Top 21 Activities and Attractions in Calgary, Alberta

Full of pioneering history and flanked by the Canadian Rockies, the beautiful city of Calgary is the place for your next adventure. In Alberta, Calgary is more than just the location of an iconic stampede; it boasts an exceptional foodie scene, fun tourist attractions, and outdoor adventures galore. Cut by the Bow River, it is a city rich in parks and recreation. Calgary is also a great launch point for a trip to Banff.

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Things to do in Calgary

When visiting Calgary, the best way to see it is to rent a car. We usually pick up our car rental at the Calgary International Airport to explore the surrounding areas such as Canmore, Banff, and Drumheller. However, before embarking on day trips from Calgary, let’s delve into the best things to do in downtown Calgary.

1. Go Up the Calgary Tower

As one of the most recognizable structures in the city’s skyline, the Calgary Tower aids newcomers and travelers in maintaining their bearings as they roam the streets. Upon its completion in 1968, the Calgary Tower was the tallest building in the city. Although it was outdone in 1984, the tower still offers visitors some of the best views in Calgary.

From 626ft (191m) above the ground, you can see well into the surrounding mountains. One of the best things to do in Calgary at night is to head to the second observation deck in the Tower. Sip on a cocktail at Sky 360 and enjoy the city lights from above.

2. Canada Olympic Park (WINSPORT)

Home to the 1988 Winter Olympics, the park is one of Calgary’s top attractions and remains a training ground for professional athletes. Known as WinSport, Canada Olympic Park is the ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts looking to ski close to the city center or enjoy various outdoor adventures in summer.

Beyond skiing and snowboarding, visitors can experience tubing down the hills and even try bobsledding on the original Olympic bobsleigh track. Is there a better way to descend the mountain at 100km per hour? WinSport also offers rides on one of the fastest zip-lines in North America. You can traverse mountain bike trails or lace up your hiking boots to explore the surroundings.

3. Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame

Conveniently placed in Olympic Park, this museum serves as hallowed ground for the sports of hockey, baseball, football, and the Olympics. In addition to learning about the hundreds of Canadians inducted into the Hall, visitors can see the torch used in the 1988 Winter Olympics. Later, you can test your skills by shadowboxing against iconic boxer Lennox Lewis.

4. Bow River

With extensive pathways for walkers, bikers, and the occasional rollerblader, traversing the Bow River is a great way to explore Calgary. The river winds through the city and the 6.1 km pathway provides welcoming access to various spots, such as Prince’s Island Park and the iconic Peace Bridge.

The Peace Bridge connects Memorial Drive with Eau Claire Park. Therefore, renting a bicycle to explore the waterfront is highly recommended. Our accommodations, The Hotel Arts Kensington, offered complimentary bikes for us to use while exploring the city.

Take a Walking Tour

One of the best ways to explore a new city is to join a walking tour. This 2-hour guided experience will take you through downtown Calgary, featuring its elevated walkways and rich history. Highlights include Municipal Plaza, Calgary’s East Village, and Old City Hall. You’ll also traverse the most extensive pathway system in North America, ending in Chinatown.

5. Stephen Avenue

Arguably the most beautiful street in Calgary, completing the Stephen Avenue Walk is essential. Located in the city center, the avenue is easily accessible and offers historic buildings, trendy shops, and cozy restaurants.

The beauty elevates in the summer when the street transforms into a lively hub of activity. After your stroll, you will be close to many of the top attractions on this list, from the Calgary Tower to Glenbow Museum.

6. Studio Bell & the National Music Centre

Home to the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, the Studio Bell & National Music Centre features an architectural design that’s as memorable as the exhibits themselves. Inside, you’ll uncover a wealth of memorabilia and instruments of iconic Canadian musicians such as Neil Young, Bryan Adams, and Oscar Peterson.

By joining the backstage tour, you can explore centuries of historic instruments and learn about local music icons. The highlight of the tour, however, is the journey through the iconic Rolling Stones recording studio, where you may even get a chance to play some instruments along the way.

7. Prince’s Island Park

Located on an island along the Bow River, Prince’s Island Park features 50 acres of natural space to explore. On a sunny day in Calgary, grab a picnic and relax under the shaded trees, or dine at the River Cafe, a fine dining restaurant located within the park.

Connected to downtown Calgary via three pedestrian bridges, you will discover numerous walking and cycling tracks. If you didn’t bring a picnic, there’s a wonderful restaurant to dine at, and you might even stumble upon live music as you wander the paths. Prince’s Island Park is situated near the Eau Claire Market, allowing for a delightful day combining park exploration and unique shopping.

