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Calgary Peace Bridge

Located about 80 kilometres east of the Rocky Mountains in central Alberta, Calgary is known for its famous stampede and high-energy attractions. With a variable local terrain, visitors can go from the city to the mountains in an afternoon, and despite being in one of the most modern and bustling cities in Canada, you're only a short drive away from the iconic Rocky Mountains.

With breath-taking landscapes in every direction, visitors can find a host of outdoor activities to suit any tastes. The city does, after all, have more hours of sunshine than any other major Canadian city. Also a premier destination in the winter, Calgary thrives in the colder weather, offering skiing, ice-skating and much more to active visitors.

Home to a rich cultural heritage, a holiday to Calgary will surprise you at every turn. Calgary is an underrated cultural hub, with countless new restaurants and craft breweries popping up all the time. Whether you want to enjoy a casual drink in a cosy pub or an exhilarating night on the town, Calgary can provide the evening of your dreams.

Is it time for you to experience the most exciting city in Western Canada? Our Canada Travel Specialists can tailor-make your holiday down to the finest of details, from your accommodation to flight upgrades. Your own personal advisor will be delighted to create an itinerary to best suit your requirements, and our low deposits and payment plans mean that your dream holiday can be just around the corner.

Calgary Holidays | Calgary Stampede Holidays

Calgary Travel Guide

Prairie Dog - Cynomys Ludovicianus
Things to do in & around Calgary

1. Gopher Hole Museum

Visit the world-famous Gopher Hole Museum and see the many dioramas featuring gophers, posed and dressed to resemble townspeople. It's sure to be a memorable visit, this small family-run museum has people from all over the world coming to see it's comedic and historic value. There has even been a feature film made about this hidden gem, just a short drive from Calgary.

2. National Music Centre

Known as the home of music in Canada, Studio Bell is an entrancing museum for both musicians and listeners alike. Browse the stunning exhibits and try your hand at playing an instrument, mixing a track or stepping into the vocal booth yourself. Packed full of costumes and memorabilia from Canada’s most prestigious artists, the centre is also home to hundreds of concerts a year from some of Canada’s rising stars.

3. Calgary Military Museums

The second largest military museum in Canada, this complex is home to 9 individual museums, galleries and libraries, showcasing with pride Canada’s military history and the role Calgary has played.  From authentic armoured vehicles and fighter planes to continuously changing art exhibitions, we suggest you spend a full day here to allow yourself to be truly enthralled by the rich history on display.

4. Go up the Calgary Tower

Standing at over 190 metres tall, no visit to Calgary is complete without taking in the panoramic views from the top. This viewing platform has defined the city skyline for over 40 years, and it is here that you will take in the best views of both the metropolis and the mountains of Alberta that surround it. If you’re feeling particularly brave, take a step onto the glass floor with a 360-degree view with a difference!

5. Be entertained at Cowboys Casino

Located near the iconic Stampede Park, the Cowboys Casino is the ultimate stop for those who want to place their bets with a cowboy twist. The casino is home to a sophisticated bar, two delicious restaurants, a huge Cowboy dance hall, and over 300 slot machines, it would be easy to spend an entire night exploring the entertainment on offer. Be sure to stop in one of your evenings in Calgary!

6. Glenbow Museum

Hear intriguing stories from Western Canada or connect with extraordinary art and artifacts
from around the world at the Glenbow Museum, ‘Where the World Meets the West’.

7. Studio Bell home of the National Music Centre
This is a cultural institution dedicated to celebrating music in Canada in all of its forms. Visit five
floors of musical artifacts and interactive exhibits.

8. Calgary Zoo
Experience black and white magic with the pandas! In 2018, the Calgary Zoo welcomes four giant
pandas, your exclusive opportunity to see these precious animals.

9. Heritage Park

As Canada’s largest living history museum, Heritage Park can provide hours of fun for all the family. Home to over 180 exhibits, rides, restaurants and shops, this is the perfect way to take a step back in time. We suggest you take a self-guided tour so you can explore the park at your own pace – make sure you stop and chat to the costumed interpreters from various eras of Calgary’s coloured past.

Calgary Stampede
Places to eat in Calgary
1. Village Ice Cream

Home to handmade ice cream in Calgary, Village Ice Cream is an untraditional ice cream shop that is beloved by locals and visitors alike. Visit one of the many locations across the city – we suggest you try either the salted caramel or toasted coconut.

2. Saltlik

If you’re in Alberta, you simply have to try steak – we suggest you visit Saltlik for a rare steakhouse experience. An intimate fine dining experience, this is the perfect place for a romantic evening with that special someone. Make sure you try their ribeye!

3. Great Taste Chinese Restaurant

If you are craving authentic Chinese cuisine while in Calgary, look no further than Great Taste. Known for their bustling atmosphere, this is a great choice if you are looking for a casual meal with friends – their extensive menu is matched by great prices. Make sure you try the dim sum!

4. Jane Bond BBQ

One of Calgary’s most beloved food truck – as well as a popular restaurant - Jane Bond BBQ can be found at events and festivals across the city. The mouth-watering menu features pulled pork poutine, jerk chicken and their famous St. Louis ribs. Try a combo platter to sample the most popular options – you may not want to share with your fellow travellers.

5. Bow Valley Ranche

Known as one of Calgary’s fine-dining establishments, this upscale restaurant features only the highest-quality local produce along with an extensive wine list. We suggest you indulge in the Chef’s Table Sunday Night menu, a 4-course dinner featuring new offerings every week.

Calgary Cityscape
Top tips for Calgary

1. Book the Stampede Early

The Calgary Stampede is one of the most hotly-anticipated events each year not only in Calgary, but in Canada as a whole. Buy your Stampede ticket and book your hotel early if you want to include this unforgettable event in your Calgary visit, as they can sell out over a year in advance.

2. Visit Olympic Park

If you have time during your visit, head out to the Olympic Park – home to the winter sports of the 1988 Olympics. Open year round, this is a great day out for thrill-seekers, featuring a tube park, ziplining, mountain biking and much more.

3. Attend a Festival

Like many major Canadian cities, Calgary also offers a wide variety of festivals throughout the year - especially in the summertime. From music festivals featuring international headliners to foodie offerings from Calgary’s best chefs, there is something to suit all tastes. Check out the line-ups in advance and plan your visit around one of these exciting events.

4. Head up to Scotsman’s Hill

If you would like an alternative to the Calgary Tower for panoramic views of the city, head up to the top of Scotsman’s Hill. If you are visiting during the Stampede but don’t have a ticket, head up this riverbank in the evening to watch the daily fireworks show.

5. Visit Calgary Zoo

There are over 900 animals at the Calgary Zoo and it’s open year-round – soon 4 giant pandas from Toronto Zoo will be added to this roster! Visit during your trip for a fun-filled family day out.