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Calgary is at the foot of the beautiful Rocky Mountains. It offers natural beauty and a vibrant culture that houses the urban excitement of modernity. The “Gateway to the Rockies” has many things to do in Calgary that are so much more than cowboy charm. Mixed neighbourhoods with offbeat boutiques, art galleries and local restaurants often reflect the artistic spirit of Alberta. For outdoor enthusiasts, experience the rivers running through the heart of the city to provide a pathway for kayaking, paddleboarding and riverside strolls.
10 Exciting Things To Do In Calgary
A gateway to fabulous day-trip ideas, having something exciting for all ages, there are a list of things to do in Calgary:
1. Visit The Calgary Tower
Photo: Bernard Spragg. NZ / Wikimedia Commons
Calgary Tower is one of the must-have things to see in Calgary at least once. Its observation deck is perfect for panoramic 360-degree views of the Calgary skyline, the prairies, and the distant Rocky Mountains. A highlight of the tower is Sky 360, one of the rotating restaurants located on the rooftop. It offers an unforgettable dining experience with lovely vistas changing as you dine. Enjoy a delectable three-course meal with an array of local and international dishes. Evening visits to the park add a magical atmosphere. The tower also holds an important role as one of the cultural identity structures in Calgary, often lighted up with different coloured displays to highlight celebrations and local events.
Location: 101 9 Ave SW, Calgary
Timings: 10 AM – 9 PM
2. Stroll Through Prince’s Island Park
Photo: Thank you for visiting my page / Wikimedia Commons
Prince’s Island Park is located in downtown Calgary on the Bow River. This park happens to be one of the focal points, where green spaces and interlocking pathways create a haven amidst bustling streets. Regular visitors have a good time picnicking, walking and relaxing at the river bank. It organises many festivals during the year, like the Calgary Folk Music Festival, where artists and audiences visit from every part of the country. In winter, it is a beautiful landscape for cross-country skiing and strolls. It also has on-site dining at the River Café, where you can indulge in locally sourced meals in an exquisite riverside setting.
Location: 698 Eau Claire Ave SW, Calgary
Timings: 24*7
3. Visit The Glenbow Museum
Photo: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons
Any art and history enthusiast searching for things to do in Calgary must not miss the Glenbow Museum. Being one of Canada’s largest museums, the exhibits have over a million artefacts along with almost 30,000 pieces of art. Its diversity in exhibitions covers everything from Indigenous art and cultural presentations to more modern and contemporary works. It connects Alberta’s history to world scenarios and unleashes insights into Canada’s cultural development. The interactive exhibitions and education programs it provides for families guarantee an interesting time for any visitor, regardless of their age.
Location: 130 9 Ave SE, Calgary
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Mondays)
4. Visit Heritage Park Historical Village
Photo: Daniel / Wikimedia Commons
Heritage Park Historical Village is an entrance into the vibrant history of Western Canada. The 127-acre site contains more than 180 exhibits, and every part of it is meticulously recreated. Attractions include the Fur Trading Fort and First Nations Encampment from 1860, where you can discover Hudson’s Bay Company trade and Indigenous culture. The Prairie Railway Town includes historical buildings such as Burnside Ranch House and the Finnish sauna. You can also tour the Gasoline Alley Museum, where you find old vehicles and antique pumps. There are steam train rides, paddlewheeler cruises, and horse-driven waggon rides throughout all seasons.
Location: 1900 Heritage Dr SW, Calgary
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM (Seasonal)
5. Visit The Calgary Zoo
Photo: Harpsz / Wikimedia Commons
The place covers more than 120 acres, sheltering over 1,000 animals from more than 120 species representing the ecosystems of five continents. Explore the Canadian Wilds, allowing the opportunity to observe native species, such as bears and cougars, and Destination Africa, where giraffes and hippos are seen. One of the unique attractions here is Penguin Plunge, where you can admire playful penguins in a simulated Antarctic environment. You can see life-size models of dinosaurs in a rich landscape pleasing to children and adults. The Dorothy Harvie Botanical Gardens and the ENMAX Conservatory, with its butterfly garden, provide a peaceful and educational experience.
