Top 10 Things To Do, Activities and Attractions in Calgary

"Although it’s no longer the tallest building in Calgary, this concrete and steel needle still makes the city’s skyline instantly recognizable—even by silhouette. Opened to the public in 1968, it was originally named the Husky Tower, but was renamed after the city itself a mere three years later. Visitors still flock to Calgary Tower for its breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the city, and the prairies, foothills and Rocky Mountains stretching far beyond."

"As we arrive in downtown Calgary, the tower with a red ribbon (red tower deck, my imagination is at play here) welcomes you with a BIG smile and it follows you everywhere in the downtown area – in a parking lot, restaurant, park, hotel-like everywhere. The Calgary Tower is a free-standing observation tower located in Downtown Calgary. It has an observation deck that offers a 360-degree bird’s eye view of the city, all the way to the Canadian Rockies."

"Opened for Canada’s centennial, Calgary Tower is the city’s most recognizable landmark. It’s one of the top points of interest in Calgary and a must-see attraction—even if you only have one day in Calgary. Scoot up 191 metres from ground level to the Calgary Tower observation deck."

"For a little slice of Central Park in the heart of Cowtown, take the bridge over to this island, with grassy fields made for tossing Frisbees, plus bike paths and ample space to stretch out. During the summer... Notable Building in Calgary"

"Prince’s Island Park is the perfect spot to escape the busyness of downtown Calgary without going far. Flower gardens, expansive grassy spaces, and several bridges make for a picturesque park in the city centre."

"It seems there’s no shortage of history in Alberta, because here’s another historical attraction that ranks pretty high on our list of things to do in Calgary. Fort Calgary was initially constructed to control the highly illegal U.S. whiskey trade and to clear the way for the incoming Canadian Pacific Railway. Today, you can walk through recreated houses (including a Métis hunting cabin) and immerse yourself in the visions of the past, and a protective structure that set the foundation for communities to grow and thrive in Western Canada."

"This original site dates way back to 1875 when West Mounted Police (now the RCMP) built Fort Calgary near the confluence of the Bow River and Elbow River. There are all kinds of great reproductions of scenes from the olden days as well as a beautiful 40-acre riverside park."

"Featuring 11sqkm (4sqmi) of native grasslands, Nose Hill Park is Calgary’s biggest park. It might be surrounded by residential neighborhoods, but the overall effect of the wild moors is one of rugged remoteness. Visitors are asked, kindly (this is Canada, after all), to stay off the grasslands as they’re a threatened ecosystem, but hikers and cyclists are still privy to panoramic views of downtown Calgary in the distance."

"Numerous hiking trails wind through 1129 hectares of indigenous grasslands to the summit of Nose Hill. The plateau provides spectacular vistas of the Rocky Mountains, the Bow River Valley, and the vast plains to the east. The aspen and willows along the north-facing slopes shelter many wild animals."

"To start our list of best dog parks in Calgary, we have the wonderful Nose Hill Park. This multipurpose park is located in the northwest part of Calgary and is a mutual favourite amongst humans and their four-legged friends. In terms of terrain, Nose Hill is quite hilly."

"Fish Creek Provincial Park is the second largest urban park in Canada, with more than 100 kilometres of hiking and biking trails. Birding enthusiasts can observe more than 200 bird species along with Great Blue Herons, ducks, geese, songbirds, and bald eagles that nest along the Bow River valley. The Provincial Park is so large it includes a boat launch, the McKenzie Meadows Golf Course, The Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant, and the Sikome Aquatic Facility for a family friendly day at the beach."

"As the second largest urban park in Canada, Fish Creek Park is overflowing with activities. With Sikome Lake, educational programs and local events happening constantly, there’s never a dull moment in this park. Make sure to hit the visitor centre on your way in so they can tell you what’s happening around the park that day and if any areas are closed to do marathons, local events or construction."

"Many people visit Fish Creek Park because of its natural forested condition. It houses several recreational activities throughout the year. Regardless of your age or physical ability, this park has something for you."

"This picnic spot is ideal for those looking for a quiet spot where they can really appreciate nature. There are multiple man-made lakes to admire and you can birdwatch – the area is home to a variety of different waterfowl such as Belted Kingfishers and Great Blue Herons. Bring your fishing poles if you’re interested in trying to catch a bite – no swimming here, though – or go for a paddle down the river in your canoe."

