Calgary is a bustling city in Alberta, Canada with plenty of things to see and do. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, visitors can expect a wide variety of activities to fill their travel itineraries. Here are our picks for the top 5 things to do when visiting Calgary.
Explore the Calgary Tower
The Calgary Tower stands 191 meters tall and has been a prominent feature of the city’s skyline since its completion in 1968. Visitors can take a high-speed elevator to the top, where they can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding Rocky Mountains from the observation deck. The tower’s glass floor is another popular attraction, allowing visitors to look straight down to the streets below.
The Calgary Tower also boasts a revolving restaurant, Sky 360, which offers panoramic views of the city while enjoying a meal.
Visit the Calgary Zoo
The Calgary Zoo is a 120-acre facility that is home to over 1,000 animals from around the world. The zoo features a variety of exhibits, including the African Savannah, Canadian Wilds, and Penguin Plunge. It also includes an indoor rainforest exhibit, where visitors can see tropical birds, primates, and reptiles. The Calgary Zoo is known for its commitment to conservation and education, and it has several programs aimed at protecting endangered species and their habitats. Educational programs and events for visitors of all ages include summer camps, school programs, and behind-the-scenes tours. The Calgary Zoo is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists, and it provides a unique and educational experience for animal lovers and families alike.
Check out the Glenbow Museum
Located in downtown Calgary, this museum was established in 1966 and features a diverse collection of over 1.3 million artifacts and artworks. The Glenbow’s collection includes historical and contemporary art, cultural and ethnographic objects, and artifacts related to Western Canada’s history and heritage. The museum also houses several exhibitions, including a permanent showcase of the history of the Canadian West and a variety of rotating exhibitions featuring both local and international artists.
The Glenbow Museum is known for its commitment to education and community outreach, offering programs and events for all ages, including workshops, lectures, and tours. The museum is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike and provides a unique and insightful look into the history and culture of Western Canada.
Visit Heritage Park Historical Village
Commonly known as Heritage Village Calgary, is a living history museum located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The village was established in 1964, and it spans over 127 acres of land, featuring more than 180 historical exhibits, buildings, and artifacts. The purpose of the village is to preserve and celebrate the history and culture of Western Canada from the 1860s to the 1950s. Visitors can explore the village’s attractions, which include a 1913 paddle steamer, an 1880s steam train, an early 1900s streetcar, and a variety of homes, shops, and businesses from different eras. The Heritage Village Calgary offers an immersive experience of Canada’s past and provides a valuable educational opportunity for all ages.
Experience the Calgary Stampede
This annual event, held every July, is known as the “Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.” Dating back to 1912, it has since become one of Canada’s largest and most iconic festivals, attracting more than a million visitors each year. The Calgary Stampede features a variety of events, including rodeo competitions, chuckwagon races, concerts, and exhibitions of Western culture and heritage. It also includes a midway with rides, games, and food vendors, as well as a nightly fireworks display.
The Calgary Stampede is a celebration of the city’s history and culture and showcases the spirit and traditions of the Canadian West.
Calgary is a vibrant and exciting city with plenty to offer visitors. Whether you’re interested in culture, history, or outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone in Calgary. So pack your bags and get ready to explore one of Canada’s most dynamic cities!
Photo Credits:
Lead – by David Mark from Pixabay
Calgary Tower – by Ryunosuke Kikuno on Unsplash
Calgary Zoo – by JavyGo on Unsplash
Glenbow Museum – courtesy of Glenbow Museum
Heritage Park Historical Village – courtesy of Heritage Village
Calgary Stampede – by Brigitte Werner from Pixabay