15 Best Things to do in Calgary, Alberta 

Heading to Calgary? Let us show you around!

As Alberta locals, we’ve spent countless weekends exploring Calgary’s vibrant neighborhoods, natural escapes, and buzzing craft beer scene. From quiet riverside parks to urban murals splashed across brick walls, this city has so many ways to surprise and delight. 

In this guide, we’re sharing our favorite things to do in Calgary, from bike rides along the Bow River to art mural stops and epic day trips into the Rockies. So whether you’re a first-timer or returning for more, these ideas will help you see Calgary like a local and make the most of every moment. 

Things to do in Calgary

1. Explore Calgary on a bike tour

We’ve always found that getting to know a city on foot or by bike is the best way to feel it out, but sometimes wandering around without a plan can leave you missing out on the good stuff. That’s why we signed up for this small-group bike tour and cruised our way through the very best of Calgary’s highlights and hidden corners. 

We breezed along the Bow River, taking in the city’s natural beauty and lively neighborhoods, with our excellent guide, Darrell, leading the charge. Darrell didn’t just share facts—he painted a living, breathing portrait of Calgary, weaving together the stories of First Nations people, local legends, and the electric energy of 17th Ave.

We cycled past the Peace Bridge, paused to admire the soaring dragons and phoenixes at the Chinese Cultural Centre, and took in green spaces like Prince’s Island Park and St. Patrick’s Island Park. Even better, there was no risk of getting lost or missing the best views. The best part is that pedal bikes can even be upgraded to e-bikes if arranged in advance, so you can tailor the tour to your energy level.

Three hours zipped by in what felt like minutes. We left with a new appreciation for the city, and judging by all the five-star reviews here, we’re not the only ones. If you want to see Calgary up close, hop on this ride and let the city roll out in front of you!

2. See Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, or Banff in one day

Trying to see the best of Banff in one day can feel impossible, especially when spots like Moraine Lake are a nightmare to park at and the roads get jammed with traffic. We knew we wanted to experience these iconic sights without the headache of planning it ourselves, so we joined this small-group tour, and it turned out to be one of our favorite experiences from Calgary!

The day was a perfect blend of must-see sights and off-the-beaten-path stops. We wandered along Lake Louise’s shimmering turquoise shores and climbed the Rockpile for that famous Moraine Lake postcard shot—two iconic stops that never disappoint. Even though we’d seen them in countless photos, standing there in person made us feel like we were part of the scene ourselves.

Our guide, Roger, kept the vibe fun and relaxed, sharing stories about Castle Mountain and Banff’s legendary hospitality along the way. Lunch on Banff Avenue (at our own expense) was the perfect chance to soak in the mountain-town charm before heading to scenic spots like Bow Falls, Surprise Corner, and the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel.

We’ve done our fair share of tours, but this one took the cake—no wonder it’s an award-winner. So if you’re looking for a day trip from Calgary that hits all the high notes, this is the one to book!

Related Read: For more day trip options to Banff from Calgary, check out this post that outlines the 5 best ones!

3. Climb the Calgary Tower

The Calgary Tower has been a city icon for decades, and it’s easy to see why. Perched 191 meters (626 feet) above downtown, it offers unbeatable 360-degree views that showcase just how close Calgary is to the mountains.

You can choose to “climb” the full 52 floors of pure stair ascent or take the comfy elevator to save your breath. Once at the observation deck, you’ll be met with panoramic views of Calgary and the Canadian Rocky Mountains. To add to the thrill of the experience, take a step out on the clear glass floor of the observation deck to peep below! 

Adult tickets can be purchased online, and the tower is accessible Monday through Saturday, 10 am to 10 pm, Sundays from 10 am to 8:30 pm. 

Save your appetite for Sky 360! This restaurant is just one more floor above the observation deck and offers an incredible menu. The whole restaurant rotates slowly around the tower, giving you a unique postcard dining experience. 

4. Go rafting on the Bow River

Sometimes the best way to experience Calgary isn’t by foot or by bike—it’s by water! If you want to see the city from a whole new angle, this private rafting tour on the Bow River is pure bliss.

The crew at Lazy Day Raft Rentals has everything dialed in. Your boat will be sanitized, inflated, and waiting for you at the launch point in West Baker Park. The staff is super friendly and helpful, making sure you’re geared up with personal flotation devices (PFDs), paddles, and safety kits before sending you off.

