Things to Do in Calgary

Calgary, Alberta’s dynamic gateway to the Canadian Rockies, offers much more than mountain access. With a vibrant downtown, rich western heritage, green urban parks, and a variety of festivals, this city blends big-city flavor with outdoor adventure.

How to Get to Calgary

How to Get Around Calgary

Things to Do in Calgary

Visit the Calgary Tower

Address: 101 9 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 1J9
Standing at nearly 191 m, the Calgary Tower offers breathtaking 360° views of the city skyline and surrounding Rockies. The rotating Sky 360 restaurant completes the experience, you’ll dine while gazing out over Calgary as the tower slowly revolves. Dare to step on the glass floor for a thrilling view straight down.

Experience the Calgary Stampede

Address: 1410 Stampede Trl SE, Calgary, AB T2G 2W1
Dubbed “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,” the Stampede is a 10-day July festival featuring rodeos, chuckwagon races, concerts, parades, and carnival attractions. The city dons cowboy hats and boots, a full cultural immersion in western heritage.

Explore Heritage Park Historical Village

Address: 1900 Heritage Dr SW, Calgary, AB T2V 2X3
Winding through 127 acres beside Glenmore Reservoir, this living-history museum recreates life from the 1860s–1950s. Ride steam trains, board paddlewheelers, visit vintage shops, and watch artisans recreate heritage trades. A day compared to stepping into historical real life.

Stroll Stephen Avenue

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Stephen Avenue（@stephenavenue）分享的帖子

Address: Steven Avenue
Calgary’s historic pedestrian avenue is lined with sandstone architecture, shops, restaurants, and patios. In summer, outdoor concerts, food trucks, and street performances animate the street; in winter, the YYC Hot Chocolate and Glow Festivals bring a cozy charm.

Enjoy Prince’s Island Park & RiverWalk

Address: 698 Eau Claire Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 5N4
Located on the Bow River downtown, this park offers green spaces, cafés, and an easy 4 km RiverWalk trail. It hosts the Calgary Folk Music Festival each July and is a great picnic and paddle-boat spot in summer.

Discover the Calgary Zoo

Address: 210 St. George’s Drive NE, Calgary, AB T2E 7V6
With over 1,000 animals in themed exhibits like Penguin Plunge, Wild Canada, and Destination Africa, the Calgary Zoo is a conservation leader. It also hosts Zoolights, a captivating nighttime light display in winter.

Visit TELUS Spark Science Centre

Address: 220 Saint George’s Drive Northeast, Calgary, AB T2E 5T2
This interactive museum blends science and play with hands-on galleries focusing on the human body, astronomy, and innovation. The outdoor Brainasium park challenges kids with physics-based fun, and the Digital Dome Theatre offers immersive shows.

Relax in Bowness Park

Address: 8900 48 Ave NW, Calgary, AB T3B 2B2
On the Bow River’s NW edge, this local favorite features paddle boats, lagoon skating in winter, walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic spots. A lovely urban getaway.

Hike Fish Creek Provincial Park

Address: Fish Creek Provincial Park
One of Canada’s largest urban parks, Fish Creek spans 13 km of wetlands, forest, and trails. It’s ideal for walking, biking, birdwatching, fishing, and winter activities like cross-country skiing.

Visit Fort Calgary

Address: 750 9 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 5E1
Situated at the Bow and Elbow Rivers’ confluence, Fort Calgary marks Calgary’s origin as an NWMP post (1875). Today, its museum, rebuilt barracks, and scenic park trace Calgary’s story in a central location.

Walk the Peace Bridge

Address: Peace Bridge
Santiago Calatrava designed this striking red pedestrian bridge crossing the Bow River. Known as the “Finger Trap Bridge,” it offers photogenic views and connections between downtown and Uptown communities.

Explore Studio Bell – National Music Centre

Address: 850 4 St. SE, Calgary, AB T2G 1R1
A gleaming architectural gem, Studio Bell celebrates Canadian music history with interactive exhibits, rare memorabilia, and live performance spaces. Visitors can play instruments, explore the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, and catch shows at nearby King Eddy.

