Your Guide to Calgary

Fish Creek is one of the largest urban parks in North America, covering nearly 14 square kilometres in Calgary’s south end. With over 80 kilometres of paved and gravel trails, it’s a favourite for walking, jogging, and hiking. 

The park offers a mix of forested paths, meadows, and riverbank trails, plus plenty of picnic areas and viewpoints. It’s also home to Sikome Lake, a popular summer swimming spot, and an abundance of wildlife, making every visit feel like a natural escape

Calgary is home to more than 20 public and private golf courses, many with sweeping views of the Bow River Valley and Rocky Mountain backdrop. Courses like Shaganappi Point, Blue Devil, and Maple Ridge are popular for their well-maintained fairways and accessibility from all parts of the city. 

Whether you’re a casual player or a seasoned golfer, you’ll find challenging layouts, driving ranges, and clubhouses that make a day on the greens both relaxing and rewarding.

Rafting down the Bow River is a quintessential Calgary summer experience. Starting points like Bowness Park let you drift through lush riverbanks, wildlife habitats, and even under the downtown skyline. 

With calm stretches perfect for tubing and gentle rafting, it’s a family-friendly way to see the city from the water. Rental companies provide rafts, kayaks, and safety gear, making it easy to plan a half-day adventure.

The Calgary Stampede, held every July, is world-famous as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.” Blending Western heritage with modern entertainment, the festival features rodeo competitions, chuckwagon races, live concerts, and a bustling midway. 

Families can enjoy agricultural exhibits, parades, and nightly fireworks, while food lovers sample unique Stampede-only treats. With over a million visitors each year, it’s the highlight of Calgary’s summer festival season.

Originally built for the 1988 Winter Olympics, Canada Olympic Park (WinSport) now offers mountain biking trails ranging from beginner-friendly routes to technical downhill runs. 

Riders can take advantage of lift access to maximize time on the trails, while families enjoy cross-country paths and rental options. With panoramic views of the city and the Rockies, it’s a great way to combine adrenaline and scenery just minutes from downtown.

Calgary is the gateway to the Canadian Rockies, with Banff, Canmore, and Kananaskis Country just 60–90 minutes away. Visitors can hike world-famous trails, soak in hot springs, explore alpine lakes like Lake Louise, or enjoy dining and shopping in charming mountain towns.

Whether you’re after a scenic drive, wildlife spotting, or a full day of adventure, the Rockies offer endless opportunities for memorable day trips from the city.

Nestled in southwest Calgary, the Glenmore Reservoir provides a peaceful setting for paddling adventures. With calm waters and rental facilities nearby, it’s ideal for kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding. 

Surrounded by green spaces like North Glenmore and South Glenmore Parks, the reservoir also offers picnic areas, pathways, and wildlife viewing, making it a favourite local spot for outdoor recreation on warm summer days.

World-class ski resorts like Nakiska, Sunshine Village, and Lake Louise are all within a short drive from Calgary. Nakiska, built for the 1988 Winter Olympics, is perfect for family-friendly day trips, while Sunshine and Lake Louise offer vast terrain, powder-filled bowls, and breathtaking alpine views. 

Whether you’re learning your first turns or chasing expert runs, the Rockies deliver unforgettable winter experiences.

Confederation Park is one of Calgary’s most popular spots for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Maintained trails wind through open fields and wooded paths, creating a peaceful setting right in the city. 

Families and beginners especially enjoy this accessible park, while nearby Kananaskis offers endless backcountry terrain for those looking for a more challenging winter escape.

Built as the medal plaza for the 1988 Winter Olympics, Olympic Plaza transforms into a lively outdoor skating rink every winter. 

Located downtown, it’s surrounded by Calgary’s skyscrapers and festive lights, making it a perfect spot for families, date nights, or a quick skate between city adventures. Skate rentals are available on-site, making it easy to join in the fun.

Calgary’s rolling landscape makes it a paradise for tobogganing. Popular hills like St. Andrews Heights and Confederation Park attract families looking for snowy thrills. 

With long runs and gentle slopes, there are options for both adventurous riders and younger kids. Bring a sled, bundle up, and enjoy one of winter’s simplest and most joyful traditions.

For those seeking warmth and inspiration, Contemporary Calgary offers rotating exhibits of modern and contemporary art inside the city’s iconic Centennial Planetarium building. 

Paired with visits to nearby Arts Commons for live theatre, symphonies, and dance, Calgary’s indoor cultural scene provides world-class experiences away from the cold.

Highways leading west from Calgary open the door to breathtaking winter scenery. Highway 40 through Kananaskis and the Trans-Canada to Banff showcases frozen lakes, snow-dusted peaks, and abundant wildlife. 

These drives are as much about the journey as the destination, offering endless photo opportunities and cozy mountain towns to explore along the way.

A Calgary institution set in a historic downtown building, Teatro offers upscale Italian and European-inspired cuisine paired with an award-winning wine list. Perfect for special occasions or elegant nights out.

Known for its innovative menu, Alloy blends Mediterranean, Latin, and Asian influences into beautifully presented dishes. Its modern space and creative flavours make it one of Calgary’s top fine dining experiences.

A farm-to-table favourite, CHARCUT highlights locally sourced meats and produce in hearty, approachable dishes. Its vibrant atmosphere and open kitchen make it ideal for both casual nights out and family meals.

Famous for its thin-crust, artisan pizzas and bustling energy, Una is a go-to spot on 17th Avenue. Share a pie with friends or enjoy a glass of wine while people-watching in one of Calgary’s liveliest districts.

A vegetable-forward restaurant that focuses on family-style plates designed for sharing. Its fresh, creative dishes and bright atmosphere have made it a staple for those looking for healthier yet exciting options.

An intimate wine bar offering eclectic small plates inspired by global flavours. Regularly ranked among Canada’s best restaurants, it’s the perfect spot for adventurous eaters and late-night dining.

A third-wave coffee pioneer in Calgary, Analog is beloved for its expertly roasted beans, skilled baristas, and cozy atmosphere. A must-stop for coffee enthusiasts.

This creative breakfast and brunch spot is famous for its indulgent breakfast poutines, classic eggs Benedict, and colourful presentation. A local favourite for starting the day right.

A bakery and café inspired by Middle Eastern flavours, Sidewalk Citizen offers fresh bread, pastries, and inventive dishes. Its unique blend of comfort and creativity has made it a community staple.

Located in the heart of downtown on the Bow River, this island park is a hub for festivals, outdoor concerts, and riverside picnics. Its pathways connect to the city’s extensive trail system, making it a favourite for both locals and visitors.

One of the largest urban parks in Canada, Nose Hill offers sweeping prairie landscapes, hiking trails, and panoramic views of both the city skyline and the Rocky Mountains. A great spot for long walks, dog-friendly adventures, and sunset watching.

Covering nearly 14 square kilometres, Fish Creek features over 80 km of trails through forests, meadows, and river valleys. It’s perfect for hiking, cycling, or birdwatching, and even has Sikome Lake for summer swimming.

Known for its rolling green spaces, picnic areas, and pathways, Confederation Park is a year-round family favourite. In winter, it transforms into a popular cross-country skiing and tobogganing spot.

A riverside gem in northwest Calgary, Bowness Park offers paddleboats in summer and one of the city’s most magical outdoor skating lagoons in winter. With picnic areas and fire pits, it’s a four-season destination.

This large reservoir is a hotspot for canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Surrounded by natural areas and trails, it’s also a sanctuary for birdwatchers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a quieter escape.