9+ Best Things To Do In Calgary, Canada (on A Short Visit)

Welcome to Calgary, Canada’s hidden gem on the coronary heart of Alberta.

It’s a metropolis the place fashionable skyscrapers solid shadows on centuries of historical past, the place the majestic Rockies embrace an city playground, and the place cultural range meets pure marvel.

For those who’re searching for an exciting journey, a style of wealthy heritage, or just a breath of recent mountain air, you’ll discover that there are many issues to do in Calgary that encompasses all of this.

Due to its location on the sting of the Canadian prairie and the Canadian Rocky Mountains, Calgary could be a stopover or passing via vacation spot.

As Banff is considered one of Canada’s high locations, many will go via Calgary on their method there, so we thought it could be useful to share what to do in Calgary on a brief go to, so you may make essentially the most out of the brief time you’ve got.

If, like me, you’ll be pausing in Calgary, listed below are a number of sights value exploring on this Canadian metropolis in half a day to a day journey.

Why was I visiting Calgary?

I arrived in Calgary for my buddy, Christina McEvoy (@MacsExplore) Instasuccess Retreat in Banff Nationwide Park. I had half a day earlier than that started so headed out to Downtown Calgary with none plans in place.

I used to be pleasantly stunned and glad I made the time to discover a few of its high sights in Calgary.

It was my first time in Canada, and I used to be intrigued sufficient with the range and fantastic thing about Calgary to plan for extra return journeys to different Canadian cities.

I’ll add some extra strategies on the finish that I didn’t get time to do, however you probably have extra time in Calgary, you might wish to do it.

Is Calgary Price Visiting?

Calgary is situated within the province of Alberta, on the confluence of the Bow River and Elbow River.

It’s located on the jap foothills of the Canadian Rockies, which implies it’s comparatively near the transition level between the mountainous terrain of the Rockies and the flat expanses of the Prairies.

Which means it’s a gateway to each the Rockies and the Prairies, and is barely two hours from the long-lasting Banff Nationwide Park – so due to its location alone, it’s positively value visiting.

Other than its location, Calgary is well-known for its stress-free ambiance, presumably as a consequence of its variety of parks and the truth that everybody will get loads of vitamin D – that’s proper, Calgary boasts 333 days of sunshine a yr!

Greatest Issues to Do in Downtown Calgary

Whereas Edmonton is the capital of Alberta, Calgary is the biggest metropolis and the third largest metropolis in Canada, with a inhabitants of roughly 1.2 million locals, so that you will be certain there are many issues you are able to do there to maintain you entertained.

I spent most of my time in Downtown Calgary. These with extra time will wish to discover additional afield, however most issues to do in Calgary are in Downtown.

1. Begin with Espresso on the Simmons Constructing

My buddy Tamara from Globe Information Instamessaged me to say I needed to go to the East Village and to begin with espresso within the Simmons Constructing situated on the Bow River. And so, I did.

The Simmons’ Constructing is a landmark within the East Village, which is a neighborhood identified for its various, hippy vibe, and artwork installations. The constructing dates to 1912, when it started as a mattress manufacturing unit.

It was renovated within the early 2010s as a part of the East Village revitalization undertaking. Now it’s a culinary hub which homes the Charbar restaurant, Sidewalk Citizen Bakery, and Phil & Sebastian Espresso Roasters.

The bakery was closed because it was Sunday afternoon, but when open, this may very well be a great place for lunch in Calgary in case your itinerary permits for it. (as I used to be ready for my room to be able to verify in at my airport resort, I ate poutine on the resort restaurant)

Phil & Sebastian Espresso Roasters is the espresso store, and I can report, whereas not as good as an Australian flat white, it was nonetheless fairly good and higher than 95% of the coffees I’ve had within the USA.

It’s third wave, craft espresso model, not quick-fix subpar Starbucks model.

