Calgary, located in western Canada, is an awesome destination for many well-known activities and locations worldwide. At Calgary, visitors can experience the spectacular Stampede Festival, be a part of the Calgary Flames, explore the Rocky Mountains, and many others.
Whatโs more? The city of Calgary, with its beautiful Bow and Elbow rivers flowing through it, is also known for its exquisite public art and fantastic skyline. Still confused about whether you should visit this place? Worry not; we will talk about some amazing places in Calgary so that you can quickly plan your vacation in this beautiful Canadian city!
1. Learn the Wonders of Wildlife at the Calgary Zoo
The Calgary Zoo is not just a place to see animals; it is regarded as a Global Authority on Animal Stewardship and Conservation. Like many accredited zoos and aquariums worldwide, the zoo is a center for animal welfare, wildlife conservation, and the protection of endangered wildlife both in Canada and Globally.
Do you know it is one of the top five zoos in the world for conservation research? Hence, it is a must-visit place for every nature lover.
You wonโt believe me if I tell you about whatโs there in store for you. Check this-
Three varieties of lemur species can be seen here: the black-and-white ruffed lemur, the right-tailed lemur, and the red-fronted lemur.
- Collection of North American birds and mammals, including dall sheep, swift foxes, grizzly bears, black bears, and grey wolves.
- Enjoy Bird watching at the Rocky Mountain Bird Aviary.
- African rainforest at the TransAlta Rainforest and the African Savannah, which is home to hippos, giraffes, red river hogs, and a baobab tree.
- Life-sized dinosaurs made from the most complete dinosaur skeletons in a recreated geographical environment
- Survey Eurasia because there is a collection of Eurasian Animals, and it is home to the giant Panda.
There can never be a dull moment at the Calgary Zoo, as the place is big enough for an entire day trip. You can visit this zoo, which will keep the entire family entertained for many hours.
2. Experience the Spectacular Winter Olympics at the Canada Olympic Park
The Canada Olympic Park is the winter sports venue of the 1988 Olympics. It is a place to visit to experience the glory of the Olympics. Once you visit this park, its spectacular treats will amaze you. It is being used to train athletics and as a winter sports venue.
So, what are the fun things you can do here?
- The Olympic Park is open to the general public for recreational purposes and will thrill anyone looking for an outdoor adventure.
- In the winter season, you can experience skiing, snowboarding, or bobsleigh right in the city by using any of the three sections on the hill: the downhill racing section, the casual section, and the terrain park.
- Adventurers looking to enjoy a day racing on a Tube track can visit Acura Tube Park. With its ten lanes, tubers are rarely going to have a dull moment during any race.
- Also, donโt forget to enjoy mountain biking, ziplining at the Park, Summer Bobsleigh rides, or Mini golf during summer at this Canada Olympic Park.
Have you ever thought of so much excitement and fun in one place?
3. Take a Trip Down Memory Lane at The Heritage Park Historical Village
A historical park in Calgary worth a visit is Heritage Park Historical Village, Canadaโs second-largest living history museum. The museum transports you to 19th-century western Canada. The parkโs historic buildings are decorated and furnished with artifacts from the 1860s to the 1950s. Anyone wishing for an experience of living in the 19th century will seldom return disappointed from the Heritage Park historical village.
The Gasoline Alley Museum, located in The Heritage Park Historical Village, is also an amazing place to visit. It captures the rich history of western Canada. Vintage vehicles, antique gas pumps, and memorabilia of the automobile industry will make visiting the Gasoline Alley Museum a memorable day.
4. Venture Out in Downtown Calgary
Downtown Calgary is located in central Calgary, Alberta, and population-wise, it is the fourth largest city in Canada. It has a lots in store for you. Basically, itโs commercial core is divided into these districts. So, check whatโs these districts offer-
- Government District- Explore City Hall, the Calgary Public Library, and Calgary Police headquarters.
- Cultural District- It is centred on the Burns Building and the Olympic Plaza.
- Educational District- Discover places like The Bow Valley College, Glenbow Museum, and the Arts Commons here.
- Entertainment District- The region offers several shopping centers, such as Scotia Centre, The Core, and The Bay, and is lined with many eco-friendly restaurants and shops.
