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The 14 BEST Calgary Tours and Excursions for 2024

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Compiled by the Road Trip Alberta team

Last updated on January 6, 2024

Basing yourself in Calgary on your next Alberta trip is a great plan – there’s a lot to see in the city and within a short driving distance! In just one hour, you can immerse yourself in the foothills and then the Rocky Mountains, see dinosaur fossils at Dinosaur Provincial Park in the Canadian Badlands, and more. Even better, a stay in Calgary can introduce you to all kinds of fun experiences within city limits, and sometimes, the best way to experience any city is through guided tours.

There are plenty of Calgary tours available, but we made the research and selection process more manageable by rounding up some highly recommended experiences. So whether you’re looking for tour operators right in Calgary or one to take you on a side trip to Drumheller or Banff or more, read through this guide to the best Calgary tours for inside the city and beyond.

The Best Calgary Tours

City of calgary sightseeing tour by sidecar – our top pick.

• Tour Length: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Star Ratings: 5/5 (20+ reviews)

With so many great options it was hard to narrow it down, but because of the unique mode of transportation and the Calgary views, this tour rose to the top.

Take in the sights of the city on a vintage sidecar tour! On this 70-minute guided tour of Calgary, you can relax while your driver takes you around the city and narrates the sights along the way.

There is a brief stop for photos at either Scotsman’s Hill or Crescent Ridge where the driver also doubles as a pseudo-photographer for some tourist shots overlooking the heart of Calgary. Included in the ticket price is the option to choose your pick-up location from one of the downtown Calgary hotels or at the base of the Calgary Tower .

3-hour Bike Ride Through Beautiful Calgary and the Bow River

• Tour Length: 3 hours
• Star Ratings: 5 / 5 (10+ reviews)

Slow down and hop on two-wheeled transportation to connect with the city. See tourist hot spots like the Peace Bridge, Prince’s Island Park, Fort Calgary, the Calgary Stampede grounds, and more! Start your journey at Joe’s Garage Bicycle Rental and Repair in southwest Calgary and embark on a trip to 10 different spots throughout the city, all while hearing tales of conquest, mystery, and First Nations culture before ending back at the bike shop.

The tour operator has infant seats and buggies available for children so that they can join in on the experience, and since there is a cap of 12 travellers in the group, it is guaranteed to be a small, intimate experience. Please note that this tour is moderately physical and not recommended for those with heart problems or other serious medical problems

This tour includes:

• Use of bicycle – no need to bring your own!
• Helmet (if wanted)
• A bicycle lock

Our guide, Dan, was wonderful! Very knowledgeable and accommodating! It was just my husband and I on the tour, and we loved every minute! It was a great way to see the city and learn all about it!! – Viator user Judy_Z

Calgary Brewery Tour

• Tour Length: 3 hours and 30 minutes

The microbrewery scene in Calgary has exploded in the last decade, and there are some seriously good award-winning brews to sample on this tour! You will even have access to your very own self-proclaimed “beer geek tour guide” and get an educational, behind-the-scenes beer sampling experience. The meeting (and end) point is downtown at Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott, and you will be transported around in style by a branded Canadian Craft Tours van.

There are three stops on this Calgary tour: Bow River Brewing, OT Brewing Company, and Born Brewing Co. Each sharing their story, vision, and of course, some stellar brews!

Private Self-Guided River Rafting Tour in Calgary

• Tour Length: 2 to 4 hours
• Star Ratings: 5 / 5 (70+ reviews)

This experience is rated as Calgary’s number one outdoor activity, so you know it will be a good time! This self-guided experience on the Bow River begins at the launch point in West Baker Park, so all you have to do is show up, and a 4, 6, 8, or 10-person inflatable raft will be waiting for you. Hop in with your crew and enjoy a leisurely float at your own pace as you explore some natural parks and enjoy exceptional views of the cityscape. Depending on the river flow, this journey can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, and the final destination is Prince’s Island Park in the heart of the city.

For an even more convenient experience, you can grab a ride in the shuttle from the Lazy Day office in northwest Calgary to the launch point and back for an additional fee of $7 per person.

This is an amazing way to spend a day in Calgary! Pack a picnic lunch, grab your tunes, and head out! So much fun!! You have the rental raft for the whole day, so take your time, stop along the way! We had so much fun the first time, we went 2 more times this summer! TripAdvisor Reviewer

Ghost Tour of Calgary By Sidecar

• Star Ratings: 5 / 5 (3 reviews)

If ghost stories and unique transportation are your jam, look no further than this spooky Calgary tour by sidecar! This adult-only ghost tour takes you to historic parts of the city, places like Fort Calgary, Inglewood, and Scotsman’s Hill, with experienced drivers. Listen to a professional storyteller providing live narration via helmet communication along the way. Stop at historic pubs for non-alcoholic refreshments (or an alcoholic drink at your own expense). Enjoy a fun night in Calgary while learning about the darker parts of the city’s history and some of its notorious residents.

