Things to do in Calgary: Based on NeemTime research from most popular to just popular.
Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo, Calgary
Overview: The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is a renowned wildlife park that offers visitors an immersive experience with diverse animal exhibits and conservation efforts.
History: Founded in 1929, the zoo has grown from a small collection of animals into a leader in animal care, education, and research.
Since When: The zoo has been operating since its establishment in 1929.
Review: Visitors praise the zoo for its engaging exhibits and family-friendly atmosphere, although some note that it can be crowded during peak seasons.
When to Go: The best time to visit is in spring and summer when the animals are most active and the gardens are in bloom.
How to Go: Located in downtown Calgary, it is easily accessible by public transit or car, with on-site parking available.
What to Do: Explore the various animal habitats, enjoy educational programs, and participate in special events and exhibitions.
Free or Paid: Admission is paid, with discounts available for children and seniors.
Calgary Stampede, Calgary
Overview: The Calgary Stampede is a world-famous annual rodeo and exhibition, celebrating Western culture with thrilling events and entertainment.
History: Established in 1912, the Stampede has grown from a small agricultural fair into one of the largest rodeos in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year.
Since When: The Calgary Stampede has been held annually since 1912.
Review: Visitors rave about the lively atmosphere, diverse entertainment options, and delicious food, making it a must-visit summer event in Calgary.
When to Go: The Stampede takes place every July, typically lasting for ten days.
How to Go: Located at Stampede Park, it is accessible by public transit or car, with ample parking available nearby.
What to Do: Watch rodeo events, enjoy live music and performances, and explore the exhibition booths and food vendors.
Free or Paid: Admission is paid, with various ticket options available for different events.
Prince’s Island Park, Calgary
Overview: Prince’s Island Park is a picturesque urban park located on an island in the Bow River, offering a serene escape with walking trails and picnic areas.
History: The park was established in the 1970s and named after the Prince family, who were early settlers in the area.
Since When: Prince’s Island Park has been a public park since its development in the 1970s.
Review: Visitors enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and scenic views, though some find it can become busy during summer weekends.
When to Go: The best time to visit is during the warmer months, from late spring to early fall, for outdoor activities.
How to Go: Accessible by public transit, bike, or car, with parking available nearby.
What to Do: Walk or cycle along the trails, enjoy picnics, and attend various events and festivals held in the park.
Free or Paid: Admission to the park is free.
Calgary Tower, Calgary
Overview: The Calgary Tower is an iconic landmark that offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains from its observation deck.
History: Opened in 1968, the tower was built to celebrate Canada’s centennial and has since become a symbol of Calgary.
Since When: The Calgary Tower has been welcoming visitors since its opening in 1968.
Review: Visitors appreciate the breathtaking views and informative displays, although some find the ticket price a bit steep.
When to Go: The tower is open year-round, with sunset hours being particularly popular for stunning views.
How to Go: Located in downtown Calgary, it is easily accessible by public transit or car, with parking options nearby.
What to Do: Take in the views from the observation deck, dine at the revolving restaurant, and explore the gift shop.
Free or Paid: Admission is paid, with different ticket options available for adults and children.
Heritage Park, Calgary
Overview: Heritage Park Historical Village is a living history museum that showcases Alberta’s history through interactive exhibits and heritage buildings.
History: Established in 1964, the park has grown to include over 180 exhibits, recreating life in Western Canada from the 1860s to the 1950s.
Since When: Heritage Park has been operational since 1964.
Review: Visitors enjoy the immersive experience and engaging staff, though some note that the park can be overwhelming due to its size.
When to Go: The best time to visit is during the summer months when all attractions and rides are operational.
How to Go: Located just outside downtown Calgary, it is accessible by car, with free parking available on-site.
What to Do: Explore historical buildings, participate in interactive exhibits, and enjoy rides and demonstrations throughout the park.
Free or Paid: Admission is paid, with discounts available for children, students, and seniors.
Bowness Park, Calgary
Overview: Bowness Park is a scenic urban park along the Bow River, offering a variety of recreational activities and beautiful natural landscapes.
History: Established in 1908, the park has been a beloved gathering place for Calgarians and visitors alike for over a century.
Since When: Bowness Park has been in operation since its establishment in 1908.
Review: Visitors appreciate the park’s tranquil atmosphere, walking paths, and picnic areas, although it can get crowded on weekends.
When to Go: The best time to visit is during the warmer months from late spring to early fall for outdoor activities and events.
How to Go: The park is accessible by public transit, car, or bike, with parking available on-site.
What to Do: Enjoy walking or cycling along the trails, picnicking by the river, or renting paddle boats during the summer.