Stroll Kensington Village

This bohemian district north of downtown features independent boutiques, cafés, pubs, and galleries. Seasonal festivals, like Sun & Salsa or Diagon Alley, add flavor and draw locals.

Go to the Military Museums

Address: 4520 Crowchild Trl SW, Calgary, AB T2T 6E8
Comprised of eight museums, this complex showcases Canada’s army, navy, and air force heritage. Exhibits include artifacts, tanks, aircraft, and uniforms. Guided tours enrich the experience.

Check out Calgary Farmers’ Market

One of Calgary’s largest markets, with artisanal foods, produce, crafts, and ready-to-eat items. A food-lover’s delight, best visited on weekday mornings for fewer crowds.

Visit Devonian Gardens

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Curiocity Calgary（@curiocitycalgary）分享的帖子

Address: CORE Shopping Centre, 317 7 Ave SW 4 floor, Calgary, AB T2P 0W4
A lush indoor botanical garden on the 4th floor of the CORE mall. It’s a tropical oasis in downtown, ideal for relaxing under palm trees and exploring seasonal blooms.

Attend an Event at Olympic Plaza

Address: 228 8 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2P 2M5
Built for the 1988 Winter Olympics, the plaza hosts skating in winter, concerts, farmers’ markets, and public art, including the Famous Five sculptures.

But Olympic Plaza is under construction right now, so you will have to wait before visiting it.

Go Karting, Laser Tag or Rafting

For adventure seekers, Calgary offers indoor kart tracks, laser tag arenas, and eco-raft tours on the Bow River, which are great for families and adrenaline lovers.

Shop for Cowboy Boots and Hats

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Embrace Calgary’s western identity! Visit places like Smithbilt Hats or Alberta Boot Co. to outfit yourself in iconic western wear. A perfect Calgary souvenir!

Play, Ski, or Ride at WinSport (Canada Olympic Park)

Address: 88 Canada Olympic Rd S W, Calgary, AB T3B 5R5
Originally built for the 1988 Winter Olympics, WinSport remains a hub of year-round activity in Calgary. Located on the city’s western edge, this facility offers a wide range of adventures for all ages. In winter, it’s a local favorite for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, perfect for beginners and families. During the summer months, the park transforms into a high-energy playground with a mountain bike park, zip lines, mini-golf, a skyline luge, and the thrilling summer bobsled ride. 

You can also visit Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame on-site, making it not just an athletic venue but a cultural one. With expert instructors, rental equipment, and varied terrain, WinSport is the perfect place for thrill-seekers, athletes, and casual visitors alike.

Places to Eat in Calgary

River Café

Address: 25 Prince’s Island Park, SW, Calgary, AB T2P 0R1
Price Range: $$$-$$$$
Nestled on Prince’s Island Park by the Bow River, River Café offers rustic lodge charm with seasonal, regional menus celebrating Canadian produce, meat, and seafood. The serene waterside patio and open kitchen evoke a magical ambiance, complete with cottonwood shade and canoe décor, perfect for a romantic, locally sourced dining journey.

Major Tom

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Major Tom（@themajortombar）分享的帖子

Address: 700 2 St SW #4000, Calgary, AB T2P 2W2
Price Range: $$$
Perched high above Calgary’s skyline, Major Tom is a stylish rooftop lounge and restaurant offering sweeping city views. The sleek, modern interior complements a menu dominated by shareable small plates and elevated mains. It’s a popular destination for sunset cocktails and urban dining with panoramic vistas.

Ten Foot Henry

Address: 1209 1 St SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0V3
Price Range: $$-$$$
Ten Foot Henry is a vibrant, plant-forward all‑day eatery in Victoria Park. Its family‑style share plates spotlight vegetables with personality, think gochujang cauliflower and roasted carrots, alongside thoughtfully balanced meat dishes like striploin and tuna crudo. The leafy interior and communal vibe make each visit feel fresh and fun.

Seniore’s Pizza

Address: 176 Bedford Dr NE #5, Calgary, AB T3K 2M9
Price Range: $-$$
Seniore’s Pizza is a beloved neighbourhood pizzeria where the dough is hand-tossed and toppings are fresh. Their signature “Salute Veg” and hearty “Seniore’s Special” highlight vibrant flavours and quality ingredients. It’s an inviting, casual spot ideal for grabbing a comforting, slice-forward meal in a laid-back, friendly setting.