This experience is tailored to small groups tour and only allows a maximum of 6 travellers. It meets and ends at the Calgary Tower with a starting time of 7:30 pm.

We had sooooo much fun. I would do it again. They were the nicest people to have with us. If you’re looking for a great time don’t pass this up ! – Viator user Ann_H

The Best Of Calgary Walking Tour

• Tour Length: 2 hours

The absolute best of Calgary is highlighted in this 2-hour walking tour that begins at the Calgary Tower. This experience is a private tour that comes with a knowledgeable guide who will enlighten your group about the roots and old stories of how Calgary came to be and how it developed into Canada’s Stampede City. Get your listening ears and legs ready for 2 hours of walking and talking!

Calgary Private Food Tour

• Tour Length: 3+ hours

This tour is unique because it is fully customizable! Provided through Alberta Food Tours, you can set up a group of 2-45 people with your very own guide(s), depending on group size. The tour time is customized to fit your needs, whether late morning, afternoon or evening, Sunday through Thursday.

What dining establishments you end up at are customized depending on what you want to experience! Indulging in delicious food with good company – this personalized experience is definitely a fantastic and memorable way to spend a few hours.

Day Tours From Calgary

Horseback trail ride in kananaskis – top pick, horseback trail ride in kananaskis.

The raving testimonials seal the deal on why this horseback adventure is a top pick for Calgary tours found outside Calgary.

• Star Ratings: 5/5 (120+ reviews)

A trip to Alberta will not be complete without a horseback riding adventure! And the spectacular scenery in Kananaskis is some of the best in all of Canada. This wonderful tour is capped at eight people to ensure personal attention by the guides throughout the journey, and it is open to all skill levels of horse experience, from novice to experienced riders. The activity begins and ends in Kananaskis, so a vehicle is required to get there by yourself from Calgary. However, the scenic drive alone is worth it, not to mention the exciting opportunity to leisurely explore the Kananaskis Valley and have many wildlife viewing opportunities.

This tour includes a professional and experienced guide, and the use of a horse and necessary equipment.

It was a great experience. Our trail ride leader was excellent as was the trailing rider. We had a great time. The horses were great. We would recommend it to everyone who wants the experience of doing a trail ride and seeing some awesome country. – VIATOR USER Thomas_O

Kananaskis River Rafting

• Tour Length: 4 hours
• Star Ratings: 5 / 5 (35+ reviews)

Pair fantastic views with some adrenaline-pumping action, resulting in this Kananaskis river rafting adventure. This small group tour leaving from Canmore or Banff is excellent for all levels of whitewater rafting experience, even beginners and even includes snacks! Embark on a 1.5-2 hour rafting experience followed by a refreshing swim in the Kananaskis River, one of Alberta’s most pristine waterways. Also included in this tour are free photos of your rafting adventure available online so you can download and share your epic time with all your family and friends.

A group of 10 of us went rafting, and it was so much fun. Our guide Tim was fantastic, made us feel safe and we had tons of laughs. – Viator user Jim_N

Banff National Park Tour From Calgary

• Tour Length:
• Star Ratings: 4.5/5 (60+ reviews)

Enjoy exploring all Banff National Park has to offer without worrying about driving yourself or paying a national park fee! Starting from a hotel in downtown Calgary, travel in an air-conditioned tour bus to Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies and visit landmarks such as Sulphur Mountain (there is an opportunity to add on a gondola ride here too, which is HIGHLY recommended), Bow Falls, and Johnston Canyon . The full-day tour also allocates some free time in the Banff townsite for shopping and grabbing a bite to eat before heading back to the bus for the journey back to Calgary.

The scenic views, in the Banff area are outstanding!! Also our Driver/Guide Sammy was excellent!!! The trip was well organized and implemented!!! – Viator user Kevin_G

Canmore Caving

• Tour Length: 6 hours
• Star Ratings: 5 / 5 (220+ reviews)

Embark on a “Caver For A Day” experience in Rat’s Nest Cave, one of the longest caves in Canada! Pick from two departure times to begin a tour that will test your physical and mental limits. The full-day tour begins with a 45-minute hike uphill learning about the area’s geologic history with possible wildlife sightings. Once at the cave entrance, you will rappel down 59 feet and begin the route, ending at a crystal-clear grotto.

Note: Caving is a moderately strenuous activity and requires climbing, crawling, squeezing, and sliding through a cave. In addition, guests are required to wear a helmet as well as a safety harness which has a maximum waist size of 45″ (114 cm) and a maximum leg size of 33″ (84 cm). Equipment will be provided.

