Calgary Landmarks

Located in Alberta, Calgary is a city along the Bow River. Historically, it grew rapidly once oil was discovered in the area. Today, the city is a main attraction, mainly because of its close proximity to Banff National Park. However, if you have an extra day, Calgary offers great food, arts, museums, and lovely green spaces (if it's not winter!).

Explore guided tours on Travelstride to find Calgary tours that suit your preferences. You can also choose custom tours to ensure your vacation in Calgary is exactly as you want it. 

Calgary boasts many attractions highlighting its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant urban life. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or the arts, Calgary has something to offer every visitor. Here are some of the top places to visit in Calgary:

Glenbow Museum: The Glenbow Museum is a cultural cornerstone of Calgary. It offers an extensive collection of art, artifacts, and exhibitions that explore the history and culture of Western Canada. From Indigenous artifacts to contemporary art, the museum provides a comprehensive look at the region’s heritage and artistic achievements.

Heritage Park Historical Village: Heritage Park Historical Village is Canada’s largest living history museum. It takes visitors back in time to experience life in Calgary during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The park offers a fun and educational experience for all ages with historic buildings, costumed interpreters, and interactive exhibits.

Calgary Tower: Built in 1968, the Calgary Tower is an iconic landmark offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Rocky Mountains. The observation deck features a glass floor, providing a thrilling perspective of the cityscape below. It's a must-visit for breathtaking views and photo opportunities.

Calgary Zoo: The Calgary Zoo is home to over 1,000 animals from around the world, housed in naturalistic habitats. Highlights include the Canadian Wilds, Penguin Plunge, and the Land of Lemurs. The zoo also features beautiful botanical gardens and interactive exhibits, making it a perfect family destination.

Devonian Gardens: Devonian Gardens is an urban oasis located in the heart of downtown Calgary. This indoor botanical garden features over 500 species of plants, a koi pond, and a playground. It's a serene escape from the bustling city, offering a peaceful environment for relaxation and enjoyment.

Calgary Stampede: Known as "The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth," the Calgary Stampede is a world-famous rodeo and festival held every July. The event features rodeo competitions, concerts, parades, and a carnival, attracting visitors from around the globe to experience the excitement and cultural celebration.

Stephen Avenue Walk: Stephen Avenue Walk is a historic pedestrian street in downtown Calgary, lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It's a vibrant area known for its beautiful architecture, bustling atmosphere, and frequent street performances, making it a great place to explore and soak in the local culture.

Prince's Island Park: Located along the Bow River, Prince's Island Park is a beautiful urban park offering green spaces, walking trails, and scenic views. It's a popular spot for picnicking, festivals, and outdoor activities, providing a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city.

TELUS Spark Science Centre: TELUS Spark is a dynamic science center offering interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and a state-of-the-art planetarium. It's a fantastic destination for families and anyone interested in science and technology, with hands-on activities and engaging displays that inspire curiosity and learning.

Fish Creek Provincial Park: One of the largest urban parks in Canada, Fish Creek Provincial Park offers a natural escape with extensive hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and diverse wildlife. It's an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts to explore Calgary’s natural beauty and enjoy recreational activities.

Calgary is a vibrant city where you can enjoy many activities during your vacation. Whether you're a foodie, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, there’s something here for everyone. 

Check out these top things to do on Calgary tours:

Calgary’s food scene is absolutely buzzing, offering a delightful mix of traditional and contemporary eats. 

Join a food tour to taste the city’s diverse flavors. You’ll love visiting the bustling Calgary Farmers’ Market to sample local produce and artisanal goodies, or exploring the trendy Kensington neighborhood with its eclectic eateries. 

A guided walking tour through Inglewood, Calgary’s oldest neighborhood, is a must for its historic charm and innovative dining spots. Make sure to try Alberta beef, bison, and the famous ginger beef, a dish born in Calgary.

If you’re into nature and wildlife, Calgary has plenty of options. Join a guided wildlife tour to explore natural spots like Fish Creek Provincial Park and the Weaselhead Natural Area. 

These tours are fantastic for bird watching—you might spot bald eagles, great horned owls, and various waterfowl. And if you’re visiting in winter, a trip to the nearby Bow Valley could have you spotting elk, deer, and maybe even wolves. 

