With cultural hotspots, delicious food, and picturesque views, Calgary is one of the hidden gastronomic gems in Canada. Nestled in the province of Alberta, it stands as one of Canada’s multicultural cities. Calgary is well-known for its laid-back and relaxing vibes. If you are planning to visit Calgary and wondering what to do in Calgary, there are a lot of things you can add to your list. The vibrant Canadian city has plenty of attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options, which you can include in your itinerary.
Calgary Tower
One of the best things you can do in this enchanting city is to visit one of its most popular sights – Calgary Tower, once known as Husky Tower! Spiralling upwards over 600 feet, the free-standing viewing tower offers breathtaking scenery and outstanding views for photographs. The revolving bar and the restaurant at the top are ideal for soaking in and enjoying the city’s surroundings. Additionally, for those with an adventurous spirit, there is a glass floor extension on a 360-degree observation deck. If you want to make the most of the city’s views, the Calgary Tower is awaiting you.
Pro tip: If you book online for General Admission you save $3 on your ticket price! $19 online or $22 at the gate.
Big Rock Brewery
Much like British Columbia, Alberta also has an incredible craft brewery scene. Follow the Alberta Ale Trail for breweries excelling with the best eats: Big Rock Brewery has become one of the most well-known Calgary breweries. It is located on the corner of 54 Street and 76th Avenue in Southeast Calgary. The traditional brewery was founded in the late 90s and offers amazing factory tours and tasting sessions. These sessions are very amusing and last for around 90 minutes. Meanwhile, you can enjoy the amazing local selection of drinks and food to get the swing of the tour.
Calgary Stampede
Calgary never fails to live up to its nickname “Cowtown,” with the world’s largest outdoor event – the Calgary Stampede. This unique event is held annually and lasts 10 days each July. Moreover, the gathering is an integral part of the city’s cultural identity and a must-see attraction. Explore the adrenaline-filled spectacle of competitions, wagon races, live concerts, lots of entertainment and the incredible food stalls serving delicious and unusual fare.
Calgary Farmer’s Market South
If you wish to sample an array of local dishes, the farmer’s market is the best place to do so. One thing is for sure: set up more like a food hall, you can’t leave this market hungry. In true Canadian fashion, you can get a wide range of delicious ethnic foods from Greek & Turkish to Alberta raised beef and so much more! In addition to the savoury food, there are fresh and local drinks and artisan apparel from local vendors. Exploring the market gives you the best opportunity to explore the culinary side of this gastronomic city.
City & Country Winery & Wine Bar
Serving up their wines made from Canadian grapes originating from the Okanagan, BC and Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario you can get a taste of uniquely made Canadian wines in the prairies. You can also sample wines from around the world alongside a charcuterie in this tasting room situated in the heart of Calgary.
River Cafe
What better way to relax and unwind your mind than with the mind-boggling views of River Cafe? The amazing cafe rests beside a lagoon in the heart of Prince Island Park. Experience Canadian dine dining with foraged local and seasonal ingredients. This is a must not miss in the heart of Calgary! And if you can’t score a reservation, pre-order a picnic to enjoy riverside.
Salt & Brick
If you still haven’t found the answer to what to do in Calgary? Head on to explore the amazing wines and delicious dishes at Salt & Brick. The OG is in my home town of Kelowna and is new to the YLG scene yet is now one of the most popular Calgary restaurants! Their menu, albeit small, is always changing from week to week and features locally sourced ingredients and pairs with a premium Canadian wine selection.
Citizen Brewing Company
After all these meals you are feeling hungry, we’ve got you covered. Located near the community of Tuxedo, Citizen Brewing Company is one of the most popular Calgary breweries. However, it is a place worth visiting only with an empty stomach. The wide variety of beers here is palatable for any beer enthusiast and perfectly matches the restaurant food. Besides the great culinary experience, you will get captivating entertainment with live music here.
Bridgette Bar
The rustic chic bar is chef-driven and elevates comfort food with equal emphasis on veggie food and meat offerings. One of the primary reasons for its popularity is its wines. A thoughtful wine list includes by-the-glass pours from classic regions such as Bordeaux, Priorat, and Xarello from Catalonia. Additionally, you can come by between 2 and 5 pm to enjoy snacks, dining, and drinks.
Calgary Zoo
The Calgary Zoo is not just one of the most popular Canadian zoos but also enjoys an International reputation for executing conservation initiatives. The Calgary Zoo has a diverse collection of more than 800 animals representing different regions of Africa, Asia, North America, and tropical regions. Located near Memorial Drive it provides picturesque settings for exploration to wildlife enthusiasts and animal lovers.
With this, I conclude some of the top places you can explore and enjoy during your visit to Calgary. Ultimately, with so many things on the list, I am sure you will likely be making a return trip to cover the attractions. So, the next time this question pops up as to what to do in Calgary, I am sure you will have an answer.
So what are you waiting for? Get a jump start on visiting Calgary, and have the trip of a lifetime! Explore the gastronomic restaurants, the breathtaking sites, and the beautiful nature.
Lastly, I hope my article will help you make the most of your trip. Also, don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter substack and follow us on YouTube!
