Looking for an exciting and vibrant city to call home? Calgary is the perfect place for you! Whether you’re already a resident or considering a move to the city, there are endless fun things to do in Calgary.

We’ve rounded up everything you need to know from must-see tourist destinations to hidden gem parks and activities loved by locals, this in-depth guide will provide you with everything you need to know about the Calgary lifestyle. Whether you are a foodie looking for the best-kept culinary secrets or a festival-goer in search of the hottest events in the city, this guide has got you covered.

In this blog, we’ve rounded up everything you need to know about the best attractions, parks, and hidden gems in the city that both tourists and locals love. And with an ever-growing array of cultural festivals that showcase the diversity of the city, there’s never a dull moment in Calgary. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the top fun things to do in Calgary!

Discover the Top Must-See Tourist Destinations in Calgary – Unmissable Fun Things to Do in Calgary!

1. Calgary Tower
Experience the breathtaking panoramic view of Calgary and the majestic Rocky Mountains from the top of the iconic Calgary Tower. Standing at 191 meters tall, this tower is located in the heart of downtown and features a glass-floored elevator ride to the observation deck. After enjoying the 360-degree cityscape view, take your dining experience to new heights at the revolving restaurant, Sky 360.

2. Prince’s Island Park
Located in the heart of downtown Calgary, Prince’s Island Park is a beautiful natural oasis, perfect for a day of relaxation surrounded by the city skyline. The park features scenic walking paths, picnic areas, a playground, and a seasonal wading pool. It’s an excellent spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a little bit of nature.

3. Glenbow Museum
Delve into Western Canadian history, Indigenous culture, and contemporary art at the Glenbow Museum. After a major renovation, the museum will reopen in 2024 with new exhibits and programs. The museum features a diverse range of collections and is perfect for history, art, and culture enthusiasts.


4. Calgary Zoo
Explore over 1000 animals from around the world, including tigers, giraffes, and penguins at the Calgary Zoo. Perfect for families and animal lovers, this zoo also features behind-the-scenes tours, interactive exhibits, and daily zookeeper talks. Don’t miss the chance to experience a unique animal encounter!

5. Telus Spark
Spark your curiosity and ignite your love for science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) at Telus Spark. This interactive science museum features a variety of exhibits and programs for both kids and adults. Enjoy an outdoor park and indoor playground, perfect for a fun-filled day of learning and exploration.

6. Fish Creek Provincial Park
Escape into nature at Fish Creek Provincial Park, one of the largest urban parks in North America, featuring over 80 kilometers of trails and picnic areas. This natural oasis in southern Calgary offers various recreational activities, including fishing, bird watching, and camping, making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

7. Glenmore Reservoir 
Discover a world of water activities at Glenmore Reservoir, a picturesque body of water located in Calgary. It offers various recreational activities, including sailing, canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The reservoir is also home to a sailing school that offers lessons and rentals for those interested in learning how to sail. Enjoy the serene beauty of the water while indulging in your favourite water activities.

Other Fun Must-Visit Attractions and Parks in Calgary

1. Carburn Park
Carburn Park is a tranquil escape tucked away in southeast Calgary, Alberta. It’s a great place for visitors to enjoy a quiet picnic, cast a line for fishing, or take a leisurely walk along the river. The park’s ponds, trails, and diverse birdlife make it an excellent spot for nature lovers.

2. The Paddle Station – River rafting, Paddle Boards, and Kayaking
The Paddle Station is a full-service rental company located on the Bow River in Calgary, Alberta. Visitors can enjoy a hassle-free rental experience for rafts, stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), and kayaks. The rental includes everything visitors need for a safe and enjoyable 2-3 hour float, including inflated vessels, life vests, emergency kits, and instructions. Launching from Shouldice Park and ending at Prince Island Park, visitors can take in the stunning river views and have the option of having the Paddle Station collect everything at St. Patrick’s Island.

3. Stanley Park
Stanley Park is a popular community park located in Calgary, Alberta. The park boasts a wide range of amenities including a swimming pool, picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields. Visitors can revel in the park’s natural beauty, including the Elbow River, the park’s gardens, and the towering trees. The park also has a designated off-leash area for dogs, making it a perfect spot for a family outing. Stanley Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors in the heart of the city.

4. Bowness Park
Bowness Park in Calgary is a beautiful natural park that offers many outdoor activities for visitors. You can enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the pathways, have a picnic, or rent a paddleboat, canoe or kayak to explore the lagoon. In the winter, the park turns into a magical wonderland with ice skating, sledding, and cross-country skiing. There are also playgrounds, picnic areas, and barbecue pits for visitors to enjoy.

Discover The Hidden Gem Parks and Activities in Calgary: Loved by Locals, Unknown by Tourists

1. Devonian Gardens
Devonian Gardens is a beautiful urban oasis located in the heart of downtown Calgary. With a variety of tropical plants and trees, as well as water features and seating areas, it’s a great place to relax and escape the bustle of the city. Admission is free, making it a budget-friendly option for a day out.

2. Pearce Estate Park
For those looking for a bit more adventure, Pearce Estate Park offers a chance to wade in the water or surf when the water levels are low. The park is home to Harvie Passage, which is known for its standing waves and offers a unique river surfing experience for those brave enough to try.

3. Griffith Woods Park Pathway
Griffith Woods Park pathway is a nature lover’s dream, offering over 93 hectares of natural parkland with trails for walking, hiking, and cycling. With beautiful views of the Elbow River, it’s the perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely afternoon stroll.

