Calgary Attractions

Calgary offers a wide range of accommodation options to cater to different preferences and budgets. Here are some recommendations for the best areas to stay in Calgary, along with options for different budget levels and accessible accommodations:

1. Downtown Calgary: This area is great for those who want to be in the center of the action, with easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It is also close to major attractions like the Calgary Tower and the Glenbow Museum.

Budget: Consider staying at budget-friendly hotels like Hi Calgary City Centre Hostel or Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Calgary Downtown.

Mid-range: Options like Fairfield Inn & Suites Calgary Downtown or Homewood Suites by Hilton Calgary Downtown offer comfortable accommodation at a moderate price.

Luxury: Treat yourself to a luxurious stay at hotels like The Fairmont Palliser or The Westin Calgary, which offer upscale amenities and top-notch service.

Accessible accommodations: The Delta Hotels by Marriott Calgary Downtown and Hotel Arts are excellent options that provide accessibility features for seniors and individuals with disabilities, such as wheelchair-accessible rooms and facilities.

2. Beltline: This trendy neighborhood is known for its vibrant nightlife, diverse dining options, and proximity to attractions like the Calgary Stampede grounds and the Calgary Tower.

Budget: Consider staying at budget-friendly accommodations like O Hotel Suites Vetro Sasso or Days Inn by Wyndham Calgary South.

Mid-range: Options like Hotel Elan or Residence Inn by Marriott Calgary Downtown/Beltline District offer comfortable stays at a reasonable price.

Luxury: Indulge in a luxurious experience at hotels like Hotel Le Germain Calgary or Hotel Arts Kensington, which offer high-end amenities and personalized service.

Accessible accommodations: The Alt Hotel Calgary East Village and Best Western Plus Suites Downtown both provide accessibility features for seniors and individuals with disabilities, such as accessible rooms and facilities.

3. Kensington: This charming neighborhood is known for its boutique shopping, cozy cafes, and proximity to attractions like the Calgary Zoo and Prince’s Island Park.

Budget: Consider staying at budget-friendly options like Calgary Westways Guest House or Comfort Inn & Suites University.

Mid-range: Hotels like Calgary North Thriftlodge or Hotel Clique Calgary Airport offer comfortable stays at a moderate price.

Luxury: Treat yourself to a luxurious stay at hotels like Hotel Arts Kensington or Kensington Riverside Inn, which offer upscale amenities and a sophisticated ambiance.

Accessible accommodations: The Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire and Holiday Inn Calgary-Macleod Trail South both provide accessibility features for seniors and individuals with disabilities, such as accessible rooms and facilities.

Overall, Calgary offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and needs, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for every visitor.

Calgary offers a variety of transportation options for both visitors and residents to navigate the city efficiently. Here are some of the key transportation options in Calgary:

1. Airport Transfers:

- Calgary International Airport (YYC) is the city’s main airport, located approximately 17 km northeast of downtown Calgary.

- The airport offers various transportation options for travelers, including taxis, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, airport shuttles, and rental cars.

- The Calgary Airport Shuttle Service provides convenient door-to-door service from the airport to various locations in the city.

2. Public Transport:

- Calgary Transit operates an extensive public transportation system in the city, including buses and a light rail system called the C-Train.

- The C-Train is a convenient way to travel around Calgary, with two lines that cover various parts of the city, including downtown, the University of Calgary, and the Stampede grounds.

- Calgary Transit also offers a handy mobile app that provides real-time information on bus and C-Train schedules, routes, and trip planning.

3. Senior and Disability Accessible Transportation:

- Calgary Transit offers specialized services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, including the Access Calgary program.

- Access Calgary provides door-to-door transportation for eligible individuals who are unable to use the regular public transit system due to a disability. Reservations are required for this service.

- Seniors aged 65 and older receive a discounted fare on Calgary Transit, and those who are registered with the city’s Fair Entry program may be eligible for further discounts and assistance.

4. Navigating the City:

- Calgary’s street layout is based on a grid system, with avenues running east-west and streets running north-south. The city is divided into four quadrants (Northeast, Northwest, Southeast, Southwest) for easier navigation.

- The city is also bike-friendly, with an extensive network of bike paths and lanes. Visitors can rent bicycles from various bike-share programs in the city.

- Taxis, rideshare services, and rental cars are readily available for those who prefer more personalized transportation options.

- When driving in Calgary, be aware of the city’s rush hour traffic, especially on major roadways like Deerfoot Trail and Crowchild Trail. Plan your routes accordingly to avoid delays.

Overall, Calgary offers a range of transportation options to suit different needs and preferences. Whether you prefer public transit, specialized services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, or private transportation options, navigating the city is relatively easy with a bit of planning and information.

1. Calgary Zoo: Home to over 1,000 animals from around the world, the Calgary Zoo is a popular destination for families. The zoo also features a botanical garden and interactive exhibits for children.

2. Calgary Stampede: Known as \"The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,\" the Calgary Stampede is a fun-filled event with rodeo competitions, parades, live music, and midway rides. It takes place every July.

3. Heritage Park Historical Village: Step back in time at Heritage Park, where you can explore a living history museum showcasing life in Western Canada from the 1860s to the 1950s. Ride a steam train, visit historic buildings, and try old-fashioned games and activities.

4. Fish Creek Provincial Park: With over 80 kilometers of trails, Fish Creek Provincial Park is the perfect place for a family hike or bike ride. The park also has picnic areas, playgrounds, and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.

5. Calgary Telus Spark: This science center offers interactive exhibits, a planetarium, an outdoor park, and a Creative Kids Museum. It’s a great place for kids to learn about science in a fun and engaging way.

