Calgary Canada Map Location
Located in the province of Alberta, Calgary is a vibrant city with plenty to offer for tourists. From stunning natural wonders to rich cultural experiences, there is never a dull moment in Calgary. In this guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports that this city has to offer.
Top Attractions
Calgary Tower should definitely top your list of places to visit. Standing at 191 meters tall, it offers sweeping views of the city and surrounding landscapes. Another must-see attraction is the Calgary Zoo, which is home to over 1,000 animals from around the world. The Heritage Park Historical Village is also a popular attraction, which takes visitors back in time to experience life in Western Canada in the early 1900s.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, check out the Devonian Gardens. This urban oasis is located in the heart of downtown Calgary and features over 500 trees, 50 varieties of plants, and a koi pond. Another lesser-known gem is the Glenbow Museum, which houses a vast collection of art, artifacts, and historical exhibits.
Food Scene
Calgary’s food scene is diverse and exciting, with plenty of options to suit all tastes and budgets. For a taste of local cuisine, try the famous Alberta beef at Charcut Roast House or the bison short rib at River Cafรฉ. You can also find international flavors at places like Foreign Concept, which serves up modern Asian cuisine, or the Italian-inspired Bonterra Trattoria.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Calgary has plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy. Take a stroll through Prince’s Island Park, visit the Central Public Library, or explore the art galleries and public art installations throughout the city. For a unique experience, take a tour of the National Music Centre’s Studio Bell, which is free on the first Thursday of every month.
Outdoor Adventures
Calgary is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes, making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Take a hike in the nearby Banff National Park, go skiing at one of the many ski resorts in the area, or go on a white water rafting adventure on the Bow River. You can also explore the city’s parks and pathways on foot or by bike.
Historical Landmarks
Calgary has a rich history, and there are plenty of landmarks to explore that showcase the city’s past. These include the Fort Calgary Historic Park, the Lougheed House, and the Stephen Avenue National Historic District, which is home to many of the city’s oldest and most iconic buildings.
Family-Friendly Activities
Calgary has plenty of activities that the whole family can enjoy. Take a trip to the Calgary Zoo or the Telus Spark Science Centre, or visit the Calaway Park amusement park for some thrills and excitement. You can also take a family-friendly bike ride along the Bow River or explore the city’s parks and playgrounds.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, check out the Inglewood neighbourhood, which is known for its arts and culture scene. You can also explore the Calgary Farmer’s Market, which is home to over 80 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
Natural Wonders
Calgary is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the nearby Canadian Rockies. Take a trip to Banff National Park to explore the glaciers, lakes, and mountains, or visit the beautiful Bow River Valley. You can also take a trip to the Badlands to see the unique rock formations and dinosaur fossils.
Vibrant Nightlife
Calgary has a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from. Some popular spots include the Broken City Social Club, the Commonwealth Bar and Stage, and the Palomino Smokehouse and Social Club.
Local Markets
Calgary has several local markets that are worth checking out. The Calgary Farmer’s Market is a popular spot for fresh produce and handmade crafts, while the Crossroads Market offers a wide range of goods, including antiques, jewelry, and clothing. The Inglewood Night Market is another great option, featuring local vendors and food trucks.
Beaches and Mountains
Calgary is located near both beaches and mountains, making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Take a trip to Sylvan Lake to enjoy some sun, sand, and water activities, or head to the nearby mountains for some hiking, skiing, or snowboarding.
Cultural Immersion
Calgary has a rich cultural scene, with plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in local traditions and customs. Visit the Calgary Stampede, which takes place every July and features rodeos, concerts, and other events that showcase Western Canadian culture. You can also explore the city’s many museums and art galleries, or take a walking tour to learn more about the city’s history and heritage.
Art and Music Scene
Calgary is home to a thriving arts and music scene, with plenty of galleries, museums, and music venues to explore. Some popular spots include the Glenbow Museum, the National Music Centre, and the Calgary Folk Music Festival.
Walking Tours
Calgary is a great city to explore on foot. Take a walking tour of the city’s historic neighbourhoods, such as Inglewood or Mission, or explore the city’s public art installations. You can also take a guided tour of the Calgary Tower or the Heritage Park Historical Village.
Architectural Marvels
Calgary has many architectural marvels, including the Calgary Tower, the Saddledome, and the Bow Building. You can also explore the city’s many historic buildings, such as the Fairmont Palliser Hotel, the Hudson’s Bay Company Building, and the Burns Building.
Historical Sites
Calgary has a rich history, and there are many historical sites to explore throughout the city. These include the Fort Calgary Historic Park, the Lougheed House, and the Stephen Avenue National Historic District.
Biking Routes
Calgary has many bike-friendly routes and trails, making it easy to explore the city on two wheels. Some popular routes include the Bow River Pathway, the Rotary/Mattamy Greenway, and the Nose Creek Pathway.
Wellness Retreats
Calgary is home to many wellness retreats and spas, where you can relax and rejuvenate. Some popular options include the Nordic Spa in Kananaskis, the RnR Wellness Spa in downtown Calgary, and the Fairmont Banff Springs Willow Stream Spa.
Adventure Sports
Calgary is a great destination for adventure sports, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, skiing, snowboarding, white water rafting, and more. Some popular spots include Banff National Park, Kananaskis Country, and the Bow River.
As you can see, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Calgary. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just a relaxing day at the spa, this city has something for everyone. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip and discover all that Calgary has to offer!