Calgary is one of Canada’s most exciting cities to explore. With its sweeping prairie views, mountain backdrop, and vibrant cultural scene, it offers endless opportunities for both visitors and residents. As a born and raised Albertan and a full time Calgary Realtor who has spent my life exploring every corner of the city, I have seen how easily people fall in love with its mix of adventure, community, and comfort.
Whether you are here for a short stay or considering a move, this guide highlights Calgary’s top experiences, local secrets, and seasonal activities that make it a remarkable place to visit and live in 2026.
Downtown Calgary Highlights
Downtown Calgary is where the city’s energy comes alive. Stephen Avenue is lined with patios, shops, and street performers during summer. The Calgary Tower provides a panoramic view that stretches from the city skyline to the distant Rockies.
The Central Library and East Village showcase Calgary’s creativity and design, offering art installations, community spaces, and walkable river pathways. Locals love spending weekends biking the Bow River Pathway or relaxing in Prince’s Island Park.
The Calgary Stampede Experience
Each July, Calgary celebrates its western roots through the world famous Calgary Stampede. The ten day event brings rodeo competitions, concerts, fireworks, and a carnival atmosphere that takes over the entire city. Pancake breakfasts pop up everywhere, and locals proudly wear their boots and hats for days on end.
What makes the Stampede special is how the celebration extends far beyond the grounds. Businesses decorate their buildings, live music fills downtown patios, and parties spill out across every neighbourhood. It is an unforgettable time when Calgary’s community spirit, friendliness, and energy are at their best.
Outdoor Adventures and Parks
Calgary is one of Canada’s greenest cities, with more than 1,000 parks and over 1,000 kilometres of connected pathways.
Prince’s Island Park is perfect for summer picnics and festivals. Nose Hill Park offers panoramic views from the city’s northwest, while Fish Creek Provincial Park provides trails, picnic areas, and peaceful river views in the south.
Locals love biking across the Peace Bridge or kayaking along the Bow River. The city’s dry climate and sunny days make outdoor exploration possible most of the year.
Museums and Arts
Calgary’s cultural side continues to grow. Studio Bell celebrates Canada’s music legends, while the TELUS Spark Science Centre inspires visitors of all ages. The Esker Foundation and the Glenbow at The Edison feature rotating exhibitions and local art.
The city’s live music and festival scene continues to expand. During the summer, enjoy outdoor performances at Prince’s Island Park and cultural festivals such as GlobalFest and the Calgary Folk Music Festival.
Family Friendly Attractions
Calgary is one of Canada’s best cities for families. The Calgary Zoo is home to over 4,000 animals and features immersive exhibits like Wild Canada and Land of Lemurs. TELUS Spark offers hands on science experiences and a digital dome theatre that kids love.
Bowness Park is a favourite local destination for paddle boating, biking, and skating in winter. Neighbourhoods such as Mahogany, Auburn Bay, and Tuscany are known for family living with playgrounds, schools, and easy access to nature.
Food and Drink Scene
Calgary’s food culture has become one of the most exciting in Canada. 17th Avenue is the city’s dining hub, offering everything from brunch cafés to international cuisine. Inglewood and Mission have become culinary destinations, known for local restaurants and cocktail lounges.
Coffee lovers can visit Monogram, Analog, or Phil and Sebastian, while craft beer fans will enjoy tasting flights at Cold Garden or Cabin Brewing. For an unforgettable evening, visit rooftop patios downtown with views of the skyline.
Step Back In Time At Heritage Park
Beyond the main attractions, Heritage Park stands out as one of Calgary’s most beloved local experiences. This living history museum captures the city’s past through interactive exhibits, restored buildings, and a working steam train that circles the grounds. Visitors can step back in time to explore pioneer homes, ride vintage midway attractions, and enjoy views of the Glenmore Reservoir.
It’s a favourite spot for families, history lovers, and photographers, offering a mix of nostalgia and discovery that perfectly reflects Calgary’s character. After exploring, stop by the on site bakery or café for homemade treats before continuing your day.
Day Trips from Calgary
Calgary’s location makes it one of the best bases in Canada for exploring Alberta’s incredible landscapes. In less than two hours, you can reach Banff, Canmore, or Kananaskis for hiking, hot springs, and breathtaking mountain views. Each destination offers something unique, from relaxing spas and scenic gondolas to rugged alpine trails that attract adventurers from around the world.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find endless ways to stay active. The region offers world class golf courses, mountain biking trails, and some of the best hiking routes in Canada. In winter, locals trade hiking boots for skis, heading to Lake Louise, Sunshine, Mount Norquay, Fernie, Nakiska, and even Winsport’s Canada Olympic Park right in the city. Cross-country skiing is also popular, with trails groomed across Kananaskis and Canmore Nordic Centre.
For something completely different, drive east to Drumheller, home to the Royal Tyrrell Museum and the striking hoodoo formations of the Badlands. A little farther south, Dinosaur Provincial Park offers otherworldly landscapes and guided fossil tours that transport you back in time.
If you love hiking, check out my dedicated guides to Banff hiking and Kananaskis hiking, where I cover my favourite trails, viewpoints, and local tips for each area.
Why People Love Living in Calgary
Visitors often end up becoming residents. Calgary consistently ranks among Canada’s most livable cities for its safety, clean air, and strong sense of community. It offers the opportunities of a big city while keeping the warmth and connection of a smaller one.
If you are thinking about moving to Calgary, start by downloading my free Relocation Guide. It covers everything from neighbourhood insights and local schools to lifestyle, transportation, and what to expect when settling here.
Once you are ready to begin your home search, my Buyer’s Guide will walk you through the process of purchasing in Calgary’s current market so you can make informed decisions and find the home that fits your lifestyle.
Where To Stay In Calgary
Calgary offers a variety of accommodations, from classic downtown hotels rich with history to modern boutique stays along the river. Here are a few of my favourite choices to fit different budgets.
- Luxury: Fairmont Palliser
- Mid-range: Hotel Arts
- Budget: Alt Hotel East Village
FAQs About Visiting or Moving to Calgary
What is the best time to visit Calgary?
June to September offers the warmest weather, outdoor festivals, and long sunny days.
Is Calgary walkable?
Downtown and nearby neighbourhoods like Beltline, Kensington, and East Village are very walkable, and the CTrain makes it easy to get around the core. Calgary is a large and spread out city, so having a car is usually a must for exploring comfortably.
How far is Calgary from Banff?
Banff is about a 90 minute drive west on the Trans-Canada Highway, making it an easy day trip or weekend getaway.
Is Calgary a good place to live?
Yes. It offers affordable housing, excellent schools, and a strong job market, especially in technology, energy, and healthcare. Calgary is consistently voted as one of the best places to live in the world.
Booking a Trip Soon? Here Are Trusted Resources I Use
- Find the best flight deals on Trip.com.
- Reserve budget stays with Hostelworld.
- Book hotels with Booking.com.
- Protect your trip with Visitors Coverage Insurance.
- Discover unforgettable activities with Viator.
- Compare car rentals worldwide with DiscoverCars
- Download my free 8 Day Calgary Itinerary