Things To Do
in Calgary

Calgary, Canada is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural surroundings, and lively urban atmosphere. Located in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, it serves as a gateway for adventure lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The city boasts a mix of modern skyscrapers, historic buildings, and a friendly local community.

Calgary is also famous for the Calgary Stampede, an annual rodeo and festival that showcases the city's cowboy culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Downtown Calgary
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Calgary Tower for panoramic views of the city. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby café, such as the local favorite OEB Breakfast Co.

afternoon
:

Visit the Glenbow Museum to explore art and history exhibitions. Stroll through Stephen Avenue Walk, a pedestrian-friendly street filled with shops and restaurants.

evening
:

Dine at Charcut Roast House, known for its locally sourced meats. End your day with a craft beer at one of Calgary’s breweries, like Trolley 5.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Head to the Calgary Zoo to see a variety of animal exhibits, including the Canadian Wilds and the Prehistoric Park.

afternoon
:

Take a scenic walk along the Bow River pathway, stopping at Prince's Island Park for a picnic.

evening
:

Experience the vibrant arts scene by attending a performance at the Arts Commons. Have dinner at River Café, located on the island, for a romantic setting.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$20-$30
Coffee$3-$5
🏨Hotel per Night$100-$200
🚌Public Transport Ticket$3.50
🛒Groceries (per week)$50-$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings with easy access to the Rockies.
  • Rich cultural scene with numerous festivals and events.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Cold winters can deter some visitors.
  • Traffic can be congested during peak hours.
  • Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.

Places to Visit in Calgary

Visit one of these nice places.

Calgary Tower

Offers a stunning view of the city skyline and the Rockies, perfect for panoramic shots.

Prince's Island Park

A beautiful urban park with scenic trails and city views, ideal for nature photography.

Stephen Avenue

A historic street filled with unique architecture and street art, great for capturing the city's vibe.

Culinary Guide

Food in Calgary

Calgary's food scene is a delightful mix of local flavors and international influences, showcasing the city's agricultural bounty and multicultural community.

Calgary Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Alberta Beef

Renowned for its quality, Alberta beef is a must-try, often served as steak or in hearty burgers.

Must-Try!

Calgary-style Pizza

A unique style characterized by its thin crust, often topped with a variety of fresh ingredients.

Bison Burgers

A leaner alternative to beef, bison burgers are flavorful and popular in local eateries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Calgary Farmers' Market

A vibrant market featuring local produce, meats, and artisanal products, perfect for tasting and purchasing local goods.

Street Food in Inglewood

Known for its eclectic food trucks and local vendors, you can find everything from gourmet tacos to fresh pastries.

Climate Guide

Weather

Calgary has a varied climate with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures often dipping below freezing and snowfall common. Summers (June to August) are warm, with average temperatures around 20-25°C (68-77°F). Spring and autumn are transitional, featuring mild temperatures but can also bring sudden weather changes, including snow in spring.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Calgarians value politeness; saying 'please' and 'thank you' is expected.

Respect for Nature

When outdoors, it's important to follow 'Leave No Trace' principles to protect the environment.

Queuing

Forming an orderly queue is customary in public places, such as bus stops and stores.

Safety Guide

Safety

Calgary is generally a safe city for visitors, with low crime rates. However, it's wise to stay vigilant, particularly in crowded areas and during nightlife. Always keep personal belongings secure, and be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night.

Tipping in Calgary

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is customary in Calgary; a standard tip is around 15-20% of the bill in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and mobile payments are increasingly common. Cash is still used, especially in markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather encourages outdoor activities and blooming gardens. It's a great time for festivals.

Summer

Warm temperatures and long days attract tourists for events like the Calgary Stampede.

Autumn

Cooler weather and vibrant fall foliage make it perfect for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold and snowy, ideal for winter sports and holiday events, with opportunities for skiing nearby.

Nightlife Guide

Calgary at Night

Calgary's nightlife is diverse and vibrant, with options ranging from lively bars and clubs to relaxed lounges and live music venues. The Beltline and Kensington areas are particularly popular for nightlife, offering everything from craft cocktails to dance clubs. Many establishments host live music and events, catering to various tastes and preferences, making it easy to find a spot that suits your vibe.

Hiking in Calgary

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Grassi Lakes Trail

Located near Canmore, this moderate trail offers stunning lake views and beautiful scenery, perfect for all skill levels.

Ha Ling Peak

A challenging hike offering breathtaking views at the summit, ideal for experienced hikers looking for a rewarding experience.

Airports

How to reach Calgary by plane.

Calgary International Airport (YYC)

Located about 17 kilometers northeast of downtown Calgary, it is the primary airport serving the city with numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Calgary is relatively walkable, especially in its downtown and urban neighborhoods. Many areas feature pedestrian-friendly streets, parks, and pathways. However, some suburbs may require a vehicle for easier navigation due to greater distances between amenities.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing demographic, particularly in urban areas, drawn by job opportunities and a vibrant lifestyle.

Families

Many families choose Calgary for its family-friendly amenities, schools, and recreational opportunities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hockey

Hockey is a major sport in Calgary, with the Calgary Flames being the city's NHL team, drawing significant local support.

Canadian Football

The Calgary Stampeders are a professional CFL team, with a passionate fan base and games that are a staple of local culture.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Calgary can be heavy during rush hours, particularly on major routes and highways. Public transportation includes buses and the CTrain light rail system, which connects key areas of the city efficiently. Many residents utilize these options to avoid congestion.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Calgary.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegan Options

Many restaurants in Calgary offer vegan and vegetarian dishes, with labels indicating options clearly.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are increasingly available, especially in dedicated restaurants and bakeries.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Calgary has a robust healthcare system, with numerous hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. Emergency services are accessible, and walk-in clinics are common for minor health issues. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers healthcare services while visiting.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide