makeup means there’s a wide variety of international dining options. Try the best of Vietnamese, Indian, Italian, and Latin American dishes in neighbourhoods like Kensington and 17th Avenue.
• Craft Beer: Calgary has a thriving craft beer scene with local breweries like Tool Shed Brewing Co., Village Brewery, and Wild Rose Brewery. Visit local taprooms for a taste of Calgary’s finest brews.

Shopping in Calgary

Calgary offers a variety of shopping experiences, from high-end boutiques to local artisan markets.

• Stephen Avenue Walk: One of Calgary’s most famous shopping streets, Stephen Avenue is home to both international retailers and local boutiques. It’s a great place to find everything from clothing and accessories to local art and handmade goods.
• CF Chinook Centre: Calgary’s largest shopping mall, featuring a wide range of stores including luxury brands, department stores, and local shops.
• Kensington Village: Known for its trendy boutiques, independent shops, and artisanal products, Kensington Village is the place to find unique items in Calgary.
• The Calgary Farmers’ Market: A popular destination for fresh produce, handmade goods, and local delicacies.

Entertainment and Nightlife

Calgary offers a diverse range of entertainment options, from live performances and theatre shows to lively nightlife.

1. Theatre Calgary

For theatre lovers, Theatre Calgary offers a variety of performances throughout the year, from classic plays to modern productions.

2. National Music Centre

Explore Canada’s music history and enjoy live performances at the National Music Centre, a state-of-the-art venue that celebrates the rich musical heritage of Calgary and Canada.

3. Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra

Catch a performance by the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra at the Jack Singer Concert Hall, home to world-class classical music performances.

4. Nightlife in Calgary

Calgary’s nightlife scene is diverse, with options ranging from laid-back pubs and cocktail bars to vibrant nightclubs. Popular nightlife districts include the Beltline, 17th Avenue, and Kensington.

Family-Friendly Activities

Calgary is a fantastic destination for families, with many attractions suitable for children and young adults.

• TELUS Spark Science Centre: A hands-on science centre with interactive exhibits and an IMAX theatre, perfect for children of all ages.
• Calgary Tower’s Glass Floor: Take the family up the Calgary Tower for panoramic views and walk on the glass floor for an exciting experience.
• Calgary Olympic Park: In addition to winter sports, COP also offers activities such as mini-golf, go-karting, and summer bobsled rides for families.

Day Trips from Calgary

1. Banff National Park

A short drive from Calgary, Banff National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning mountain views, turquoise lakes, hiking trails, and wildlife.

2. Lake Louise

A scenic alpine lake located in Banff National Park, Lake Louise is famous for its stunning turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

3. Kananaskis Country

A perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, Kananaskis offers hiking, mountain biking, and opportunities to see wildlife, all within a short drive from Calgary.

4. Drumheller

Visit the Canadian Badlands and discover the Royal Tyrrell Museum, home to one of the world’s largest collections of dinosaur fossils. Drumheller also offers unique desert landscapes and outdoor activities.

Tips for Visiting Calgary

1. Prepare for Changing Weather: Calgary’s weather can be unpredictable, with temperatures fluctuating significantly. Pack layers to stay comfortable.
2. Book Attractions Early: Popular attractions like Banff National Park and the Calgary Stampede can fill up quickly, so make sure to book tickets in advance.
3. Use Calgary’s Public Transit: The Calgary Transit system is efficient and an affordable way to get around the city.
4. Explore the Outdoors: Calgary’s close proximity to the Rocky Mountains means there are endless outdoor adventures waiting for you.

Disclaimer

FareContrast is an independent Online Travel Agency (OTA) under Plane to Paradise LLC. We are not directly affiliated with any city tourism board, attraction, or airline. Information provided is for general knowledge and does not imply direct affiliation, endorsement, or sponsorship by Calgary tourism entities.

By booking through FareContrast, you acknowledge that travel arrangements are subject to the terms and conditions of service providers. For official Calgary tourism details, visit www.visitcalgary.com.

Why Visit Calgary?

1. Outdoor Adventure: Calgary offers easy access to the Rocky Mountains and national parks like Banff and Jasper.
2. Cultural Richness: Experience Calgary’s thriving arts scene, from theatre and music to history and museums.
3. Gastronomy: Enjoy local specialties and a growing food scene, from farm-to-table dining to vibrant street food.
4. Western Charm: Embrace Calgary’s unique western heritage, especially during the famous Calgary Stampede.

Plan Your Calgary Adventure with FareContrast

From its majestic mountain views and rich culture to its exciting outdoor activities and thriving culinary scene, Calgary offers an adventure for every traveller. Book your Calgary trip with FareContrast and let us help you create unforgettable memories, backed by 24/7 customer support!