5. Experience the City of Calgary on Top of the Calgary Tower
What could be the best experience than witnessing the coty from the top view? I am sure you canโt wait for this. Hold on ! let me tell you first. The tallest building in Calgary, the Tower, is 191 meters tall and has a free-standing observation deck on top. You can come here with your kids. The Calgary Tower is free for kids aged three and below. Kids would love to learn more about this major Canadian city from the top of the tower, which is 191 meters up.
The Chinese Cultural Centre, Fort Calgary, the Heritage Park Historical Village, and Winsport are some of the landmarks in Calgary City that can be viewed from the observation gallery. The LED show at the Tower has 132 LED lights that perform a light show daily from sunrise and once again from dusk until midnight. The light show also celebrates major holidays, cheers sports teams, and celebrates local festivals. Apart from the 360-degree view of the city, the Calgary Tower, standing on top of the glass floor, offers multimedia city tours. How amazing, right?
6. Take a Fun Day Trip to the Eau Claire Neighbourhood
The Eau Claire neighborhood is in the North part of Downtown and south of the Bow River. One can never miss the riverside condominiums, shopping, restaurants, public plazas, and ever-popular urban parkland. The area, popularly named the Festival District, is a large urban park. The island park hosts many summer festivals, such as the Calgary Folk Music Festival, Carifest, and Shakespeare in the Park.
7. Take a Much-needed Break at the Eau Claire Park
The parks at Eau Claire are lovely, with their enormous playgrounds, picturesque riverside views, breathtaking art installations, and the perfect picnic spots. It can never be a dull moment for the whole family at Eau Claire Park as there are many creative ways to spend an eventful day. The parks have some of the best spots to enjoy great outdoor activities that will never leave you bored. A trip to Lowes County Park can make some of the greatest outdoor experiences a reality.
If the passion is art, head straight to the Sculpture Tour Eau Claire, or if it is to be a relaxing day on a hammock, then Owen Park would be the answer with its trees that are a perfect distance for a comfortable mock sesh. So you see, there is something for everyone at Eau Claire Park. Be it a relaxing place to stroll by the banks of the Bow River or a unique shopping experience at the Eau Claire market. I am sure you will love all this.
8. Go on a Hiking Trail on Princeโs Island Park
The island park is part of the hiking trail system that lines both sides of the River. Itโs too lovely that I can only tell you not to skip this. You will be mesmerized by the beautiful landscapes there. You can also witness birds at the park, such as the Canadian geese and the mallard ducks.
So, what are things waiting here for adventure seekers? Well, cycle along the Peace Bridge and enjoy the iconic landmark. Next, hike along the hiking trail system to enjoy the scenic location, or you can simply listen to world-class music at any music festivals organized at the park.
9. Float Down Leisurely Down the Bow River
A river in Alberta, Canada, the Bow River originates in the Canadian Rockies, flows through the foothills onto the prairies, and meets the Oldman River. The River runs through the city of Calgary. At Calgary Fort, the waters mingle with the Elbow River. Due to the moving water, the Bow River is an amazing place to paddle board.
10. Have a Blast at the East Village
Another terrific place to visit in Downtown Calgary is the East Village. When you visit the place, stroll down to the Simmons Building and have Coffee at the fine coffee shop Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters. Then move on to the best bakery in town, The Sidewalk Citizen Bakery, and have some of the best sourdough bread or other sweet or savoury treats. Believe me, guys, they are heavenly and delicious.
If you are keen to spend a lovely day trip with the family, then St Patrick Island Park would be the best. Hiking Trails or a picnic would truly be enjoyable to parents and kids alike. Next, head to the EV Junction; it will be a true paradise if you love to spend time shopping and food tours.
All music buffs would love the Studio Bell, home of the National Music Center. The building is regarded as an architectural masterpiece, and people enjoy spending a day here. Another interesting thing would be having specialty-rolled jelly cakes at the Mari Bakeshop. Owned by former pastry chefs from The French Laundry, it is a place not to be missed.
11. Take a Look at Calgaryโs History at the Glenbow Museum
The Glenbow Museum has some of the finest collections of Calgaryโs history. For a history lover, this place is a must to view its 33,000 art pieces and over one million exceptional artifacts, giving a peek into Calgaryโs history. You just need half a day to visit this marvellous place, which is so well organized despite the number of exhibits.
12. Dive into Calgaryโs History and Discover Fort Calgary
Fort Calgary, remains part of the significant history of Calgary, which helps you discover the past and create a better future for yourself.