This journey is a slow, meandering pace of the Bow River—no need to rush when the scenery is this good!

Floating past Bowmont Natural Park, Shouldice Park, and Edworthy Park, you’ll feel completely immersed in nature while still catching glimpses of Calgary’s skyline. You may even spot a few deer along the riverbanks, a reminder that you’re never far from nature out here. 

There are stretches where you’ll paddle through golf courses and quiet neighborhoods, soaking up the calm of the river and the sounds of birdsong. It is the kind of trip that makes you want to go back every summer!

You will absolutely love this chill day out on the water! Check out the five-star reviews here to see why travelers call this the highlight of their trip!

5. Take a day trip to the Columbia Icefield and Glacier Skywalk

Driving the Icefields Parkway in a day is no easy feat, especially when those jaw-dropping views and tricky mountain roads can make even the most confident driver sweat. We didn’t want to worry about navigating the twists and turns or finding parking at every scenic stop, so we booked this small-group tour, and it turned out to be one of our best decisions yet.

The day started early, but as soon as the mountains came into view, the fatigue disappeared. Our driver, Reeve, was an absolute gem—friendly, funny, and full of helpful tips that kept us all smiling throughout the trip. After a quick photo stop at Lake Louise’s turquoise waters, we wound our way along the Icefields Parkway, taking in Crowfoot Glacier and Peyto Lake’s brilliant blues.

The highlight, though, was boarding the Ice Explorer and rolling out onto the ancient Athabasca Glacier itself. There’s nothing like stepping onto that thick, creaking ice and feeling the chill of thousands of years under your feet! 

Just keep in mind that this is a seasonal tour that only runs from May through October, so plan accordingly. We wrapped it all up with lunch at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre and a visit to the Skywalk, perched high above the valley.

For anyone dreaming of glacier views and epic mountain landscapes without the hassle of driving, this is the day trip to book!

6. Delve into Canadian History at Heritage Park Historical Village

Heritage Park Historical Village offers a fascinating look at Western Canada’s past. As Canada’s largest living history museum, it brings history to life with restored buildings, working antiques, and costumed interpreters who recreate life from the 1860s to the 1950s

While it’s labeled as a “museum,” the grounds at Heritage Park are alive with interactive exhibits and activities that are anything but stuffy or dull. The recreation of period-specific western Canadian life spans the entire 100 acres – you’ll see everything from an 1880s frontier settlement to blacksmiths actively working. 

Some of the coolest attractions in the park involve historic transportation. You can hop on an authentic steam train, vintage electric streetcar, or set sail on the reservoir aboard the S.S. Moyie.   

Exploring the park will take you at least a few hours to see everything; it’s a totally immersive experience into everything Canadian history and culture. Admission tickets are best purchased online prior to your visit. 

The park is open daily throughout the summer months and on weekends during the fall. Check the Heritage Park site for updated dates and hours throughout the year. 

7. See Calgary’s best sights on a scooter

Walking Calgary’s streets can leave you worn out and still missing the best spots, so hop on this small-group scooter tour and let the city unfold right in front of you.

Luckily, the guides seem to know all the historical nuggets and local tips that make the tour feel like hanging out with a friend who just happens to know everything about Calgary. You’ll zip along the Bow River Pathway and take in the views from the Peace Bridge, then breeze down Stephen Avenue Walk and marvel at the sleek lines of the Central Library. 

A stop at Central Memorial Park is special, not just for its popularity as a green space. It’s home to Calgary’s oldest library and statues that hold a century’s worth of stories.

The best part is that the scooters are super easy to handle, and your guides are always there to make sure everyone feels safe and comfortable. You’ll get a chance to snap photos at Prince’s Island Park, catch glimpses of Olympic Plaza, and learn about the history of the Bow skyscraper.

This tour is a fun, effortless way to explore Calgary’s highlights and hidden gems. If you’re short on time or just want to see more than you could on foot, this is the tour to book.

8. Witness the Wolfdogs

Getting the chance to see wolfdogs up close isn’t something you can do every day, which is what makes this wolfdog sanctuary tour so special. Set against the backdrop of the Canadian Rockies, the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary is home to more than 60 rescued wolfdogs and offers a fascinating look at these misunderstood animals.

