Calgary is a vibrant city located in the province of Alberta, Canada. Its rich cultural heritage, combined with spectacular natural scenery, makes it an ideal destination for travelers looking for a balance of urban comforts and outdoor adventures. From towering skyscrapers to national parks, Calgary offers something for everyone. In this post, we’ll explore the top attractions and things to do in Calgary to help you plan your perfect trip. So, whether you’re a culture vulture, adrenaline junkie, or nature lover, Calgary has plenty to offer. Let’s dive in!

The 4 Best Stuff To Do In Calgary

1. Waterton Lake National Park 1 Day Tour
2. Lake Louise and Yoho Snowfun 1 Day Tour from Calgary or Banff
3. Calgary 3 Hour Bus Tour
4. Private Transfer from Yyc Airport or Downtown Hotel to Banff Town Good Deal

The 4 Best Stuff To Do In Calgary

1. Waterton Lake National Park 1 Day Tour

Discover one of Canada’s most spectacular national parks on this full-day tour of Waterton Lakes National Park from Calgary. Depart in the morning from central Calgary and travel in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. You’ll discover the craggy mountains, namesake lakes, and vivid rock formations that make this park so distinct—and can look forward to seeing highlights like the Prince of Wales Hotel, Cameron Falls, Red Rock Canyon, and more. This stress-free tour makes a day trip to Waterton Lakes National Park a breeze, with round-trip transit from central Calgary via an air-conditioned vehicle. You’ll see many of the park’s top attractions all in one day, and visit highlights like the Prince of Wales Hotel, Red Rock Canyon, and more. The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, gratuities, bilingual tour guide, and lunch. Personal expenses and travel insurance are not included. Please note that there is a specific meeting point at Coast Calgary Downtown Hotel & Suites by APA, and the tour does not include hotel pick-up.

2. Lake Louise and Yoho Snowfun 1 Day Tour from Calgary or Banff

Explore the stunning beauty of Lake Louise and Yoho Snowfun with this one-day tour from Calgary or Banff. Hop on an air-conditioned vehicle where you’ll be accommodated by a bilingual tour guide who will lead you to the iconic spots of interest along the way.

Take in the breathtaking sight of the glacier-fed turquoise lake and the surrounding snow-capped mountains of Lake Louise. The admission ticket is not included, but you’ll have around 3 hours at this peaceful oasis to admire the view, take plenty of pictures or even join in some outdoor activities.

Next, head on to Lake Minnewanka for a 45-minute stop. This picturesque lake is perfect for sightseeing or if you’re feeling adventurous, you can go for a boat tour (admission ticket is free). Lastly, don’t miss out on the third stop, where you’ll discover other hidden wonders.

This activity has a flexible start time and it ends at a different location. Please note that the confirmation of your tour booking will be sent to you via email and you need to obtain your tour voucher before the start of the tour. The QR code on the voucher will be used for validation.

Although this tour is not wheelchair accessible, it is stroller accessible so it’s ideal for families with infants or children. Prior to the tour’s starting, make sure to follow the link provided to get your tour voucher. Most travelers can participate, and it’s perfect for anyone who enjoys a scenic and relaxing outdoor adventure.

3. Calgary 3 Hour Bus Tour

Explore the best of Calgary with a 3-hour bus tour that takes you to all the main icons and landmarks of the city. Learn about the history and attractions of Calgary from a knowledgeable local guide, and take advantage of plenty of photo opportunities throughout the tour.

Discover the stories behind the stops at Heritage Park and Canada Olympic Park, and explore city sights including Calgary City Hall, Olympic Plaza, Telus Spark, Calgary Zoo, East Village, Studio Bell, Stampede Park, Lougheed House, shopping areas, Heritage Park Historical Village, Canada Olympic Park, Crescent Hill, Peace Bridge, downtown Calgary, Chinatown, and Calgary Tower.

This tour includes three brief stops for taking photos and additional commodities of the sights. At the end of the tour, you will be returned to the base of the Calgary Tower. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to discover the best of Calgary in just three hours!

4. Private Transfer from Yyc Airport or Downtown Hotel to Banff Town Good Deal

Private transfer from YYC Airport or Downtown Hotel to Banff Town Good Deal

Explore the stunning natural attractions of Alberta with a private sightseeing tour of Drumheller Provincial Park and the Canadian Badlands. Enjoy a comfortable ride in a luxury sprinter van and visit the Horseshoe Canyon, where you can walk among the impressive hoodoos. Visit the Atlas Coal Mine and learn about the rich coal mining history of the area. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum, Canada’s only museum dedicated to paleontology. Please note that entrance tickets are not included in the price. Hotel pickup and drop-off is available for your convenience. Book this private tour now and experience Alberta at your own pace.

FAQs about Calgary: What Every Tourist Needs to Know

Calgary is a remarkable city with a dynamic fusion of big-city excitement and small-town warmth. Located in the heart of Alberta, it is a popular tourist destination all year round. Whether you are coming for the stunning natural beauty or the world-class attractions and events, Calgary has something for everyone. So, if you are planning a trip to Calgary, there might be a few questions that you would like answers to. In this guide, we will explore some of the most frequently asked questions by tourists about the city of Calgary.

1. When is the best time to visit Calgary?

Calgary has four distinct seasons, each with its own unique character. The summer months are warm and sunny, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. The fall brings cooler temperatures and colorful foliage, while winter is perfect for skiing and snowboarding. The spring is a great time to visit Calgary as it’s a shoulder season and there are lower prices for accommodations and activities.

