Calgary Travel Guide

Read the ultimate travel guide to Calgary, Canada and explore its culturally rich attractions, natural wonders, food, and much more.


Introduction to Calgary

Calgary is a cosmopolitan city situated in the Calgary Region of Alberta, Canada. Known for its scenic beauty, diverse arts and culture, and outdoor adventures, the city is an ideal destination for travelers. Calgary is also home to the world-renowned Calgary Stampede.

List of Places to Visit in Calgary

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Glenbow Museum: This museum has a wide range of artifacts and art exhibits that showcase Western Canada’s history.
  • National Music Centre: It is a marvel of architecture, with a wide range of musical instruments and memorabilia.
  • Heritage Park Historical Village: The park re-enacts various stages of Western Canada’s history with original buildings, vintage vehicles, and characters in costumes.

Natural Attractions of Calgary: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Banff National Park: It is situated at just a 90 minute drive from Calgary and offers spectacular views of mountain lakes and wildlife.
  • Calgary Zoo: It has over 1000 animals to see, with a special emphasis on Canadian wildlife.
  • Fish Creek Provincial Park: This park offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, fishing, and bird watching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Calgary

  • Bow River Pathway: This trail runs along the Bow River and offers scenic views all the way.
  • Nose Hill Park: This park has extensive pathways with a variety of terrains.
  • Glenmore Reservoir Trail: It is a 16-kilometer trail that circles the reservoir and offers a peaceful ride.

Best Things to Do in Calgary: Activities and Tours

  • Calgary Stampede: It is a world-renowned event held every year in July and showcases rodeo, live music, and a carnival.
  • Calgary Tower: It is a landmark attraction that offers panoramic views of the city.
  • WinSport Winter Sports Institute: It offers skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports activities.

Week-Long Itinerary for Calgary

Day Activity
1 Visit the Glenbow Museum
2 Explore Banff National Park
3 Hike in Fish Creek Provincial Park
4 Take a guided tour of Calgary Tower
5 Visit Calgary Zoo
6 Attend the Calgary Stampede
7 Enjoy the WinSport Winter Sports Institute

Food and Drink Scene of Calgary

Must-Try Dishes

  • Alberta Beef: Alberta is well-known for its beef, and it is highly recommended that any meat-lover tries it.
  • Poutine: A Canadian classic that consists of fries topped with gravy and cheese curds.
  • Butter Chicken: A spicy dish made with chicken, tomato, and yogurt-based sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Calgary Craft Breweries: Calgary has several craft breweries, and it’s worth trying their beers.
  • Caesar: A Canadian cocktail made with vodka, clamato juice, Worcestershire sauce, and Tabasco sauce.
  • Ice Wine: A Canadian specialty that is sweet and made from frozen grapes.

Where to Stay in Calgary: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Fairmont Palliser: It is a historic hotel that has been in business since 1914 and has a grand appearance.
  • Wicked Hostels: It offers affordable dorm and private rooms, with a communal kitchen and lounge.
  • Kensington Riverside Inn: A boutique hotel that is situated in the heart of Kensington neighbourhood.

What to Buy in Calgary: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Calgary Stampede Merchandise: This is a great souvenir to remember the Calgary Stampede event.
  • Canadian Maple Syrup: It is a sweet local product that is widely available in Calgary.
  • Western Wear: Cowboy hats, boots, and belt buckles are some of the most popular western wear items to bring home from Calgary.

Local Culture and Customs of Calgary

Calgary is a culturally diverse city, and the residents are polite and friendly. Calgary Stampede is a significant cultural event. When visiting Calgary, it’s important to respect the customs and cultures of the locals.

Best Time to Visit Calgary

The best time to visit Calgary is during the summer months, from June to August. This is when the city holds various festivals, including the Calgary Stampede. However, Calgary is a year-round destination, with plenty of indoor and outdoor activities available throughout the year.

Do’s and Don’ts of Calgary

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Respect the customs and cultures of the locals.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather.

Don’t:

  • Litter or smoke in public places.
  • Speak too loudly or behave inappropriately in public areas.
  • Be rude to anyone or disrespect local cultures.

Safety and Health

Safety in Calgary

Calgary is a safe city, and the crime rate is relatively low. However, it’s still important to exercise caution and take general safety measures while traveling.

Health in Calgary

Calgary has excellent healthcare facilities. However, it’s always advised to have health insurance while traveling to Canada.

Getting to Calgary: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Calgary

  • Calgary International Airport (YYC)

Bus Stations Near Calgary

  • Greyhound Station Calgary Downtown
  • Calgary South Bus Terminal

Other Options

  • Taxi services are available throughout the city.
  • Calgary Transit operates buses and light rail transit throughout the city.

How to Get Around in Calgary

Calgary has an efficient public transportation system, and the city is easy to navigate. There are several options available, such as buses, light rail transit, and taxi services.

Where to Go Next from Calgary: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Banff National Park
  • Lake Louise
  • Canmore

Conclusion

Calgary is a beautiful city with something for everyone. From natural attractions to cultural landmarks, outdoor activities, and local cuisine, it offers a wide range of experiences. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your trip to Calgary and make the most of your visit.

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