8. Calgary Folk Music Festival

Over four days, Prince’s Island transforms with fantastic solo acts and bands lighting up the space. Dance under the warm Calgary sun as you enjoy live performances or discover new musicians to love. Alongside the music, various workshops, arts and crafts, and delicious food vendors await. When the music concludes, that doesn’t mean the fun ends—you’re within walking distance of the downtown core, with ample options to keep the night lively.

9. Expo Latino

One of Calgary’s best festivals is Expo Latino, held annually in August. This festival is the largest Latin festival in Canada, featuring ample live music, space to dance, and delectable Latin cuisine.

10. Fort Calgary

At the confluence of the Bow and Elbow Rivers, Fort Calgary served as the first outpost of the North West Mounted Police. Today, you can still see the original foundations of the fort, while the Fort Calgary Museum narrates the city’s story from its inception to modern times. You’ll learn about the Métis’ history and influence in Calgary, as well as the significance of the Elbow and Bow Rivers to Indigenous culture.

11. Heritage Park Historical Village

If Fort Calgary offers a glimpse into Western Canada’s history, the Heritage Park Historical Village provides the full picture. The park is home to several historic buildings from the pioneer era, complete with costumed interpreters who help bring history to life. Fun Fact: This is Canada’s largest living history museum!

The park includes buildings from four key periods in Calgary’s history. You’ll discover an 1860s fur-trading fort, a town square from the early 20th century, as well as the beloved old steam engine, which offers rides around the village. Other activities include a paddlewheel tour on the scenic Glenmore Reservoir and a visit to the Gasoline Alley Museum, a place filled with vintage vehicles and interactive exhibits.

12. The Military Museums

Showcasing the vital efforts of Canada’s army during the First and Second World Wars, the Military Museums provide incredible insights into this significant period of history.

The museums dive into great detail, unveiling stories of the brave men and women who risked their lives. Here, you can learn what it was like to be in the trenches on the Western Front or to fly a bomber during WWII. Your visit also provides an opportunity to view various military vehicles, including tanks.

13. Glenbow Museum

If you’re looking for activities in Calgary on a rainy day, the Glenbow Museum is the answer. Situated in downtown Calgary, this museum centers on art and culture in Western Canada. With over a million artifacts, art pieces, and photographs on display, prepare for an in-depth exploration of contemporary life and culture in this region.

The museum also offers an incredible glimpse into the values, traditions, and heritage of Indigenous peoples who have inhabited the Northwestern Plains for thousands of years.

14. Calaway Park

Wondering what fun things to do in Calgary with the family? A day at Calaway Park is always a great choice. As the largest outdoor amusement park in Western Canada, Calaway Park promises a day filled with excitement for everyone.

The park boasts over 30 rides, many designed to get your heart racing. For a more relaxed experience, enjoy nearly two dozen carnival-style games, or catch a show at Calaway Park’s very own 3D theater.

15. Fish Creek Park

This second-largest urban park in Canada features delightful walking trails through forests and along the creek. The designated natural area is home to around 200 species and provides a great opportunity for bird-watching.

16. Watch the Calgary Flames

Hockey is Canada’s most popular sport by a considerable margin. One of the best ways to embrace the local spirit is to head to the Saddledome and watch the Calgary Flames in action.

The aptly named Saddledome indeed resembles a saddle from the outside. From October to April, the arena often sells out multiple times each week. If you’re budget-conscious, tickets to see the Flames can be quite affordable, especially compared to a Maple Leafs game in Toronto. Tickets for games against the Edmonton Oilers can be competitive, but witnessing the two bitter rivals face-off is among the best activities in Calgary.

17. Theatre Calgary

If you’re seeking another nighttime activity in Calgary, why not attend a performance? Theatre Calgary is a professional theater company that showcases Broadway productions.

18. Calgary Zoo

While zoos are not typically high on our list, they play an important role in conservation and education. Furthermore, the Calgary Zoo is renowned for its conservation efforts aimed at supporting rare and endangered species. The zoo also features a botanical garden and butterfly conservatory, making it an excellent destination for families seeking activities in Calgary.

19. Calgary Stampede

Over ten days in July, the world-famous Calgary Stampede takes place at Stampede Park, attracting locals and approximately a million travelers.

Known as the ‘greatest outdoor show on earth,’ attendees are captivated by rodeo events, exhibitions, and stage shows, in addition to pancake breakfasts. The history of the Calgary Stampede traces back to the late 19th century, and its reputation continues to grow each year.