A unique experience. Something that should definitely be on a bucket list. Very informative as well as fun. John was fantastic. – Viator user Jacqui_P

Private Day Tour – Calgary to the Royal Tyrrell Museum

• Tour Length: 8 to 10 hours
• Star Ratings: 4.5 / 5 (10+ reviews)

Discover the hoodoos in the rustic Canadian Badlands landscape with a trip to explore Drumheller . In addition to the amazing landscape, during the trip, see the World’s Largest Dinosaur, Drumheller’s Little Church, Horseshoe Canyon, and Horsethief Canyon.

There is an option to add on the Royal Tyrrell Museum and Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site for the additional admission fees, and in our opinion, they are both definitely worth the costs. Although this is a sightseeing tour with no narration, it is a private chauffeured experience for you and your group, so enjoy the luxury!

Jeff was a great guide! He was very knowledgeable of the area and gave fantastic local (and international) travel tips and recommendations. He offered to take photos of us at every stop which is super important to me. – Viator user Hannah_R

Columbia Icefield Adventure 1-Day Tour From Calgary or Banff

• Tour Length: 13 Hours

Spend the day exploring the wonders of the Canadian Rockies! And also get the once-in-a-lifetime chance to discover the Columbia Icefield on foot. This full-day tour picks up from either downtown Calgary or Banff. You will see natural wonders, including the Waputik Range, Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, and the Crowfoot Glacier – many of the top highlights found on the famed Icefields Parkway .

For an additional cost, you can also hop on the Columbia Icefield Ice Explorer and see the landmark up close! This great tour includes highlights to discover from both Banff National Park and Jasper National Park, with the convenience of round-trip transit throughout.

Glacier is stunning and driver provided good service. He is knowledgeable and professional and helped taking pictures for us . – Viator user Quilin_Z

Lake Louise and Yoho National Park From Calgary

• Star Ratings: 4.5 / 5 (110+ reviews)

See the most stunning Canadian Rockies landscapes – from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake – on this exciting full-day tour! With pickups in Calgary and Banff National Park, you will get to witness the amazing sights of Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Emerald Lake, with a pass-by of the Spiral Tunnels before being dropped back off at your starting point. Learn about the area’s history from your tour guide and enjoy the scenery as you sit back and relax. Bonus: if you book this tour during the winter months, it also includes snowshoeing.

Our guide, Alan, was so knowledgeable. Perfect amount of time allowed at each stop. So nice having someone else do the driving and parking. Highly recommend this tour. – Viator user Cyndy_P

If you are basing yourself in Calgary, we can help you plan your stay:

• Where to stay in Calgary .
• Where to eat in Calgary . Or, if you want to get specific, where to find the best pizza in Calgary !
• All of the great things to do in Calgary .
• And if you’re heading west, we have curated a list of the best Banff tours as well.

Dalene Heck is a co-founder of Road Trip Alberta. She was born in Edmonton, grew up in the Peace Country, and has ventured to almost every corner of Alberta and the world (she’s travelled to 60 countries)! She is a serial blogger, the CEO of HMI Marketing , co-creator of the Trip Chaser card game, a leukemia-slayer, and cat whisperer.

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The Best Things to Do in Canada

17 of the Best Calgary Tours

February 28, 2023 By Matthew G. Bailey Leave a Comment

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Although we have extensive experience across all of Canada, Calgary is actually our home base, which means we know a lot about this beautiful city and all the awesome Calgary tours that you can enjoy.

Located next to the world-famous Canadian Rockies and the Dinosaur Capital of the World, there are also lots of Calgary tours that take you outside the city to explore some of the best natural attractions in Alberta.

So whether you’re looking for a tour in Calgary or a tour to the Rocky Mountains and beyond, we’ve got you covered in this guide to the best Calgary tours!

Calgary Tours Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links, which means when you make a purchase, we get a small commission. Affiliate links cost you nothing to use and they help keep these travel guides free. It’s a win-win! For more information, visit our privacy policy.

With so many Calgary tours both within the city and in the surrounding areas, there are many options for you to choose from. Below are the top 17 Calgary tours we could find!

Our Top 3 Picks: Calgary Tours

#1 TOP PICK

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Three-Hour Bike Tour

✔️ Experience the beauty of Calgary ✔️ Bike and Guide included

Kananaskis Whitewater Rafting

✔️ Exciting and Adventurous ✔️ See the Rocky Mountains

Private Tour to Banff

✔️ World-Famous Banff ✔️ World-famous Lake Louise 🚫 Con

1. Private Self-Guided River Rafting Tour in Calgary

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Even as locals, one of our favourite things to do during the summer in Calgary is to go tubing down the river. Whether it’s cruising down the Bow River or lazy floating down the Elbow River, this private self-guided river rafting tour is a great way to experience the city and some of the best views.