This tour provides the opportunity to learn about the unique traits, behaviors, and histories of the sanctuary’s residents while supporting an organization dedicated to their care and conservation. It’s educational, rewarding, and unlike any other wildlife experience we’ve done around Calgary.

After a prompt pick-up at your hotel, your guide will drive you just under an hour northwest of Calgary to Yamnuska Sanctuary. You’ll get to interact with these beautiful creatures and observe their natural pack behavior. The best part of this tour is that they keep group sizes small to avoid overwhelming the animals, so you can take your time observing their natural pack dynamics in a calm, unhurried setting. 

With guided instruction, the environment is a safe way to be amongst wolfdogs in a controlled natural setting. Like any animal lover, I enjoyed being able to pet these big fluffballs and give them treats while learning about the conservation efforts of the sanctuary. 

Your guide will allow for plenty of time for pictures and questions, and you’ll leave feeling more informed and grateful that places like this exist. The entire experience was surprisingly peaceful and rewarding, plus it works well as a morning or afternoon activity between busy sightseeing days in and around Calgary.

9. Take a day trip to the Badlands and see dinosaur fossils and hoodoos

When you think of Alberta, you might picture the Rockies, but the Badlands are just as captivating, especially if you’re into fossils, ancient landscapes, and ghost towns. To soak up every bit of this unique region without the stress of driving ourselves, we joined this small-group tour from Calgary, and it turned out to be one of the most fascinating days of our trip!

After meeting our guide and taking the drive to Drumheller, we started at the Royal Tyrrell Museum, home to one of the world’s best dinosaur fossil collections. Wandering through the museum’s exhibits felt like stepping into a prehistoric world, and our guide, Habib, was full of fun facts that brought it all to life. 

From there, we took in the sweeping views of Horseshoe Canyon and explored the otherworldly Hoodoos. These towering sandstone pillars were sculpted by thousands of years of wind and water into shapes that look straight out of a sci-fi movie.

Habib kept the day running smoothly and shared stories at every stop, whether it was the eerie ghost town of Wayne or the historic Rosedale Suspension Bridge that sways above the Red Deer River. But the best part was climbing the World’s Largest Dinosaur in Drumheller for a panoramic view of this jaw-dropping landscape.

We loved how this tour packed in so many incredible sights in one day, from the mind-blowing fossil exhibits to the surreal landscapes of the Hoodoos and canyons. It was a day that brought Alberta’s ancient past to life and left us with memories we’ll never forget!

Related Read: If you’d like to see exactly how we plan a quick getaway here, check out our ideal 3-day Calgary itinerary for your trip!

10. Discover Calgary’s street art and craft beer scene

Calgary’s Beltline neighborhood has a creative pulse that’s impossible to miss, and what better way to experience it than by combining street art with local brews? We joined this small-group walking tour, and it was the perfect way to dive into Calgary’s underground scene without feeling overwhelmed.

Our guide, Jamie, was insightful, friendly, and full of local tips. We started out sampling a few craft beers at a cozy local spot, then hit the streets to explore the vibrant murals of the Beltline Urban Mural Project. 

Jamie had the kind of exclusive stories that you just don’t get wandering around alone, including tidbits about the artists, the neighborhood’s evolution, and the stories behind these colorful works of art. We loved how he shared personal favorites and gave us a glimpse into the artists’ worlds. It felt like we were getting the inside scoop!

The vibe was relaxed and social, with plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere and grab a few photos of our favorite murals. We even got ideas for where to continue the night on 17th Ave! Jamie had great local tips for cool bars and hidden gems we would have never found on our own.

We loved how this tour mixed art, stories, and craft beer into one fantastic experience. So if you’re after something tasty and different in Calgary, this is it!

11. Plan a picnic at Prince’s Island Park

Sometimes, you just have to take a rest day while on vacation. The best way to do that in Calgary is by taking a relaxing walk through the tree-lined pathways and open green spaces of Prince’s Island Park!

Situated on an island in the middle of the Bow River, it’s best to access the park from downtown Calgary across footbridges. There is limited parking on the island, and on the weekends, it gets quite busy! 

