Calgary is the largest city in the Province of Alberta, Canada. Though Calgary is one of the fastest-growing cities in North America, it still manages to retain its small-town charm that visitors love. As a whole, Calgarians are known for being warm, friendly, and active people who enjoy the great outdoors – excellent traits for an exciting visit.
Calgary is a great place to visit and one of the best things to do there is simply admire the beautiful nature, and urban spots the city has to offer! Here’s a short list of some things to do while you’re in the city.
Take an Urban Stroll
Take a walk through the best neighbourhoods in Calgary.
The Mission District – This popular neighbourhood is great for a morning walk, as you can grab an awesome breakfast at a local favorite Abo’s Market Cafe. When the weather cools off, head back to the Mission and check out some of the best shops in town like Scout (for quirky vintage furniture), Old Gold (a modern take on vintage), and their neighbour Bad Manor (for gorgeous locally sourced gifts).
Victoria Park – This west-end neighbourhood is also great for a morning walk. Treat yourself to an amazing brunch at Oak Tree Tavern, and check out some of the local boutiques. You won’t regret stopping by some of Calgary’s best shops, from Wunderkammern for distinctive jewelry to Stems for gorgeous blooms, and Moon Milk for fun gift ideas.
Visit The Calgary Tower
This tower is a replica of the CN Tower in Toronto, but it’s still very impressive and has amazing views of the entire city while you walk around the observation deck. I recommend going at dusk when all of Calgary is lit up with twinkling lights, making for some amazing photos.
Go For A Hike
If you love hiking, then Calgary is perfect for you with all of its scenic trails and mountains surrounding the city. I recommend sticking close to the downtown area so you can come back to your hotel for a nice shower after a long day of exploring nature’s beauty.
Check Out The Farmer’s Market
The Calgary Farmer’s Market is the best way to experience what this city has to offer. Come check out local produce, hand-made crafts, and delicious food that you can cook in your own hotel room!
Take a walk around Prince’s Island Park
This park is the city’s central park and it’s a nice way to spend an afternoon. There are paddle boats available to rent, so you can take them for a ride on the pond.
Celebrate at Calgary Pride
Every year, Calgary Pride brings together all of Calgary for a celebration of diversity and love. It’s especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves are turning.
Go to a Calgary Flames Game
You haven’t experienced the NHL until you’ve been to a live Calgary Flames game! The atmosphere is unlike any other sport, and if you go during a playoff run it’ll be even crazier!
Visit the Glenbow Museum
The Glenbow is Canada’s largest museum and it features everything from aboriginal artifacts to artworks by Rembrandt.
Take a Stroll Down 17th Ave
17th Ave in Calgary is home to some of the best restaurants, bars, clubs, shops, and other attractions in the city! Make sure you check out the street during the warmer months where you can hang out at one of the dozens of patios!
Go for a stroll on Stephen Avenue Walk or Eau Claire Market Promenade
The iconic Stephen Avenue Walk is a pedestrian-only street, lined with restaurants and shops. On the other side of Eau Claire, you can visit Calgary’s Farmers Market or do some shopping in the boutiques!
A hike up Nose Hill Park
A few kilometers away from downtown Calgary is Nose Hill Park, one of the largest urban parks in North America at over 14 square kilometers. Hike to the top for an epic view or take it easy and walk around one of the many trails!
Shopping at Chinook Centre, Cross Iron Mills, or Marlborough Mall
Whether you need some basics or just want to window shop, the three malls in Calgary all have something for everyone. For a more upscale shopping experience, head to The Core Shopping Centre downtown!
A visit to Fort Calgary
The birthplace of Calgary, Fort Calgary was built by the northwest Mounted Police in 1875. Tour the fort, see artifacts from early settlement and learn about local First Nations culture.
The Calgary Zoo
Explore animals from around the world at this large zoo in Inglewood. For a slightly different experience, check out Sunridge Mall’s petting zoo!
Conclusion
There are so many things to do in Calgary. Do some of the things on this list and you’ll never get bored of this beautiful city!
