Calgary Travel Guide: Tourist Places & Activities

This city is located in Alberta, situated at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. It is known for its oil industry, annual Stampede event, and a mix of urban life and outdoor activities. The population is over a million.

Population: 1.6 millions
Size: 825 square km
Airport: Calgary International – Int'l
Train Station: Calgary Transit at 1 km.
Est. Visit Days: 4 days

Overview

Calgary is a city in Alberta, Canada, known for its proximity to the Rocky Mountains. It has a strong economy, particularly in energy and technology sectors, and offers a low unemployment rate. The city hosts the Calgary Stampede, a popular annual event celebrating western culture. However, it can have a high cost of living and harsh winter weather. Overall, Calgary provides a blend of urban and outdoor experiences, but residents must consider the living conditions.

Traffic & Transport

The city boasts a well-connected public transit system including buses and light rail, making it easy for tourists to navigate various attractions. Biking is also a popular option, with extensive pathways and bike rental services available for those who prefer an active way to explore. For convenience, rideshare services are widely used and can be a quick alternative to public transport. Walking is quite feasible in many downtown areas, allowing for leisurely exploration. Reliable taxi companies include Calgary Taxi and Yellow Cab, which offer metered fares throughout the city. Additionally, popular taxi-booking apps such as Uber and Lyft are operational, providing reliable options for on-demand transportation.

History

Originally inhabited by Indigenous peoples, the area later became part of Rupert's Land in the 17th century, governed by the Hudson's Bay Company. In 1875, the Canadian government established a fort to maintain law and order as the region grew. The arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1883 spurred significant growth and commercial development. The city incorporated in 1884, becoming a hub for agriculture and ranching. Throughout the 20th century, it expanded into a center for oil and gas, influencing its cultural and economic landscape.

Itinerary Sample

Explore Calgary's mix of city life and nature over four days.
– First day: Visit Calgary Tower for views, then stroll through Stephen Avenue for shopping and dining.
– Second day: Explore Heritage Park Historical Village to learn about Calgary's history, then relax at the Bow River.
– Third day: Visit the Calgary Zoo, then head to the Inglewood neighborhood for local shops and restaurants.
– Fourth day: Spend time at Fish Creek Provincial Park for hiking, then return to downtown for the Glenbow Museum.

Near Excursion

Explore nearby excursions in Calgary, Canada – travel guide.

Starting from this dynamic city, there are several day-trip options to explore nearby attractions:
– Banff National Park at 130 km: A fascinating location with mountains, lakes, and abundant wildlife to admire.
– Drumheller at 135 km: Known for the Royal Tyrrell Museum and impressive dinosaur fossils.
– Bragg Creek at 44 km: Offers hiking, biking, and trails with peaceful natural scenery.
– Kananaskis Country at 90 km: Ideal for hiking, fishing, and photography with impressive mountainous landscapes.
– Cochrane at 37 km: A quaint town with a mixture of outdoor activities and shops to explore.

Attraction

The city is known for its proximity to nature and animated cultural scene.
– Calgary Tower: Offers panoramic views from its observation deck plus a revolving restaurant at the top.
– Heritage Park Historical Village: A living history museum featuring exhibits from the 1860s to the 1950s.
– Glenbow Museum: Showcases art and history exhibits focusing on Indigenous and Western Canadian heritage.
– Calgary Zoo: Features diverse animal habitats and botanical gardens, including a notable panda exhibit.
– Prince's Island Park: A green oasis ideal for picnics, walking, and cultural festivals near downtown.
– Studio Bell: Home to the National Music Centre, explore Canada's music history through interactive exhibits.

Activity

Explore things to do in Calgary, Canada – travel guide.

Travelers in Calgary can explore unique outdoor activities, local culture, and scenic landscapes year-round.
– Calgary Stampede: Experience the famous rodeo event celebrating western culture with live music, food, and various competitions.
– Heritage Park Historical Village: Explore Canada's largest living history museum showcasing life in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
– Fish Creek Provincial Park: Enjoy hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing in one of the largest urban parks in North America.
– Bow River Rafting: Go on guided rafting trips for scenic views and an adrenaline-pumping experience on the river.
– Inglewood Bird Sanctuary: Observe diverse bird species and enjoy walking trails in this peaceful natural area.

Cuisine

Calgary, Canada – local food for visitors.

The city offers a diverse food scene, blending traditional Canadian dishes with modern cuisine and international flavors. Some of the city's most famous dishes and desserts include:
– Alberta Beef: Known for its exceptional quality, often served as steak or in burgers.
– Bison: Lean and flavorful meat featured in burgers, stews, and sausages.
– Bannock: Traditional Indigenous flatbread, often enjoyed as a side dish.
– Poutine: Classic Canadian dish of fries topped with cheese curds and gravy.
– Nanaimo Bars: A no-bake dessert with layers of chocolate, custard, and coconut-graham crust.
– Butter Tarts: Sweet pastry filled with a buttery, sugary filling, sometimes with raisins or nuts.

Shopping

Explore best shops in Calgary, Canada – travel guide.

There are several shopping areas with local boutiques and specialty shops. You can find unique Indigenous art and crafts, which make for meaningful gifts. Canadian-made products, like maple syrup and wildflower honey, are also popular. Another option is local apparel, such as clothing from Canadian designers. For souvenirs, consider items featuring local wildlife or landscapes. Enjoy exploring the shopping districts for various options.

Arts & Culture

The city hosts the Calgary Folk Music Festival, which features a variety of artists and folk music each summer. Additionally, the Calgary International Film Festival showcases local and international films in the fall. Arts Commons is a major venue that offers a range of performances, including theater, music, and dance throughout the year. The city’s public art program includes various installations that can be seen in public spaces.