Calgary
Canada
Backpacking Calgary
Information on Calgary, sights to see, nightlife, activities and more.
Oil riches meet the Wild West in Calgary, a brash, flash cowboy city that’s also the jumping-off point for adventures in the Rockies. Calgary stands at the point where the vast Canadian prairie touches the jagged, snow-capped peaks of the Rocky Mountains. At the city’s heart is a cluster of glitzy towers, from which sprawling suburbs fan out into the prairies. Among the show-offs of Downtown’s shiny skyscrapers are the crescent shaped Bow, and Brookfield Place, the cities tallest building. The Rockies may pull the crowds, but Calgary is a happening destination in its own right. Its cowboy reputation draws over a million visitors annually to the Calgary Stampede, a raucous celebration of Western heritage, where the city transforms into a giant party town and everyone seems to be wearing a cowboy hat. Then there are irresistible attractions like Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame, and Studio Bell which is a contemporary building home to Canada’s National Music Center. Calgary enjoys a fast-evolving foodie scene matching their insatiable demand for fresh culinary creations. Alberta beef is famous across Canada so be sure to try a juicy Albertan steak while here. Trendy eateries extend throughout Calgary’s diverse and vibrant neighborhoods. Try the Beltline, steps from downtown, where its revitalized heritage buildings mingle with new condo and office blocks in this fast growing community. With the Rockies beckoning and close to Calgary, its hard to resist the lure of the great outdoors. Phenomenal hiking and world-class ski resorts are little over an hour away.
Must See
The Calgary Tower - Some 1228 meters above sea level gives you a 360 view of the city. On the first observation deck you and 249 of your closes friends can enjoy sweeping, uninterrupted views. And once your breath has been completely stolen, head to the second observation deck and enjoy a cocktail, some appetizers and the best view in town.
Prince Island Park - Sometimes you need a break from manic sightseeing, a day to throw a blanket down, have some lunch, and experience a city from a local’s perspective. Prince Island Park is not only a great place to enjoy beautiful city views, it also plays host to a number of festivals and features a seasonal outdoor skating rink.
Banff National Park - No trip to Calgary is complete without a visit to Banff National Park. The town of Banff is the gateway to the Rockies, full of absolutely pristine, rugged wilderness. Banff National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Canada’s very first National Park. As you may have guessed, this is a proverbial mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. Everyone from hardcore mountain climbers, cyclists, hikers, backcountry skiers and kayak junkies can be found in and amongst Canada’s greatest playground. Make sure to see the Fairmont Banff Springs while here. Nested in the postcard perfect Rocky Mountains, this hotel has hosted some of the world’s most important people including queens, sitting presidents and rock stars. Originally built in 1888 as a signature railroad hotel, the hotel itself has undergone a number of beautiful renovations that keep it looking like the Castle in the Rockies.
Must Do
The Calgary Stampede - This century old show collides with the modernity of the 21st century to create one of the most entertaining displays of Wild West heritage. While good old fashion rodeo takes the main stage nightly, there are also chuck wagon races, cattle auctions, midway rides and games, an incredible array of southern inspired and not-so-southern cuisine, and of course, lot’s of cowboys! The Calgary Stampede happens every July and is well worth planning your visit around this time.
Explore 17th Ave & The Entertainment District - You can find just about anything you would find in the larger cities on Calgary’s famed 17th Ave, plus a few quirky shops you won’t find elsewhere. From mainstream favorites to cool boutiques there are over 400 shops, restaurants and services at your beck and call.
Nightlife
Calgary’s nightlife options range form traditional pubs and hip spots with patios to rowdy sports bars and buzzing clubs. Locals are friendly and ready for a few drinks especially on Thursday, Friday and Saturday night. Downtown is a good spot to drink during the day or early evening and the party will continue at bars and clubs throughout the area. If you want your nightlife more concetrated stick to areas like Kensington or 17th Avenue SW.
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