Where to Eat in Calgary

Calgary boasts an impressive foodie scene, offering numerous places for a delicious meal. Here are a few standout restaurants:

Charcut Roasthouse has been recognized as one of Canada’s top 10 best new restaurants by enRoute Magazine. A carnivore’s paradise, it’s a great choice to order the day’s special from their custom-built rotisserie. When visiting Alberta, trying Alberta Beef is a must (if you are a meat eater), and this is the perfect place to do so.

Model Milk features an open-concept kitchen that overlooks the dining area, allowing patrons to sit at the bar and watch the staff at work. The menu embodies a European flair and changes regularly according to seasonal availability.

Day Trips from Calgary

Calgary is conveniently located along the Trans Canada Highway, linking Calgary with Canmore, Banff, and Lake Louise. No visit to Alberta would be complete without witnessing these stunning destinations.

20. Banff National Park

One of the best day trips from Calgary is Banff National Park, home to towering mountains and the picturesque Lake Louise. You can reach the park within 90 minutes, but the breathtaking scenery will likely have you stopping at various points along the way.

Upon reaching the park, continue onward to the lake. Spectacular mountain vistas surround you at every turn, shaped over millennia by the slow movement of glaciers. The result is the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Louise, where you can either venture out on the lake or stroll along the lakeshore trail.

With soaring mountains unfolding around you, Banff National Park is unforgettable. In winter, world-class skiing and snowboarding await; in summer, indulge in mountain biking or hiking.

21. Canmore

Located between Calgary and Banff, Canmore is an excellent stop for an afternoon. In fact, we’ve spent several days in Canmore exploring its endless hiking trails during summer and indulging in snowshoeing and cross-country skiing during winter. One of the best experiences is taking a helicopter tour over the Canadian Rockies to witness the magnificent scenery of Banff and Lake Louise.

22. Drumheller

One of our favorite day trips from Calgary is the captivating town of Drumheller. A road trip here reveals hoodoos, the Royal Tyrrell Dinosaur Museum, and the area’s breathtaking canyons. The Atlas Coal Mine offers an engaging tour for the entire family, and you’ll even encounter the world’s largest dinosaur.

23. Take The Rocky Mountaineer to Vancouver

One of the world’s best train journeys departs from Calgary en route to Vancouver. If you have extra days on your Calgary itinerary, consider a once-in-a-lifetime journey on the Rocky Mountaineer.

This luxurious train travels along the historic Canada Pacific Line, venturing deep into the snow-capped peaks of the Rocky Mountains. Along the way, you will have opportunities to stop at Canmore, Banff National Park, or Jasper for various spectacular day trips.

How to Get to Calgary

The main entry point to Alberta’s largest city is at Calgary Airport. You have various transport options available.

There is an express bus to downtown that leaves every half hour between 5 am and midnight, costing $6.35 USD. The trip takes approximately 30 minutes. A shuttle departs from Bus Bay 8 every half hour from 8 am until midnight, costing $12 USD and connecting to most city hotels. A taxi ride from the airport to downtown typically costs around $35 USD.

Best Time to Visit Calgary

With a combination of urban and mountain adventures, there’s never an unfavorable time to visit Calgary. The winter months offer great local skiing alongside lower room rates. In fall, you can enjoy moderate temperatures and breathtaking scenery as the leaves transform to vibrant shades.

However, summer undoubtedly ranks as the best time to visit Calgary, with all the festivals and live events, including the Calgary Stampede, making it a truly magical time of year. Book accommodations as far in advance as possible to save money.

Where to Stay in Calgary

Even as the city continues to grow, the ideal base is usually within Calgary’s downtown area. This location places you close to most attractions, from the Bow River to Stephen Avenue.

Hotel Arts Kensington – Calgary

We have visited this boutique hotel in Calgary multiple times, and it has consistently impressed us. The Hotel Arts Kensington is a luxury boutique hotel that goes the extra mile. Conveniently positioned in the heart of Kensington Village, it boasts a trendy vibe that’s perfect for nightlife. They offer complimentary bike loans, and it’s situated along the pedestrian path running along the river.

More Calgary Hotels

• Luxury – Fairmont Palliser: This historic hotel has been operating for over 100 years and is located in the central business district, close to various attractions.
• Budget – Best Western Plus Downtown: This hotel offers spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains and features studios as well as one and two-bedroom suites, providing complimentary breakfast and WiFi.
• Mid-Range: In downtown Calgary, you will find numerous mid-range hotels, including International Hotel & Spa. This hotel features spacious rooms, complimentary continental breakfast, a gym, and a heated pool.

These activities represent the cream of the crop for your time in Calgary. Whether utilizing the city as a launch point to explore the Rocky Mountains or for a city break, Calgary is an ideal choice as one of the best cities in Canada to visit in any season.