Best Things to Do In Calgary
Embark on an adventure through Calgary, a city brimming with vibrant cultural experiences and iconic sights.
Calgary: Fort Calgary
What is it?
The birthplace of Calgary, Fort Calgary is a historical site and museum.
Why you should go?
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Calgary's origins at Fort Calgary. Situated at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow rivers, this national historic site offers an interactive glimpse into the city's early law enforcement and community development. The audio tour vividly resurrects the past, making it an unparalleled educational experience among Calgary activities.
Calgary: Stephen Avenue Walk
What is it?
A pedestrianized thoroughfare bustling with shops, restaurants, and public art.
Why you should go?
Stephen Avenue Walk is a vibrant artery in downtown Calgary, known for its historic buildings and lively atmosphere. It's a hub for entertainment, shopping, and al fresco dining, inviting visitors to savor the urban buzz. The audio guide offers anecdotes and insights, making it a quintessential stop for those considering what to see in Calgary.
Calgary: Glenbow Museum
What is it?
A premier cultural institution with a rich collection of art, history, and culture exhibitions.
Why you should go?
The Glenbow Museum is a treasure trove for art lovers and historians, hosting a vast array of artifacts and artworks. With exhibits spanning from the traditional to the avant-garde, the museum offers a profound look into regional and international cultures. Audio-guided tours provide context, making it a highpoint among educational things to do in Calgary.
Calgary: Nose Hill Park
What is it?
One of the largest urban parks in Canada, offering natural grassland and wildlife viewing.
Why you should go?
Experience Calgary's wild side at Nose Hill Park. This sprawling natural environment grants visitors a chance to hike, bike, and witness local fauna. It’s a breath of fresh air from the urban landscape, providing panoramic city views. The audio tour enriches the journey with ecological facts, recommended for those interested in Calgary excursions.
Calgary: Canada Olympic Park
What is it?
A multi-purpose athletic facility and site of the 1988 Winter Olympics.
Why you should go?
Athletes and adventurers alike will be thrilled by Canada Olympic Park, a venue that promotes active living and sports legacy. Summer or winter, the park provides opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking. An audio guide captures the Olympic spirit and energizes visitors, making it a thrilling addition to things to see in Calgary.
Calgary: Calgary Tower
What is it?
A towering beacon in the heart of downtown, Calgary Tower offers unparalleled city views.
Why you should go?
Embrace the sky-high adventure at Calgary Tower, a landmark offering breathtaking panoramas of the cosmopolitan landscape and Rocky Mountain backdrop. Audio narratives reveal its history and significance as you stand on the glass floor, heart racing. An ideal first stop, it provides a sense of orientation and inspiration for fun things to do in Calgary, igniting wanderlust for further exploration.
Calgary: Heritage Park Historical Village
What is it?
A living history museum recreating the days gone by in Western Canada.
Why you should go?
Delve into the past at Heritage Park Historical Village, where history springs to life. Wander amidst authentically restored buildings and engage with costumed interpreters in this immersive tableau of Alberta's yesteryears. Listen to tales of the pioneers as the audio guide enhances your understanding of Canada's cultural heritage—essential for any list of things to do in Calgary.
Calgary: Calgary Zoo
What is it?
An extensive zoological park, showcasing wildlife from all around the globe.
Why you should go?
The Calgary Zoo beckons with its diverse species and carefully crafted habitats. Audio tours guide guests through conservation efforts, exhibit highlights, and behind-the-scenes insights. With education and preservation at its heart, your visit supports global wildlife initiatives, making it one of the most impactful Calgary activities.
Calgary: Prince's Island Park
What is it?
An urban park oasis on an island in the Bow River, ideal for leisure and cultural events.
Why you should go?
Prince's Island Park serves as an idyllic retreat for visitors seeking serenity within the cityscape. Calgary excursions are incomplete without a stroll through its verdant landscapes, enriched with the sounds of the river and local festivities. The audio guide weaves stories of the park's ecological and social significance, offering a tranquil interlude on Calgary tours.
Calgary: Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre
What is it?
A contemporary facility honoring Canadian music history and innovation.
Why you should go?
Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre, strikes a chord with music enthusiasts and history buffs alike. With its interactive exhibits and audio-guided journey through Canada's musical milestones, it ranks high among places to visit in Calgary. Peruse artifacts and inspirations that have shaped the nation's sound tapestry in this acoustic adventure.
TOP-5 tours in Calgary for first-time visitors
- Explore the bustling streets and historical wonders as our audio guide highlights essential things to see in Calgary, creating memories at every turn.
- Dive into the rich tapestry of the city with a tour that showcases what to do in Calgary, from culinary delights to architectural marvels.
- Uncover the best things to do in Calgary with a meticulously curated tour, making sure your experience encompasses the city's multifaceted charm.
