Calgary

Calgary, Alberta’s largest city, is celebrated as Canada’s oil capital and financial hub. It combines urban sophistication with natural beauty, thanks to its proximity to the stunning Rocky Mountains. The best time to visit is from June to August, when the weather is pleasant and the city is lively with events and activities.

Getting There and Getting Around

Calgary International Airport (YYC): The main gateway to the city, YYC handles numerous domestic and international flights. Located about 17 kilometers (11 miles) northeast of downtown, it offers car rentals, public transit connections, and a variety of dining and shopping options.

Public Transit: Calgary’s public transit is centered around the Light Rail Transit (LRT) system, which efficiently connects major city areas. The LRT has four lines: the Blue Line (C-Train), Green Line, Red Line, and Yellow Line. It provides easy access to attractions, neighborhoods, and business districts, with strategically placed stations for convenience.

Car Rental and Parking: Renting a car is a good option for exploring beyond the city or traveling at your own pace. Calgary’s well-developed road network makes many attractions easily accessible. Parking is generally available, but it’s wise to check local regulations and fees. Many hotels provide parking facilities, and downtown areas feature both street parking and paid lots.

Plus 15 System: Calgary’s Plus 15 system is a network of enclosed pedestrian bridges connecting many downtown buildings. This system allows for comfortable, weather-protected walking, particularly useful during colder months. It facilitates navigation between offices, shops, and restaurants without exposure to the elements.

Where to Stay

Downtown: Staying in downtown places you at the city’s heart, with easy access to main attractions, dining, and nightlife. The area offers a range of hotels from luxurious to budget-friendly, close to landmarks like Calgary Tower and Stephen Avenue Walk. It’s ideal for those wanting to be in the center of activity.

Beltline: South of downtown, Beltline is vibrant and trendy, known for its eclectic dining options, boutique shops, and lively atmosphere. It’s close to Stephen Avenue, a pedestrian-friendly street filled with shops and eateries.

Kensington: This charming and historic neighborhood northwest of downtown has a small-town feel. Known for its boutique shops, cozy cafes, and diverse dining options, it offers a relaxed, community-oriented vibe.

Accommodation Recommendations:

• Luxury: Fairmont Palliser – Located downtown, this elegant hotel offers spacious rooms, a hot tub, a couples massage service, and a 1920s-era restaurant. It’s a short walk from Calgary Tower and other central attractions.
• Mid-Range: Character Home in Kensington Plaza – Perfect for families or groups, this newly remodeled home in Kensington features a fully fenced backyard, ample natural light, and a full kitchen. It’s close to shops and restaurants.
• Budget: Heritage Charm Loft – This affordable option in downtown Calgary offers a historic yet modernized space. Featuring brick-lined walls and hardwood cabinetry, it provides easy access to Inglewood and other nearby attractions.

Major Attractions

Calgary Tower: One of the city’s iconic landmarks, Calgary Tower offers panoramic views of the skyline and surrounding areas. Standing 191 meters (627 feet) tall, the observation deck provides a 360-degree vista and features a glass floor section for an exhilarating view. Dining at the revolving restaurant is a memorable experience.

Glenbow Museum: A cultural gem, the Glenbow Museum boasts an extensive collection of art, artifacts, and historical exhibits. It features over a million items covering Canadian history, indigenous cultures, and contemporary art. Highlights include Western Canadian art and rotating exhibitions on global and local culture.

Studio Bell, Home of the National Music Centre: This state-of-the-art facility showcases Canadian music through interactive exhibits and an extensive collection of music-related artifacts. Visitors can play instruments, explore music technology, and learn about iconic Canadian musicians. The building’s design reflects the dynamic nature of music.

WinSport Olympic Park: Formerly Canada Olympic Park, WinSport offers winter sports and activities year-round, including skiing, snowboarding, and bobsleigh. In summer, enjoy mountain biking, zip-lining, and hiking. The park also features a sports hall of fame and various facilities for athletes and enthusiasts.

Heritage Park Historical Village: This living history museum provides a glimpse into Calgary’s past with over 200 historical exhibits, restored buildings, and vintage vehicles. Experience the 19th and early 20th centuries through interactive demonstrations of traditional crafts and trades.

Calgary Zoo: Home to over 1,000 animals, the Calgary Zoo features themed areas like the Canadian Wilds, Destination Africa, and the Prehistoric Park. The zoo is committed to conservation, including breeding programs and habitat preservation. Enjoy close-up animal encounters, educational talks, and seasonal events.