Since this is a self-guided tour, you’ll simply pick up your raft, get some instructions from the rental company, and head out on a true Calgarian adventure. Feel free to go solo or bring your family and friends for a peaceful float down the river, passing by golf courses, residential areas, nature, parks, and even parts of downtown Calgary.

This is an amazing way to spend a day in Calgary! Pack a picnic lunch, grab your tunes, and head out! So much fun!! You have the rental raft for the whole day, so take your time, stop along the way! We had so much fun the first time, we went 2 more times this summer! – Happy Customer ( see more reviews )

This four-hour self-guided rafting tour in Calgary includes:

• PFDs, paddles and safety kit
• Free Parking
• Guides are not required for these tours.
• Tickets ($7 each) for our convenient shuttle to the launch point

Click Here to See Reviews, Pricing, and Availability.

2. Calgary Downtown: 2-Hour Introductory Walking Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Whenever we visit a new city, we always try to take a walking tour as it’s such a great way to not only learn about a new place but to also get oriented. This is your chance to embark on a 2-hour walking tour of Calgary’s Downtown . Hear the stories and history that make Calgary an exciting cosmopolitan city and explore the +15 elevated walkways that add to the city’s unique character.

Begin at Municipal Plaza and learn about the origins of Calgary. Continue on to see the newly-revitalized East Village buildings. Pass by more public art and many historic buildings. Travel along the most extensive pathway system in North America and into Chinatown. Work your way back towards the historic Stephen Avenue where your tour will end. If you’re hungry, this is a great place to find some of the best restaurants in Calgary .

We really enjoyed the Calgary waking tour with Mikaela! We saw and learned so much, which deepened our experience in the city. In particular, we loved the public art and the stories behind the sites we visited. Our guide was enthusiastic and knowledgeable. Highly recommended activity! – Happy Customer ( more reviews )

Calgary is a blend of a brash frontier town and a lively metropolis. Explore the downtown with a tour guide who will introduce you to this dynamic city. Enjoy the public art and historical buildings along the route. Some of the highlights include:

• Enjoy the public art seen throughout the city
• Learn the history of Calgary and Western culture
• Explore the historic buildings and hear their survival stories
• View the stunning architecture of the new public library
• Enjoy the tour in any weather conditions; Calgary’s elevated walkways will keep you warm and dry

3. Calgary City Sightseeing Tour in a Sidecar

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  70 Minutes | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re for a truly unique Calgary tour, this is it! This Guided Sidecar Tour of Calgary offers a unique mode of transport: by vintage sidecar motorcycle. Relax while your driver takes you around the city and narrates the sights along the route. See landmarks like Scotsman’s Hill and Crescent Heights Park, which overlook the heart of Calgary, as well as a brief stop for photos. Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off are provided.

We loved being able to communicate as a group with the tour guides. They had so much enthusiasm for the city of Calgary and so much knowledge. It was a treat to spend time with these guides. We also loved the novelty of this tour – first time on a sidecar and we did not expect to learn so much and enjoy it so much! – Denise ( see more reviews )

This is a unique chance to tour Calgary in a vintage sidecar motorcycle ride through the downtown core with guided narration. They’ll also pick you up from all the downtown hotels for maximum convenience. The city tour rolls for 70 minutes with one stop for photos either at Scotsman’s Hill or Crescent Ridge. All in all, the tour included:

• Driver/guide
• Headsets to hear the guide clearly
• Live commentary on board
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Use of helmet
• GST (Goods and Services Tax)

4. Calgary: 3.5-Hour Bus City Tour with Gasoline Alley Museum

⭐️  RATING:  4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3.5 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Set off on a 3.5-hour tour through Calgary to gain an overview of Downtown and take time to explore the famous Gasoline Alley Museum at Calgary’s Heritage Park. Photograph the panoramic views of the city, see classic cars, and learn about Calgary’s history.

This 3.5-hour Calgary Bus Tour begins at the base of the Calgary Tower and travels through downtown and to the Calgary Zoo, the Telus Spark Science Center, East Village, and to historic Inglewood, all in a comfortable minibus. You’ll also visit Scotsman’s Hill for some of the most beautiful views of the city, stop at Canada Olympic Park to watch some sporting activities and spend some time at Gasoline Alley Museum, a museum dedicated to historical gravitational gas pumps and antique vehicles.

