Things To Do
in Calgary
Calgary is a dynamic prairie city framed by the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains. It blends a modern skyline with expansive green spaces and a strong Western heritage. The Bow River threads through downtown, linking parks, bike paths, and cafés that buzz year-round.
Iconic experiences include the Stampede, diverse dining, and quick access to world-class outdoor adventures just outside the city limits.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Fort Calgary, where you can learn about the city's rich history and its origins. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café nearby, savoring traditional Canadian dishes. Take a stroll along the river to soak in the early morning views of the Bow River.
After lunch, head to the Calgary Tower for panoramic views of the city and the majestic Rocky Mountains in the distance. Visit the Glenbow Museum to explore its impressive collection of art and artifacts that narrate the story of Alberta. Wrap up your afternoon with a walk through the historic Inglewood district, known for its eclectic shops and galleries.
For dinner, indulge in Alberta beef at one of Calgary's renowned steakhouses downtown. Afterward, catch a live performance at the Arts Commons, where you can experience local music or theater. End your evening with a relaxing walk along Stephen Avenue, enjoying the vibrant nightlife.
Depart early for a day trip to Banff National Park, just a short drive from Calgary. Stop for breakfast at a charming café in Canmore, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. As you arrive in Banff, take a moment to marvel at the stunning landscapes that await you.
Spend the afternoon exploring the town of Banff, visiting the Banff Park Museum and strolling along Banff Avenue. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park or dine at one of the local eateries, sampling regional cuisine. Consider taking a gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain for unmatched views of the Rockies.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely drive back to Calgary, reflecting on the day's adventures. Enjoy a casual dinner at a local pub, where you can try some craft beers. If you're up for it, explore Calgary's vibrant nightlife in the Beltline district.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🚗Taxi 1km | $2-3 base + $1-2 per km |
| 🚌Monthly public transport pass | $90-120 |
| 🧺Grocery basket (basic staples) per week | $60-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to the Rockies and outdoor recreation
- Vibrant dining and craft beverage scene
- Strong sense of Western heritage and festivals
- Walkable downtown with river valley access
- Winter weather can be long and cold
- City traffic can be heavy during peak hours and major events
Places to Visit in Calgary
Visit one of these nice places.
A striking pedestrian bridge offering sweeping Bow River views and dramatic city silhouettes especially at sunrise or sunset.
Panoramic downtown views perfect for cityscape photography, especially on clear days.
Lush greens and water reflections, ideal for nature and urban contrast shots.
Historic architecture with river backdrop; great for architectural and street photography.
Quaint, colorful storefronts and vibrant street scenes that capture Calgary’s heritage.
Food in Calgary
Calgary Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A well-aged steak served with seasonal sides; best found at renowned steakhouses or premium restaurants throughout the city.
Must-Try!
Fries topped with cheese curds and gravy, often customized with local ingredients like braised short rib or smoked meat.
Fried dough pastries dusted with cinnamon sugar, a beloved street-side treat at winter markets and tourist-focused areas.
A lean, flavorful burger option frequently featured on casual menus or at local pubs and bistros.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bright indoor market with local produce, baked goods, and prepared foods—great for sampling Calgary-made offerings.
A bustling hub with food stalls, fresh produce, and casual eateries in an urban setting.
A community market featuring local vendors, street bites, and live entertainment when open.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Calgarians value punctuality and courtesy. A brief hello and polite conversation are appreciated in shops and cafes.
Respect lines, wait your turn, and maintain comfortable personal space in public settings.
In areas with Western heritage events or venues, be mindful of dress expectations and local traditions during festivals like the Stampede.
Safety
Tipping in Calgary
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a standard 15-20% tip is customary if service is satisfactory. For taxi rides, rounding up or tipping 10-15% is common. Some cafes or casual spots may include a tip jar; check the total before tipping.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, with contactless payments common. Cash is always useful for small vendors and markets. Interac e-Transfer is popular for person-to-person payments; ATMs are plentiful in city centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days mixed with lingering snowmelt; be prepared for rapid weather shifts and occasional rain.
Warm days with long sunshine, perfect for outdoor festivals, patios, and river activities; occasional thunder showers.
Crisp air and vibrant fall foliage; cool nights—layered clothing is recommended.
Cold with possible heavy snow; sunny, crisp days and opportunities for skiing, snowshoeing, and cozy indoor venues.
Calgary at Night
Hiking in Calgary
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate hike with forest paths leading to vivid turquoise lakes and alpine scenery about an hour from Calgary.
Forest and hillside trails just west of Calgary offering scenic day hikes suitable for varied levels.
Extensive urban-adjacent trails through one of North America’s largest urban provincial parks.
Popular, more challenging mountain hikes offering sweeping valley and mountain views within a short drive from the city.
Airports
How to reach Calgary by plane.
Primary international gateway to Calgary, located northeast of downtown with easy connections to city transit, taxis, and rental cars.
Smaller regional airport west of Calgary, mainly used for general aviation and private flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizable portion of residents works in energy, tech, health, and service sectors with a trend toward urban living.
Calgary offers family-friendly neighborhoods, schools, parks, and community centers.
A growing immigrant and refugee population from Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas contributing to a diverse food and culture scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple of local culture; Calgary hosts the NHL's Flames and a strong amateur hockey scene.
Calgary Stampede showcases rodeo, chuckwagon racing, and Western heritage each summer.
Canadian football games are popular in the city, especially during the AFL season in autumn.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Calgary.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Calgary’s dining scene offers abundant vegetarian options, including creative bowls, veggie-forward menus, and many restaurants that mark items as vegetarian or can adapt dishes on request.