Free or Paid: Admission to Bowness Park is free.
TELUS Spark Science Centre, Calgary
Overview: TELUS Spark Science Centre is an interactive science museum designed to engage visitors of all ages through hands-on exhibits and activities.
History: Opened in 2011, TELUS Spark is Calgary’s first purpose-built science center and is committed to fostering a love for science and technology.
Since When: The center has been operational since its opening in 2011.
Review: Visitors commend the diverse range of exhibits and the engaging programs for children, though some suggest the admission price is a bit high.
When to Go: The best time to visit is during weekdays or outside of school holidays to avoid crowds.
How to Go: Located near downtown Calgary, it is accessible by public transit, bike, or car, with parking available nearby.
What to Do: Explore interactive exhibits, watch live science demonstrations, and enjoy the outdoor park and play area.
Free or Paid: Admission is paid, with discounts for students, seniors, and families.
Calaway Park, Calgary
Overview: Calaway Park is Western Canada’s largest amusement park, featuring rides, games, and live entertainment suitable for all ages.
History: Since opening in 1979, the park has become a beloved summer destination for families in Calgary and beyond.
Since When: Calaway Park has been entertaining visitors since its opening in 1979.
Review: Families enjoy the variety of rides and attractions, although some visitors note that lines can be long during peak season.
When to Go: The park operates from late spring to early fall, with the summer months being the most popular time to visit.
How to Go: Located just outside Calgary, it is accessible by car, with free parking available on-site.
What to Do: Enjoy a range of rides, games, and live shows, as well as dining options throughout the park.
Free or Paid: Admission is paid, with various ticket options available for individuals and families.
Calgary Farmers’ Market South, Calgary
Overview: Calgary Farmers’ Market South is a vibrant marketplace featuring local vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal products, and unique crafts.
History: Established in 2004, the market has become a staple for locals seeking fresh food and community engagement.
Since When: The market has been in operation since 2004.
Review: Visitors love the variety of local products and the friendly atmosphere, though some note that it can be busy on weekends.
When to Go: The market is open year-round, but the best time to visit is on weekends when the vendor selection is at its peak.
How to Go: Located in the south part of Calgary, it is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available, as well as public transit options.
What to Do: Browse the stalls for fresh produce, enjoy food tastings, and attend special events throughout the year.
Free or Paid: Admission to the market is free.
Fish Creek Provincial Park, Calgary
Overview: Fish Creek Provincial Park is one of the largest urban parks in Canada, featuring stunning landscapes, trails, and abundant wildlife.
History: Established in 1975, the park was created to preserve the natural landscape along Fish Creek and provide recreational opportunities for residents.
Since When: Fish Creek Provincial Park has been a protected area since its establishment in 1975.
Review: Visitors appreciate the extensive trail system and beautiful scenery, although some find it challenging to navigate without a map.
When to Go: The best time to visit is during spring and summer for hiking, biking, and picnicking.
How to Go: The park is accessible by car, with multiple entrances and parking areas, and is also reachable by public transit.
What to Do: Explore the many trails, enjoy picnicking, birdwatching, and participate in educational programs offered by the park.
Free or Paid: Admission to Fish Creek Provincial Park is free.
Peace Bridge, Calgary
Overview: The Peace Bridge is a stunning pedestrian bridge that spans the Bow River, known for its unique architectural design and vibrant red color.
History: Completed in 2012, the bridge was designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava to enhance pedestrian connectivity in the downtown area.
Since When: The Peace Bridge has been open to the public since its completion in 2012.
Review: Visitors praise the bridge for its striking design and picturesque views, although some criticize its construction cost.
When to Go: The bridge can be enjoyed year-round, with spring and summer being particularly popular times for leisurely strolls.
How to Go: Located near downtown Calgary, the bridge is easily accessible on foot or by bicycle, with nearby parking options.
What to Do: Walk or cycle across the bridge, take photos, and enjoy views of the river and surrounding cityscape.
Free or Paid: Access to the Peace Bridge is free.
Nose Hill Park, Calgary
Overview: Nose Hill Park is a vast urban park offering expansive views of Calgary and a variety of outdoor activities amidst natural landscapes.
History: Established in 1980, it was created to preserve natural grasslands and provide recreational opportunities for the city’s residents.
Since When: Nose Hill Park has been a designated park since 1980.
Review: Visitors appreciate the park’s extensive trails and beautiful vistas, though some find it difficult to navigate due to its size.
When to Go: The best time to visit is in spring and summer for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
How to Go: Accessible by car and public transit, the park has several parking lots and trailheads.
What to Do: Explore the many trails, enjoy picnicking, and observe the local wildlife and flora.
