Calgary is modern, energetic, and beautifully positioned between the Canadian Prairies and the Rocky Mountains. If you are planning a trip and researching the Best Things to Do in Calgary, you will discover a city that blends western heritage with contemporary culture. From skyline viewpoints and historic districts to outdoor adventures and festival experiences, Calgary offers impressive variety throughout the year.
The most rewarding Best Things to Do in Calgary combine urban exploration, nature escapes, cultural landmarks, and local food experiences. Whether you visit during summer festival season or winter snow months, Calgary delivers memorable activities in every season. This guide is structured into clear sections so you can easily plan a balanced itinerary.
Urban Landmarks and City Highlights Best Things to Do in Calgary
Calgary’s skyline and downtown districts reflect its rapid growth, entrepreneurial spirit, and strong western identity. Exploring the city centre is essential when planning the Best Things to Do in Calgary, as many major attractions are within walking distance of each other. From observation towers and pedestrian streets to riverside parks and cultural institutions, these highlights introduce visitors to the city’s personality.
1. Visit Calgary Tower
Calgary Tower rises prominently above the downtown skyline and serves as one of the most recognisable landmarks in the city. The observation deck offers sweeping 360-degree views across Calgary and, on clear days, toward the distant Rocky Mountains.
Standing on the glass floor viewing platform ranks high among the Best Things to Do in Calgary, especially for first-time visitors. The tower provides a clear perspective of the city’s layout, surrounding prairies, and nearby foothills. Sunset visits are particularly memorable when the skyline lights begin to glow.
2. Walk Along Stephen Avenue
Stephen Avenue Walk is a lively pedestrian-friendly street in the heart of downtown. Historic sandstone buildings line the avenue, reflecting Calgary’s early development during the late 19th century.
Exploring this corridor adds vibrant urban energy to the Best Things to Do in Calgary. Restaurants, cafés, boutiques, and seasonal festivals create an engaging atmosphere throughout the year. During warmer months, outdoor patios and street performances make it a social hub.
3. Explore Prince’s Island Park
Prince's Island Park sits along the Bow River and provides a green escape within the city centre. Walking paths wind through landscaped lawns, shaded trees, and scenic river views.
Relaxing here is one of the refreshing Best Things to Do in Calgary, particularly during summer festivals such as the Calgary Folk Music Festival. The park offers a peaceful contrast to the busy downtown streets while remaining centrally located.
4. Visit the Glenbow Museum
Glenbow Museum showcases western Canadian history, Indigenous culture, and contemporary art. The museum has long played a significant role in preserving Alberta’s heritage.
Exploring its exhibitions enriches the cultural Best Things to Do in Calgary with historical insight and artistic perspective. Visitors gain a deeper understanding of the region’s development and diverse communities.
5. Experience Studio Bell
Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre celebrates Canadian music history through interactive displays and multimedia exhibits. The building itself features striking modern architecture that stands out in the East Village district.
Interactive experiences make this one of the engaging Best Things to Do in Calgary for music enthusiasts. Visitors can explore recording studios, learn about influential Canadian artists, and even try hands-on music activities that bring the country’s soundscape to life.
Outdoor and Nature Best Things to Do in Calgary
Calgary’s location between the wide-open prairies and the Rocky Mountains makes outdoor exploration central to the Best Things to Do in Calgary. The city itself is filled with green space and river pathways, while world-famous mountain scenery sits just beyond its borders. Whether you enjoy cycling, hiking, or scenic road trips, these experiences highlight Calgary’s natural appeal.
6. Bike the Bow River Pathway
Bow River Pathway stretches for kilometres through the city, following the curves of the Bow River. The paved network connects parks, neighbourhoods, and downtown districts, making it ideal for cycling and walking.
Exploring this pathway ranks among the active Best Things to Do in Calgary. Riders and pedestrians enjoy riverside views, public art installations, and skyline backdrops. During warmer months, the pathway becomes a lively space filled with locals enjoying the outdoors.
7. Visit Fish Creek Provincial Park
Fish Creek Provincial Park is one of North America’s largest urban parks. Located in the southern part of the city, it features wooded trails, open meadows, and sections of the Bow River.
Hiking and wildlife spotting add natural beauty to the Best Things to Do in Calgary. Deer, birds, and other local species can often be seen along the trails. The park provides a peaceful escape while remaining easily accessible from residential areas.
8. Explore Nose Hill Park
Nose Hill Park offers expansive prairie landscapes and panoramic views of downtown Calgary. As one of the largest municipal parks in Canada, it preserves native grassland ecosystems within city limits.
Walking its trails provides a quiet and open contrast within the Best Things to Do in Calgary. On clear days, visitors can see both the skyline and distant mountain ranges, making it a favourite spot for photographers and sunset watchers.
9. Take a Day Trip to Banff
Banff lies about an hour west of Calgary and serves as the gateway to the Rocky Mountains. The town is surrounded by dramatic peaks, turquoise lakes, and alpine hiking trails.
