Calgary Adventure: 3 Days of Fun and Exploration

Experience Western hospitality in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.

22 April 2023

Visiting Calgary as a tourist means experiencing the vibrant energy of Western Canada. You can explore stunning outdoor scenery in Banff National Park or relax downtown with endless dining and entertainment options. Hockey lovers can catch a Calgary Flames game at the Saddledome while enjoying the lively atmosphere of a Canadian hockey game.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Welcome to Calgary, eh!

  • Accommodation: Stay at the funky and colorful Hotel Arts, located in the trendy Beltline neighborhood.
  • 1. Start the day off with a hearty breakfast at OEB, known for their creative takes on classic breakfast dishes, like Eggs Benedict with lobster.
  • 2. Visit the Glenbow Museum, home to fascinating exhibitions about Western Canada's history, Indigenous culture, and contemporary art.
  • 3. Stroll through Prince's Island Park, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, with plenty of walking trails, gardens, and picnic areas.
  • 4. Enjoy dinner at Charbar, an Argentine-inspired restaurant with stunning views of the Bow River and a menu packed with grilled meats, seafood, and creative cocktails.
  • 5. Cap off the night with a show at the iconic Calgary Stampede, an all-year-round event center with live music, rodeos, and exhibitions showcasing Alberta's cowboy culture.
Day 2

Explore Calgary's hip neighborhoods

  • 1. Start the morning with a cup of coffee and a delicious pastry at Rosso Coffee Roasters, one of Calgary's local coffeehouses.
  • 2. Visit the Calgary Tower, the city's tallest building, and take in the breathtaking views of the Rockies and downtown Calgary.
  • 3. Venture to Kensington, a bohemian neighborhood full of boutiques, artisanal shops, and charming cafes.
  • 4. Head to Inglewood, a hipster hotspot with vintage shops, record stores, and quirky art galleries.
  • 5. Indulge in a meal at Anju, a Korean-inspired restaurant with a contemporary twist on traditional plates, in the heart of downtown Calgary.
Day 3

Discover the great outdoors

  • 1. Fuel up for the day with a breakfast at Monki Bistro, an eclectic cafe featuring internationally inspired dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
  • 2. Visit Calgary Zoo, home to over 1,000 animals, including pandas, gorillas, and penguins.
  • 3. Take a scenic drive to Banff National Park, just an hour and a half away from Calgary, and explore the stunning Rockies, hiking trails, and crystal-clear lakes.
  • 4. Enjoy dinner at Sky Bistro, a mountaintop restaurant with panoramic views of Banff and a menu packed with regional ingredients and flavors.
  • 5. End the night by stargazing at the Banff Gondola, a surreal experience with a sky observatory and guided tours through the Milky Way.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Calgary, Canada by plane is to fly into Calgary International Airport (YYC). There are multiple airlines that offer direct flights to YYC from various destinations around the world.

Car

To get to Calgary, Canada by car, you can take the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) if you are coming from the east or west. If you are coming from the south, you can take the Queen Elizabeth II Highway (Highway 2).

Train

There is no direct train service to Calgary, Canada. However, you can take a train to the neighboring city of Edmonton and then continue the journey by bus or car to Calgary.

Boat

There is no direct boat access to Calgary, Canada as it is a landlocked city. However, there are several rivers and lakes in the surrounding area that can be accessed by boat for recreational purposes.

Bus

The best way to get to Calgary, Canada by bus is to take a Greyhound or Red Arrow bus. These buses provide service to Calgary from various cities across Canada and the United States.

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A trip to Calgary, Canada as a tourist offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, modern city amenities, and friendly western hospitality. Visitors can explore the rugged beauty of Banff National Park, enjoy world-class dining and shopping in downtown Calgary, and experience the vibrant arts and cultural scene. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping activities or peaceful relaxation, Calgary is an exciting destination that never disappoints.

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