A lot of its authentic architectural components are intact, such because the uncovered brick partitions, picket beams, and enormous home windows, which assist create a heat and alluring ambiance. There are tables exterior with scenic views of the river.

2. Take pleasure in Artwork Installations within the East Village

You don’t have to stroll into an artwork gallery in Calgary to take pleasure in artwork. A program referred to as Artwork within the Public Realm has introduced everlasting artwork installations to our outside areas, in addition to revolving installations that function momentary paintings by native artists.

Murals, sculptures, and digital artwork by worldwide and native artists give life to our streets and public areas. Look out for them as you stroll round, there are lots alongside the riverfront and underpasses, partitions, plazas, and islands.

3. Bike or Stroll Alongside Bow River Pathway

Now you’ve had your espresso repair, it’s time to stretch your legs alongside the Bow River. The Bow River Pathway in Calgary is a scenic and in depth community of pedestrian and biking pathways that run alongside the Bow River.

It stretches for about 48 kilometers (30 miles) alongside each the north and south banks of the Bow River because it winds its method via Calgary.

It’s significantly picturesque in the course of the spring and summer time when the riverbanks are lush with greenery.

A number of pedestrian bridges cross the Bow River, connecting each side of the pathway. These bridges usually are not solely purposeful but additionally present distinctive vantage factors for having fun with the river and metropolis views.

As you’re close to the Simmons Constructing, you possibly can cross the bridge to discover St Patrick’s Island earlier than turning round to stroll alongside the pathway to Prince’s Island – each in the midst of the Bow River (which is a cool function of this downtown Calgary attraction.).

Take your time watching folks fishing, paddling down the river, and the numerous birds flying forwards and backwards.

You might wish to cross over for elevated views of town. Crescent Heights Lookout Level is extremely really helpful as top-of-the-line viewpoints of Downtown Calgary’s skyline.

I liked strolling the Bow River Pathways because it gave me an awesome perception into Canadian life. I may inform, it’s a tradition that loves outside dwelling and journey and soaking in pure areas.

The ambiance appeared calm and glad, and I used to be very stunned on the range of cultures out and about. It made me marvel the way it had taken me all these years to go to Canada. I believe will probably be a rustic and tradition I’ll like very a lot.

I walked the pathway between St Patrick’s Island and Prince’s Island. It took round 20 minutes to stroll between the 2. Enable for further time to discover the 2 islands or relaxation at one of many many chairs alongside the pathway.

4. Discover St Patrick’s Island

In the course of the Bow River, proper close to the Simmons Constructing is considered one of Calgary’s oldest parks, St Patrick’s Island. 

St. Patrick’s Island not too long ago underwent a serious revitalization remodeling it right into a vibrant city park b to revive the pure surroundings, enhance entry, and create a welcoming house for the group.

St Patrick’s Island is a bit wilder than Princes Island. It’s 31 acres of largely pure landscapes which embrace forests, wetlands, and inexperienced areas with loads of mountain climbing trails and biking trails and snowboarding within the winter.

It’s a haven for wildlife and a peaceable escape from the city hustle and bustle.

You’ll discover a fishing cove, naturalized wetlands, wooded areas with meandering pathways, a playground, and a hill that provides a number of the greatest views within the metropolis. There’s additionally a monumental public artwork set up, a totally accessible picnic space and an amphitheater.

The island supplies picturesque views of the Bow River, the downtown skyline, and the close by East Village.

5. Take pleasure in Prince’s Island

The extra landscaped of the 2 islands is Prince’s Island within the coronary heart of Downtown Calgary.

The park is known as after Peter Anthony Prince, one of many founders of the Eau Claire Lumber, a lumber firm that dug a channel within the Bow River to move logs floating downstream nearer to the noticed mill.

This channel (or lagoon) finally separated a complete piece of land from the mainland and shaped into what we all know at this time as Prince’s Island Park. The park was acquired by the Metropolis of Calgary within the 40s and developed right into a public park.

