Calgary 
Credit: Canadian Tourism Commission
Planning a weekend away in Calgary? This guide has everything from food to nightlife to live entertainment to where to stay, and more. Calgary is a bustling city full of amazing artists, incredible restaurants, and a lot of fun people to share it all with. Alberta’s biggest city has a lot to offer, just come and see for yourselves. You can easily whip up an itinerary from the following tips, so read on to find your perfect weekend plans in Calgary!
10 Best Places to Visit During a Weekend Trip
Credit: Tourism Calgary
Calgary is full of amazing places to visit and things to do. We’ve created our top 10 favourites to make sure you don’t miss the best of the best. With a little something for everyone, these spots guarantee a great time.
1. National Music Centre at Studio Bell
If you’re a music fan, you’ll love NMC. With a full music museum and an auditorium offering amazing shows throughout the year, this is the place to learn everything about Calgary’s musical past, present, and future.
2. Stampede Park
The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, the Calgary Stampede is an amazing time to visit this great city. Come check out the rodeo, live music, carnival rides, and a whole lot more.
3. Calgary Tower
It has become a symbol of Calgary since it’s erection in 1968, and even though it’s no longer the tallest building in the city, it remains as the glowing heart of downtown. Check out the revolving restaurant and the 360 degree view.
4. Glenbow Museum
Calgary’s art museum is an amazing way to spend the afternoon. Check out their most recent installations and long term pieces.
5. Calgary Zoo
With their conservation efforts and many life-saving initiatives, the Calgary Zoo is at the forefront of North American zoos. Check out the penguin exhibit and come visit all of your favourite animals.
6. Heritage Park
Go back to a simpler time at Heritage Park. A living history museum spanning the 1860s to the 1930s with train rides, the Gasoline Alley Museum, and much more.
7. Calaway Park
Find your sense of adventure at Calaway Park! Enjoy roller coasters and water rides at this amusement park.
8. Canada Olympic Park
Credit: Canadian Tourism Commission
If you’re coming to Canada for the snow, head to the Canada Olympic Park to try snowboarding, skiing, skating, or tubing. Food and hot cocoas available on site. During summer, enjoy the thrills of going downhill on a 1.8 km long track on a wheeled ride.
9. Spruce Meadows
This world class facility celebrates horses and athletes together. Hosting international competitions and royal visits, come join the fun and be a part of Calgary’s history.
10. Bowness Park
Offering year-round fun, this park has skating and curling in the winter, and amazing walking trails in the summer. Bring your camera, you’re likely to see some local wildlife.
Where to Experience Calgary Vibe
Credit: Canadian Tourism Commission
If you’re trying to get a feel for what Calgary has to offer, check out the following areas for a glimpse into life in Calgary. Whether it’s nightlife and food, or music and the great outdoors, Calgarians are passionate about life and have a lust for adventure. Try something new today in the chinook capital of Canada.
17th Ave (The Red Mile)
Visit during the day for unique shopping, local wares, and great brunch options (try MARKET or Nellie’s Cosmic Cafe). Visit at night for Calgary’s notorious Red Mile nightlife where you’re sure to catch the Flame’s game and try delicious locally crafted beer.
Historic Inglewood
Inglewood is the neighbourhood that started it all. The 100 year old buildings mix with modern shops and local talent to create a haven for music junkies and shopaholics alike. Be sure to check out Gorilla Whale for dinner, Gravity Espresso and Wine Bar for live music, and Ninth and Brick for fun local finds.
Prince’s Island Park
Prince’s Island Park is a dreamscape no matter the season. Try outdoor skating or cross-country skiing in the winter, or enjoy the flower gardens and water fountains in the summer. Host to the Calgary Folk Music Festival, this park might be your favourite stop in Calgary.
