Nestled where the prairies meet the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, Calgary is a city that truly has it all. It’s a place where you can feel that western spirit alive and well, but it’s also packed with world-class culture and stunning modern architecture.
Forget any old ideas you have about a quiet cowboy town; this place is buzzing with energy. Get ready to dive into an adventure you won’t soon forget. We’re about to unpack the absolute best things to do in Calgary.
This list is your golden ticket to experiencing the city like a true local. Let’s hit the ground running and explore what makes this Alberta gem so special.
1. Wander the Calgary Zoo – Best For Family Fun & Animal Lovers
Alright, let’s kick things off with a total crowd-pleaser. The Calgary Zoo is way more than just a place to see animals; it’s a full-blown, day-long expedition into different worlds. We’re talking about one of Canada’s top six zoos.
It’s a cornerstone for anyone looking for fun things to do in Calgary, especially with kids in tow. The zoo is cleverly divided into biomes. You can journey through the Canadian Wilds, where you’ll come face-to-face with majestic grizzly bears.
Then, hop over to the Destination Africa zone, where a family of giraffes might amble right past you. The Penguin Plunge exhibit is a huge hit, a cool, climate-controlled home for a waddling colony of king penguins.
It’s an incredible, educational day out that feels more like a global safari than a simple zoo visit.
2. Conquer the Calgary Tower – Best For Panoramic City Views
You can’t really say you’ve been to Calgary until you’ve seen it from the top of the iconic Calgary Tower. This 191-meter (626-foot) tall structure has been defining the city’s skyline since 1968.
The ride up in the glass-fronted elevator is a thrill in itself. But the real magic happens when you step out onto the glass floor. Go ahead, take a deep breath and walk across it. Looking straight down 160 meters is a dizzying, unforgettable rush.
The 360-degree view is the main event here. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Rocky Mountains. It’s the perfect orientation to the city, helping you get your bearings.
For a truly memorable experience, time your visit for sunset. You’ll watch the city lights begin to twinkle as the sky paints itself in brilliant colors. It’s a classic Calgary activity for a reason.
3. Explore the Glenbow Museum – Best For Culture & History Buffs
If you’re the type who loves to get the real story of a place, you need to carve out a few hours for the Glenbow Museum. This isn’t your average, stuffy museum. It’s the largest in Western Canada, and its collections are absolutely mind-blowing.
They tell the powerful and layered stories of Western Canada, from the perspectives of Indigenous Peoples to the determined settlers who came later. You can easily spend a whole day getting lost in the art galleries and the historical exhibits.
The museum does a fantastic job of connecting you with the spirit of the land and its people. It’s a must-do for anyone compiling a list of cultural things to do in Calgary. You’ll leave with a much deeper appreciation for this part of the world.
4. Stroll Through Prince’s Island Park – Best For a Peaceful Nature Escape
Right in the heart of the bustling downtown core, you’ll find a little slice of paradise called Prince’s Island Park. This sprawling urban park is a world away from the city’s noise, accessible by a charming footbridge.
It’s the ultimate spot for a leisurely stroll, a picnic with friends, or simply finding a quiet bench to read a book. The pathways are perfect for a morning jog or a casual bike ride.
Throughout the year, the park is a hub of activity. It’s home to the famous Calgary Folk Music Festival, where the grassy fields come alive with music and good vibes.
In the winter, the river freezes and the snow creates a picture-perfect, serene landscape. It’s a public space that truly belongs to the people.
5. Experience the Studio Bell – Best For Music Lovers & Architecture Fans
Get ready to have your senses dazzled. Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre, is as much a work of art as the exhibits it houses. The building itself is a stunning architectural masterpiece of interconnected towers.
Step inside, and you’re in a wonderland of Canadian music history spread across five floors. This place is incredibly hands-on. You can try your hand at playing different instruments and sing in a recording booth.
Of course, you’ll also get to see an amazing collection of over 2,000 rare instruments, including the legendary Rolling Stones Mobile Studio. It’s an interactive and joyful celebration of sound that will leave you feeling inspired.
6. Discover Heritage Park Historical Village – Best For a Step Back in Time
Pack your bags for a trip back in time, no DeLorean required. Heritage Park Historical Village is the largest living history museum in Canada, and it’s an absolute gem. You don’t just look at history here; you live it.
The park is divided into distinct eras, from the fur trading days of the 1860s to the pre-World War I era of the 1910s. You can ride a genuine steam train and chat with costumed interpreters churning butter.
