Things to do in Calgary
There are so many different and fun things to do in Calgary throughout all four seasons – visitors will never be bored in Cowtown.
Here are some of the best things to do!
Visit the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo
Visit the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo
The Wilder Institute / Calgary Zoo is one of the best things to do in town. It’s located right near downtown and is a great place to spend a day with the whole family. The zoo is home to nearly 1,000 creatures across 119 species, and its mission is to become Canada’s leader in wildlife conservation.
Heritage Park Historical Village
Heritage Park Historical Village
Located just 15 minutes away from downtown Calgary next to the Glenmore Reservoir, Heritage Park Historical Village is a fun spot to spend a day and is one of the top Calgary museums. The park is open all year round and visitors will see and feel the past come to life through the authentic and interactive exhibits. There are self-guided walking tours to give visitors the opportunity to learn about the history of Calgary and Western Canada. Guests will love the fully operational steam engine train (including rides), horse-drawn wagon rides, different daily activities, and the Gasoline Alley Museum featuring some vintage cars.
Fort Calgary
Fort Calgary
Fort Calgary is situated at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow Rivers and visitors will learn of the complex story it has to tell. The Fort has always been a historical and cultural gathering place. The Mounties built Fort Calgary in 1875 and laid the foundations for what the city is today. Visitors can experience the interpretive centre, roam around the 40-acre park and step back in time by visiting the Hunt House and Métis cabin.
TELUS Spark
TELUS Spark
The TELUS Spark science center is one of Calgary’s places for the curious. It has fun things to do for kids and adults alike. Everyone can embrace their desire for exploration and discovery in science, technology, math, and art. Fun fact: In 2018, it set a Guinness World Record for the largest functioning Rubik’s Cube!
Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame
Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame
Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame is Canada’s largest and only national museum for sport. It’s one of the top Calgary attractions located in Canada Olympic Park at the west end of the city. Their focus is on the “recognition, education, curation and thought leadership with an emphasis on educating youth on the values, history, and culture of sport in Canada”. There have been close to 700 inductees since its inception in 1955 and it’s the highest sporting honour awarded to Canada’s top athletes.
Calgary Tower
Calgary Tower
One of the top Calgary attractions is viewing the city from the Calgary Tower, a 190.8-metre free-standing observation tower. Have a bite to eat in the Sky 360 Restaurant and Lounge, and then stand on the Observation Deck to see a panoramic view (not recommended if you are afraid of heights!). Be sure afterward to browse the gift shop which features unique Calgary Tower memorabilia.
Glenbow Museum
Glenbow Museum
There’s always something to see at the Glenbow Museum and is one of the best things to do in Calgary. Learn about the history of Alberta, explore the West African collection, and check out the rotating exhibit that always proves to be popular! The Glenbow Museum always has an eye for great artists.