What Are The Top Attractions To See In Calgary?

Calgary, the largest city in Alberta, Canada, is a great destination for those looking to explore the outdoors, take advantage of vibrant cultural attractions, and experience friendly hospitality. Whether you’re a family looking to have a great time or an individual looking for some peace and quiet, there’s something for everyone in Calgary. With plenty of attractions in this city, it can be hard to decide which are worth visiting. To help you out, here is a list of the top attractions you need to explore in Calgary.

Calgary Tower

The first attraction that the vast majority of visitors to Calgary should experience is the iconic Calgary Tower. Built in 1968, this tower stands 191 meters (628 feet) tall and offers unmatched 360-degree panoramic views of downtown Calgary and the surrounding area. On a clear day, you can even see the distant Rocky Mountains! It is also host to a revolving restaurant and observation deck that’s perfect for a romantic evening or family outing.

The Calgary Zoo

For animal lovers, The Calgary Zoo is an absolute must-visit. Home to over 1,000 animals, this zoo is divided into six distinct areas ranging from Eurasia to Canada’s Prehistoric Park. It also offers plenty of interactive exhibits and educational shows that teach its visitors about the fascinating world of wildlife.

Canada Olympic Park

Canada Olympic Park (COP) is a hub for sport and entertainment located in the west side of Calgary that was built for the 1988 Winter Olympics. Today, it’s a great place for adventure seekers who want to experience thrilling activities like ski jumping, mountain biking, and bobsledding. Additionally, the park is home to Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame and Museum as well as multiple restaurants and venues for concerts and special events.

The Art Gallery of Alberta

Next on the list is the Art Gallery of Alberta, a top cultural attraction whose mission is to “unite people within a dynamic space to inspire new ways of seeing, thinking, and acting”. This gallery hosts rotating exhibitions of artwork from all over the world while providing education programs and resources that empower everyone to engage with art.

Prince’s Island Park

Prince’s Island Park is an oasis in the middle of downtown Calgary, a beautiful nature escape located along the Bow River. This is a great spot to spend an afternoon with family or friends as it provides plenty of opportunities for picnics, kayak rides, and leisurely walks around the park. In summer months, it also hosts several festivals including Shakespeare by the Bow Theatre Festival and The Reggae Festival.

Calaway Park

If you’re up for some fun activities and amusement rides then, Calaway Park is one of the top attractions in Calgary that you must visit. This attraction park features more than 30 rides such as roller coasters and carousels, live entertainment, arcades, and all sorts of games to keep both adults and kids entertained.

Heritage Park Historical Village

The Heritage Park Historical Village offers visitors the opportunity to explore a thriving turn-of-the-century village complete with costumed actors playing out their daily routines. Here you can take a vintage steam train ride, go horseback riding, or hop aboard an authentic paddle wheel boat and explore what life was like in those times.

There are loads of other attractions in Calgary that are definitely worth exploring depending on your mood and preferences. But, these are some of the best attractions to consider on your next trip to Calgary. Whether you’re an individual traveler or traveling as part of a larger party, these attractions promise unforgettable experiences!

An Insider’s Guide to Calgary: Exploring Beyond the Tourist Spots

If you’re planning to explore Calgary, you’re in for an adventure. This bustling city located in the western province of Alberta beckons tourists with its rugged natural beauty and vibrant city life. While visiting popular tourist attractions is a great way to experience the city, you’ll be caught up in a crowd of tourists. Instead, we’ll take you on a journey to discover hidden gems, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will leave you with unforgettable memories of Calgary.

Local Attractions: Uncovering Calgary’s Hidden Gems

While the Calgary Tower and the Calgary Zoo are popular tourist attractions, there are plenty of places in the city that only locals know. For instance, the Fish Creek Provincial Park is an expansive greenery area in the south of the city and is perfect for picnics, hiking, or birdwatching. It also hosts many events throughout the year, so be sure to check out their program.

Another hidden gem is the Studio Bell, home to the National Music Centre. It’s an impressive architectural masterpiece with interactive exhibitions and artifacts that showcase Canada’s music history. The facility also boasts a performance venue and recording studios.

For something more unconventional, visit the Devonian Gardens, a beautifully landscaped indoor garden in the heart of Calgary that features small waterfalls and a lovely koi pond. Or, explore the Inglewood neighborhood, an artsy and trendy district with vintage shops, cafés, and charming local boutiques.

Dining Spots: Savoring Calgary’s Local Cuisine

Calgary’s culinary scene is diverse and full of flavor. You can find traditional Western Canadian cuisine like bison burgers and Alberta beef, but there are also many ethnic foods to try. For a taste of Calgary’s signature dish, head over to the River Café in Princes Island Park, where you can enjoy an exquisite meal highlighting locally sourced ingredients. Another place to indulge in Alberta beef is at the highly acclaimed Caesar’s Steak House. For something more exotic, try the Vietnamese cuisine with a French twist at the Yellow Door Bistro.

If you want to step back in time and enjoy Calgary’s oldest saloon, then you must visit Ranchman’s Cookhouse and Dancehall, which has seen famous country musicians graced its stage. While you sip on a drink, take in the historical memorabilia and the traditional cowboy atmosphere.

Cultural Experiences: Embracing Calgary’s Traditions

Calgary has a robust cultural scene that’s full of traditions, festivals, art, and music. For a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage, visit the Indigenous Heritage Centre at the Calgary Stampede, which highlights the indigenous people of the region. Speaking of Calgary Stampede, that’s when you get to see the city come alive with the annual Rodeo festival taking over the city.

Another cultural experience not to be missed is exploring the Glenbow Museum, a sprawling art and history museum in downtown Calgary that boasts over a million artifacts in its collection. From the prehistoric times to the present-day, the museum’s exhibits tell the story of Calgary and Western Canada’s history.

For outdoor enthusiasts, a visit to the Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park should be on their list. Here you can try your hand at cross-country skiing or go snowshoeing while basking in the views of the surrounding mountains.

Local History: Stories of the City’s Past

Calgary has a fascinating history that has shaped the city to what it is today. One of the most gripping stories in Calgary’s history is that of Fort Calgary, which served as a military base in 1875. Today, the fort museum recounts the history of the Northwest Mounted Police and the events that led to the establishment of Calgary.

Another story from Calgary’s past that is intriguing is the Heritage Park Historical Village. Explore the 127 acres of restored Western Canadian history and take a journey back in time with live demonstrations, a steam train ride, and a chance to dine on authentic historical cuisines.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique Calgary Experiences

As you explore the city, don’t forget to indulge in some off-the-beaten-path suggestions, which make the journey even more exciting. For thrill-seekers, head over to the Winsport Canada Olympic Park, where you can ride the world’s fastest zip line or bobsleigh down the icy track. If you’re looking for a quieter pace, then roaming through the Prince’s Island Park is a lovely calming experience.

Another unique experience is the Calgary Tower’s adventure center, where you can strap on a harness and walk out onto the tower’s ledge while enjoying stunning views of the city. Finally, for something unusual, visit the Burgess Shale fossil site where you can see some of the oldest and most bizarre fossils in the world.

In conclusion, Calgary is a city that has something for everyone, from the wilderness to the city life. With this insider’s guide, we hope to show you a different side to Calgary that most tourists often miss. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, culture-lover, or an adventure-seeker, there’s something here that will keep you captivated.