WHAT TO DO IN CALGARY

Fancy a visit to a vibrant, engaging, dynamic city? Blue skies and fun packed filled days? Then you can't go wrong with a visit to Calgary.

Situated in the West of Canada, in the province of Alberta, it nestles in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. It is easily accessed by a variety of modes of transport - either by air, highway or train. However you plan your adventure, the great thing is when you arrive, this city will not disappoint. It can be filled with endless activities to suit all ages and finances. Here are the top 5 things to do in Calgary:

CALGARY TOWER (210 St. George's Drive NE, Calgary, AB T2E 7V6)

To get the feel of the whole of the city, start with the Calgary Tower. You can easily spot it as it has an exterior light show every morning, pre sunrise and every evening. This is the place where you can view the city by 360 degrees. For the brave at heart it has a glass floor that you can gaze down on the urban activity below. The building also contains a theatre room, showing how the tower was constructed and a fly through video showing "breath-taking footage of Alberta" that must be seen on its curved wall of screens. Tickets can be booked online with specific timeslots for the observation platform.

Official site: www. calgarytower.com for larger groups email tourgroups@calgarytower.com
Open: 9:00am - 9:00pm (September - May) 9:00am - 10:00pm (June - August)
Admission: $18.00 (Adult), $16.00 (Senior), $9.00 (Child).
Location: Easily accessed by the Plus 15 walkway system, the bus network or the Palliser Parkade (see Impark website)

HERITAGE PARK, HISTORICAL VILLAGE (1900 Heritage Dr. T2V 2X3)

This is an amazing living museum - the largest in Canada! Made up of homesteads, heritage buildings and with a steam train running through, there is so much to see and do. There are plenty of exhibits, shops and demonstrations. There's carriage rides and even a paddle-wheel boat! The staff are dressed in historical costume and demonstrate some original workings of its 200 exhibits. Looking at the history from 1860s to 1950s, it's not surprise that it's on the top list for visitors.

Inquiries: info@heritagepark.ca
Open: 10:00am - 5:00pm (Wednesday - Sunday)
Admission: $18.95 (Adult), $14.95 (Senior), $8.95 (Child), $15.00 (Youth)
Location: about 20 minutes from downtown Calgary there is onsite parking. Alternatively there is a shuttle bus from the Heritage LRT Station

PRINCE'S ISLAND PARK (200 Barclay Parade SW, Calgary, Alberta T2P 4R5)

Described as a beautiful park that is peaceful and relaxing. With a number of different views of the city, there are plenty of photo opportunities! On it's pond you can spot a number of different birds, especially Canadian geese and Mallard ducks (depending on the time of the year). With a labyrinth of pathways and playgrounds it's definitely worth exploring. If you find yourself visiting in the winter months there is even outdoor skating and cross country skiing!

Open: 5:00am - 11:00pm (Daily)
Admission: Free
Location: Accessed by the Bow River Pathway by foot or limited on street parking nearby.


THE CALGARY ZOO (210 St, George's Drive NE, Calgary, AB T2E 7V6)

This wonderful zoo is spread out to give the animals more space. Incredibly the whole zoo is over 92 acres of land - which gives the whole experience of the enclosures a natural feel. With over 1000 animals from all around the world there is certainly a favourite for everyone. Many visitors report that the penguin experience should not be missed...nor panda passage! If you can pull yourself away from the animals, the zoo also contains a beautiful botanical garden. Don't forget to take time to visit the butterfly enclosure. There's so much to see, learn and experience that it makes it a truly must do activity and great for all ages!

Official site: www.calgaryzoo.com
Open: 9:30am - 6:00pm
Admission: $29.95 (Adults); $27.95 (Senior); $19.95 (Child); Under 3 FREE. Tickets must be purchased online and is for a timed entrance.
Location: east of the downtown core, there is parking (managed through parkplus); Easy access on the Ctrain, or by bike or foot -by the Bow River Pathway.

WALK THE YCC

Lastly in the top 5 things to do in Calgary, is one of these walks. This is a free walking tour company who will show you the hidden secrets of Calgary and fill you in on its interesting history as only locals can. The tours take place on a Friday, Saturday and Sunday (11am). With Covid19 limitations booking is essential. There is a haunted route on a Saturday night at 7pm and 8pm through the oldest area of the city. If you fancy something a little more relaxing there is the �Beer and BBQ' tour (children not allowed). There is a charge for this tour as it takes in about 5 breweries and sample platters! You'll be more than happy to pay! This is a private tour and you can book with a time to suit you.

Official site: www.walktheyy.com
Admission: Free apart from the Beer Tour. Prices unconfirmed currently. Note for the free tours it is normal to tip your guide.
Location: Walks include Stephen Avenue, and Cowtown. These are subject to changes due to the pandemic and social distancing.

There are a number of amazing attractions (free and paid for) which currently are not opening due to Covid19 and the restrictions that have had to be imposed. All of the attractions (except parks) will require you to book online pre visit - again this is due to how they are managing visitor numbers and social distancing.

All of the attractions listed above, in this top 5 things to do in Calgary, are looking forward to seeing you and helping you experience all the city has to offer! With so many exciting and wonderful things to see and do in Calgary it is truly worth visiting and taking the time to enjoy them.

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