Calgary City Limits Map
Located in the province of Alberta, Canada, Calgary is a vibrant city that offers a perfect blend of urban and outdoor experiences. From stunning natural landscapes to exciting adventures, rich history to diverse culture, Calgary has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you through 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 you can explore in Calgary.
Top Attractions
Calgary Tower: One of the most iconic landmarks in the city, Calgary Tower offers breathtaking views of the cityscape and the Rocky Mountains.
Glenbow Museum: With over 20 galleries, Glenbow Museum showcases the history and culture of western Canada.
Canada Olympic Park: Built for the 1988 Winter Olympics, Canada Olympic Park is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
Hidden Gems
Devonian Gardens: Located in downtown Calgary, Devonian Gardens is a hidden oasis with over 500 trees, plants, and flowers.
Reader Rock Garden: A peaceful retreat in the middle of the city, Reader Rock Garden features a beautiful collection of plants and flowers.
Studio Bell: Home to the National Music Centre, Studio Bell is a hidden gem for music lovers with interactive exhibits and live performances.
Food Scene
Calgary Farmers’ Market: With over 80 vendors, Calgary Farmers’ Market is a food lover’s paradise. From fresh produce to artisanal cheeses, you can find everything here.
Charbar: Known for its Argentine-inspired menu, Charbar offers a unique dining experience with delicious food and stunning views of the Bow River.
Anju: A fusion of Korean and Canadian cuisine, Anju is a popular restaurant that offers a creative and flavorful menu.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Calgary Public Library: With 21 branches across the city, Calgary Public Library is a great resource for free books, movies, and events.
Free Walking Tours: Discover the city’s history and culture with free walking tours offered by Calgary Walks and Tours.
Happy Hour Deals: Many restaurants and bars in Calgary offer happy hour deals, where you can enjoy discounted drinks and food.
Outdoor Adventures
Banff National Park: Located just an hour’s drive from Calgary, Banff National Park is a natural wonderland with stunning mountains, lakes, and glaciers.
Fish Creek Provincial Park: With over 80 km of trails, Fish Creek Provincial Park is a great place for hiking, biking, and picnicking.
Kayaking on the Bow River: Explore the city from a different perspective by kayaking on the Bow River.
Historical Landmarks
Heritage Park Historical Village: Step back in time and experience life in western Canada from the 1860s to the 1950s at Heritage Park Historical Village.
Fort Calgary: Built in 1875, Fort Calgary is a National Historic Site that tells the story of the city’s founding and early history.
The Lougheed House: Built in 1891, The Lougheed House is a beautiful mansion that showcases the lifestyle of Calgary’s elite in the early 20th century.
Family-Friendly Activities
Telus Spark: A science museum that offers interactive exhibits, Telus Spark is a great place for kids to learn and have fun.
Calgary Zoo: With over 1000 animals from around the world, Calgary Zoo is a popular destination for families.
Bow Habitat Station: Learn about the local ecosystem and aquatic life at Bow Habitat Station.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Hollow Mountain: A hidden gem in the city, The Hollow Mountain is an underground art gallery that features unique and unconventional art.
Calgary Ghost Tours: Explore the city’s haunted history with Calgary Ghost Tours.
Grain Academy Museum: Learn about the history of grain farming in western Canada at Grain Academy Museum.
Natural Wonders
Moraine Lake: With its turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop, Moraine Lake is one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Bow River: Flowing through the heart of Calgary, Bow River offers scenic views and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Rocky Mountains: Just a short drive from Calgary, Rocky Mountains offer endless opportunities for hiking, skiing, and sightseeing.
Vibrant Nightlife
17th Avenue: A popular destination for nightlife, 17th Avenue offers a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants.
Stephen Avenue: With its historic buildings and lively atmosphere, Stephen Avenue is a great place for a night out.
Calgary Stampede: Known as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,” Calgary Stampede is a 10-day festival that features rodeo, concerts, and carnival rides.
Local Markets
Crossroads Market: With over 150 vendors, Crossroads Market offers a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts.
Kensington Market: A trendy neighborhood with a bohemian vibe, Kensington Market is a great place to shop for unique gifts and souvenirs.
Calgary Night Market: Held on select weekends in the summer, Calgary Night Market is a fun and lively event with food trucks, live music, and vendors.
Beaches and Mountains
Sylvan Lake: Located just a short drive from Calgary, Sylvan Lake is a popular destination for swimming, boating, and sunbathing.
Cascade Mountain: With its stunning views and challenging trails, Cascade Mountain is a popular destination for hiking and mountaineering.
Lake Louise: With its emerald waters and surrounding mountains, Lake Louise is one of the most picturesque lakes in the world.
Cultural Immersion
Calgary Folk Music Festival: Held annually in July, Calgary Folk Music Festival is a celebration of music and culture from around the world.
GlobalFest: A multicultural festival that features food, music, and fireworks, GlobalFest is a great way to experience different cultures.
Chinese Cultural Centre: A hub for Chinese culture in Calgary, Chinese Cultural Centre offers classes, events, and exhibits.
Art and Music Scene
National Music Centre: With its impressive collection of musical instruments and interactive exhibits, National Music Centre is a must-visit for music lovers.
Glenbow Museum: In addition to its historical exhibits, Glenbow Museum has a collection of contemporary art from around the world.
Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra: With its world-class musicians and diverse repertoire, Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra is a cultural gem of the city.
Walking Tours
Beltline Urban Murals Project: Explore the city’s vibrant street art scene with the Beltline Urban Murals Project.
Historic Inglewood: With its charming shops and restaurants, Historic Inglewood is a great neighborhood to explore on foot.
Calgary Tower: Take a guided tour of Calgary Tower and learn about the history and architecture of this iconic landmark.
Architectural Marvels
Bow Tower: With its sleek and modern design, Bow Tower is one of the most recognizable buildings in the city.
Central Library: A stunning piece of architecture, Central Library offers a unique and inspiring space for learning and exploration.
Wonderland Sculpture: Located in the heart of downtown, Wonderland Sculpture is a whimsical and playful piece of public art.
Historical Sites
Fort Calgary: Built in 1875, Fort Calgary is a National Historic Site that tells the story of the city’s founding and early history.
Heritage Park Historical Village: Step back in time and experience life in western Canada from the 1860s to the 1950s at Heritage Park Historical Village.
The Lougheed House: Built in 1891, The Lougheed House is a beautiful mansion that showcases the lifestyle of Calgary’s elite in the early 20th century.
Biking Routes
Bow River Pathway: With over 48 km of paved trails, Bow River Pathway is a great place for a leisurely bike ride.
Fish Creek Park: With its scenic views and challenging terrain, Fish Creek Park offers a great biking experience for all levels.
Bowmont Park: Located in the northwest of the city, Bowmont Park offers a variety of biking trails with stunning views of the Bow River.