Kinjo

Address: Several Locations
Price Range: $-$$
Kinjo brings authentic Japanese izakaya-style dining to Calgary with its warm wood interior and convivial bar. Guests share plates like sushi, ramen, and donburi in an energetic, social atmosphere. The focus on traditional flavors and craft sake makes it a go-to for those seeking comforting, communal Japanese fare.

Sky360

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Sky 360（@sky360calgary）分享的帖子

Address: 101 9 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 1J9
Price Range: $$-$$$
Located in the Calgary Tower, Sky360 rotates gently to offer sweeping views of the city while diners enjoy a contemporary Canadian menu. The dining room’s panoramic ambiance elevates classics like steak, seafood, and pasta, while signature cocktails complement the experience. It’s the spot to savor Calgary from above.

Best Time to Visit Calgary

What to Wear and Bring When Visiting Calgary？

Summer (June–August)

Winter (December–February)

Spring & Fall (March–May, September–November)

Places to Stay in Calgary

Accommodations in Calgary are mainly located in downtown and near the airport.

Hyatt Regency Calgary

Address: 700 Centre St S, Calgary, AB T2G 5P6
Price Range: $$$
Amenities: Pet-friendly (cats/dogs up to 75 lbs), indoor pool, fitness centre, valet/self parking, on-site dining, business services, free Wi‑Fi

With its downtown location, Hyatt Regency Calgary delivers a polished urban stay wrapped in contemporary sophistication. Guests appreciate sleek, thoughtful rooms, brisk check-in, and quiet elegance amid the city’s core. It’s ideal for business travellers or visitors wanting quick access to the Tower, Central Library, and Calgary’s +15 walkway system, all enveloped in understated luxury.​

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Hotel Arts

Address: 119 12 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0G8
Price Range: $$-$$$
Amenities: Free underground parking (when booking direct), year‑round pool with inflatable roof, fitness centre, on‑site Yellow Door Bistro restaurant/bar

Hotel Arts is a boutique gem nestled in Calgary’s vibrant Beltline district, just steps from 17th Avenue’s trendy bars and restaurants. With its stylish, design-forward décor and artful atmosphere, the hotel creates a lively yet relaxed environment. Moreover, guests frequently praise the year-round covered pool and inviting social lounge. Altogether, it feels youthful and energetic — perfect for urban explorers and event-goers alike.

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Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire

Address: 255 Barclay Parade SW, Calgary, AB T2P 5C2
Price Range: $$$
Amenities: All-suite rooms with sofa beds, indoor pool with waterslide and whirlpool spa, fitness centre and salon, on-site Flower & Wolf restaurant/bar, free Wi‑Fi, pet friendly

Overlooking the Bow River and Prince’s Island Park, Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire offers spacious, light-filled all-suite accommodations ideal for families and business travelers. Moreover, floor-to-ceiling windows frame stunning river or skyline vistas, while the suites include sofa beds and dedicated workspaces. With its energetic yet polished ambiance — complete with a waterslide, spa, and salon — the hotel makes for a versatile downtown retreat.

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Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott

Address: 239 12 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 1H7
Price Range: $$
Amenities: Free hot buffet breakfast, fitness centre, convenience store, free Wi‑Fi, valet parking, business centre with laundry/dry‑cleaning, pet‑friendly

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott in Calgary’s Beltline area offers no-frills comfort with a suite-focused layout. Rooms feature premium bedding, mini-fridges, microwaves, and workstations, appealing to both families and business travelers. Furthermore, the lobby connects to The Beltliner diner and Native Tongues Taqueria, creating a lively, community feel. Conveniently, it’s centrally located, making it perfect for exploring downtown on foot or via the CTrain.