Free or Paid: Admission to Nose Hill Park is free.
Olympic Plaza, Calgary
Overview: Olympic Plaza is a public space in downtown Calgary that features a reflecting pool, outdoor art, and a backdrop of the city’s skyline.
History: Built for the 1988 Winter Olympics, the plaza was created to celebrate the games and has since become a popular gathering place.
Since When: Olympic Plaza has been open to the public since its completion in 1988.
Review: Visitors enjoy the plaza’s beautiful setting and accessibility, though some mention that it can get busy during events.
When to Go: The plaza is best enjoyed year-round, with special events taking place during summer and winter.
How to Go: Located in downtown Calgary, it is easily accessible by foot, bike, or public transit, with nearby parking options.
What to Do: Relax by the water, attend public events, and enjoy the surrounding art installations.
Free or Paid: Access to Olympic Plaza is free.
The Calgary Zoo, Calgary
Overview: The Calgary Zoo is a large and well-maintained zoological park that is home to a diverse array of animal species from around the world.
History: Established in 1929, the zoo has been a center for conservation and education for nearly a century.
Since When: The Calgary Zoo has been operating since its opening in 1929.
Review: Visitors rave about the variety of exhibits and educational programs, though some express concerns about the size of animal enclosures.
When to Go: The zoo is best visited in the spring and summer when many animals are more active and outdoor exhibits are open.
How to Go: Located near downtown Calgary, it is accessible by car, public transit, and has on-site parking available.
What to Do: Explore animal exhibits, participate in educational talks, and enjoy the botanical gardens within the zoo.
Free or Paid: Admission to the Calgary Zoo is paid, with discounts available for children, seniors, and families.
WinSport, Calgary
Overview: WinSport is a multi-sport complex that offers year-round activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and summer sports.
History: Originally built for the 1988 Winter Olympics, WinSport has evolved into a premier sports and recreation destination in Calgary.
Since When: WinSport has been operating since its establishment for the Olympics in 1988.
Review: Visitors appreciate the variety of activities and facilities, although some find prices for activities can be high.
When to Go: The best time to visit depends on the activity; winter is great for skiing, while summer offers biking and other outdoor sports.
How to Go: Located near Canada Olympic Park, it is accessible by car, with ample parking, and public transit options available.
What to Do: Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and various other sports and fitness activities.
Free or Paid: Admission to certain areas is free, but activities generally require a paid admission.
Village Square Leisure Centre, Calgary
Overview: Village Square Leisure Centre is a community recreation facility featuring a pool, fitness center, and various sports facilities.
History: Opened in 1985, the center was designed to provide recreational and fitness opportunities for residents of Calgary.
Since When: The Village Square Leisure Centre has been operational since 1985.
Review: Visitors appreciate the variety of activities and facilities available, though some mention that it can get crowded during peak hours.
When to Go: The center is best visited during weekdays for quieter access, although weekend activities are popular as well.
How to Go: Located in the northeast quadrant of Calgary, the center is accessible by car and public transit, with on-site parking available.
What to Do: Enjoy swimming, fitness classes, sports activities, and family-friendly events throughout the year.
Free or Paid: Admission is paid, with discounts available for children, seniors, and families.
Prairie Winds Park, Calgary
Overview: Prairie Winds Park is a spacious urban park offering a variety of recreational amenities, including playgrounds and sports fields.
History: Established in the early 2000s, the park was designed to provide a green space for outdoor activities in the community.
Since When: Prairie Winds Park has been open to the public since the early 2000s.
Review: Visitors enjoy the park’s well-maintained facilities and scenic walking paths, although some wish for more shaded areas.
When to Go: Spring and summer are the best times to visit for outdoor activities and events.
How to Go: The park is easily accessible by car and public transit, with parking available nearby.
What to Do: Participate in sports, picnic, play at the playgrounds, or stroll through the walking paths.
Free or Paid: Access to Prairie Winds Park is free.
Heritage Park Historical Village, Calgary
Overview: Heritage Park Historical Village is Canada’s largest living history museum, showcasing life in Western Canada from the 1860s to the 1950s.
History: Established in 1964, the park was created to preserve and present the history and heritage of the region.
Since When: Heritage Park has been operating as a historical attraction since 1964.
Review: Visitors love the interactive exhibits and engaging staff, although some mention the ticket prices can be steep.
When to Go: The best time to visit is during the summer months when the park hosts various events and activities.
How to Go: Located near Glenmore Trail, it is accessible by car with ample parking and by public transit.
What to Do: Explore historical buildings, enjoy rides on vintage trains, and participate in hands-on demonstrations and activities.