The park boasts lush inexperienced areas, mature timber, flowering gardens, and meandering pathways that provide a peaceable and pure escape from town’s hustle and bustle.

It’s a haven for each wildlife and people, offering a serene ambiance within the coronary heart of town.

Birdwatchers can usually spot geese, geese, and different waterfowl alongside the river, particularly throughout migratory seasons.

There are numerous sculptures and artwork installations on the island you possibly can take a look at alongside the paths. Hammocks had been strung between timber and folks picnicking on the open grass areas.

Prince’s Park is a hub for cultural occasions and festivals in the course of the summer time months. It hosts the Calgary Folks Music Competition, Shakespeare by the Bow, and varied different music and humanities occasions.

The pure amphitheater within the park serves as a well-liked venue for outside concert events and performances.

On Prince’s Island there’s a small restaurant, The River Café, you might want to cease at for lunch, particularly these searching for romantic issues to do in Calgary.

They use regionally sourced elements as a lot as attainable and have an award-winning checklist of wines. I had a number of Canadian wines – each crimson and white – on my journey and actually loved all of them, particularly the chardonnay. 

6. Paddle the Bow River

I want I had performed higher analysis on issues to do in Calgary, as I might have liked to paddle alongside the Bow River. I loved watching many individuals come cruising down on stand-up paddle boards, kayaks and river rafts and tubes.

The river is fast paced and doesn’t appear to be a lot paddling effort is required. So put cruise mode on and luxuriate in these stunning views. Here’s a firm that rents paddle craft.

7. Climb Calgary Tower for Panoramic Views

I used to be debating whether or not to move as much as the highest of Calgary Tower for panoramic views over Calgary. Because it’s a comparatively low cost Calgary attraction, I figured I wouldn’t lose an excessive amount of if it was overrated.

It wasn’t! I actually loved the Calgary Tower expertise. The Calgary Tower, previously often known as the Husky Tower, is an iconic landmark situated within the coronary heart of downtown Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

The 190.8 meters (626 ft) tower was constructed in 1967 by Husky Oil and Marathon Realty as a undertaking for the Centennial Celebration of Canada’s Confederation It is likely one of the metropolis’s most recognizable constructions and serves as each an commentary tower and an emblem of Calgary’s skyline.

As quickly as you step off the elevator onto the enclosed commentary deck, you’re in entrance of a big glass flooring edge that juts out from the facet of the round tower.

It was barely unnerving strolling out onto the ground and looking out down on the visitors beneath, however don’t fear, these glass flooring can maintain the load of two hippos.

They haven’t examined it with actual hippos, however actual horses do stand on as a method of kickstarting the Calgary Stampede. (I’ve performed the same one in Chicago)

On a transparent day, you possibly can see the Rocky Mountains from up right here. I may simply make out their outlines within the distance.

Aside from that, you’ll look out at a number of the uniquely formed Calgary excessive rises and over the Bow River and surrounding plains.

For those who’re hungry, or simply need a drink with a view, Sky 360 is a rotating restaurant within the tower. The Calgary Tower options an exterior LED mild present every morning earlier than dawn and nightly from nightfall to midnight.

8. Wander Stephen Avenue

Proper close to the Calgary Tower is Stephen Avenue, also called Stephen Avenue Stroll It’s a vibrant and historic pedestrian mall spanning a number of blocks in downtown Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

It is likely one of the metropolis’s most iconic and energetic streets, identified for its combine of outlets, eating places, leisure venues, and historic structure including to its allure.

You’ll additionally discover public artwork installations and sculptures alongside Stephen Ave and the road usually hosts varied outside occasions, stay performances, and avenue festivals, particularly in the course of the summer time months.

I simply missed a stay music efficiency with Adirondack chairs arrange on the street!

It’s additionally residence to a number of theaters, making it a cultural hub for arts and leisure. For those who’re searching for what to do in Calgary at evening, Stephens Avenue is the place for energetic nightlife!