Very professional, informative, knowledgeable, narrative by Judy. We toured the most photographic viewpoints in Calgary. We stopped at locations that allowed photographs, nutrient breaks, and a great museum of vintage automobiles. I recommend this tour to anyone who wants to see everything Calgary has to offer and the history that made it happen !! – Happy Customer ( see more reviews )

This 3.5-hour Calgary Tour includes:

• Get the best panoramic views of the Calgary skyline
• Explore classic cars, gas pumps, and vintage signage at Gasoline Alley Museum
• Hear stories about Calgary from your local guide
• Entrance to Gasoline Alley Museum
• Transport by comfortable bus
• Professional driver
• Local tour guide

5. 3-Hour Bike Ride Through Beautiful Calgary and the Bow River

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you’re looking for a scenic biking tour through Calgary’s top areas, this 3-hour Calgary biking tour is for you. Their expert local guides know Calgary inside and out. ​Touch, see, hear, and smell the mystifying magnificence of nature as you cycle along the Bow River and into Sandstone City. Explore local favourite prairie spots, marvel at the iconic Peace Bridge, and hear tales of conquest and mystery. Connect with the First Nations Peoples, the water, and the legendary Stampede, just to name a few.

In just three hours, you’ll see so much of what Calgary is known for, including the Bow River, Peace Bridge, Prince’s Island Park, the Chinese Cultural Centre Museum, St. Patrick’s Island Nature, the beautiful neighbourhood of Inglewood, parts of Fort Calgary, and the grounds of the world-famous Calgary Stampede. You’ll also see 17th Avenue Retail & Entertainment District A.K.A The Red Mile, the Beltline Hip neighbourhood closest to downtown, and more.

Our guide, Dan, was wonderful! Very knowledgeable and accommodating! It was just my husband and I on the tour and we loved every minute! It was a great way to see the city and learn all about it!! – Happy Customer ( see more reviews )

When it comes to Calgary tours, this is a great option for getting some exercise at the same time. This 3-hour Calgary Bike Tour includes:

• Use of bicycle
• Helmet (if wanted)
• A bicycle lock
• A Guided tour you won’t forget

6. Kananaskis River Rafting Adventure

Located only an hour west of Calgary, the Kananaskis is one of the most beautiful regions in the entire country. If you’re looking for a fun and exciting activity that combines some absolutely stunning mountain scenery, you’ll definitely want to book yourself in for a Kananaskis Rafting Tour .

Combine sightseeing with an adrenaline-pumping adventure on this small-group day tour from Banff or Canmore. You’ll soak up the sights as you raft down the Kananaskis River, one of Alberta’s most pristine waterways. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as bald eagles, bears and deer as you navigate the periodic rapids.

Our rafting guide was Tom and he was a lot of fun, very interactive and made the day extraordinary. Huge shout out to Tom who worked his butt off to make the day a hit for my family. – Happy Customer ( see more reviews )

Take in the Rockies scenery as you raft down the Kananaskis River on this small-group adventure (maximum seven guests). This ensures your guide’s full attention and this activity is great for all levels of whitewater rafting experience, even beginners.

When it comes to Calgary tours outside the city combined with adrenaline, this is it! This four-hour experience includes:

• Approximately two hours on the water
• Optional swim at the end
• All necessary equipment (wetsuits, lifejacket, helmet, rainjacket, wetsuit booties and gloves)
• Free photos of your rafting adventure are available online

7. 2-Hour Horseback Trail Ride in Kananaskis

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Escape the hustle and bustle of Calgary by riding into the serene Alberta backcountry, which is only an hour’s drive away. This small-group horseback riding adventure will have you exploring forests and traversing a mountain ridge for excellent views of the entire Kananaskis Valley, something you’ll never forget. The tour is suitable for all skill levels, from novice to experienced riders.

Our two-hour Ridge Ride is the most popular adventure offered. On top of the magnificent views, you might catch a glimpse of the wildlife that resides in this unique ecosystem. Plus, you’ll also pass by our Teepee Village with one of the Teepees that was in the Movie The Revenant , starring Leonardo DiCaprio. Remember to bring your camera to capture the incredible scenery.

What an amazing experience! The ranch itself was beautiful and extremely well maintained. Everyone who worked there was very nice. The trails were beautiful and the horses were well trained and behaved. I will for sure be going back again. – Kirsten ( see more reviews )

This two-hour horseback riding tour includes:

• All taxes and fees
• A professional and experienced guide
• Use of horse and all necessary equipment

8. Experience Banff National Park & Lake Louise | Moraine Lake – PRIVATE DAY TOUR

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  9 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Very few places in the world can rival the beauty of Banff National Park and luckily for you, this magical place is only a couple of hours from the city. Immerse yourself in the scenery of the Canadian Rockies and enjoy a personalized experience of Banff National Park on this private tour from Calgary .

Explore at your own pace as your guide shares the history of Canada’s first national park and takes you to some of the most famous sites including Lake Louise, Moraine Lake and Lake Minnewanka.