Calgary Nightlife Guide
Credit: Alberta Ballet
If you’re looking for a party, Calgary’s got it! Calgary’s nightlife is more than 17th Ave. Although it’s a great place to check out if you’re looking to bar hop, try a few of these ideas for something a little different: open mic night (comedy at Broken City, music at Two House Brewing or Ironwood Stage and Grill or Koi), arcade games (PinBar, Greta Bar, Revival Brewcade), or two-stepping (Ranchman’s Cookhouse and Dancehall, Cowboys)
Weekend Entertainment
There’s nothing better than live! Whether it’s dance, music, comedy, or otherwise, there’s a magic about seeing something that can’t be edited or altered. Just pure art, happening right in front of your eyes. Check out these Calgary staples for live entertainment.
Studio Bell, 850 4 Street SE, Calgary
January 27, 2024 To April 28, 2024
403-543-5115
$15.25 to $39.75
Rock the Nation is a celebration of over 50 years of Canadian music, featuring songs from the ‘60s to present day that inspired, moved, comforted, and challenged a ... »
Jubilations Dinner Theatre, 1002 37 Street SW, Calgary
March 30, 2024 To June 1, 2024
403-249-7799
$44.95-$81.95
Every decade has certain trends that develop… the 60’s had its hippie counter culture, the 70’s had bell bottoms and disco… but no other decade had the ... »
Martha Cohen Theatre, 215 8 Ave SE, Calgary
April 2, 2024 To April 27, 2024
403-294-7475
$39.00
The true story of the woman behind the American dime. Few know of Selma Burke, the Black American sculptor who played a major role in the Harlem ... »
Hotel Blackfoot, 5940 Blackfoot Trail SE. Calgary
April 4, 2024 To April 25, 2024
403-252-2253
Free
Catch some live jazz, enjoy a cocktail and unwind with colleagues or friends on Thursday evenings at Hotel Blackfoot’s trendy Lobby Lounge. No cover, full menu. ... »
The Banff Gondola, 100 Mountain Ave, Banff
April 6, 2024 To May 12, 2024
$65
Celebrate the arrival of a new season atop Sulphur Mountain, breathing in the fresh spring air and taking in stunning landscapes. Banff Gondola and Northern Lights Alpine ... »
Wainwright Hotel, 1900 Heritage Drive SW, Calgary
April 12, 2024 To May 11, 2024
$120+gst
Get ready, detectives! By popular demand, we’ve got a fresh mystery for you to solve! It’s 1910 and the Alberta Central Railway is building a railroad ... »
Rosebud Theatre, 404 Martin Ave #202, Rosebud
April 12, 2024 To April 27, 2024
8002677553
$15 - $25
Rosebud School of the Arts’ Artists-in-Training Present… The Voice of the Prairie by John Olive After being discovered by a traveling radio jock, Davey Quinn conjures memories ... »
Loose Moose Theatre Company, 1235 26th Avenue Southeast, Calgary
April 13, 2024 To May 5, 2024
$18.89
Loose Moose Theatre for Kids returns with the story of Young King Arthur. The classic story of Young King Arthur is performed in the fun and unique ... »
Vertigo Theatre, 161, 115 - 9 Ave. SE, Calgary
April 16, 2024 To May 5, 2024
403-265-4292
$25.00 - $35.00
At 77, Georges Boivin decides to “give the dice a roll.” Georges just lost his wife, the “centre of his universe.” But there is life after 70, and it ... »
Globe Cinema, 617 8 Ave SW, Calgary
April 18, 2024 To April 28, 2024
$8 to $10
The 21st Anniversary Calgary Underground Film Festival will be an 11 day in-person celebration of film, and our biggest festival yet in terms of days, films shown, special ... »
Theatre Calgary
Keen on seeing a stage performance while in Calgary? Theatre Calgary offer an array of plays, check out the current line-up on their site.
Alberta Ballet
Join the Alberta Ballet with performances at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. Let yourself be enveloped in the story and movement that only ballet can offer.
Palace Theatre
This amazing live music venue boasts huge shows with lots of energy. If your weekend plans include an epic night of dancing and raging, this is your place.
The Blues Can
The Blues Can offers a different sort of live music: a smaller, more intimate venue with soulful acts and unforgettable nights. Stop by this refurbished airplane hangar if you love hearing music the way it’s meant to be heard.