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Hotel 11, MOD A Sonesta Collection

Address: 11 Freeport Cres NE, Calgary, AB T3J 0T4
Price Range: $$-$$$
Amenities: 24/7 airport shuttle, indoor pool & hot tub, on-site restaurant/lounge, fitness centre, steam showers in select rooms

Hotel 11, MOD A Sonesta Collection is a modern boutique retreat nestled in northeast Calgary, seamlessly blending sleek, Scandinavian-inspired design with warmth and comfort. Moreover, the striking wood-and-stone architecture creates a stylish yet inviting ambiance. In addition, its spacious rooms frame stunning Rocky Mountain views, making every stay feel both contemporary and connected to nature. Proximity to YYC Airport, CrossIron Mills, and outdoor adventures makes it ideal for both explorers and business travelers seeking style and convenience.

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Wingate by Wyndham Calgary Airport

Address: 57 Freeport Cres NE, Calgary, AB T3J 0T4
Price Range: $$
Amenities: Free 24/7 airport shuttle, complimentary parking (including long-term), free Wi‑Fi, fitness centre, breakfast included

Situated just minutes from Calgary International Airport, Wingate by Wyndham Calgary Airport offers approachable comfort with polished simplicity. The property attracts travellers looking for hassle-free stays with reliable shuttle service and straightforward rooms. It’s especially convenient for skiers, business visitors, and road-trippers heading to the Rockies, positioned on major highway routes with modest charm and efficiency.

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Park Inn by Radisson, Calgary Airport North

Address: 27 Freeport Cres NE, Calgary, AB T3J 0T4
Price Range: $-$$
Amenities: Free 24‑hr airport shuttle, free breakfast & parking, suites with kitchens, fitness centre, laundry, convenience store, BBQ patio, pet-friendly

Park Inn by Radisson Calgary Airport North presents a clean, mid-range option for travellers needing functional comfort and practicality. On the other hand, suites with full kitchens cater to families or longer stays. The property emphasizes pragmatism with free airport shuttle and onsite convenience market, but also with reliable service and thoughtful basics.

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Executive Residency by Best Western Calgary City View North

Address: 9665 Aurora Park Link NE, Calgary, AB T3K 0S2
Price Range: $$
Amenities: Suites with full kitchens, indoor pool & hot tub, fitness centre, restaurant/bar, complimentary airport shuttle, meeting rooms, barbecue terrace

Executive Residency is a modern extended-stay hotel that feels residential yet polished. Located northeast with skyline views, it offers sleekly furnished rooms with full kitchens, perfect for families or business travellers staying longer. Its suburban setting near dining and trails supports both work and leisure, while spacious interiors give a peaceful, home-away-from-home vibe.

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The Dorian, Autograph Collection

Address: 525 5 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 1P7
Price Range: $$$
Amenities: Rooftop restaurant/bar (The Wilde), free Wi‑Fi, fitness centre, meeting spaces, pet‑friendly, valet parking, room service, digital check-in

The Dorian, Autograph Collection, is a stylish boutique hotel in downtown Calgary that blends playfulness with refinement, drawing inspiration from Oscar Wilde. From the moment you step inside, you’ll notice quirky yet elegant design touches in every room. Furthermore, the rooftop restaurant and cocktail bar provide elevated social escapes with stunning city views. As a result, the hotel’s intimate and artistic atmosphere attracts guests who appreciate a stay where art, whimsy, and sophistication beautifully converge.

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Hidden gem B&Bs

Price Range: $-$$
Amenities: Homemade breakfast, free Wi‑Fi, street or private parking, garden or patio access, personalized local recommendations, often adult-only for quiet stays

A hidden gem bed and breakfast in Calgary not only offers a warm, personal alternative to standard hotel stays, but it is also often nestled in quiet residential neighborhoods or charming heritage homes. In addition, these B&Bs provide a cozy, home-like atmosphere with hosts who are eager to share local insights. Moreover, guests typically enjoy individually decorated rooms, made-to-order breakfasts, and a sense of community that is rarely found in larger accommodations.

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Things to Know Before Visiting Calgary

• Public transit and C‑Train make downtown navigation easy, so no car is needed for central attractions.
• Stampede requires planning: book early for accommodation and event tickets.
• Green spaces galore: parks like Prince’s Island, Bowness, Fish Creek are bike or walk accessible.
• Wildlife nearby: Blue Jays, coyotes, white-tailed deer sometimes roam city parks, so remember to keep distance.

FAQs