Check out these 12 Calgary Highlights!
In no recommended order (in fact, if you did them in this order, things would likely get messy).
1. Calgary Stampede
Held annually in July, this rodeo extravaganza celebrates the spirit of the Wild West and over 1 million people are in attendance every year. If you wanna find a place to sleep in Calgary during this time, you better book now! Seriously! Stop reading this and make a reservation!
2. Calgary Tower
To kick off your visit to Calgary, head up to the observation deck. You will be treated to a spectacular panoramic view of the majestic Rocky Mountains, the foothills and the rolling prairies. Stand on the glass floor for a birds-eye view of the city streets below.You can also hold onto your ticket and return for a sunset view of the city.
3. Canada Olympic Park
Canada Olympic Park (COP) was the venue for ski jumping, bobsleigh, and luge at the 1988 Winter Olympic Games and continues to be one of the world's finest recreation and winter sport facilities. With activities ranging from public bobsleigh rides to North America's fastest zipline, COP is sure to be a source of adrenaline and excitement.
4. Calgary Flames hockey game
The Flames are Calgary's NHL team and they play at the Saddledome, an easy 15 minute walk from the hostel. Discount tickets can be hard to find (in fact tickets of any sort can often be hard to come by) but some may be available if purchased in advance from the hostel.
5. Calgary Zoo
This is a year-round attraction and is home to more than 1,000 animals from around the world. Trek through a rainforest, safari over the Savannah to watch the hippos swim, or climb the Canadian Wilds for a grizzly bear encounter. Even better, HI members receive 50% off the admission price!
6. 17th Avenue
A great neighbourhood if you're searching for that distinctive dining experience. 17th Ave also boasts a diverse and exciting nightlife with all venues within walking distance of one another. You'll find lots of live music as well as great cocktail bars, pubs and coffee shops.
7. Fort Calgary
Step back in time to 1875 and discover how the hopes and dreams of the North West Mounted Police combined with those of early Calgary citizens to shape the city. Fort Calgary is open year-round and is less than a 10 minute walk from the hostel.
8. Eau Claire Market
A favourite place to stroll, shop and savour. The market is home to "one of a kind" shops and galleries, a movie theatre, food stalls and several restaurants.
9. Prince's Island Park
Running right along the Bow River, this park is also host to some great open air festivals. Pick up some lunch items at nearby Eau Claire Market and enjoy a picnic lunch in the park!
10. Inglewood
Take a walk to Calgary's oldest and most unique neighbourhood, Inglewood. It's a vibrant and eclectic district with more than 100 shops, boutiques and eateries attracting locals and tourists alike.
11. Kensington
Visit Calgary's "village in the city" where people live, work, shop, and play. Over 250 unique shops/restaurants/services to browse where the streets are pedestrian-friendly. Or, spend the day enjoying the scenery and relaxing on the benches in the courtyards!
12. Stephen Avenue
Come see Calgary's historical Stephen Avenue Walk in the heart of downtown Calgary. Stephen Avenue features live performances, buskers, music, festivals, and artists. There are also nine major shopping centres/department stores, and some of Calgary's finest restaurants, pubs, cafés, and bars!