Including this excursion enhances the scenic Best Things to Do in Calgary itinerary. Visitors can explore Banff Avenue, relax in the Banff Upper Hot Springs, or drive to Lake Louise for iconic mountain views. The short journey makes it one of the most rewarding day trips from Calgary.
Cultural and Historic Best Things to Do in Calgary
Calgary proudly celebrates its western heritage while embracing global culture and modern growth. From living history attractions to annual festivals that draw visitors from around the world, these destinations add depth and personality to the Best Things to Do in Calgary.
10. Visit Heritage Park Historical Village
Heritage Park Historical Village recreates life in western Canada during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The large open-air museum features restored buildings, costumed interpreters, and vintage transportation.
Walking through this living history site ranks among the educational Best Things to Do in Calgary. Visitors can ride a historic steam train, explore old-fashioned shops, and learn about prairie settlement. The immersive setting helps bring Calgary’s early days to life in a way that feels engaging and authentic.
11. Explore Fort Calgary
Fort Calgary marks the birthplace of the city. Originally established by the North-West Mounted Police in 1875, the fort played a central role in shaping Calgary’s early development.
Learning about Indigenous history, early trade routes, and western expansion adds depth to the Best Things to Do in Calgary. Interactive exhibits and guided tours provide context about how the city evolved from a frontier outpost into a modern urban centre.
12. Attend the Calgary Stampede
Calgary Stampede is the city’s most famous annual event, often called “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.” Held each July, it celebrates rodeo culture, agriculture, and western traditions.
Rodeos, chuckwagon races, concerts, and exhibitions make this festival one of the iconic Best Things to Do in Calgary. The Stampede captures the city’s western identity while bringing together entertainment, food, and community spirit.
Family and Entertainment Best Things to Do in Calgary
Calgary also offers attractions designed for families and interactive exploration. These experiences combine education, fun, and entertainment, making them essential additions to the Best Things to Do in Calgary.
13. Visit Calgary Zoo
Calgary Zoo houses diverse wildlife from around the world and is known for its conservation programs. The zoo is located near the Bow River and features themed habitats.
Families consistently include this among educational Best Things to Do in Calgary. Visitors can see animals ranging from Canadian wildlife to exotic species while learning about global conservation efforts.
14. Explore TELUS Spark Science Centre
TELUS Spark Science Centre features interactive exhibits focused on science, technology, and innovation. The modern facility encourages hands-on exploration.
Hands-on learning ranks high among engaging Best Things to Do in Calgary. Visitors of all ages can experiment with interactive displays, attend live demonstrations, and explore rotating exhibitions designed to inspire curiosity.
15. Shop at CF Chinook Centre
CF Chinook Centre is one of the largest shopping centres in Alberta. It features a mix of international brands, local retailers, and dining options.
Retail therapy and dining experiences add variety to the Best Things to Do in Calgary. Whether browsing fashion, enjoying a meal, or escaping colder weather indoors, the centre provides a comfortable and convenient urban experience.
Unique and Scenic Best Things to Do in Calgary
These final experiences complete the Best Things to Do in Calgary with variety, local character, and memorable views. Beyond major landmarks and parks, Calgary offers architectural highlights, historic neighbourhoods, and scenic vantage points that provide a different perspective on the city.
16. Ride the Calgary Peace Bridge
Peace Bridge is a striking red pedestrian and cycling bridge that spans the Bow River. Designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, the structure stands out for its modern, tubular design.
Walking or cycling across this landmark adds visual interest to the Best Things to Do in Calgary. The bridge connects downtown with the Sunnyside community and offers excellent views of the river and skyline. It is particularly popular with photographers and evening walkers.
17. Explore Inglewood
Inglewood is Calgary’s oldest neighbourhood, blending historic buildings with independent boutiques, cafés, and music venues. The area has a creative and slightly bohemian atmosphere.
Strolling along 9th Avenue adds personality and charm to the Best Things to Do in Calgary. Visitors can browse vintage shops, enjoy local dining, and attend live performances in intimate venues. Inglewood reflects Calgary’s artistic and community-focused side.
18. Watch Sunset at Scotsman’s Hill
Scotsman's Hill offers one of the best panoramic views of downtown Calgary. Located in Ramsay, the hill overlooks the Bow River and the city skyline.
Watching sunset from this vantage point completes the Best Things to Do in Calgary with scenic beauty. As the sky shifts colours and city lights begin to glow, the skyline creates a striking silhouette that captures Calgary’s modern energy against its natural backdrop.
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Conclusion:
Calgary combines western heritage, urban sophistication, and mountain access in one dynamic destination. When exploring the Best Things to Do in Calgary, you move from skyline viewpoints and cultural museums to river pathways and nearby alpine adventures.
The true strength of the Best Things to Do in Calgary lies in balance. You can explore historic villages in the morning, relax in a riverside park in the afternoon, and watch sunset over the skyline by evening. Whether you travel for outdoor scenery, cultural insight, or festival excitement, Calgary offers experiences that feel both authentic and energising.
