Calgary, a city nestled in the foothills of Canada’s Rocky Mountains, is a vibrant urban centre with a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern development. Whether you are interested in the city's rich history, stunning parks, or lively festivals, Calgary offers various must-see attractions and landmarks that captivate any visitor. From towering skyscrapers to tranquil natural spaces, the city provides a variety of experiences, all easily accessible for those eager to explore. This guide will take you through Calgary’s top attractions and offer tips to make the most of your visit, including simple ways to get around the city.
One of Calgary's most iconic landmarks is the Calgary Tower, a must-visit attraction for anyone wanting to enjoy the city’s expansive views. Standing at 191 metres, the Calgary Tower offers an unbeatable 360-degree view of the city and the surrounding areas, including the impressive Rocky Mountains. Visitors can head to the observation deck to enjoy panoramic views of Calgary's urban landscape and beyond. If you're feeling particularly adventurous, the glass-floored observation deck offers a thrilling experience as you look straight down at the city streets below.
The Calgary Tower is located in the heart of downtown, making it easily accessible for those who wish to explore the city's other attractions nearby. It's an excellent starting point for a Calgary itinerary, providing a unique perspective of the city from above. The views are even more stunning at night when the city lights up, creating a magical atmosphere that makes the Calgary Tower a memorable spot for tourists and locals alike.
For history enthusiasts, Heritage Park Historical Village is an essential stop on your Calgary adventure. Located just south of downtown Calgary, Heritage Park is Canada’s largest living history museum and a fantastic place to learn about the early days of Calgary and the region. The park features over 180 exhibits spread across 127 acres, showcasing the development of Calgary from its frontier days to the 1920s.
Visitors can explore a variety of historical exhibits, including restored buildings such as homes, schools, shops, and farms, that offer a glimpse of life in early Calgary. A standout feature is the opportunity to ride a vintage steamtrain, which takes you around the park and allows you to experience a traditional mode of transportation. The park is also home to an authentic 1920s village, with period-dressed staff always ready to share stories and details about the town’s history.
Heritage Park provides a window into Calgary's past and interactive activities that make learning fun for all ages. Taking a guided tour, riding the steam train, or participating in hands-on demonstrations, the park offers an engaging experience for visitors to step back in time.
For families, animal lovers, or anyone interested in wildlife, the Calgary Zoo is a top attraction. Located along the Bow River, the Calgary Zoo houses over 1,000 animals globally, including rare and endangered species. The zoo is divided into themed areas, such as the Canadian Wilds, Destination Africa, and the Panda Passage, where you can get an up-close look at giant pandas. The zoo is thoughtfully designed, with pathways that guide visitors through the exhibits in an organised and easy-to-navigate way.
In addition to its fascinating animal exhibits, the Calgary Zoo is also involved in conservation efforts and offers educational programs for visitors of all ages. The zoo hosts seasonal events like ZooLights during the winter, transforming the zoo into a sparkling wonderland. The Calgary Zoo offers a fun, educational, and engaging experience for visitors, whether they are with children, friends, or exploring solo.
If you're an art or culture enthusiast, the Glenbow Museum is a must-see. Located in the downtown area, the Glenbow is one of Calgary's premier cultural institutions, offering several exhibits that span historical and contemporary topics. The museum features permanent collections of Canadian art, including works from Indigenous artists, as well as rotating exhibitions from local and international artists.
The Glenbow Museum also offers exhibits focusing on the history of Calgary and the Canadian West. Visitors can learn about the First Nations peoples, the fur trade, and Calgary’s early days as a frontier town. The museum’s interactive exhibits and rotating installations make it an exciting and ever-changing destination for art lovers and history buffs. The Glenbow is a great way to spend a few hours exploring Calgary’s rich cultural scene.
Prince’s Island Park provides a calm escape for those looking to relax away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Located in the Bow River, steps away from downtown Calgary, The park is a favourite destination for locals and tourists. With scenic walking trails, open green spaces, and stunning views of the city skyline, Prince’s Island Park is the ideal place to relax, have a picnic, or enjoy outdoor activities.
The park is busy in the summer when people gather to enjoy outdoor concerts, festivals, and events like the Calgary Folk Music Festival. In winter, the park transforms into an ice skating rink, making it a year-round destination for outdoor fun. Prince’s Island Park is also home to several public art installations, making it a place to enjoy nature and experience Calgary’s growing arts scene.
No visit to Calgary is complete without experiencing the world-famous Calgary Stampede. This annual event, held every July, celebrates Calgary’s rich Western heritage and cowboy culture. Known as The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, the Calgary Stampede is a thrilling mix of rodeo competitions, chuckwagon races, concerts, carnival rides, and a spectacular parade.
Even outside of Stampede season, the Stampede grounds are still an exciting place to explore. The Calgary Stampede Heritage Park offers exhibits on the event's history and its importance to the city. The grounds also host various events throughout the year, including live concerts, art exhibitions, and agricultural shows. The Stampede is a central part of Calgary's identity, providing a unique chance to experience Western culture at its finest.
Calgary is home to several beautiful parks that highlight the natural beauty of the region. In addition to Prince’s Island Park, visitors can explore other stunning parks such as Fish Creek Provincial Park, Nose Hill Park, and Bowness Park. These parks offer a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
Fish Creek Provincial Park, one of Canada’s largest urban parks, is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 80 kilometres of walking and cycling trails, it offers plenty of space for activities while maintaining a peaceful atmosphere. Nose Hill Park, another popular destination, offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. These parks are perfect for anyone looking to escape the urban landscape and enjoy the natural beauty of Calgary.
Calgary’s Chinatown, one of the oldest in Canada, offers a unique cultural experience right in the city's heart. Located just a short walk from downtown, Chinatown features a variety of Chinese restaurants, markets, and cultural sites. The area is rich in history and features several traditional Chinese buildings, including the Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre, which hosts exhibitions on Chinese culture and history in Canada.
Calgary's Chinatown offers a fascinating look into the city’s diverse cultural heritage, with authentic Chinese cuisine, unique market goods, and a rich history to explore. It’s a perfect spot to spend a few hours immersing yourself in the local community and experiencing Calgary's multicultural spirit.
Consider renting a car to make the most of your Calgary visit and enjoy all the attractions and landmarks. Calgary's public transport system is convenient, but a rental car lets you explore the city at your own pace. Renting a car will make your trip more comfortable and flexible, whether driving through downtown Calgary to see the Calgary Tower or heading to nearby attractions like Banff or Lake Louise.
A rental car also allows you to visit some of Calgary's nearby natural attractions, such as the beautiful parks and outdoor spaces just outside the city. You can drive through the Canadian Rockies or venture to nearby towns and villages without worrying about transport schedules. Having a car allows you to experience all of Calgary, from urban sightseeing to mountain adventures, at your convenience.
For reliable and budget-friendly car rentals in Calgary, visit Finalrentals. With various vehicles, you can select the perfect option for your needs and enjoy a stress-free driving experience in Calgary.
Calgary is a dynamic city that offers a wide range of attractions and landmarks for every type of traveller. The city has something for everyone, from iconic sites like the Calgary Tower and the Calgary Zoo to cultural gems like the Glenbow Museum and Chinatown. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, Calgary will leave you with unforgettable memories. To fully experience everything this vibrant city offers, consider renting a car in Canada for maximum flexibility and ease. With the freedom to explore at your own pace, you'll be able to enjoy all the must-see spots in Calgary and beyond.
Don’t miss out on the chance to explore Calgary’s top attractions—rent a car today and start your adventure!
