Skip to main content

If you’re thinking about planning a trip to Calgary, you might have questions about where the city is, what the weather’s like and when the best time of year is to visit. You might also be wondering which neighborhoods are worth a stop and, perhaps most importantly, what there is to do in the area. We’ve got you covered! Come along as we answer some of your burning questions surrounding the basics of visiting Calgary, the largest city in Alberta.

Calgary Logistics

Where Is Calgary?

Calgary is a major city in the southern region of the Canadian province of Alberta. The metropolitan destination is home to around 1.16 million residents, and is the host of Calgary Stampede, an annual rodeo and festival that attracts over one million visitors each year. Travelers flying into Calgary will likely land at Calgary International Airport (YYC), from where they’ll find it’s easy to get around thanks to a variety of transportation options including trains, taxis, shuttles, rental cars and more.

What Is the Weather Like in Calgary?

As one might expect, the weather in Calgary varies from season to season. The region enjoys comfortable average temperatures in the fall and springtime — ~50-60 degrees Fahrenheit — warm summers in the upper 60s and mid-70s and brisk, snowy winters that average between 20 to 30 degrees. According to Tourism Calgary, the municipality sees an average of 333 sunny days, and cold weather enthusiasts will be happy to learn the area averages 133 feet of snow each winter.

When Is the Best Time To Visit Calgary?

The best time of year to visit Calgary, Alberta, varies from person to person. Those looking to hit the nearby slopes of the Canadian Rocky Mountains at places like Banff Sunshine Village, Lake Louise Ski Resort and Castle Mountain Resort will find plenty of opportunities to do so December through April. Meanwhile, warmer times of year pave the way for annual events and festivals like Calgary Marathon in the spring; Lilac Festival, Calgary Stampede, Calgary Pride and more in the summer; and Calgary International Film Festival, Rocky Mountain Wine & Food Festival and more in the fall.

Where To Stay in Calgary

At 318.6-square-miles, Calgary is considered a mid-sized city. The downtown area boasts the same flashy skyscrapers and general hustle and bustle of a much larger metropolis while still maintaining a general feeling of safety among residents and visitors. In fact, according to a 2024 report from The City of Calgary, 73% of Calgarians view the city as “safe,” with 96% of residents saying they feel safe walking alone throughout the day and a whopping 73% saying they feel safe walking alone at night.

Like any densely populated destination, Calgary has no shortage of amazing neighborhoods, each of which has a unique personality. For first-time visitors, downtown is a great place to start — check out The Westley Hotel for comfy accommodations and yummy coffee — with its quick access to must-see sights like Calgary Tower, Stephen Avenue and tons of great shops and restaurants. Speaking of food, The Beltline neighborhood is a haven for gastronomes and pub crawlers with its proximity to 17th Avenue, aka the “Red Mile,” a street jam-packed with bars, restaurants and nightlife. Another fabulous option is Kensington, a part of town nestled alongside the scenic Bow River that boasts boutique storefronts and charming cafes, perfect for those looking to discover under-the-radar local spots. Finally, Inglewood, Calgary’s oldest neighborhood, is another wonderful choice with its artsy vibe, delicious dining and easy walkability to nearby attractions like Fort Calgary, Inglewood Bird Sanctuary and Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre.

Where To Eat and Drink in Calgary

Monki Breakfast Club & Bistro for Breakfast

Situated in Calgary’s Beltline district, Monki Breakfast Club & Bistro is a trendy little spot that serves some of the best brunch travelers will find in the city. Attentive service and a cozy atmosphere set the scene for an excellent start to the day, while flavorful coffees, organic teas and boozy beverages give diners the boost they need to make it a great one. With a menu that spans the gamut — from signature dishes like “Monki World Famous French Toast” and “Full Monki” to “Old School” and “New School” selections — it can be hard to choose just one.

Lulu Bar for Lunch

Inspired by the flavors of Asia, Hawai’i and California, Lulu Bar — a local favorite in the heart of 17th Avenue — brings the magic of the Pacific Ocean to Canada with exciting and creative dishes that will leave visitors wanting more. Perhaps the best lunch in Calgary, whether they covet a colorful cocktail (or mocktail); are ready to sink their teeth into snacks, skewers and mains; or have their eye on a tropical dessert, travelers’ tastebuds will be transported to a distant, delicious land when they dine at this noteworthy establishment.

Caesar’s Steak House & Lounge for Dinner

Dating to 1972, Caesar’s Steak House & Lounge is a Calgary institution beloved for its tender, perfectly-cooked Alberta beef steaks, tangy made-to-order tableside Caesar salads and impeccable service. The staff are experts by way of hospitality, and the ambiance is moody and intimate with plush velvet furnishings, ornate woodwork and overhead lighting that’s dimmed to just the right setting. The crème de la crème of fine dining in Calgary, this spot is perfect for a romantic evening or a truly lavish night out on the town. Not to mention, guests are sure to remember watching their steaks hit the grill as the chef prepares it before their eyes from within a glass-enclosed case in the center of the dining room.

Major Tom for Cocktails and More

Fancy a drink with a view? Major Tom is one of the most sought-after restaurants in downtown Calgary thanks to its sweeping views of the streets below. Located on the 40th floor of Stephen Avenue Place, travelers will find award-winning cocktails, mocktails and bites waiting for them inside, while sights of the Calgary Tower make for the ultimate backdrop to an unforgettable outing.

Bonus: The Living Room for a Quick Pick-Me-Up

Conveniently located next to Lulu Bar, visitors seeking a true Calgarian experience won’t want to miss their chance to participate in a “drive by” at The Living Room Restaurant. Something of a secret menu item — if you know, you know — travelers can head to the bar to order “The Shaft,” a buzzy coffee concoction comprising iced espresso and Kahlua. Once they receive their beverage, tradition says participants must chug it as quickly as possible before leaving, hence the name “drive by.” How’s that for a pick-me-up? 

Things To Do in Calgary

Shop at Alberta Boot

This first step to embracing Calgary’s western spirit is dressing the part, and at Alberta Boot — one of the province’s finest boot outfitters — travelers can do just that as they peruse the shop’s wide selection of fine, house-crafted boots suited for any occasion or style. In addition to traditional cowboy boots, Alberta Boot also sells a selection of men’s and women’s clothing and accessories to really help shoppers embrace the look of the Canadian West.

Take a Sidecar Tour

If you’re into city sightseeing tours you’ve probably explored destinations by bus, bike and boat, but have you ever experienced a new place from the comfort of a plush motorcycle sidecar? With Rocky Mountain Sidecar Adventures, visitors to Calgary can do just that as they enjoy the thrills of a motorcycle touring experience without the stress of having to drive. That’s right, all travelers need to do is hop in and enjoy the ride as they whiz past some of the region’s most notable sights and neighborhoods accompanied by a trusted and knowledgeable guide.

A girl posing on a motorcycle with a sidecar attached to it in front of the Calgary Stampede grounds
Posing near the grounds for Calgary Stampede on a Rocky Mountain Sidecar Adventure
A group of four women on an orange raft floating the Bow River in Calgary
Floating the Bow River with new friends

Float the Bow River

For another unlikely view of the city, summertime visitors can get to know Calgary from an unexpected angle when they opt to float the scenic Bow River on a raft or kayak rented from The Paddle Station. Totaling about two hours in length, travelers will find themselves “ooh-ing and aah-ing” at Canada’s rugged landscape as they peacefully drift past rocky outcroppings, towering tree lines and sparkling cityscapes. Wildlife sightings are abundant with fish, ducks, geese and other feathered friends leading the way, while a cooler packed with refreshing beverages and snacks takes the experience to the next level.

Explore Prince’s Island Park

Host to the destination’s annual Canada Day celebration and Calgary Folk Festival, Prince’s Island Park is a popular free attraction in Calgary. In addition to acting as a natural oasis for urbanites, Prince’s Island doubles as a safe haven for animals and native plant life with a man-made wetland habitat and sprawling flower gardens. The park has a modest trail network that’s just right for casual strolls in addition to a playground, picnic areas, a full-service restaurant and an off-leash dog park.


About the Author

Author image

Senior Editor for VAX VacationAccess and world explorer, Jenna Buege loves writing about all things travel. When she’s not busy creating content, she spends her time exploring the great outdoors, cuddling with her two black cats and researching her next big (sometimes strange) adventure. 


comments

1000 characters remaining
Comment as:

The Compass Search

Find articles that you might be interested in reading