Canoeing Moraine Lake, hiking, gondola ride, sightseeing Lake Louise…jam packed day! The most beautiful day filled with beautiful memories. Thank you to our great guide, Manny, and everyone at ABest Tours for making this possible. – Dawn ( see more reviews )

This comprehensive Banff National Park tour is ideal for those with limited time and includes:

• Private Transportation in Van or SUV
• A personalized experience
• Hassle-free pickup from your Calgary Metro area accommodations
• Flexibility to adjust the itinerary to your own preferences
• Park Entrance Fee
• Bottled water

9. Discover Banff National Park – Day Trip

⭐️  RATING:  4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  11 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Few places compare to the beauty of Banff National Park and this semi-private day trip will take you to some of the most popular places, such as Canmore, Lake Minnewanka, Banff, Castle Mountain, and Lake Louise. You will be laughing and enjoying the ride in between every incredible destination.

Not only will you see some stunning landscapes and possibly some wildlife, but you’ll also have a personal photographer the entire day so you can make friends back home jealous about your trip to Banff! You will do a short hike if you’re up for it, or walk a bit on an area with low elevation gain if you prefer. One thing is for sure, YOU will love the entire day in the Canadian Rockies. This trip is all about wowing you and hearing ahs and ohs all day long!

The tour guides Murray and Patrick were wonderful. We spent an adequate amount of time at every stop and the views were out of this world. It looked like all the wonderful pics that you see online. The tour was upbeat and lively and by the end I felt like I made 10 new friends. I really enjoyed myself. Patrick is a hoot, young, energetic and simply charming. I personally think that everyone is a bad driver but myself but I felt completely safe with maurray at the wheel. It was a great day. – Takesha ( see more reviews )

Your adventure starts when the guide picks you up at your hotel in Downtown Calgary (extra fees for hotels further away). You can even be dropped off in places like Banff and Canmore! When it comes to Calgary tours outside the city, this is an excellent option. This 10-12 tour includes:

• Private transportation
• Ice cleats for shoes
• Park entrance

10. Lake Louise Moraine Lake Tour from Calgary or Banff

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  9 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Immerse yourself in the incredible Canadian Rockies on this guided tour from Banff to Moraine Lake and beyond. Marvel at Moraine Lake’s opalescent waters, learn about the human history of the landscapes, look for wildlife such as moose, bear, and elk, and make a stop at Lake Louise to snap photos of its world-famous turquoise waters.

If you’ve only got a day and want to “see it all”, this is a great option. Not only will you see some of the top sights in Banff National Park, but you’ll even make it to the world-famous Moraine Lake. In the winter, you’ll visit British Columbia and Yoho National Park instead.

Our guide, Alan, was so knowledgeable. Perfect amount of time allowed at each stop. So nice having someone else do the driving and parking. Highly recommend this tour. – Cyndy ( see more reviews )

When it comes to Calgary tours outside the city, this is a great option. This 8-10-hour Lake Louise and Yoho tour includes:

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Bilingual Tour Guide
• 20-Minute free Snowshoeing for the Winter itinerary (Nov to mid-Apr / Weather Dependent)
• Traffic Accident Insurance (10M liability)
• National Park Fee

11. Banff Area 1-Day Tour from Calgary or Banff

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  8+ hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Explore many of Banff National Park’s top sights without doing any of the driving! This full-day tour from Calgary or Banff sets off in an air-conditioned coach with visits to key landmarks such as Sulphur Mountain (upgrade for a gondola ride) the dramatic Bow Falls, Johnston Canyon, and even some leisure time for wandering the town of Banff and enjoying lunch (own expense).

Amazing trip! And views! Bus tour guide was so friendly and helpful! Saw Beautiful places! Will definitely do this trip again with friends! Lunch was delicious we had in Banff town! – Marina ( see more reviews )

Leave the logistics and navigation to your driver on this seamless round-trip trip tour from Calgary or Banff. This trip includes:

• Free Crampon for Winter itinerary (Nov to mid-Apr)

12. Lakes, Glaciers & Thrilling Peaks | Off the Beaten Path | Exclusive Private Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  8+ hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

This exclusive private tour will make you feel like a traveller rather than a tourist and is the only tour in the winter months that will take you to the Alpine Zone in Banff National Park. However, whether you join in the summer or in the winter, learning ancient native culture and colonial history will make for an unbelievably meaningful travel experience. This is the best tour for witnessing the most stunning lakes of Banff National Park.

You’ll get to see Herbert Lake, Bow Lake, and Peyto Lake along the spectacular Icefields Parkway as well as Lake Louise and even Moraine Lake during the warmer months. Free pick up and drop off from Calgary, Canmore, Banff, and Lake Louise. No hidden fees.