- Engage in a myriad of Calgary activities with this audio tour, providing insight into the city's unique blend of entertainment and heritage.
- Illuminate your understanding of local culture with an audio narrative that guides you through the most intriguing places to visit in Calgary.
Fun things to do in Calgary with kids
Calgary offers a bevy of attractions that cater to children's sense of fun and curiosity. At the Calgary Zoo, embark on a wildlife journey and spot majestic animals; it's both thrilling and educational, making it a top family-friendly destination. For those in search of interactive and scientific discoveries, TELUS Spark Science Centre invites kids to play, learn, and ignite their passion for the sciences through hands-on exhibits and fascinating live demonstrations. Lastly, the Calaway Park presents an exhilarating day out with its array of rides, games, and live entertainment. It’s Western Canada’s largest outdoor family amusement park and a perfect place to share joyful moments and laughter. These engaging Calgary activities for families offer an enjoyable learning experience and an opportunity to create lasting memories for both kids and adults alike.
Things to do in Calgary with family
Calgary is a family-friendly city with an array of activities that appeal to all ages. At the top of the list is the world-renowned Calgary Stampede, which transforms the city into a celebratory hub of rodeo events, amusement rides, and cultural displays — a true taste of the Wild West. For an educational twist, the fascinating Royal Tyrrell Museum, albeit a short drive from Calgary, offers a prehistoric adventure among the largest displays of dinosaurs in the world, making it a must-see for curious minds. Nature-loving families should not miss a day trip to the nearby Banff National Park, where the splendor of the Canadian Rockies is on full display through hiking, wildlife spotting, and breathtaking landscapes. Each of these destinations provides enriching experiences and the opportunity to deepen family bonds while exploring the best Calgary excursions on offer.
Free things to do in Calgary
Revel in the delights of Calgary without spending a dime as you explore a selection of the city's free attractions. Nature enthusiasts can meander through the stunning oasis of Prince's Island Park, situated in the Bow River. This scenic park is ideal for picnics, leisurely walks, and bird watching, often playing host to music festivals in the summer. Art lovers will relish the opportunity to peruse contemporary works at the Esker Foundation, a prominent private art gallery that provides complimentary admission. Lastly, history buffs can step back in time with a self-guided tour of the city's heritage at the historic district of Inglewood, which boasts an array of well-preserved early 20th-century buildings. These no-cost activities offer visitors a glimpse into the variety of things to do in Calgary and promise enriching experiences for all who delve into the vibrant culture and natural beauty of the city.
Cheap things to do in Calgary
Calgary is a city that proves incredible experiences don't have to break the bank. For an affordable yet enriching outing, the Glenbow Museum offers a window into the art and history of the region with discounted admission on the first Thursday of every month. Nature aficionados can explore the expansive network of trails at Fish Creek Provincial Park, which is free to enter and perfect for hikers, bikers, and wildlife watchers. To capture the essence of Calgary, take a leisurely stroll through the bustling stalls of the Calgary Farmers' Market, where you can enjoy the local atmosphere and perhaps treat yourself to a small, locally produced souvenir or snack. Each of these attractions allows for a budget-friendly way to enjoy the city, ensuring that cost-conscious travelers can partake in the best Calgary activities without sacrificing the quality of their visit.
Things to do in Calgary for couples
Couples seeking a romantic escapade in Calgary will find a myriad of enchanting options. Begin with a picturesque ascent to the top of the Calgary Tower, where sweeping views of the city skyline and distant mountains set the tone for a memorable outing. The tower's revolving restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a panoramic backdrop, perfect for a date night. For more earthbound pursuits, strolling hand in hand through the serene pathways of the Devonian Gardens offers a tranquil retreat amidst tropical plants and koi ponds, providing a lush setting for intimate conversations. Wine enthusiasts can relish a visit to the heritage building of the Eau Claire Distillery in nearby Turner Valley, where a guided tasting of locally crafted spirits adds a flavourful dimension to a day trip. These destinations provide a blend of excitement, relaxation, and indulgence, making them top attractions for couples in Calgary.
Things to do in Calgary at night
As the sun sets, Calgary unfolds into a lively hub of nocturnal activity. Thrill-seekers and night owls alike can head to the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium to catch a Broadway show or a captivating musical performance, making it one of the top things to do in Calgary. The cultured vibe continues at the numerous live music venues and bars along 17th Avenue, also known as the Red Mile, where you can enjoy live bands and DJs while sipping on craft cocktails. On a more serene note, the city's outskirts offer the Rothney Astrophysical Observatory, where stargazing aficionados can gaze into the cosmos and learn about the wonders of the night sky. Each night-time destination provides a distinct flavor of Calgary's diverse after-dark scene, catering to a variety of interests and ensuring an evening to remember.