2. Do I need a visa to visit Canada?

If you are planning a short visit to Canada, you may not need a visa. However, most non-Canadian citizens require a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter the country. You can check the entry requirements for your country on the Canadian Government website.

3. What is the currency in Canada?

The currency in Canada is the Canadian dollar. You can exchange your currency at banks, foreign exchange bureaus, and some hotels. Credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted in Calgary.

4. How do I travel around Calgary?

Calgary has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and a light rail transit (LRT) system known as the C-Train. You can also use taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber to get around. Another popular option is to rent a car, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding areas.

5. What are some popular attractions in Calgary?

Calgary has numerous attractions that cater to different tastes and interests. Some of the most popular ones include:

• The Calgary Stampede
• The Calgary Tower
• The Glenbow Museum
• The Calgary Zoo
• Bow River Pathway
• Heritage Park Historical Village

6. What is the climate like in Calgary?

Calgary has a semi-arid climate, which means it has warm summers and cold winters. The temperature can vary greatly during the day, so it’s always a good idea to dress in layers. The city also experiences Chinook winds, which can bring warm weather even in the dead of winter.

7. What is the food like in Calgary?

Calgary has a vibrant food scene with a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and food trucks. Some of the local specialties include Alberta beef, bison burgers, poutine, and craft beer. You can also find international cuisine, including Chinese, Italian, Mexican, and Indian.

8. What are some scenic day trips from Calgary?

Calgary is surrounded by some of the most stunning natural beauty in the world. If you have the time, take a day trip to:

• Banff National Park
• Lake Louise
• Jasper National Park
• Columbia Icefields
• Kananaskis Country

9. What are some events and festivals in Calgary?

Calgary hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and culture to sports and food. Some of the most popular ones include:

• The Calgary Stampede
• Calgary Folk Music Festival
• The Big Taste Foodie Festival
• Calgary International Film Festival
• Calgary Comic and Entertainment Expo

10. What should I pack when visiting Calgary?

What you pack will depend on the time of year and your planned activities. However, in general, it’s a good idea to pack:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• A warm coat
• Gloves and a hat
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• A camera or smartphone to capture the stunning views

The Bottom Line

This guide should answer some of the most commonly asked questions by tourists about Calgary. Whether you are coming for the first time or returning for another visit, we hope you find this information helpful. Calgary is a beautiful and vibrant city, and we can’t wait for you to experience it for yourself.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Calgary

Calgary is one of the most vibrant cities in Canada with a mix of modern and old-style architecture, scenic mountain views and cultural experiences. Whether you’re coming in from out of town or simply checking out what the city has to offer, there is plenty to do and see. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best ways to spend your time during a visit to Calgary.

1. Visit the iconic Calgary Tower

The Calgary Tower is an iconic landmark of the city, towering over everything in the skyline. It’s a must-visit attraction that offers some of the best panoramic views of the Rockies, the city, and surrounding landscapes. The top deck of the tower is about 190 meters high, which gives you a stunning view of the city beneath you.

2. Discover the history of the city

Take a trip back in time and discover the history of the city at The Glenbow Museum. The museum is home to more than 1.3 million objects and provides visitors with exhibits that showcase the history of the region from the Ice Age to modern times. From interactive displays to ancient fossils, the Glenbow Museum is an excellent destination for history buffs and families alike.

3. Explore nature in Calgary’s parks

Take a break from the buzz of the city and explore nature in Calgary’s parks. You can hike, bike or even fish in parks like Fish Creek Provincial Park, Nose Hill Park and Prince’s Island Park. These parks offer plenty of walking trails, playgrounds, and river access. During summer, you can take a dip in one of the park’s designated swimming areas or enjoy a picnic with your loved ones.

4. Shop ’til you drop

Visit the Chinook Centre, which is one of the largest malls in Canada. It offers visitors more than 250 shops, a movie theatre, and a food court. For the fashion-conscious, The Core Shopping Centre is a perfect destination for luxury shopping. The mall has over 160 stores, featuring top designer brand names from around the world. The shopping centers have something for all budgets and tastes.

5. Try the local cuisine

Calgary has a mix of both international and local cuisines, with a focus on offering visitors a taste of Canada’s west. For a taste of Alberta’s beef, visit one of the city’s steak houses, such as The Cattlebaron Alberta Steakhouse. For breakfast or brunch, visit OEB Breakfast Co. for their famous eggs Benedict or another local favorite is the Blues Can for live music and some of the city’s best pub food.

6. View the city’s street art

Calgary boasts some of the most intriguing and beautiful street art, from beautiful murals to striking sculptures. Walk around downtown Calgary and the Beltline neighborhood to see some of the city’s most impressive murals. Some must-not-miss locations to see beautiful street art in these locations include Victoria Park (near the Scotiabank Saddledome), the McMahon Stadium underpass, and the 17th Avenue underpass.

7. Attend a festival or event

Calgary is home to many yearly events and festivals, including the Calgary Stampede, one of the world’s largest rodeos, held annually in early July. Attend the Folk Music Festival, which is held every year in Prince’s Island Park during the month of July, or the GlobalFest, a fireworks festival and international cultures exhibit, held from late August to early September. There is always something happening in the city, no matter when you visit.

Final thoughts

Calgary is a mix of vibrant energy and western charm. From delicious local cuisine to beautiful natural parks, fascinating museums to stunning street art, there is something available for people from all walks of life. Keep this guide handy the next time you’re in Calgary to make the most of your experience. Plan your trip based on the suggested activities, and you’ll be sure to have a memorable trip to one of the most beautiful cities in Canada.