Known locally as the gateway to the Canadian Rockies, this city is the hub of cultural and artistic talent in the region, boasting one of the world’s largest rodeos.
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.