These tours are a great way to learn about the local ecosystems and see some amazing wildlife up close.

Try river rafting or kayaking on Calgary’s Bow and Elbow Rivers for a splash of adventure. Local companies offer guided rafting tours for all skill levels, from gentle floats for beginners to more thrilling rapids for the adventurous. 

Kayaking is also a blast, with rental services available right along the riverbanks. 

Summer is the best time to hit the water, with perfect conditions and warm weather. You’ll get stunning views of the city skyline and beautiful natural landscapes, making for a fun and memorable outdoor experience.

Calgary’s craft beer and spirits scene is booming, and a brewery or distillery tour is a fantastic way to dive in. Explore the local craft breweries in the Inglewood and Beltline districts, sampling everything from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts. 

Don’t miss stops like Cold Garden Beverage Company, Banded Peak Brewing, and Last Best Brewing & Distilling. If spirits are more your thing, head to Eau Claire Distillery in nearby Turner Valley for a taste of gin, vodka, and whisky. 

These tours often give you a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing and distilling processes, along with plenty of tastings.

Dive into Calgary’s vibrant arts and culture scene with a tour of its galleries, theaters, and cultural spots. 

Start at the Esker Foundation, a contemporary art gallery with cutting-edge exhibitions. Catch a live performance at Alberta Theatre Projects to see local talent shine. And don’t miss Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre, where you can explore Canada’s musical history through interactive exhibits and live events. 

These tours are a fantastic way to get a feel for Calgary’s artistic vibe and cultural contributions.

With the Rocky Mountains so close, Calgary is a perfect base for outdoor adventures. Join a guided hiking or biking tour to explore the stunning foothills and mountain trails. 

Popular spots include Kananaskis Country, known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife, and the Canmore Nordic Centre, which has trails for all levels. 

In winter, these areas turn into wonderlands for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Experienced guides will lead the way, sharing fascinating insights about the region’s natural history and geology.

Biking in Calgary is a fantastic way to explore the city and its surrounding natural beauty. With over 900 kilometers of pathways and bike lanes, Calgary boasts one of North America's most extensive urban cycling networks. 

The Bow River Pathway and Elbow River Pathway are popular routes that offer scenic views of the rivers, parks, and downtown skyline. For a more adventurous ride, the Nose Hill Park and Fish Creek Provincial Park provide expansive trails catering to beginners and experienced cyclists.

The city is also committed to becoming more bike-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing programs making navigating easy. 

Cycling events like Bike to Work Day and the Tour de Bowness add to the vibrant biking culture during the summer months. 

Whether you’re commuting, sightseeing, or enjoying a leisurely ride, Calgary's diverse biking options offer something for everyone. Remember to wear a helmet, follow local biking laws, and enjoy the ride through this beautiful and dynamic city.

Calgary is the perfect base for exploring some of Alberta's most stunning landscapes and attractions. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip or a weekend getaway, there are plenty of exciting destinations just a short drive away. 

Here are some top road trips you can take from Calgary:

Banff National Park: Just a 1.5-hour drive from Calgary, Banff National Park offers breathtaking mountain scenery, outdoor activities, and charming town vibes. Enjoy hiking, hot springs, and the stunning Lake Louise.

Drumheller and the Badlands: A 1.5-hour drive northeast of Calgary takes you to Drumheller, home to the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology and the unique landscapes of the Alberta Badlands. Explore dinosaur fossils and the dramatic Hoodoos.

Canmore: Only an hour from Calgary, Canmore is a quaint mountain town perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying stunning views. The town offers excellent dining options and a relaxed atmosphere.

Kananaskis Country: Less than an hour from Calgary, Kananaskis Country offers fantastic outdoor adventures, including hiking, mountain biking, and canoeing. The area is known for its beautiful scenery and wildlife.

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump: This UNESCO World Heritage site is about 1.5 hours south of Calgary. This archaeological site provides insight into the Plains Buffalo culture and features an interpretive center with fascinating exhibits.

Waterton Lakes National Park: A 2.5-hour drive from Calgary, Waterton Lakes National Park offers spectacular mountain views, hiking trails, and a charming village. It’s less crowded than Banff, making it a peaceful retreat.