It was amazing. He customized our tour due to weather and it turned out awesome. He did far and beyond touring. We couldn’t ask for more. Will definitely recommend and will do it again. – Jane ( see more reviews )

This 8-10-hour private tour includes:

• All Fees and Taxes
• Private Guide
• Small private group maximum 2 travellers

13. Fatbike Frozen Waterfall Tour

The countryside outside Calgary in the Rocky Mountains offers a world of outdoor adventure, but few pursuits offer as much fun as fat-biking. On this tour, hop into the saddle and peddle your way through the Canadian wilderness by fat bike, tackling the snowy terrain with ease. With a safety kit included and your guide to lead the way, you’ll get to visit a frozen waterfall and enjoy uninterrupted views of spectacular wintery scenery without worries. Explore the wilderness of the Canadian Rockies on this popular fat-bike cycling tour .

We had an amazing time on the fat bike tour. Our guide, Paul was extremely helpful with great tips on how to use the bikes properly. He made the morning really enjoyable and the tour had a great pace and was a fun ride. Everything was extremely well organized from start to finish. – Happy Customer ( see more reviews )

This 2-3 hour tour includes:

• Professional guide

14. Snowshoeing in Kananaskis

Embark on a winter snowshoeing journey in the Kananaski s, which is just west of Calgary. Accompanies by a professional guide, you’ll get to focus on the scenery and the sound of your footsteps crunching into the snow rather than trying to find the right direction. You’ll learn the history of the Kananaskis through guided commentary, facts about the local flora and fauna, and how different species survive this harsh season.

This is a great opportunity to discover this 6000-year-old mode of transportation. Embrace the winter by walking across the thick snowpack instead of going through it. This tour runs from 10 am till 12 pm or 1:30 pm til 3:30 pm every day. This tour is ideal for everyone aged 6+. However, younger kids are welcome if the parents are up to the challenge.

Excellent experience. The rental snowshoes were in perfect condition and the price of a full day rental was very reasonable. The advice on snowshoe trails in Kananaskis was very helpful. We ended up at a beautiful location that was suitable for our fitness level that we would not have chosen on our own. Covid precautions were in place and being followed by the employees. Rental equipment returns were being sanitized. – Happy Customer ( see more reviews )

When it comes to Calgary tours outside the city, this is a good option in the winter. On top of all the beauty, this tour includes:

• Hot Beverage and Cookies

15. Stargazing Tour – Kananaskis After Dark

Banff National Park is famous for its spectacular scenery, but after dark, the landscape takes on a whole new look and feel. On this Kananaskis Afer Dark tour , you’ll get to strap on some snowshoes and stomp into the Kananaskis forest on a guided moonlit hike. Stop in open clearings and peek at the stars through a telescope. Admire the beauty of the stars with very little light pollution.

Be dazzled by a sky full of more stars than you can possibly imagine. This hike will open your senses and change your perspective. Even a familiar trail looks different when the sun goes down. You are welcome to bring a camera and tripod to try out some astrophotography or to just hang out with the group and chat about astronomy. Please note: the use of snowshoes for this tour depends on snow levels.

Weren’t sure what to expect. We’ve never snow shoed before! Lots of fun, wintery scenery was wonderful. Great guide. Clouds cleared and we saw alot of stars… Even a couple shooting stars! – Tara ( see more reviews )

With a hot drink and cookie included, marvel at the wonders of nature in the Canadian wilderness. This two-hour tour includes:

• Hot Beverage and cookie
• Use of Headlamp and Snowshoes (if required)
• Coffee and/or Tea

16. Mohkinstsis Walking Tour – Calgary’s Indigenous History

Another side of Calgary is revealed on this walking tour with Indigenous guide , Tarra Wright Many Chief. Explore St. Patrick’s Island as she shares stories of the region’s Blackfoot people and the cultural significance of the land you’re walking on.

On this small-group tour, immerse yourself in the nature of the island as the Bow and Elbow Rivers flow around it. Learn from your Indigenous guide (a member of the Kainai Nation, also known as the Blood Tribe) about the history and culture of the area.

Exceeded all my expectations. The tour guide was extremely knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and a really delightful person! I left with an entirely new pair of glasses to see indigenous life. – Happy Customer ( see more reviews )

Your Indigenous guide will meet you at the George C King Bridge and guide you along a 2.5 km walking tour through Calgary’s St. Patrick’s Island while you learn from your Indigenous guide about the Indigenous history of Calgary and the traditional territory of the Blackfoot People. The tour is approximately 90 – 120 minutes depending on the speed of the group the very welcomed questions.