The Laugh Shop
It’s always a good night at the Laugh Shop. There’s something so exhilarating about live comedy. No redos, just good time and laughter.
Sporting Events in Calgary
Credit: Calgary Stampeders
Calgary has a long history of amazing sports teams. If there’s a game in town, be sure to get tickets and check it out!
ATCO Field, 18011 Spruce Meadows Way SW, Calgary
April 28, 2024
$11.30 - $161.30+fees
After claiming the Canadian Premier League Shield in 2023, Cavalry FC look to bring even more silverware home to Calgary in 2024. Cavalry FC will kick off its 2024 regular ... »
ATCO Field, 18011 Spruce Meadows Way SW, Calgary
May 3, 2024
$11.30 - $161.30+fees
Cavalry FC is a professional soccer club based out of Spruce Meadows just south of Calgary, Alberta. The team won the 2019 Spring and Fall Seasons of the ... »
WinSport Event Centre, 88 Canada Olympic Road SW, Calgary
May 4, 2024 To May 12, 2024
Varies
The world’s best para hockey players are gathering in Calgary, Alberta, for the 2024 World Para Hockey Championship! This world-class event features the top talent from Canada, ... »
Fish Creek Park, Sikome Lake, Calgary
May 5, 2024
403 263 4525
Free - $20 depending on age
Hike for Hospice Calgary is a fundraising walk for all ages and abilities. We hike to celebrate our clients and families, honour those living with advanced illness, ... »
Scotiabank Saddledome, 555 Saddledome Rise SE, Calgary
May 10, 2024
$16 - $157+fees
The 2024 Stars on Ice tour promises to be the best place to experience live performances by many of the reigning World Champions immediately after competing at the 2024 ... »
Chinook Centre, 6455 Macleod Trail, Calgary
May 12, 2024
$20 to $60
Join us in person as Canadians run, walk or wheel, all for a good cause! The Sport Chek Mother’s Day Run, Walk and Wheel has been ... »
Spruce Meadows, 18011 Spruce Meadows Way SW, Calgary
May 18, 2024
$11.30 - $161.30+fees
Canadian Premier League. »
Scotiabank Saddledome, 555 Saddledome Rise SE, Calgary
May 21, 2024
$25 - $400+fees
Canadian Elite Basketball League - Season Opener »
Various Venues, Calgary
May 26, 2024
$20 & up
The Scotiabank Calgary Marathon is a challenging, competitive and fun event with a race designed for everyone of any level. »
Spruce Meadows, 18011 Spruce Meadows Way SW, Calgary
May 26, 2024
$11.30 - $161.30+fees
Cavalry FC Home Game, Canadian premier League. »
Hockey: Calgary Flames, Calgary Hitmen, and the Calgary Inferno.
Football: Calgary Stampeders.
Lacrosse: Calgary Roughnecks.
Soccer: Calgary Foothills FC.
Where to Eat When in Calgary – Calgary Food Guide
Calgary has a wide range of food options, but two things seems to be on every street: barbecue and brunch. For the best of barbecue, try Bridgette Bar and for a favourite local brunch place, try The Beltliner. Other honorable mentions to match up with our Calgary Vibe Guide: River Cafe in Prince’s Island Park, Una Pizza and Wine on 17th Ave, and The Dandelion near Inglewood. Fusion restaurants and plant-based options seem to be the trend these days in the city: hit up Anju for Korean fusion, and Ten Foot Henry for modern vegetable forward plates.