It’s a completely immersive experience that’s both fun and educational for all ages. This is one of those unique Calgary activities that transports you to another era, making for a truly memorable day out.
7. Bike or Walk the Peace Bridge – Best For Iconic Photos & A Quick Walk
You’ve probably seen it in photos, but the Peace Bridge is even more impressive in person. Designed by the acclaimed architect Santiago Calatrava, this bright red, spiral-helix pedestrian bridge is a true piece of functional art.
It spans the Bow River, connecting downtown Calgary with the trendy Sunnyside neighborhood. Crossing the Peace Bridge is a rite of passage for visitors. The views of the downtown skyline and the river are fantastic.
Whether you walk it at sunrise or see it lit up at night, it’s a quick but essential stop on your tour. It perfectly symbolizes Calgary’s blend of natural beauty and modern innovation.
8. Get Wild at Winsport’s Canada Olympic Park – Best For Adrenaline & Adventure
Feel the need for speed? Winsport’s Canada Olympic Park is where you can unleash your inner Olympian. This was a primary venue for the 1988 Winter Olympics, and today it’s a year-round adventure park.
In the winter, you can hit the slopes for skiing and snowboarding. But the summer activities are where it really gets crazy fun. You can hop on a bobsled and experience the famous track on a wheeled sled.
Or, try the Skyline Luge, a gravity-fueled cart ride down a winding track. The zipline that soars over the ski jump is another heart-pounding option. It’s one of the most exciting things to do in Calgary for thrill-seekers.
9. Unwind at Fish Creek Provincial Park – Best For Hiking & Wildlife Spotting
Imagine a provincial park so vast it sits entirely within a city’s limits. That’s Fish Creek for you. It’s one of the largest urban parks in North America, and it’s Calgary’s backyard playground.
With over 80 kilometers of trails, you can spend days exploring its forests, fields, and creek sides. It’s a haven for walkers, runners, and cyclists. Keep your eyes peeled for deer, coyotes, and a huge variety of birds.
The park is a beautiful place to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature without a long drive. You can find a quiet spot by the water or just enjoy the simple pleasure of a long walk in the fresh air.
10. Shop & Eat at the Calgary Farmers’ Market – Best For Foodies & Local Goods
For a true taste of local flavor, you have to make a beeline for the Calgary Farmers’ Market. This isn’t your average grocery run; it’s a vibrant, bustling community hub. Over 80 vendors gather here.
You can chat directly with the farmers who grew your food and the artisans who made your gifts. Grab a coffee, wander the aisles, and sample your way through the market.
It’s the perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs and enjoy a delicious, casual lunch. The energy is infectious, and the quality is top-notch.
11. Spark Your Curiosity at TELUS Spark – Best For a Hands-On Science Experience
Get ready to have your mind blown in the best way possible. TELUS Spark is a science centre that’s all about interactive, brain-tickling fun. It’s designed to ignite curiosity in visitors of all ages.
You can create giant bubbles, experiment with lights and sounds, and watch a mind-blowing show in the HD Digital Dome Theatre. The exhibits are constantly changing, but the focus is always on making complex ideas accessible.
It’s a place where kids and adults can play and learn together. Whether you’re building a structure or exploring the outdoor brain games, you’ll leave feeling smarter and more inspired.
12. Catch a Game or Tour the Scotiabank Saddledome – Best For Sports Fans
You can’t talk about Calgary without talking about hockey. The city lives and breathes for its NHL team, the Calgary Flames. And their home turf is the iconic, saddle-shaped Scotiabank Saddledome.
Even if you can’t score tickets to a white-knuckle hockey game, taking a behind-the-scenes tour of the arena is a fantastic experience. You’ll get to walk through the player’s locker rooms and see the press boxes.
Feeling the energy of that empty arena is powerful. It gives you a real sense of the city’s passionate sports culture. For a sports fan, it’s a pilgrimage.
Conclusion
So there you have it—a dozen incredible ways to dive headfirst into everything Calgary has to offer. From sky-high views and deep dives into history to wild animal encounters, this city is packed with experiences.
It’s a destination that will surprise and delight you at every turn. Now it’s your turn. Start planning your trip, pick your favorite activities from this list, and get ready to make some amazing memories.
Calgary is waiting to show you a seriously good time. What are you waiting for? Your next great adventure is calling.