10 Amazing Things to do in Calgary

Nestled in Canada's Midwest, about two and a half hours north of the US border, Calgary attracts millions of visitors every year, for good reason! There's no shortage of things to do year round, no matter if you're travelling with family, seeking adventure, or you're in town for one the many events the city has to offer. If you're thinking about visiting "Cowtown", as Calgary is sometimes known, but you're not sure what you can do once you get there, check our our list of 10 amazing things on offer in and around the cosmopolitan city of Calgary, Alberta.

Explore Vibrant Downtown Calgary

You'll find all of the food, shopping, nightlife and culture you need when spending time in the heart of Calgary.

1. Eat and Drink

Like any major city, the dining options are diverse and plentiful, giving you lots of options for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Organized by Avenue's from East to West and Streets from North to South, a good starting point is anywhere between 10 Avenue SW and 4 Avenue SW, and 2 Street SW and 6 Street SW. This grid includes Monogram Coffee Co, for your morning pick me up; The Tastemarket Canadian Kitchen, where you can have lunch prepared by students of the School of Hospitality and Tourism; The Wilde, a unique dining experience on the 27th floor of the Dorian Hotel; and Major Tom Bar, a rooftop cocktail bar with stunning city views.

People out shopping on a clear day in Calgary.

2. Shop in Calgary

If you're in need of some retail therapy, downtown has you covered with the CORE Shopping Centre on 8 Ave SW. You'll have 4 stories of big names brands to explore, while also gaining access to Calgary's Skywalk System, which is an enclosed walkway that keeps you safe from the cold winter weather. If you crave more shopping, there are plenty more options further out, including the CF Chinook Centre, Victoria Park and 17th Avenue.

3. Visit the Calgary Tower

Get a bird's-eye view of the city by visiting the iconic Calgary Tower at 101 9 Ave SW. You can take the elevator to the observation deck and enjoy panoramic views of the cityscape and the majestic Rocky Mountains. If you're feeling particularly fearless, take a step onto the glass floor to see directly down to the street below you.

Calgary tower.

Want more?

Located in the heart of downtown Calgary, Prince's Island Park is a beautiful urban oasis. Take a leisurely stroll along the river, have a picnic, or enjoy outdoor concerts and festivals held throughout the year.

Take in the Great Outdoors

It wouldn't be a trip to Canada without exploring the many gifts nature has to offer.

4. Banff National park

If you have transport, such as a rental car, you can reach Banff National Park in about an hour and a half from Calgary. A natural wonderland that must not be missed, the park offers everything from hiking through picturesque trails, wildlife spotting, and relaxing in soothing hot springs. In the warmer months, consider cycling along the 29km Banff Legacy Trail, where you can picnic on the shores of Vermillion Lake. You can also camp in the park, with some sites being bookable, and others available on a first come, first served basis. The Parks Canada website has everything you need to know about exploring Banff National Park, including how to get there from Calgary.

A person standing beside a lake with mountains in the background.

5. Ski in Calgary

Being in such close proximity to the Rocky Mountains means that you have plenty of opportunities to strap on your skis or snowboard and hit the slopes. With a season that can last from November to May, this is a popular time to visit Calgary and make the most of the snow. Here are some of the places you can ski near Calgary:

Banff Sunshine Village
Lake Louise Ski Resort
Nakiska Ski Area
Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park

6. Heritage Park Historical Village

Step back in time and explore the Heritage Park Historical Village, Canada's largest living history museum. Located on the banks of Elbow River, south of Downtown, you can wander through the streets of this charming village to interact with costumed interpreters and learn about Western Canadian history through various exhibits and demonstrations. If driving, there are 6 parking lots of site, so you'll have no problem taking your car rental to visit the village.

Only in Calgary

There are a number of activities and events that only take place in Calgary, including the big one, the Calgary Stampede.

7. The Calgary Stampede

If we asked you where the world's largest outdoor rodeo was, your first answer might not be Calgary. But that is in fact the case, thanks to the annual Calgary Stampede. Along with the rodeo itself, which takes place over 10 days, there's also music from the likes of the Jonas Brothers and Miranda Lambert; All Elite Wrestling events; a huge range of food and drink options; and a parade to kick everything off. Taking place in July and attracting millions of visitors every year, the famous Calgary Stampede is truly a site to behold.

The rodeo at the Calgary Stampede.

8. Calgary International Film Festival

For 10 days in September, the Calgary International Film Festival (CIFF) brings the best of international cinema to town. 2023 at the festival featured Oscar nominated films such as Anatomy of a Fall and Robot Dreams, as well as discussion with filmmakers Atom Egoyan and Pascal Plante. You can buy tickets and find the lineup when it's announced on the CIFF website.

9. Calgary Folk Music Festival

For four days of family friendly entertainment, check out the Calgary Folk Music Festival, held in July each year. This annual event brings together renowned musicians from around the world, offering a diverse range of music genres and a vibrant atmosphere. Past musicians that have performed at the festival include Alabama Shakes, David Byrne, Michael Kiwanuka, Father John Misty, Gillian Welch and more.

For year round movies in downtown Calgary, head to the Globe Cinema on 8 Ave SW. Live music venues include Festival Hall, The Hifi Club, The Palace Theatre, and The Blues Can.

10. The Glenbow Museum

Immerse yourself in art, culture, and history at the Glenbow Museum. With extensive collections of art, artifacts, and historical documents, the museum offers a fascinating journey through the region's heritage. Located on 9 Ave SE, you can take the light rail transit to the Westbound 1st Street SW CTrain Station, or arrive by bus. There is also parking available at the nearby Palliser Parkade on 10 Avenue SE.

Calgary streets at night.

Getting to Calgary

By Air

You can fly into Calgary International Airport (YYC), which is about 17 kilometres northeast of the downtown area. There are regular arrivals and departures from around Canada and the US.

By car

If you're travelling in your own car, or have secured a car rental from somewhere else, Calgary is approximately three hours from Edmonton, five and a half hours from Kalispell and 11 and a half hours from Vancouver.

Why book with Airport Rentals?

Getting a hire car from Calgary Interntational Airport is a great option for exploring Calgary at your own pace. Airport Rentals partners with 12 car rental companies at the airport, including Budget, Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Alamo, Routes Car Rental and more. You can make a search with your preferred travel dates to see live availability and pricing for Calgary car rental.