6. Bow Habitat Station: Located along the Bow River, the Bow Habitat Station is an educational center featuring aquariums, interactive exhibits, and a fish hatchery. Families can learn about aquatic ecosystems and conservation efforts.

7. Bowness Park: This picturesque park offers paddleboat rentals, a mini-train ride, a wading pool, and picnic areas. It’s a great spot for a family outing or a leisurely stroll along the river.

8. Calaway Park: Canada’s largest outdoor family amusement park, Calaway Park has over 30 rides and attractions for all ages. From thrilling roller coasters to gentle kiddie rides, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

9. Prince’s Island Park: Situated in the heart of downtown Calgary, Prince’s Island Park is a peaceful oasis with walking trails, picnicking areas, and outdoor events. The park is also home to the annual Calgary Folk Music Festival.

10. Glenbow Museum: Explore the history and culture of Western Canada at the Glenbow Museum, which features art exhibitions, historical artifacts, and interactive displays. Kids can participate in hands-on activities and workshops.

Calgary is a city known for its vibrant cultural scene and exciting events throughout the year. One of the most iconic cultural experiences in Calgary is the Calgary Stampede, also known as \"The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.\" This 10-day event in July features rodeo competitions, chuckwagon races, a midway, live music performances, and more, attracting visitors from around the world.

In addition to the Stampede, Calgary hosts numerous other festivals and events year-round, such as the Calgary International Film Festival, Calgary Folk Music Festival, and Beakerhead, a festival that celebrates the intersection of art, science, and engineering.

For those looking to explore hidden gems in Calgary, consider visiting the historic Inglewood neighborhood, known for its eclectic mix of boutiques, cafes, and antique shops. The nearby neighbourhood of Kensington is another hidden gem, offering trendy restaurants, unique shops, and a vibrant arts scene.

When it comes to nightlife, Calgary has a bustling bar and club scene, especially in the downtown area and along 17th Avenue SW. From cozy pubs and cocktail lounges to energetic nightclubs and live music venues, there’s something for everyone to enjoy after dark in Calgary.

For entertainment options, Calgary is home to several cultural institutions such as the Glenbow Museum, the National Music Centre, and Theatre Calgary, offering a diverse range of performances, exhibits, and events year-round. Additionally, the Calgary Zoo, Telus Spark Science Centre, and Heritage Park Historical Village are popular attractions for both locals and tourists alike.

Overall, Calgary offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, local festivals, hidden gems, nightlife options, and entertainment opportunities for visitors to explore and enjoy.

1. **Budget-Friendly:**

- **The Coup:** Known for its affordable vegetarian and vegan options, The Coup offers a diverse menu with many gluten-free and dairy-free choices.

- **Anju Restaurant:** A Korean fusion restaurant with a happy hour menu and budget-friendly options, including vegetarian and gluten-free dishes.

2. **Fine Dining:**

- **Teatro:** A high-end Italian restaurant offering a sophisticated and elegant dining experience with a variety of gluten-free and vegetarian options available.

- **River Café:** Located in Prince’s Island Park, River Café offers a fine dining experience highlighting Canadian cuisine with many allergy-friendly options.

3. **Allergy-Friendly:**

- **The Allium:** A completely gluten-free restaurant that also offers dairy-free and vegan options, The Allium focuses on locally sourced and sustainable ingredients.

- **Raw Eatery & Market:** A gluten-free and dairy-free restaurant with fresh and healthy options, Raw Eatery offers a variety of plant-based dishes.

4. **Dietary-Conscious:**

- **Ten Foot Henry:** A vegetable-focused restaurant with many vegetarian and gluten-free options, Ten Foot Henry offers a unique dining experience with shareable plates.

- **Hearts Choices:** A vegan restaurant with gluten-free and soy-free options, Hearts Choices specializes in plant-based Asian dishes and comfort food.

1. **Currency Exchange**: Currency exchange is available at banks, currency exchange offices, and at the airport. It’s recommended to research the current exchange rates to get the best deal.

2. **Financial Tips**: Credit cards are widely accepted in Calgary, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand for small purchases or in case you come across a place that doesn’t accept cards. ATMs are also widely available throughout the city.

3. **Local Laws**: Familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations in Calgary, such as traffic rules, alcohol consumption laws, and smoking restrictions. It’s also important to note that marijuana is legal in Canada, but there are specific regulations governing its use.

4. **Customs and Etiquette**: Canadians are known for their politeness and friendliness, so be sure to be respectful and courteous in your interactions with locals. Tipping is customary in restaurants, and a 15-20% tip is generally expected for good service.

5. **Safety Advice**: Calgary is generally a safe city, but like any city, it’s important to take common-sense precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places, avoid walking alone late at night, and be cautious when using public transportation.

6. **Weather Preparedness**: Calgary experiences all four seasons, so make sure to pack appropriate clothing for the time of year you’ll be visiting. Winters can be very cold, so be sure to pack warm layers, including a winter coat, hat, gloves, and boots.

7. **Driving Tips**: If you plan on driving in Calgary, familiarize yourself with the local traffic laws and road signs. Keep in mind that speed limits are in kilometers per hour, and it’s important to be aware of road conditions, especially in winter when snow and ice can make driving more challenging.

8. **Health and Safety**: Make sure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies in case you need medical attention during your trip. It’s also a good idea to have a basic first aid kit with you, especially if you plan on engaging in outdoor activities.

9. **Emergency Contacts**: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including the local police, ambulance, and your country’s embassy or consulate in case you need assistance during your time in Calgary.

10. **Cultural Sensitivity**: Be mindful of cultural differences and be respectful of the local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, ask for permission before taking photographs of people, and be conscious of your actions to avoid causing offense.