Free or Paid: Admission to Heritage Park is paid, with discounts for children, students, and seniors.
Southland Leisure Centre, Calgary
Overview: Southland Leisure Centre is a comprehensive recreation facility featuring pools, fitness areas, and indoor sports courts.
History: Opened in 1983, the center was developed to cater to the growing recreational needs of Calgary’s residents.
Since When: Southland Leisure Centre has been serving the community since 1983.
Review: Visitors appreciate the extensive facilities and friendly staff, though some note that it can become busy during family swim times.
When to Go: Weekdays are ideal for quieter visits, while weekends attract more families.
How to Go: Located in the southwest quadrant of Calgary, the center is accessible by car and public transit, with available parking.
What to Do: Enjoy swimming, fitness classes, and a variety of recreational programs throughout the year.
Free or Paid: Admission is paid, with discounted rates for children, seniors, and families.
Devonian Gardens, Calgary
Overview: Devonian Gardens is an indoor botanical garden located within the CORE Shopping Centre, featuring lush plant life and serene water features.
History: Opened in 1977, the gardens were designed to bring a slice of nature to downtown Calgary.
Since When: Devonian Gardens has been a popular indoor attraction since 1977.
Review: Visitors love the tranquil environment and beautiful greenery, although some wish for more seating areas.
When to Go: The gardens can be enjoyed year-round, making it a perfect escape from Calgary’s winter.
How to Go: Located in downtown Calgary, the gardens are easily accessible by public transit and have nearby parking facilities.
What to Do: Stroll through the gardens, relax by the water features, and enjoy seasonal events and displays.
Free or Paid: Access to Devonian Gardens is free.
South Glenmore Park, Calgary
Overview: South Glenmore Park is a scenic urban park featuring a lake, extensive pathways, and recreational facilities for outdoor activities.
History: Established in the 1970s, the park was developed to enhance recreational options for Calgary’s growing population.
Since When: South Glenmore Park has been open to the public since the early 1970s.
Review: Visitors enjoy the park’s beautiful scenery and walking trails, although some mention that parking can be limited during peak times.
When to Go: Spring and summer are ideal for picnicking and enjoying water activities, while fall offers stunning foliage.
How to Go: The park is easily accessible by car, public transit, and has ample parking available.
What to Do: Engage in walking, cycling, picnicking, and boating on the lake or enjoy various sports facilities.
Free or Paid: Access to South Glenmore Park is free.
Downhill Karting by Skyline, Calgary
Overview: Downhill Karting by Skyline offers an exhilarating karting experience down a purpose-built track with stunning mountain views.
History: The attraction was launched to provide an exciting outdoor adventure option in Calgary’s vibrant entertainment landscape.
Since When: Downhill Karting by Skyline has been operational since 2017.
Review: Visitors rave about the thrilling rides and beautiful scenery, although some feel the experience could be over too quickly.
When to Go: The best time to visit is during the summer months for optimal weather conditions.
How to Go: Located in the foothills of the Rockies, it is accessible by car with free parking available on-site.
What to Do: Enjoy downhill karting, take in the views, and visit nearby attractions for a full day of fun.
Free or Paid: Admission for karting is paid, with pricing based on the number of rides.
North Glenmore Park, Calgary
Overview: North Glenmore Park is a vast green space that offers a variety of recreational activities, including sports fields, pathways, and picnic areas.
History: Developed in the late 20th century, the park was designed to serve as a community hub for outdoor enthusiasts.
Since When: North Glenmore Park has been accessible to the public since the 1980s.
Review: Many visitors appreciate the park’s spaciousness and variety of activities, though some note it can get busy during events.
When to Go: Spring and summer are popular for outdoor activities, while fall is great for enjoying the changing leaves.
How to Go: The park is conveniently located and accessible by car, with public transit options available nearby.
What to Do: Partake in walking, jogging, cycling, and organized sports, or relax with a picnic.
Free or Paid: Access to North Glenmore Park is free.
Studio Bell, Home of the National Music Centre, Calgary
Overview: Studio Bell is a dynamic cultural space dedicated to celebrating the history and evolution of music in Canada, featuring interactive exhibits and live performances.
History: Opened in 2016, the center was built to honor Canadian music and support emerging artists.
Since When: Studio Bell has welcomed visitors since its opening in 2016.
Review: Guests appreciate the innovative exhibits and engaging musical experiences, although some feel the admission price is high for a brief visit.
When to Go: The center is best visited during weekends when special events and performances are often held.
How to Go: Located in Calgary’s East Village, it is accessible by public transit and has nearby parking options.
What to Do: Explore the exhibits, participate in workshops, and attend live music events and performances.