You’ll see many locals and tourists taking advantage of the extensive Bow River pathway that spans about 31 miles (50 km) across the city. Along the pathway and through the park, you’ll pass beautiful landscaping, flowers, and local wildlife on the river. 

In summer, Prince’s Island Park hosts multiple music festivals like the Calgary Folk Fest and RoundUp Music Fest. In the colder months, the park transforms into a winter wonderland with ice skating and cross-country skiing as a favorite pastime here.

The park can be accessed every day from 5 am to 11 pm with free admission!

12. Visit Calgary Olympic Park

There’s no shortage of outdoor adventure in and around Calgary; a visit to WinSport Ski & Snowboard Hill is no exception. Host to the 1988 Winter Olympic Games, WinSport is a giant sports complex still used by high-level athletes. 

Luckily, you don’t have to be an Olympian to access its playground – it’s open to the public year-round with multiple activities to choose from. 

In the warmer months, you can hop on a downhill GoKart, mini golf, hike up to Paskapoo Big Rock, zipline, or feel some velocity on a bobsled! If you’re a mountain biker, you’ll love the option of summer hill tickets to chairlift your bike up for downhill action. 

WinSport comes alive in winter with skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, hockey, and downhill tubing. Many activities also offer instructor-led lessons if you want to hone your skills. 

If you’d rather skip all the physical activity and enjoy some history, you can check out the Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame Museum, full of sports memorabilia and interactive exhibits celebrating Canada’s athletes. Check here for seasonal hours and tickets! 

13. Saddle up for forest trails, wetlands, and wide open views

Want the kind of Kananaskis views that make you blurt out “wow” without even meaning to? This 2-hour scenic horseback ride is all about that! You’ll quickly trade city streets for real Alberta backcountry, with a proper mountain ridge ride and those wide open Kananaskis views that make you stop and stare. And because it’s a small group, with a maximum of eight riders, it’s very calm and well-paced.

The ride is designed to work for pretty much everyone, from total beginners to confident riders. You’ll be matched with a horse, get set up with the necessary equipment, and head out with a professional guide who keeps things clear and comfortable.

Of course, the main event is the ridge itself. You climb up above the valley, then ride along with big, panoramic views of the entire Kananaskis Valley spread out below.

On the way down, the scenery shifts as you move through montane forest and wetter, marshy areas. You might spot beavers, eagles, elk and so much more tucked into the trees or moving through the wetlands, so definitely keep your eyes peeled!

If you want one memorable outdoor adventure near Calgary, this one is a very easy yes. And we’re not the only ones who think so – you can check out the hundreds of 5-star reviews here!

14. Enjoy a private tour to Banff, Lake Louise, and Moraine Lake

We never want to rush our time in Banff, and booking this private comprehensive tour from Calgary was the perfect way to see it all without missing out. We loved that it was fully customized to our interests and pace, giving us a one-of-a-kind day we couldn’t have planned on our own.

Our guide, Manny, was everything you’d want in a leader—personable, fun, and so knowledgeable about the area. He tailored the day to exactly what we wanted to see, from the iconic Lake Louise and Moraine Lake to the serene shores of Lake Minnewanka. Every stop had its own story, and Manny made sure we had time to really soak in the views, grab photos, and take it all in.

One of our favorite parts was the stop at Surprise Corner, where the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel seemed to rise straight out of a storybook. And driving along Tunnel Mountain Drive, we got the chance to see the Hoodoos up close and even spot some local wildlife. 

Those little moments really made us feel like we were discovering the Rockies for the very first time, even though we’ve been to this area many times before. 

What we loved most was how relaxed the day felt—no big crowds, no strict timelines, just a personalized adventure through Canada’s first national park. It’s the kind of experience you just can’t get on a big tour bus!

15. Tune in at Studio Bell

A visit to Studio Bell is a must-see for any music lover! Home of the National Music Center, this hands-on museum displays exhibits of Canadian music history, antique instruments, and regularly scheduled live music. 

The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday through Monday. If you want to get more out of your visit, you can also add one of two tour options—though the “backstage pass” is the one we’d recommend for the most behind-the-scenes experience.

Along with public access, you’ll get to see the Rolling Stones mobile studio where multiple records were recorded! The tour is guided by a National Music Center educator, and you get an incredible, in-depth education on the history and evolution of musical technology. 