Peace Bridge: Designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, the Peace Bridge is a striking pedestrian bridge over the Bow River. Its unique tubular design and bright red color provide scenic views of the river and city skyline, making it a popular spot for photographs and a symbol of Calgary’s innovative urban design.

Natural Attractions and Outdoor Activities

Prince’s Island Park: Located on an island in the Bow River, this expansive park is ideal for leisurely walks, picnics, and outdoor events. It hosts seasonal festivals like the Calgary Folk Music Festival and the Calgary International Children’s Festival, offering beautiful river views and opportunities for birdwatching.

Bow River: Flowing through Calgary, the Bow River provides a picturesque setting for outdoor activities. Its walking and biking trails offer stunning city and natural views. Popular spots include the Bow River Pathway, connecting various parks and recreational areas. Activities such as fishing, kayaking, and canoeing are also available.

Proximity to the Rockies: Calgary’s location near the Rocky Mountains makes it an excellent base for exploring iconic landscapes. Banff National Park and Lake Louise are short drives away, offering world-renowned scenery and outdoor adventures like hiking, canoeing, and skiing. Both destinations provide ample options for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Cultural Life and Entertainment

Calgary Stampede: Held every July, the Calgary Stampede is a major cultural event known as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.” It celebrates Calgary’s cowboy heritage with rodeo events, chuckwagon races, live music, a grand parade, and a large exhibition with carnival rides and food stalls.

Sports Teams: Calgary has a vibrant sports scene with two major teams: the Calgary Flames and the Calgary Stampeders. The Flames, a professional NHL hockey team, play at the Scotiabank Saddledome, while the Stampeders, a CFL football team, play at McMahon Stadium. Both teams have passionate fan bases and contribute to the city’s dynamic sports culture.

Theaters and Concert Venues: Calgary’s arts scene includes numerous theaters and concert venues. The Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, Alberta Theatre Projects, and The Shaw Festival are notable examples. Venues like Arts Commons and Jack Singer Concert Hall host a variety of performances, while smaller spaces like Theatre Calgary offer intimate productions and local performances.

Street Art: The Beltline neighborhood is known for its vibrant street art. The Beltline Urban Mural Project has transformed the area into an open-air gallery with colorful murals and artistic installations by local and international artists. Exploring these murals is a great way to experience Calgary’s artistic side and appreciation for public art.

Food Guide

Top Restaurants:

• Major Tom: Located on the 40th floor of the Stephens Place Building, Major Tom offers upscale dining with stunning views of Calgary’s skyline. The menu features a range of Alberta beef, Wagyu, and fresh seafood. Highlights include bolognese ragu and smoked sturgeon tots. Known for its creative cocktails and sophisticated ambiance, Major Tom is a top choice for fine dining.
• Ten Foot Henry: Celebrated for its vibrant energy and vegetable-forward menu, Ten Foot Henry in Downtown Calgary excels in dishes like cacio e pepe and butterscotch pudding. Its casual yet refined setting makes it a memorable dining spot.
• Paper Lantern: A popular venue for Asian-inspired cuisine, Paper Lantern is known for its creative dishes and inviting atmosphere. The diverse menu caters to various tastes and is a favorite among locals.

Farmers Markets:

Crossroads Market: This indoor-outdoor market is a must-visit for food enthusiasts, featuring over 150 vendors with fresh produce, meats, seafood, and specialty items. The vibrant food court offers diverse options, including Japanese, Turkish, and Caribbean cuisine, making it a great place to sample local fare and discover unique products.

Cafes and Brunch Spots:

• Neighbour Coffee: Located in Inglewood, Neighbour Coffee is renowned for its excellent drip coffee and hearty breakfast options. The café offers a cozy atmosphere with small sandwiches, toasts, smoothies, and breakfast bowls. Coffee is sourced from Hatch Coffee, known for its quality and distinctive flavors.
• Lulu Bar: Known for its relaxed vibe and inventive brunch dishes, Lulu Bar is an excellent spot for a leisurely brunch or a casual coffee break.

Craft Breweries:

• Revival Brewcade: In Inglewood, Revival Brewcade blends craft beer with a retro arcade experience. It’s a fun spot to sample local beers and enjoy classic arcade games.
• High Line Brewing: Also in Inglewood, High Line Brewing specializes in sour beers, offering a range of unique and flavorful brews.
• Cold Beverage Company: A family-friendly brewery featuring approachable beers and quirky options like birthday cake ale and vanilla cappuccino porter. It’s perfect for exploring different beer styles.