Its mix of heritage and modernity, mixed with its energetic ambiance, makes it a must-visit space for anybody exploring downtown Calgary.

9. Drinks on the Rooftop Bar at Simmons Constructing

My analysis on one of the best rooftop bars in Calgary introduced me to the Simmons Constructing and their adults-only rooftop patio overlooking the Bow River and downtown Calgary’s cityscape.

The uninterrupted views had been beautiful, and I loved watching extra folks float down the river with a refreshing Aperol Spritz. It actually wasn’t pretty much as good as what you’d get in Italy, however it was not unhealthy!

If you wish to have a number of drinks and a chew to eat, you possibly can order Connie & John’s Pizza from downstairs, which can be delivered to your rooftop desk.

The rooftop backyard’s ambiance is relaxed and alluring, making it a superb place to unwind, socialize, and take within the surrounding city and pure surroundings.

When the solar goes down, you’ll get to see the lights of Downtown Calgary. There are in-built heaters, a glass encased fire and stay music on function nights.

As I had been up since 3:30am (1:30am Calgary time) I opted to return to my resort after my night drink for reasonable wings and a Canadian chardonnay (I used to be impressed) at my resort restaurant.

Different Issues to Do in Calgary (with extra time)

You probably have extra time in your go to, you might also wish to embrace a few of these high sights and issues to do in Calgary.

10. Get Impressed at Glenbow Museum

For those who’re focused on artwork and tradition, go to the Glenbow Museum. Its numerous assortment of artwork, historic artifacts, and exhibitions showcase the historical past of Western Canada from the tales of Canada’s first peoples to the lives of newcomers to Canada, to the trendy insights of up to date artists within the twenty first century.

11. Go to Heritage Park Historic Village

 For those who’re focused on historical past, take into account visiting Heritage Park Historic Village. It’s the biggest dwelling historical past museum in North America that showcases life in Western Canada within the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Heritage Park is located on a 127-acre peninsula of prime parkland surrounded on three sides by the Glenmore Reservoir.  You’ll be able to pre-book your admission ticket right here.

12. Discover the Nationwide Music Middle, Bell Studio

Many guests really helpful the Nationwide Music Centre as a must-visit place in Calgary.

It serves as a museum, efficiency venue, training heart, recording studio, and Canadian Music Corridor of Fame showcasing Canada’s wealthy musical historical past and its influence on the world.

One of many standout options of the NMC is its architecturally beautiful constructing, often known as Studio Bell. Designed by Brad Cloepfil from Allied Works Structure, its distinctive design contains interlocking towers clad in glazed terracotta that’s meant to reference the design of musical devices.

This high Calgary attraction is alleged to take round two hours to see all 5 flooring.

13. Go to Nostril Hill Park

Calgary’s largest pure environmental park in northwest Calgary provides 60 km of designated trails and pathways and accommodates one of the important examples of this grassland ecosystem left on the Canadian prairies.

From the highest you get an outstanding overview of downtown Calgary, however of the Rocky Mountains, the Bow River Valley, and the Calgary Worldwide Airport.

14. Watch an Ice Hockey Sport

Wouldn’t it be a go to to Canada with out seeing an ice hockey recreation? If you’re visiting in the course of the season, and love sports activities, you might love attending an NHL Calgary Flames match at Scotiabank Saddledome situated in Stampede Park.

I might have performed this if I had extra time and there was a recreation on. Ice Hockey is considered one of my favourite sports activities to see stay!

If there’s not a recreation on however you like sports activities, Calgary additionally has Canada’s Sports activities Corridor of Fame which is value trying out you probably have time.

15. Attend the Calgary Stampede

If you’re visiting Calgary in July, you might wish to put the Calgary Stamped in your checklist of issues to do, it’s the best outside present in Calgary!

This world-famous annual occasion lasts for about ten days and options a variety of actions and sights, together with rodeo occasions, parades, chuckwagon races, rides, and stay leisure.