Free or Paid: Admission is paid, with discounts available for students and seniors.
Pearce Estate Park, Calgary
Overview: Pearce Estate Park is a picturesque green space that offers trails, picnic spots, and a scenic view of the Bow River, perfect for nature lovers.
History: Established as a park in the 2000s, it was designed to preserve the natural landscape while providing recreational opportunities for visitors.
Since When: Pearce Estate Park has been open to the public since the early 2000s.
Review: Visitors enjoy the tranquil environment and beautiful river views, though some note the need for more facilities like restrooms.
When to Go: Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and wildlife viewing.
How to Go: The park is easily accessible by car and public transit, with parking available nearby.
What to Do: Enjoy walking, bird watching, picnicking, and exploring the nearby pathways along the river.
Free or Paid: Access to Pearce Estate Park is free.
Sue Higgins Park, Calgary
Overview: Sue Higgins Park is a sprawling natural area that offers walking trails, picnic spots, and access to the Bow River, perfect for nature enthusiasts and families.
History: Named after a prominent community activist, the park was developed in the early 2000s to enhance green space in Calgary.
Since When: Sue Higgins Park has been open to the public since 2005.
Review: Visitors appreciate the park’s peaceful atmosphere and extensive trails, although some mention the need for more facilities like restrooms.
When to Go: Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and wildlife watching.
How to Go: The park is accessible by car and public transit, with nearby parking available.
What to Do: Explore walking and biking trails, enjoy picnicking, and engage in birdwatching along the river.
Free or Paid: Access to Sue Higgins Park is free.
Granary Road – Park, Mini Golf & Farmer’s Market, Calgary
Overview: Granary Road is a unique destination featuring a park, mini-golf course, and a farmer’s market, making it a perfect spot for family outings.
History: Opened in 2017, the facility was designed to promote local agriculture and provide recreational opportunities for families.
Since When: Granary Road has been welcoming visitors since 2017.
Review: Families enjoy the combination of outdoor activities and fresh local produce, although some find the mini-golf prices a bit high.
When to Go: The summer months are the best time to visit, especially during the farmer’s market.
How to Go: Located south of Calgary, the venue is easily accessible by car with ample parking available on-site.
What to Do: Participate in mini-golf, shop at the farmer’s market, and enjoy the park’s walking paths and playgrounds.
Free or Paid: Access to the park is free, but activities like mini-golf and purchases at the market are paid.
Elliston Park, Calgary
Overview: Elliston Park is a community park known for its serene lake, walking trails, and beautiful picnic areas, ideal for relaxation and outdoor activities.
History: The park was established in the 1970s to provide recreational space for residents in the Calgary area.
Since When: Elliston Park has been open to the public since the late 1970s.
Review: Visitors enjoy the peaceful environment and family-friendly amenities, although some mention that the park can be busy on weekends.
When to Go: Spring and summer are the best times for picnicking, walking, and enjoying the lake.
How to Go: The park is conveniently located and accessible by car, with public transit options available nearby.
What to Do: Enjoy walking, picnicking, fishing, and observing local wildlife in the park’s natural surroundings.
Free or Paid: Access to Elliston Park is free.
Carburn Park, Calgary
Overview: Carburn Park is a scenic urban park featuring lush greenery, walking trails, and access to the Bow River, ideal for nature walks and picnics.
History: Developed in the 1970s, the park was designed to preserve the area’s natural beauty and provide recreational opportunities for residents.
Since When: Carburn Park has been accessible to the public since the 1980s.
Review: Visitors appreciate the park’s tranquil setting and variety of walking paths, although some find it challenging to navigate due to the trails’ layout.
When to Go: Spring and summer are the best seasons to visit for outdoor activities and picnicking.
How to Go: The park is easily reachable by car, with ample parking available and public transit options nearby.
What to Do: Engage in walking, cycling, birdwatching, and picnicking in the serene environment.
Free or Paid: Access to Carburn Park is free.
The Military Museums, Calgary
Overview: The Military Museums is a comprehensive facility that showcases Canada’s military history through exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs.
History: Established in 1990, the museums were created to honor and educate the public about Canada’s military contributions and heritage.
Since When: The Military Museums have been serving the public since 1990.
Review: Visitors appreciate the depth of information and engaging exhibits, though some suggest more interactive displays would enhance the experience.
When to Go: The museums are best visited during weekdays for a quieter experience, but weekends often have special events.
How to Go: Located in the southwest quadrant of Calgary, the museums are accessible by car and public transit, with parking available.
What to Do: Explore the various exhibits, attend lectures, and participate in special events related to military history.
Free or Paid: Admission to The Military Museums is paid, with discounts for students and seniors available.