Shopping

Stephen Avenue Walk: Calgary’s premier shopping district, Stephen Avenue Walk, offers a pedestrian-friendly environment with boutiques, mainstream retailers, and eateries. Lined with historic buildings, this street provides a diverse shopping experience, from high-end fashion to unique local shops.

Shopping Districts:

• Kensington: Known for its charming atmosphere, Kensington features a mix of boutique shops, artisanal stores, and cozy cafés. It’s an excellent area for finding unique gifts and enjoying a relaxed shopping experience.
• Inglewood: With independent boutiques and local shops focusing on artisanal products and vintage finds, Inglewood’s eclectic vibe and community-oriented businesses make it a great destination for unique purchases.

Seasonal Events and Festivals

• Calgary Stampede: Held every July, the Calgary Stampede is a highlight of the city’s cultural calendar. Known as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,” it celebrates Calgary’s cowboy heritage with rodeo events, chuckwagon races, a grand parade, live music, and a carnival. The Stampede attracts visitors globally and offers an immersive experience in western culture.
• Winter Activities: Calgary’s winter months offer opportunities for seasonal activities, including ice skating at local rinks, skiing at nearby resorts like Canada Olympic Park, and other winter sports. The snowy landscapes and crisp weather are perfect for outdoor adventures and winter festivities.

Recommended 3-Day Itinerary in Calgary

Day 1: Explore Downtown and Beltline

Morning:

• Calgary Tower: Start your day with a visit to the Calgary Tower for panoramic views of the city. It’s a great way to get oriented and appreciate the city’s layout.
• Stephen Avenue Walk: Stroll along this pedestrian-friendly street, exploring boutiques, cafes, and historic buildings. It’s ideal for shopping and grabbing a light bite.

Afternoon:

• Glenbow Museum: Visit the Glenbow Museum to explore Calgary’s art, culture, and history. Its diverse exhibits offer a deep understanding of the city and its heritage.
• Lunch at a Downtown Restaurant: Enjoy a meal at a downtown eatery like Major Tom for refined dining or Paper Lantern for Asian-inspired cuisine.

Evening:

• Dinner at Ten Foot Henry: End your day with dinner at Ten Foot Henry, known for its vegetable-forward menu and vibrant atmosphere.
• Explore Beltline: After dinner, take a leisurely walk through Beltline, known for its trendy vibe and street art.

Day 2: Nature and Local Culture

Morning:

• Prince’s Island Park: Start with a relaxing morning walk or picnic in Prince’s Island Park, a beautiful green space ideal for unwinding and enjoying the outdoors.
• Bow River: Follow the scenic walking and biking trails along the Bow River, offering picturesque views and a peaceful escape from the city.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Crossroads Market: Head to Crossroads Market for diverse lunch options from various food vendors. This market is perfect for sampling local and international cuisines.
• Calgary Zoo: Spend the afternoon at the Calgary Zoo, featuring a wide range of animal exhibits and conservation efforts. It’s a fun and educational experience for all ages.

Evening:

• Dinner in Kensington: Enjoy dinner in Kensington at a local favorite like Neighbour Coffee or another nearby restaurant. Explore the charming shops and boutiques in this vibrant area.
• Evening Entertainment: Check out local theaters or concert venues for live performances or cultural events. Calgary’s arts scene offers various options for a night out.

Day 3: Local Experiences and Day Trips

Morning:

• Visit Heritage Park Historical Village: Spend your morning at this living history museum, offering an immersive experience into Calgary’s past with interactive exhibits and historical reenactments.

Afternoon:

• Lunch and Explore Inglewood: Head to Inglewood for lunch and explore its unique shops and independent boutiques. Visit local breweries like Revival Brewcade or High Line Brewing for a taste of Calgary’s craft beer scene.
• Day Trip to Banff or Lake Louise: If time permits, consider a scenic drive to Banff or Lake Louise. These stunning locations offer breathtaking landscapes, hiking trails, and the chance to experience the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies.

Evening:

Dinner at a Local Favorite: Return to Calgary and enjoy a final dinner at a beloved local spot. Reflect on your trip and enjoy a relaxed stroll through the city, revisiting favorite spots or discovering new ones.