Whether you’re an experienced musician or just a music admirer, you’ll enjoy exploring the depths of this beautiful museum.

Where to Stay in Calgary, Alberta

Calgary is a large city, so there are plenty of places to stay. The trick is to pick a hotel with a great location, depending on the activities you plan on doing. Most of these activities are in the downtown area, and if these hotels are still available, they will be your best options!

Fairmont Palliser – $$$

For the most luxurious stay in Calgary, check into the Fairmont Palliser! Part of the iconic Fairmont franchise, this upscale hotel is situated in the heart of downtown. You can enjoy the on-site restaurants, spa, and indoor pool and hot tub – perfect for those cold winter days!

The rooms are modern and fit with high-end furnishings, whether you book a double room or a king suite. They also offer city or courtyard views, so you can relax and take in the views from the comfort of your room.

Prices start around $400 CAD per night and can be booked here on Booking.com.

Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire – $$

For luxury travelers, check out the Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire. This hotel overlooks the river valley and comes with an indoor pool (with waterslide), hot tub, fitness center, hair salon, and gift shop. Obviously, the rooms are extremely beautiful and the views are spectacular, plus it’s located very close to downtown!

Rooms start around $260 CAD and can be booked on Booking.com.

Coast Calgary Downtown Hotel and Suites – $

A fantastic mid-range budget option is the Coast Calgary Downtown Hotel and Suites. The suites have a full kitchen, perfect for homemade meals, which can save you a lot of money. The rooms are beautiful, breakfast is included, and they even have a fitness center. On top of that, the hotel’s location is ideal, in the middle of downtown.

A night’s stay here starts at $175 CAD and can be booked on Booking.com.

For more options, see all of Calgary’s hotels here!

Related Read: For a more in-depth look at our favorite areas to stay in the city, check out our complete Calgary hotel guide!

Renting a Car in Alberta

If you’re arriving in Alberta via plane then I can’t recommend getting a rental car enough! Canada is a large country and traveling between cities and even just getting out to some of the best places to visit in Alberta requires transport. Although you can use public transport, on some occasions, it means your trip will not only require more time but more planning.

Renting a car will definitely make exploring all of the fun things to see and do in Alberta easier.

Car rental in Canada isn’t super cheap, but it isn’t overly expensive either, especially if you get a budget car. The cheapest car with pickup and drop-off in different locations is around $100 CAD per day. The price does vary though depending on the time of year and the type of car that you rent. For car rentals, I use the website DiscoverCars.com. It’s a search engine with lots of deals with good customer service. In fact, I’ve used them all over the world including in Chile, New Zealand, and Australia. Read our honest review of Discover Cars here for more details!

Check availability and prices on Discover Cars here!

Another popular option is to rent a campervan or motorhome (only for the brave in winter). Using Motorhome Republic you can search hundreds of deals across multiple companies to pick a great vehicle and the cheapest price. Having a motorhome is a stunning way to see Canada, and you can often camp for free or very cheap in the most beautiful places imaginable! Check out my review of Motorhome Republic here for tips before you book.

And if you’re planning to camp but don’t want to splurge on a huge RV, we highly recommend Smile Campervans. Based in Calgary, this local company provides compact campervans fully equipped with everything you need for a comfortable and affordable road trip adventure!

In fact, Smile Campervans has actually given us a special discount code for our readers! Use the code DESTINATIONLESSTRAVEL at checkout to get 5% off your campervan rental! Click here to browse availability, prices, and book with our discount code!

Thanks for reading!

Calgary is an underrated city, in my opinion! There is so much to do here, whether you’re exploring the city, enjoying a tasty restaurant, or taking one of the many day trips that are so convenient from here. We always love visiting Calgary, and I know you will too!

Before you go, check out our other Canada blogs! As a Canadian myself, we’ve traveled all over this beautiful country and love sharing our favorite places and experiences. Here are a few more blogs that can help you plan your next adventure – cheers!

8 BEST Alberta Road Trip Itineraries (From 1 Day to 14 Days)

5 BEST Moraine Lake Tours from Calgary to See All the Highlights!

Where to Stay in Banff, Canada: 4 Best Areas & Hotels