"This southeast Calgary park preserves wildlife habitats and ecosystems and is home to numerous wildlife, waterfowl, and wildflowers. Carburn Park features three man-made ponds, a pathway system, picnic sites, and spots for fishing."

"This 135 hectare urban oasis is located along the bow river. It is one of those that you may not even know you are there, but you've visited many many times before. Learn more about Carburn Park"

"Sandy Beach is a popular place for picnics, strolling along the Elbow River, and swimming and rafting as the weather gets warmer. The southwest Calgary park boasts picnic areas and shelters, firepits, and playgrounds. River Park can be found on the ridge above Sandy Beach and offers up an off-leash park, gravel pathways, and stunning views of the valley below."

"Location: 4500 14A St. S.W. This might be the best named beach in town. While there is some sand along the banks of the meandering Elbow River at Sandy Beach Park, there’s not a lot of it. Popular with dogs, toddlers, and rafters, Sandy Beach is actually more pebbly than sandy, but it’s on a quiet riverbank that can be crowded with rafters on the weekend."

"Bring the whole family for an afternoon picnic at this riverside park. Cook over one of the park’s fire pits or barbecue stands and relax at one of the many picnic areas and shelters. Kids will like the updated playgrounds and adults will appreciate the views and close proximity to Britannia."

"Éclair de Lune lures in the locals with its seductive scent of freshly baked French pastries. With cookies to die for, light and fluffy quiche Lorraine to devour, or a delectable pain au chocolat, this bakery is like no other in the city. From crème brûlée, fancy cream puffs and fruit tarts to croissants, milk breads and more, Éclair de Lune has something yummy to tempt and tantalize!"

"This French pastry shop in Cambrian Heights now features a petite and pleasant café. Suitably accented sandwiches include egg on fresh-baked croissant, grilled veggies and feta on milk bun, and ham and Brie on baguette. Pair a green, Greek or fruit salad with any of these, or give in to irresistible, fresh pastries and cookies from the front counter."

"Authentic French pastry at its finest, Eclaire de Lune knows how to serve delicious treats that also look the part. Sitting on a gold platter, the prestiges look like they are ready to be eaten by royalty, which is perfect for us. Address: 1049 40th Avenue NWFacebook: Eclaire de Lune"

"This family-friendly joint across from McMahon Stadium has been serving Greek-inspired pizza and steak since 1979. Along with old standbys, like fish and chips and chicken fingers, the kid’s menu has steak sliders. 2430 Crowchild Trail N.W., 403-282-9278, nickssteakandpizza.com"

"A post shared by National on 8th (@ntnl8) on May 28, 2019 at 3:52pm PDT. Located on the rooftop of the Scotia Centre in downtown, National on 8th Ave has one of the largest rootop patios in Calgary. Ping pong tables and more than enough space to go around for dancing, wining and dining means this best patio in downtown Calgary should be on your bucket list."

"The city views off the National rooftop patio put you in a beautiful urban setting for enjoying their gourmet pizzas, crafty cocktails, and weekend brunches. The large outdoor area has spaces for sunbathers and spaces for shade-seekers, but you can also dine under the downtown Calgary lights at night. National on 8th: #360 225 8 Ave."

"Bowling in a bar is the ultimate couples date night activity. Challenge each other to a friendly round of bowling in an adults-only atmosphere (after 7 p.m.) and choose your eats from the full National menu. Lanes accommodate up to eight people, so this is a great spot for double or group dates."

"Date night, after-work drinks, a girls’ (or guys’) night out— whatever you’re feeling, Bridgette Bar has the ideal atmosphere. With uniquely rustic decor such as a motorcycle that hangs from the wall, to loads of 1970s-style planters, eclectic rugs and mid-century modern seating and light fixtures, Bridgette Bar is the coolest place to hit for lunch or spend an evening at. Where: 739 10 Ave SW"

"What it is: This upscale wine bar in the city's Design District boasts a sleek, modern atmosphere that is ideal for both a business meeting and a get-together with friends. Why go: As one of the few upscale bars that also serves late-night snacks, it’s hard not to constantly return here. Eat the eggplant fries or the chicken sausage pizza and wash it all down with a local lager."

"Part of Concorde Group, Bridgette Bar’s relaxed, ’60s-inspired space is an ideal spot to bring a date for an exceptional cocktail and wood-fired cuisine. The huge wood-burning grill and oven pumps out grilled sausages and bread, roasted cauliflower and cheesy pizzas to enjoy together."