10 Fun Activities in Calgary You Must Experience!

A visit to Calgary wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the iconic Calgary Tower. Standing at 190.8 meters (626 feet), this landmark offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city skyline and the majestic Rocky Mountains in the distance. The tower is an excellent spot to get a bird’s-eye view of Calgary and its surroundings, making it a must-visit for tourists and locals alike.

One of the highlights of the Calgary Tower is its glass floor, which allows you to look straight down to the streets below, providing a thrilling perspective of the city. The tower also features a revolving restaurant, Sky 360, where you can enjoy fine dining while taking in the panoramic views. The restaurant completes a full rotation every 45 minutes, ensuring you don’t miss any of the spectacular scenery.

Located just north of downtown Calgary, Prince’s Island Park is a beautiful urban oasis that offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. This large, scenic park is situated on an island in the Bow River and is one of Calgary’s most beloved green spaces.

The park features walking and biking paths, lush picnic areas, and picturesque views of the city skyline. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxing day outdoors, whether you’re enjoying a quiet stroll along the riverbank or participating in one of the many events held here throughout the year, such as the Calgary Folk Music Festival.

Prince’s Island Park is also a haven for wildlife, where you can often spot ducks, geese, and other bird species. During the winter, the park transforms into a snowy wonderland, ideal for a serene walk in the snow or some cross-country skiing.

Known as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,” the Calgary Stampede is an annual event that draws visitors from around the world. Held every July, this iconic 10-day festival celebrates Calgary’s rich western heritage with rodeos, concerts, parades, and more.

The Stampede’s rodeo is one of the world’s largest, featuring thrilling events like bull riding, barrel racing, and chuckwagon races. In addition to the rodeo, the Stampede Grounds host a massive midway with rides, games, and food vendors offering everything from classic carnival treats to innovative culinary delights.

Beyond the rodeo and midway, the Calgary Stampede also showcases agricultural exhibitions, where you can learn about farming, livestock, and the traditions of the Canadian West. The nightly Grandstand Show combines music, dance, and fireworks, providing an unforgettable end to a day at the Stampede.

Whether you’re a fan of western culture or just looking for some summer fun, the Calgary Stampede offers something for everyone.

Stephen Avenue is one of Calgary’s most famous streets, known for its vibrant atmosphere and historic charm. This pedestrian-friendly avenue, located in the heart of downtown, is lined with an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, cafes, and entertainment venues.

The avenue is a designated National Historic District, with buildings that date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, offering a unique glimpse into Calgary’s architectural heritage. As you stroll down Stephen Avenue, you’ll find everything from high-end boutiques to quirky souvenir shops, making it a great place for shopping.

In addition to shopping and dining, Stephen Avenue often hosts street performances, live music, and seasonal events, adding to its lively ambiance. Whether you’re enjoying a meal at one of the many outdoor patios or exploring the avenue’s cultural attractions, such as the Glenbow Museum, Stephen Avenue is a must-see destination for both locals and visitors.

For those who love the outdoors, Nose Hill Park is a must-visit destination in Calgary. Covering more than 11 square kilometers (4.2 square miles), it is one of the largest urban parks in North America. Located in the northwest part of the city, this expansive natural area offers stunning views, diverse wildlife, and a variety of outdoor activities.

The park features an extensive network of trails, perfect for hiking, biking, and walking. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, Nose Hill has something for everyone. The park’s elevated location provides panoramic views of downtown Calgary and the surrounding mountains, making it a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

In addition to its trails, Nose Hill Park is home to a variety of ecosystems, including native grasslands, aspen groves, and wetlands. It’s a great place to observe local wildlife, such as deer, coyotes, and a wide range of bird species.

Whether you’re looking to escape the city for a few hours or spend a full day exploring, Nose Hill Park offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of Calgary.

The Glenbow Museum is a cultural gem in Calgary, offering visitors a rich experience of art, history, and culture. Located in the downtown core, Glenbow is one of the largest museums in Western Canada and is known for its diverse collection of artifacts, art, and exhibitions that explore the stories of the region and beyond.

The museum’s permanent exhibits include an extensive collection of Indigenous art and artifacts, Western Canadian history, and an impressive array of military memorabilia. Glenbow also hosts rotating exhibitions that feature contemporary art, international artifacts, and unique cultural displays, ensuring there is always something new to see.

In addition to its exhibits, Glenbow offers educational programs, workshops, and special events that cater to visitors of all ages. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, history buff, or just curious about the world, Glenbow Museum provides a captivating experience that shouldn’t be missed during your time in Calgary.

Le Fournil Bakery specializes in a variety of French-inspired breakfast items that are sure to delight your taste buds. Their pain au chocolat and croissants are made with buttery, flaky perfection, while their delicate macarons offer a sweet treat that pairs beautifully with a cup of their expertly brewed coffee. For a heartier option, try their quiche Lorraine, which combines a rich, savory filling with a perfectly baked crust. The bakery also offers a selection of artisanal breads, which are a wonderful addition to any breakfast spread.

For a day full of thrills and family-friendly fun, head to Calaway Park, Western Canada’s largest outdoor amusement park. Located just outside Calgary, this popular attraction offers a wide range of rides, games, and entertainment for visitors of all ages.

Calaway Park features over 30 rides, including roller coasters, spinning rides, and water attractions. Whether you’re seeking the adrenaline rush of the Vortex roller coaster or a more relaxed experience on the Ferris wheel, there’s something for everyone. The park also has several kid-friendly rides, making it an ideal destination for families with young children.

In addition to rides, Calaway Park offers live shows, arcade games, and a variety of food stands. Special events, such as Halloween-themed nights in the fall, add extra excitement to the park’s offerings. With its wide array of attractions and activities, Calaway Park is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a fun-filled day near Calgary.

For winter sports enthusiasts, Canada Olympic Park is the ultimate destination in Calgary. This multi-purpose athletic facility was one of the key venues for the 1988 Winter Olympics and continues to be a hub for year-round sports and recreation.

In the winter, Canada Olympic Park transforms into a skier and snowboarder’s paradise, with slopes suitable for all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking to take lessons or an experienced skier eager to hit the more challenging runs, the park offers a variety of options. The park also features terrain parks for those interested in freestyle skiing and snowboarding.

Beyond skiing and snowboarding, the park offers other winter activities such as tubing and ice skating. For those visiting in the warmer months, Canada Olympic Park still has plenty to offer, including mountain biking, zip-lining, and summer bobsleigh rides.

Canada Olympic Park is also home to the WinSport Academy, where aspiring athletes can train in various sports. Whether you’re looking to enjoy some winter sports or take part in summer activities, this venue offers an exhilarating experience for all.