Jubilations Dinner Theatre, 1002 37 Street SW, Calgary
March 30, 2024 To June 1, 2024
403-249-7799
$44.95-$81.95
Every decade has certain trends that develop… the 60’s had its hippie counter culture, the 70’s had bell bottoms and disco… but no other decade had the ... »
Various Restaurants, Calgary
April 1, 2024 To April 30, 2024
Varies
Canada's Filipino Restaurant Month is a chance for diners to explore the diverse culinary scene of the Philippines with participating restaurants across Canada. »
Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo, 210 St. George's Drive NE, Calgary
April 6, 2024 To August 17, 2024
4032329300
$61.00 to $79.00 +GST
Bring your family and friends down for a fun and educational morning at the zoo! Admission to this event includes an exclusive before hours viewing opportunity of ... »
Wainwright Hotel, 1900 Heritage Drive SW, Calgary
April 12, 2024 To May 11, 2024
$120+gst
Get ready, detectives! By popular demand, we’ve got a fresh mystery for you to solve! It’s 1910 and the Alberta Central Railway is building a railroad ... »
Various Venues, Banff
April 19, 2024 To May 4, 2024
Varies
The Made with Love Banff Food and Cocktail Festival will present events showcasing the local cocktail, mocktail and food scene, with special cocktail menus available in all ... »
4th Street Restaurants, Calgary
April 24, 2024 To April 28, 2024
$10
CALLING ALL FOODIES, get ready for a flavour-packed stroll down the lively 4th Street! We’re talking a feast that won’t bust your wallet, with eats ... »
OPA! of Greece Township, Unit B – 03 – 210 Ave SE & MacLeod Trail, Calgary
April 26, 2024
Free
Celebrate the grand opening of OPA! of Greece’s twenty-eighth Calgary location in Township! Indulge in a $5 chicken souvlaki and Greek salad meal while enjoying chances to ... »
OPA! of Greece Township, Unit 850 - 80 Longview common SE, Calgary
April 26, 2024
(403) 454-2033
Free
Celebrate the grand opening of OPA! of Greece’s twenty-eighth Calgary location in Legacy! Indulge in a $5 chicken souvlaki and Greek salad meal while enjoying chances to ... »
Participating Restaurants
May 1, 2024 To May 7, 2024
Varies
La Pizza Week is a week-long festival that celebrates the best pizza in Canada. Restaurants across the country are asked to create a special pizza at a ... »
BMO Centre, Calgary
May 3, 2024 To May 4, 2024
1-403-520-5433
$19.99 & up
The Calgary International Beerfest brings the beer world together at Canada’s largest beer festival. Rated as one of the best beer festivals in the world, with 700+ ... »
Breweries and More
Wild Rose Brewery
Check out Wild Rose Brewery for one of Calgary’s long-time favourite craft brewers, amazing food like bison burgers, and fun theme nights like trivia and name that tune.
Website
Last Best Brewing and Distilling
This awesome Brewery in the heart of downtown offers an unbeatable menu and some of Calgary’s finest beers. They also run knowledgeable tours with experts brewers.
Website
Pedal Pub
Tour Calgary’s bars and pubs on a 15 person bike! This super fun adventure gets you outdoors, truly exploring this amazing city and all of the best watering holes.
Website
Confluence Distilling
Confluence offers $1 tours of their incredible distillery. They make craft gin and vodka that you will definitely want to try.
Website
How to Get Around in Calgary
Credit: Calgary Transit
Calgary can be a bit confusing to drive in. Drivers from out of town often note the quadrant system to be less than ideal to someone who doesn’t live here. Luckily for you, there are other options. There are ride share apps like Uber and taxis galore. In the summer you can also jump on the new Lime bikes and scooters to take you where you need to go. Calgary Transit System includes regular buses to take you all around the city and the C-Train line that gets you quickly around downtown and beyond.
Places to Visit on a Day Trip from Calgary on Public Transport
Where to Stay in Calgary
Calgary has plenty of options for a place to rest your head. Check out Airbnb for a local touch. The Hotel Fairmont Palliser is an icon. Great for romantic stays if you want something extra special. On the other end, try Wicked Hostels for a more economical solution. There are plenty of in between options depending on where you’re staying in the city.
Places to Stay in Calgary – Airbnb, Hotels and Bed and Breakfasts
Booking.com
By: Carrie is a freelance writer and editor who enjoys writing songs, cooking new vegan dishes, and being a plant mom. She loves living in Calgary and pretending she likes the snow.
Kindly, get with the times….this website is so out of date with information.
Why?
Hi
When we published the article in January, COVID-19 was not a threat to Canada.
This is a generic article.