Calgary City Guide
Things to do in Calgary
Calgary is a fast-growing city known for its stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, and blend of modern urban life with rich traditions. Calgary’s most famous attraction is, of course, the Calgary Stampede—”The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth”—, which happens every July and allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in cowboy culture and tradition. However, the city has a whole lot more to offer than that. Below are some of the other popular attractions you should visit.
1. Heritage Park Historical Village
The Heritage Park Historical Village offers an immersive journey through Western Canada’s past. Spanning 127 acres along the Glenmore Reservoir, the park features over 200 exhibits, including relocated and restored historical buildings and replicas, along with costumed interpreters that bring 1860s to 1950s history to life through stories and demonstrations. Visitors of all ages can enjoy rides on an authentic steam train, sail the iconic S.S. Moyie paddle wheeler across the Glenmore Reservoir, and enjoy tours on horse-drawn wagons.
2. Calgary Tower
Located in downtown Calgary, the Calgary Tower is a 191 m (626 ft) tall observation tower. Its observation deck offers a stunning 360° panoramic view of the bustling city, the Rocky Mountains, and the expansive prairies. Walk on the glass floor sections if you dare! Visitors can also experience a meal at Sky 360, the tower’s revolving restaurant that slowly completes a full rotation as you dine.
3. Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo
Considered one of Canada’s top wildlife attractions, the Calgary Zoo is home to over 4,000 animals from more than 100 species. Zoo goers can see the animal kingdom, all in one place, by visiting the different animal zones, such as Wild Canada, Destination Africa, Exploration Asia, the ENMAX Conservatory, and the Penguin Plunge. Enjoy unique experiences like Polar Bear Breakfast and Royal High Tea at the Zoo. Adults can also attend 18+ events, including Zoo Brew, which features over 30 brew vendors spread throughout the park, and Locked Zoo, an afterhours experience that is essentially a giant escape room.
4. The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland (previously known as Fort Calgary)
Located where the Bow and Elbow Rivers meet, The Confluence marks the birthplace of Calgary and tells its complex story, from the time only Indigenous peoples lived there, treating it as centre for ceremony, trade, and community, to 1875 and beyond, when the North-West Mounted Police established Fort Calgary and, in turn, kicked off a period of colonization and, later, industrialization. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, walk through reconstructed 19th-century police barracks, and learn about Calgary’s roots. This 40-acre park is a great place for a walk, reflection, and a history lesson.
5. Dog-friendly activities to do in Calgary
There are off-leash areas at River Park, Calaway Park, Spruce Meadows, The Confluence, and people can even bring their dog with them for an on-leash game of golf at Woodside Golf Course. For hikers, the West Bragg Creek Trails in Kananaskis Country is a great option. Dogs are welcome at Latitude Art Gallery and they can even create their own paw print work of art at Colour Me Mine Paint-Your-Own Ceramic Studio.
Transportation in Calgary
Calgary Transit: Calgary Transit is the primary public transportation provider in the city, offering bus and train services throughout Calgary. The C-Train is a popular light rail transit system covering various city areas.
Cycling: Calgary has an extensive network of bike paths, lanes, and routes throughout the city. Biking is an environmentally friendly and healthy way to get around the city.
Ride-sharing: Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft operate in Calgary and can be a convenient and affordable way to get around the city.
Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Calgary, and you can usually hail them on the street or call for a pickup. Calgary Cabs is a popular choice.
Moving to Calgary
If you are looking to move to or within the amazing city of Calgary, Tippet Richardson’s services will ensure you and your family enjoy a stress-free move.
CALGARY
- (403) 299-9700
- (403) 299-9750
- trcalgary@tippetrichardson.com
2905-37th Avenue N.E. Calgary, Alberta T1Y 5Z9