You can have a wonderful time looking at the interpretive center, which gives a wonderful peek into the lives of Native Americans, early pioneers, and the Northwest Mounted Police. Next, discover the history of the Northwest Mounted Police. If you are interested in outside barracks, then take a look at the replica of the fort. Or you can simply enjoy a lovely Sunday brunch with the family at the Deane House.
13. Get Mesmerized Looking at the Mountains in The Canadian Rockies
The Canadian Rockies have some of Albertaโs most beautiful and highest mountains. Spanning the provinces of British Columbia and Alberta, the Rockies are a mountainous region filled with rugged, ice-capped mountain peaks, beautiful alpine lakes, a lovely wildlife center, and the best place for the greatest outdoor activities.
I can tell you numerous Adventurous things to explore here!
- Take an adventure ride to the summit of Sulphur Mountain on the Banff Gondola. Hiking and mountain biking are other fun activities to perform in Alpine Mountain.
- Also, donโt forget to take an open-top tour of the Rocky Mountains to experience landmark views and beautiful photo ops on a fun 90-minute tour of vintage-inspired automobiles.
- Go fishing, Canoeing, or Kayaking, or take a dip at the pristine alpine lakes around Banff National Park and Jasper National Park. Pyramid Lake is a wonderful place to do some world-class skiing.
- Head to the Jasper-Yellowhead Museum at Jasper and The Cave and Basin National Historic Site in Banff for a history lesson on the Canadian rocky mountains.
- Take a boat ride to the intriguing Spirit Island to make your trip to the Canadian Rockies memorable.
- To all train lovers, the Rocky Mountaineer is one of the best ways to explore the Rockies in all their wild beauty.
- Wildlife watchers can spot large animals such as black bears, grizzlies, moose coyotes, deer, and bighorn sheep.
Are you feeling exhausted? Take a warm dip at the Hot SpringsโThe Canadian Rocky Mountains are home to Banff Upper Springs, Radium Springs, and Miette Springs, where the lovely steamy hot mineral water is bound to relax a tired hiker.
14. Have a Fun Day at Canadaโs Sports Hall of Fame
Ah! sports. Being a sports lover, who would like to miss the Sports Hall of Fame. I am sure no one. It is a terrific place to enjoy as a family located in the heart of Calgary. Those interested in sports or who are keen to learn more about the athletes will love it.
Take a trip to the Museum at Canadaโs Sports Hall. Each exhibit is designed to teach about the history of sports in Canada. Next, try the simulated rowing experience, the auto race, or the shadow box with a heavyweight champion. Choose to be a goalie, ski jumper, goalie, or sports announcer at the Bounce Gallery. This place is a dream come true for any sports lover, as the museum will thoroughly stimulate the minds of any individual visiting it.
15. National Music Centre โ Studio bell
A cultural center in Calgary, the Studio Bell is 160000 square feet National Music Centre. It has five floors of interactive exhibits, including a museum, performance hall, live music center, studios, radio station, and media center. Here, you can play guitar, mix a track, and sing at the vocal booth. You can also prepare yourself to be amazed by the memorabilia of Canadian music icons. So, bring the musician within you!
16. Ride The Rodeo at the Calgary Stampede
The Calgary Stampede is a ten-day event held every July in Calgary. It combines an annual rodeo, an exhibition, and a festival that attracts over one million visitors yearly.
Want to have a fun time? Explore these!
- Enjoy the free all-you-can-eat pancakes.
- Watch the barrel racing and bull riding rodeo, and bring out your cowboy spirit!
- Be entertained at the TransAlta Grandstand Show, which features singing, acrobats, and fireworks.
- For those who love life on the edge, a visit to the Rotary Dreamhome will pump the adrenaline up. Death-defying stunts and athletic feats are some of the entertainment in store for visitors.
- Listen to some of the greatest Calgary Folk Music and international country artists.
- Participate in the Stampede Talent Search and get a chance to win over $38000 in prizes. Attend the Midway Fair to win big at the Midway games.
- Try your luck at the plenty of games at the Carnival.
For whatever reason, you are heading to the Calgary Stampede. Be sure to be entertained at the greatest outdoor show on Earth.
Calgary is a city that has much to offer to its visitors. Whether the city is visited for the vibrant inner-city parks or to explore the festival season, there are various activities to do in Calgary and the city will welcome any number of visitors to its fold with open arms.
Last Updated on April 22, 2024 by Pragya Chakrapani
