Calgary, the largest city in Alberta, is a dynamic metropolis that offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern amenities. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or a culture buff, Calgary has something to offer everyone. And I have to say that this having been my first trip to Canada, only confirmed what I thoughts. Read until the end to find out what!
Read more: CALGARY: Unveiling the Hidden Gems of Canada’s Most Underrated City
Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities
Nestled at the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, Calgary is a gateway to some of the most stunning landscapes in North America. The city is just a short drive from Banff National Park, where you can explore majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. In the winter, the nearby slopes offer world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities.
Within the city, you can enjoy numerous parks and green spaces. Prince’s Island Park, located in the heart of downtown, is a popular spot for picnics, festivals, and outdoor concerts. The Bow River pathway system offers miles of scenic trails for walking, running, and cycling.
Cultural Attractions
Calgary boasts a vibrant cultural scene with a variety of museums, galleries, and theaters. The Glenbow Museum is a must-visit, offering extensive exhibits on the history and culture of Western Canada. For art lovers, the Contemporary Calgary gallery showcases modern and contemporary art from local and international artists.
The city is also famous for the Calgary Stampede, an annual rodeo, exhibition, and festival held every July. Known as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,” the Stampede attracts visitors from around the world with its thrilling rodeo events, concerts, and midway attractions.
Culinary Delights
Calgary’s food scene is diverse and exciting, with a wide range of dining options to suit every palate. From gourmet restaurants to food trucks, the city offers a culinary adventure. Be sure to visit Stephen Avenue Walk, a bustling street lined with restaurants, cafes, and bars. For a unique dining experience, try one of Calgary’s many farm-to-table restaurants that highlight local ingredients.
Family-Friendly Activities
Families will find plenty to do in Calgary. The Calgary Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals and features a botanical garden and prehistoric park. The TELUS Spark Science Centre offers interactive exhibits and educational programs that are fun for all ages.
Shopping and Entertainment
For shopping enthusiasts, The CORE Shopping Centre in downtown Calgary offers a mix of high-end retailers and unique boutiques. The city also has a lively nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues.
Calgary is a city that seamlessly blends urban sophistication with natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring its scenic parks, indulging in its culinary delights, or immersing yourself in its cultural offerings, Calgary promises an unforgettable experience. So pack your bags and get ready to discover all that this vibrant city has to offer!
Day 1: Arrival and Shopping Extravaganza
Landing in Calgary, the first thing that strikes you is the blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. After checking into your cozy downtown hotel, it’s time to hit the shops. Start your shopping spree at CF Chinook Centre, one of Calgary’s largest malls. Here, you’ll find a mix of high-end brands and local boutiques. Don’t miss Holt Renfrew for luxury items and The Body Shop for some great Canadian skincare products.
For a more unique shopping experience, head to CORE Shopping Centre. This downtown gem is home to Shop MADE, a store dedicated to local handmade goods, including skincare products from Canadian brands. After a day of shopping, unwind with a cup of coffee at Analog Coffee on 17th Avenue, known for its rich brews and cozy atmosphere.
Day 2: Nature and Serenity
Start your day with a visit to Prince’s Island Park, a beautiful urban park perfect for a morning stroll or a picnic. The park offers stunning views of the Bow River and is a great spot to relax and enjoy nature. For lunch, head to River Café, located within the park, offering delicious farm-to-table cuisine.
In the afternoon, explore the Calgary Zoo. It’s not just for kids; the zoo’s botanical gardens and conservatory are a treat for nature lovers. End your day with a visit to Peace Bridge, an architectural marvel that offers breathtaking views of the city skyline.
Day 3: Coffee, Culture, and More Shopping
Begin your day with a visit to Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters in the Simmons Building. Their coffee is a local favorite, and the ambiance is perfect for a relaxed morning. After your caffeine fix, head to the Glenbow Museum to immerse yourself in Canadian art and history.
For lunch, try Charbar, also located in the Simmons Building, known for its delicious Argentine-inspired dishes. In the afternoon, explore Stephen Avenue Walk, a pedestrian mall lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. Don’t miss Lukes Drug Mart, a quirky store that offers a mix of skincare products, records, and even ice cream.
Now if you are hoping to get some of the latest fashion in Calgary, then you’ve totally missed the mark. Canadians aren’t exactly know for fashion. They’re also not particularly known for their makeup or skin care, BUT I can say I made a wonderful discovery. I was able to snag a couple of products from La Roche Pose that aren’t stocked in the U.S. and a new brand to me called Uriage. Now if you are a fan of rich humectant moisturizers like Embryolisse, then you will absolutely love Uriage’s Bariéderm Repairing Cica-Cream. It is absolutely incredible and so affordable. I actually repurchased a couple of tubes on Amazon and plan on looking into some of their other skin care products when I run out of the skin care I’m currently am using.
Day 4: Day Trip to Banff
No trip to Calgary is complete without a day trip to Banff National Park. Just a short drive away, Banff offers stunning mountain views, hiking trails, and hot springs. Start your day early to make the most of it. Visit Lake Louise for its iconic turquoise waters and take a hike around the lake.
For lunch, stop by The Bison Restaurant in Banff town, known for its locally sourced ingredients and cozy atmosphere. After lunch, explore the town’s charming shops and galleries. Before heading back to Calgary, relax at the Banff Upper Hot Springs.
I honestly can say that without a shadow of a doubt, Canadians really are as nice as everyone says they are! And that Calgary is somewhat underrated as a place to travel. Instead, Calgary offers a wealth of unique experiences and attractions that often fly under the radar. Full of hidden gems like charming small towns, scenic viewpoints, and delightful local eateries, whether you’re into nature, history, or just exploring new places, Calgary has plenty to offer!