Even if you’re only passing through on your way to the national parks, it’s always worth ticking off some sights in Calgary. One of the most iconic attractions is the Calgary Tower. Though numerous skyscrapers now tower over it, the 191-metre tall structure offers some amazing panoramic views. Back on the city floor, there’s some world-class museums to explore. The huge copper structure that is the National Music Centre is guaranteed to be hit with music-lovers with its interesting artifacts and hands-on exhibitions, while the famous Glenbow Museum has plenty to captivate art connoisseurs and history buffs. If you’ve got the time to spare, other popular attractions outside the city centre include Heritage Park and Calgary Zoo.
Once you’ve seen the main sights, you can easily while away a few hours with a leisurely stroll around shopping and dining areas such as Kensington Village and 17th Ave Retail and Entertainment district. If you need a break from the bustle, the green fields of Prince’s Island Park were made from walking, cycling and frisbee-throwing. When the sun goes down, the nightlife is vibrant and varied, from karaoke-style pubs to upmarket cocktails bars and everything in between.
Calgary’s attractions can usually be covered in a day or two, after which you’ll no doubt be eager to explore Canada’s beautiful natural scenery. A few hour’s drive down the Trans-Canada Highway will take you to Banff and Jasper National Parks, where numerous walking and biking trails weave through lush forests, around turquoise lakes and up into the majestic peaks of the UNESCO-listed Rocky Mountains. These landscapes are the definition of Instagram-worthy, and you won’t be able to resist taking a picture of the sun setting behind a mountain or the reflection of the vast, blue skies in a crystal-clear lake. Wildlife-lovers are in for a treat too, with bears, wolves, foxes, deers, beavers and various other mammals roaming around.