16. Have Enjoyable at Calgary Zoo

 The Calgary Zoo is a good place to spend a number of hours, particularly should you’re touring as a household with children.

It’s residence to all kinds of animals from world wide, from gorillas to penguins, and provides instructional experiences.

It’s situated on the opposite finish of St Patrick’s Island. 

17. Go to Buffalo Bounce

Buffalo Bounce is definitely situated simply exterior Calgary however can simply be visited on a half day journey.

This distinctive UNESCO World Heritage Website is residence to the Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Bounce, one of many best-preserved and largest buffalo jumps on the planet.

For almost 6,000 years, native folks of the North American plains practiced buffalo looking at this website.

The Blackfoot folks, specifically, utilized this technique to hunt buffalo for numerous centuries. The buffalo bounce is a testomony to their historic tradition and looking methods.

Visiting Buffalo Bounce provides a novel alternative to be taught concerning the wealthy historical past and traditions of the indigenous folks.

18. Take the Youngsters to Calaway Park

Calaway Park is Western Canada’s largest outside household amusement park, and provides an exciting expertise with its 32 rides, stay leisure, 3D theater, and haunted resort.

Based in 1982, Calaway Park has been entertaining guests for over 4 many years. From exhilarating curler coasters to kid-friendly arcade video games, there’s one thing for everybody.

19. Go to Fort Calgary

Fort Calgary was established in 1875 as a North-West Mounted Police outpost, it performed a pivotal function within the growth of the area.

Right now, Fort Calgary stands as a Nationwide Historic Website of Canada, preserving its wealthy heritage.

For those who love navy historical past, then a go to to the Navy Museum, which is the second largest navy museum in Canada, is a should go to, too!

The place to remain in Calgary

I used to be staying on the Applause Lodge by Clique close to the airport. This was as a result of the subsequent day we had been doing airport pickups all day for retreat attendees earlier than driving to Canmore, close to Banff Nationwide Park.

Upon returning to Calgary to fly out, I additionally stayed at Acclaim Lodge by Clique as I had an early morning flight residence.

The free airport shuttles for each resorts had been welcome! Each resorts had spacious and cozy rooms with good resort facilities like rooftop sizzling tub and eating places.

I didn’t attempt the restaurant at Acclaim, however the meals at Applause was actually good and included a hearty breakfast.

The Calgary Airport Marriott In-Terminal Lodge is the proper for many who wish to take a look at of their resort, stroll 4 minutes, and verify into their flight!

Some eating places close to Calgary airport that we ate at had been the Cactus Membership Cafe and Calgary Momo Home, a unbelievable Nepalese restaurant.

For one of the best locations to remain in Downtown Calgary, these locations have nice critiques, location and facilities.

• Alt Lodge Calgary East Village is an eco-certified resort close to Studio Bell that has two eating places. See charges and availability.
• Sandman Signature Calgary Downtown Lodge is near Calgary Tower and has an indoor pool and restaurant. See charges and availability.
• Lodge Arts is a enjoyable 4-start eco-certified resort close to Calgary Tower and Stampede Par. It additionally has a poolside bar, purchasing on website, and a espresso store/cafe, and free bicycle rental. See charges and availability.

Closing Ideas

Whereas my go to to Calgary was brief, I really feel I skilled loads of its cultural range and pure magnificence.

I loved seeing the various, lively, and relaxed, persona of a metropolis fairly related to its surrounding magnificence.

Calgary is a good stopover level on the best way to a few of Canada’s high sights like Banff Nationwide Park, Yoho Nationwide Park, and the Icefields Parkway. It’s value stopping for not less than a day to expertise this dynamic Canadian metropolis.

Calgary’s heat hospitality, its mix of recent and historic, and its boundless alternatives for journey are yours to savor.

Keep tuned for my subsequent cease: The Unbelievable Banff Nationwide Park. (Be a part of our e mail group so that you by no means miss a submit (kind beneath)!)

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