Originally a charming farming and ranching town, the city has seen a staggering growth over the last century, largely due to its rich resources in and commerce in oil trade. Situated on the Bow River in the shadows of the Canadian Rockies, Calgary is the largest city in Alberta and the third largest municipality in the region. The city is an eclectic mix of modern and urban culture and is proud of its traditional pioneering roots. The trusted grid system and highly efficient public transport network makes navigating Calgary easy. Visitors can look down at the sprawling grid network beneath their feet and get a bird’s eye view of the stunning skyline from the Calgary Tower.
One of the city’s most celebrated events is the Calgary Stampede, attracting over a million visitors each year. For a period of 10 days, visitors are treated to a line-up of rodeos, live music and agricultural displays. You’ll be overwhelmed by the extraordinary horsemanship on display in the chuck wagon derby. Join the crowds in the nail-biting bareback bull riding
If you don’t make it to the Stampede, there is plenty to see and do in and around the city. Step back to prehistoric times at the Calgary Zoo which features life size replicas of dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures from a bygone era. Many of the replicas on display at the Royal Tyrrell Museum are based on the fossil finds in the Drumheller Valley, or ‘Dinosaur Valley’ as it is known locally.
For those visiting in winter, the city is renowned for its range of winter sports and activities at the Canada Olympic Park. From skiing, snowboarding, bobsledding and ice skating, there is an activity to suit all ages and levels of expertise. For indoor types and culture buffs, the Glenbow Museum on Stephen Avenue in downtown offers a diverse range of art galleries and exhibits to enjoy.
The numerous restaurants and eateries just across the Bow River offer diverse flavours from around the world. Food lovers will greatly enjoy what Calgary has to offer.
Calgary is situated close to the Alberta Badlands, a region decorated with unusual rock formations and areas of outstanding natural beauty.
Calgary Travel Guide
Where to stay in Calgary
Downtown Calgary
TD Square and CORE Shopping Centre are top sights in Downtown Calgary, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at 3rd Street SW Station or 4th Street SW Station to see more sights in the area.
Southwest Calgary
Southwest Calgary is a destination travellers like for its river views, and you might hop aboard the metro at Southland Station or Anderson Station to explore sights like Stampede Park.
Southeast Calgary
While you're in Southeast Calgary, take in top sights like Calgary Zoo or Deerfoot Casino, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Chinook Station or 39th Avenue Station.
Northwest Calgary
If you're spending time in Northwest Calgary, check out sights like Crowchild Twin Arena or Market Mall and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Dalhousie Station or Crowfoot Station.
University District
Visitors often come to University District for its abundant dining options, but many stay to explore sights like Olympic Oval and Trans Canada Pipeline Arch. Getting around the area on the metro is easy if you take a ride at Banff Trail Station.
Beltline
Visitors often come to Beltline for its abundant dining options, but many stay to explore sights like Stampede Park and Cowboys Casino. Getting around the area on the metro is easy if you take a ride at Victoria Park - Stampede Station.
Reviewed on 26 May 2024
Reviewed on 28 May 2024
Reviewed on 27 May 2024
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Reviewed on 26 Aug 2023
Popular places to visit
Calgary Zoo
Explore the botanical gardens to see a diverse array of exotic animals and view re-creations of interesting habitats from Africa to South America.
Calgary Tower
With an outstanding view over the city landscape, this iconic landmark is a great way to view all of the sites from the comfort of one observation point.
Scotiabank Saddledome
Catch an event at Scotiabank Saddledome during your trip to Calgary. Amble around this vibrant area's riverfront or experience its acclaimed theatre scene.
Chinook Centre
You can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Chinook Centre during your trip to Calgary. Discover the top-notch restaurants and entertainment choices in this vibrant area.
Canada Olympic Park
Originally opened for the 1988 Winter Olympics, this fantastic attraction is now open to the public and boasts an impressive range of winter sport activities.
17 Avenue SW
During your trip to Calgary, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at 17 Avenue SW. While you're in the area, wander around the parks.
Reviews of Calgary
4/5 - Good
Accessibility to all such us school, malls and food outlets
3/5 - Okay
We couldn't afford to eat at any of the restaurants near the hotel so walked to McDonald's, it was the dirtiest place I've ever eaten and I felt very unsafe in there. My impression was that you need a lot of money to enjoy Calgary.
4/5 - Good
It was interesting in Calgary but getting into the city was very busy, especially since it was midweek midday. We didn't expect it to be that congested.
3/5 - Okay
Only stayed for one night as I was connecting onto a bus to Banff so didn’t see any of Calgary
5/5 - Excellent
A really friendly city, lots to see and do around the area and beyond.
5/5 - Excellent
Visit the stampede and make a trip to Banff, you’ll love it and want to return again