Must-See Festivals in Calgary: Join these Fun Events in Calgary

1. Calgary Stampede
The Calgary Stampede is a must-see annual event that showcases Western heritage and values. Known as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,” the Stampede features a rodeo, chuckwagon races, live music, carnival rides, and much more. Held every July in Calgary, Alberta, the Stampede is an unforgettable experience that offers something for everyone.

2. Calgary Folk Music Festival
The Calgary Folk Music Festival is a highly anticipated annual event that celebrates a diverse range of musical genres, including folk, indie, and world music. The festival takes place in Prince’s Island Park and features multiple stages, workshops, and a family area. Visitors can enjoy live music, food trucks, and the beautiful scenery of the park while immersing themselves in the vibrant culture and community of Calgary.

3. Calgary International Film Festival 
The Calgary Folk Music Festival is a highly anticipated annual event that celebrates a diverse range of musical genres, including folk, indie, and world music. The festival takes place in Prince’s Island Park and features multiple stages, workshops, and a family area. Visitors can enjoy live music, food trucks, and the beautiful scenery of the park while immersing themselves in the vibrant culture and community of Calgary.

4. Chinook Blast 
Blast is an exciting winter festival that celebrates Calgary’s unique spirit and culture. The festival features outdoor activities, art installations, live music, and more, offering visitors a chance to experience the beauty and wonder of winter in Calgary. From ice skating to snowshoeing and everything in between, Chinook Blast is a fun and memorable event for all ages.

5. Calgary Comic & Entertainment Expo
The Calgary Comic & Entertainment Expo is the ultimate pop culture event in Western Canada, bringing together fans of all things geeky and nerdy. The expo features celebrity guests, cosplay contests, panels, and vendors selling all kinds of merchandise. Whether you’re a fan of comics, movies, TV shows, video games, or anything in between, the Calgary Comic & Entertainment Expo is a must-see event.

6. Chasing Summer
Chasing Summer is a must-see electronic dance music festival that takes place in Calgary, Alberta. The festival features multiple stages, world-renowned DJs, and an unforgettable party atmosphere. With its energetic crowds and incredible music, Chasing Summer is a one-of-a-kind event that music lovers won’t want to miss.

7. Taste of Calgary
Taste of Calgary is an annual event that celebrates the best in local food and drink. Visitors can sample dishes from over 40 Calgary restaurants, along with craft beer, wine, and spirits. Held in downtown Calgary, Taste of Calgary is a delicious and fun-filled event that showcases the city’s vibrant culinary scene.

8. Country Thunder
Country Thunder is a must-see country music festival that brings together some of the biggest names in the genre. Held in Prairie Winds Park, the festival features multiple stages, camping, and other activities. With its incredible music and lively atmosphere, Country Thunder is a fun and memorable event for country music fans of all ages.

9. GlobalFest
GlobalFest is an exciting annual festival that showcases the diverse cultures that make up Calgary. The multicultural event features live performances, global food markets, and an awe-inspiring fireworks display. GlobalFest is an excellent opportunity to experience and celebrate Calgary’s diversity while enjoying a fun-filled evening with family and friends.

10. Calgary Pride
Calgary Pride is an annual celebration that supports and honours the LGBTQ2+ community in Calgary. The festival is known for its vibrant parade, which draws thousands of spectators and participants every year. In addition to the parade, Calgary Pride offers various events that promote equality, diversity, and inclusion, such as live music performances, a marketplace, and community forums. Calgary Pride is a must-attend event for those who support and want to celebrate Calgary’s LGBTQ2+ community.

Calgary’s Best-Kept Culinary Secrets: Hidden Gem Restaurants and Bars Loved by Locals

1. Our Daily Brett Market & Cafe
Looking for a delicious and healthy meal in Calgary? Look no further than Our Daily Brett Market & Cafe. This popular spot offers a wide variety of fresh meals, baked goods, and coffee, all made with local and sustainable ingredients. The stylish and welcoming setting is the perfect place to grab a quick bite or stay a while and catch up with friends over a cup of coffee.

2. The Sultans Tent 
Transport yourself to Morocco without leaving Calgary at The Sultans Tent. This unique dining experience offers an immersive and traditional atmosphere, complete with live belly dancing and entertainment. Guests can enjoy a four-course meal featuring authentic Moroccan cuisine that will tantalize their taste buds and leave them feeling satisfied.

3. The Blues Can 
Looking for a night out with live music and delicious Southern cooking? Look no further than The Blues Can in Calgary. This beloved live music venue showcases some of the best blues musicians from around the world, while guests enjoy a cocktail and homestyle Southern cooking. The cozy and welcoming atmosphere provides the perfect setting for a fun and memorable night out.

4. The Coup
Calling all plant-based foodies! The Coup is a trendy and stylish restaurant in Calgary that offers a completely plant-based menu with a focus on sustainability and delicious flavors. From brunch to dinner, guests can enjoy a variety of dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a fun and unique setting. The restaurant’s 70s-inspired interior provides the perfect backdrop for a night out with friends or a romantic date.


We hope this guide has inspired you to explore all the fun things to do in Calgary, from popular tourist destinations to hidden local gems. Whether you’re a long-time resident or considering a move to Calgary, the city has so much to offer.

Don’t hesitate to contact Dolce Real Estate’s dedicated relocation agent for assistance in making your move to Calgary as easy and stress-free as possible. We specialize in both international and cross-country relocations, so you can trust them to help you find your perfect home in this vibrant and exciting city.

Contact Dolce Real Estate today to start the next chapter of your life in Calgary!

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