Location: 210 St. George’s Drive NE, Calgary
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
6. Walk Along Stephen Avenue
Photo: Chuck Szmurlo / Wikimedia Commons
Being one of the oldest pedestrian streets in Calgary and rich in history and culture, it has heritage buildings and modern structures all combined. Originally named by the Canadian Pacific Railway after Lord George Mount Stephen during the late 1880s, this avenue was converted into a pedestrian mall in the 1970s to promote urban revival. Shopping, dining, and entertainment take centre stage on this avenue of diversified boutiques, restaurants, and cultural attractions. There are sculptures and murals all around the place, and the Parade of Wonders and live performances add energy and excitement to the street. Outdoor skating in the Olympic Plaza during the winter months, followed by patio scenes during the summer months, makes it fun around the year.
Location: Downtown Calgary
Timings: 24*7
7. Have Adrenaline Fun At WinSport Canada Olympic Park
Photo: Oceanflynn / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
If you are searching for thrilling things to do in Calgary, WinSport Canada Olympic Park is a host of adrenaline-pumping activities throughout the year. Winter sports at the park feature skiing or snowboarding down the well-groomed slopes with an incredible view of the Calgary skyline and the Bow River valley. Suitable for all levels of skiers, from beginner to expert, the park includes groomed runs and terrain parks challenging even the best skiers. There’s ziplining down the mountain, more downhill karting and mountain biking during the summer. The park offers a lift-accessed mountain biking experience, in which you can ride down over 9 acres of trails with varying levels of difficulty. You can also enjoy the thrilling bobsleigh experience, racing down the track.
Location: 88 Canada Olympic Rd SW, Calgary
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
8. Inspect The Peace Bridge
Photo: Bernard Spragg. NZ / Wikimedia Commons
Another interesting place is Peace Bridge in Calgary, an architectural design created by the famous architect Santiago Calatrava. The 130-meter-long tube, which was opened in 2012, is celebrated for its unique architectural design combining functionality with striking beauty. It is an excellent foreground to stand out against the Calgary skyline, for photography or just a leisurely walk. The most remarkable characteristic of this Peace Bridge is its glass top cover. This makes it usable throughout the year without any problems of Canadian harsh weather.
Location: Memorial Dr NW, Calgary
Timings: 24*7
9. Celebrate The Calgary Stampede
The Calgary Stampede is a spectacular 10-day show every year in Calgary, Alberta, during July. It ranges from rodeo competitions to parades, concerts, and carnival rides. Among its predominant features is the rodeo, within which cowboys and cowgirls vie for supremacy through bull riding and barrel racing. It also hosts chuckwagon races along with live performances ranging from rock and pop to hip-hop and EDM at the Coca-Cola Stage. Even outside the official grounds, you can enjoy street parties, concerts, and free pancakes at local establishments, which have been a tradition since 1923. For those interested in an even deeper experience, visit the Elbow River Camp, which highlights the culture and traditions of native peoples living in the area.
Location: 1410 Olympic Way SE, Calgary
Timings: Seasonal
10. Embark On Nose Hill Park Hike
Photo: Thank you for visiting my page / Wikimedia Commons
One of the biggest urban parks in Canada is Nose Hill Park, which is located in Calgary and spans 11 square kilometres. It is the ideal place to get outside and enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline and the Rocky Mountains in the distance. What makes Nose Hill Park unique is the rich ecosystem, one of the last remaining examples of Canadian prairie. Discover the natural beauty that once surrounded much of the area as you stroll through patches of tall grasses, wildflowers and sagebrush. There are also wildlife sightings of deer, coyotes, and hawks.
Location: 5620 14 St NW, Calgary
Timings: 24*7
There are many things to do in Calgary, with activities that help you maximise your stay in the city. Be it for fun, relaxation or cultural experiences. There is always something to partake in for everyone, thus making it a tourist attraction for many. Explore Alberta and enjoy the fun activities. Plan your visit with TripXL and take full advantage of your stay.
Cover Photo: Sharon Hahn Darlin / Wikimedia Commons
