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Four Fun-Filled Days in Budget-Friendly Calgary

Discover Calgary's charm without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Calgary, Canada on a limited budget would be an exciting adventure that cannot be missed. With affordable accommodations and free or low-cost activities, travelers can enjoy the beautiful trails, stunning views, and ethnic neighborhoods that define this unique city. Whether it's a visit to the iconic Calgary Tower, exploring the Heritage Park Historical Village, or taking a stroll through Fish Creek Provincial Park, there are plenty of ways to experience the charm and culture of Calgary without breaking the bank.

Travel plan

• Check in at the HI Calgary City Centre Hostel, which offers budget-friendly accommodation with shared dorms or private rooms.
• Stroll around the trendy neighborhood of Kensington, where independent boutiques and artisanal shops line the streets.
• Visit the Peace Bridge, an architectural marvel that spans the Bow River and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
• Have lunch at Village Ice Cream, known for their handmade, all-natural ice cream made with locally-sourced ingredients.
• Head to the Calgary Tower, an iconic landmark that offers panoramic views of the city from its 191-meter-high observation deck.
• End the day with dinner at Charbar, a modern Argentinian restaurant that serves delicious grilled meats and seafood.

• Go on a day trip to Banff National Park, where you can spot wildlife such as elk, deer, and bighorn sheep.
• Take a guided tour of the Banff Springs Hotel, a luxurious castle-like hotel that dates back to the early 1900s.
• Visit the Banff Park Museum, a historic building that houses a collection of taxidermy specimens and artifacts from the early days of the park.
• Have a picnic lunch by the picturesque Bow Falls, a natural waterfall that can be accessed via a short hike.
• Drive to Lake Louise, a stunning turquoise lake that is a must-see in the Canadian Rockies.
• Enjoy dinner at The Grizzly House, a quirky fondue restaurant where you can cook your own food at your table.

• Visit the Glenbow Museum, Alberta's largest museum, to learn about the art and history of Western Canada.
• Explore the gorgeous gardens and exhibitions at the Devonian Botanic Garden, located about 30 minutes outside of Calgary.
• Have lunch at Peters' Drive-In, a local institution that serves up burgers, hot dogs, and shakes from their retro-style diner.
• Stroll through the trendy East Village neighborhood, which boasts art installations, public spaces, and unique shops.
• Shop for souvenirs and artisanal goods at the Calgary Farmer's Market, a bustling indoor market that showcases local produce, crafts, and food.
• End the day with dinner at The Coup, a vegetarian restaurant that serves creative and flavorful dishes made with organic and sustainable ingredients.

• Go on a thrilling zipline or treetop adventure at WinSport's Canada Olympic Park, the site of the 1988 Winter Olympics.
• Visit the Calgary Zoo, home to over 1,000 animals from around the world, including pandas, gorillas, and penguins.
• Have lunch at the St. Lawrence Market, a gastronomic hub that offers a diverse range of international cuisine.
• Catch a performance or show at the Arts Commons, a cultural center that hosts theater, music, and dance events.
• Walk along Stephen Avenue Walk, a pedestrian-friendly street that is lined with shops, restaurants, and historical buildings.
• End your trip with a bang by attending a Calgary Flames hockey game at the Scotiabank Saddledome, a sports arena that seats over 19,000 fans.