This tour includes:

• Stories of growing up on a reserve, Indigenous traditions and stories

17. Calgary to Royal Tyrrell Museum | Drumheller | Badlands – PRIVATE DAY TOUR

Everyone heads west to the mountains but did you know that the area east of Calgary is known as the Dinosaur Capital of the World? Explore Drumheller Provincial Park and the Canadian Badlands on this all-day private sightseeing tour from Calgary, Alberta. Travel at your own pace with your own group via a luxury sprinter van. Visit Horseshoe Canyon, walk among the hoodoos (tall, thin spires of rock), visit the Atlas Coal Mine, and stop at the Royal Tyrrell Museum, Canada’s only museum dedicated to paleontology.

Excellent service and tour. Arnel was a wonderful guide. He was attentive to all our requests and doubts. The van was clean and sanitized. All the covid restrictions were followed. The Tyrrell Museum is a wonderful place to visit, but also the city of Drumheller. It is amazing to see all the city involved with the dinosaur theme. Bravo! – Happy Customer ( see more reviews )

When it comes to Calgary tours to Drumheller, this is one of the only options. This full-day tour to Drumheller includes:

• Private Sightseeing tour at your own pace
• Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected)
• Transport by Licensed and Insured Commercial vehicle
• All taxes, fees and handling charges, including fuel surcharges

If you’re looking for Calgary tours, you’re probably going to be spending some time in the city. For more information on Calgary, check out these guides below:

• Best Hotels in Calgary
• Best Breweries in Calgary
• Best Calgary Coffee Shops
• Calgary in the Winter

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

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Discover the Best Calgary Tours

The most populated city in the Alberta province, Calgary has a bustling economy being second in the country only to Toronto for the number of business headquarters it contains. Calgary was established in 1875 and had been home to First Nations people for thousands of years. It became the first Canadian city to host the Winter Olympics in 1988. The city hosts an annual rodeo and festival called the Calgary Stampede that brings many tourists. Notable sites are Olympic Plaza, Canadian Olympic Hall of Fame and Museum, Glenbow Museum, Calgary Tower, Calgary Zoo, Heritage Park Historical Village, Devonian Gardens and Eau Claire Market.

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Top Tours in and Around Calgary

Tours are a great way to experience a destination and the perfect way to get a local’s perspective on the history, food, and culture of a city. Enjoy the convenience of a tour bus, the freedom of a bicycle, or the adventure of motorcycle sidecars on these guided tours in and around Calgary. Let experienced guides and tour operators do the planning and explore everywhere from downtown Calgary and Banff to Dinosaur Provincial Park and Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump. Find the tour that is right for you as you explore Calgary and beyond.

Top Bus & Motorcycle Tours of Calgary

There is currently no hop-on hop-off bus services available in Calgary but plenty of guided bus tours to help you explore the city.

Blue Sky Tours is a bus tour company with a city tour for everyone. Take the City Highlights tour and see everything from the Calgary Tower and Olympic Plaza to Fort Calgary and views from Scotsman Hill. Sports fans will love exploring sports venues like the Scotiabank Saddledome, McMahon Stadium, and the Olympic Oval. Hunt for antiques in the historic neighbourhood of Inglewood or explore heritage and executive homes that have defined Calgary since the turn of the century.

Learn about important landmarks and public spaces on the CalgaryWalks & Bus Tours city bus tour with engaging guides. Tours leave from the base of the Calgary Tower and return to the same location at the end of the day.

Hammerhead Scenic Tours offers year-round bus tours of Calgary with key stops at WinSport, Heritage Park, and Scotsman Hill. Each tour lasts approximately 3 hours on a comfortable air-conditioned tour bus.

Rocky Mountain Sidecar Adventures offers guided sidecar motorcycle tours in and around Calgary. Experienced drivers let you enjoy the view from the sidecar on a 90 minute tour of Calgary, featuring historic locations and the neighbourhoods of Kensington and Inglewood.

RTB Tours & Shuttles  offers a Calgary Evening Tour with incredible views of the downtown Calgary skyline from Crescent Heights and Scotsman’s Hill. This tour is an excellent choice for visitors who are only in Calgary for a short time. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours between 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.

Tour Calgary by bus with RTB Tours & Shuttles.

Top Walking Tours of Downtown Calgary

BUMP Festival Mural Tours guide you through Calgary’s open air street art gallery! See 20+ murals in the heart of the Beltline, marvel at record breaking artworks, celebrate local history, and learn about the most iconic murals in the city. 

CalgaryWalks & Bus Tours tells the story of downtown Calgary from its early beginnings to the lively urban centre it is today. Tours guides lead a historical walking tour to major landmarks at a comfortable pace, through Stephen Avenue and along the Bow River Pathway.

History Wrangler Tours offers tours of Downtown Calgary and a special "Haunted Cowtown" tour that gives unique perspectives into the history of the city on guided walking tours. Tours last between 2 and 3 hours and begin at the Calgary Tower.

Toonie Tours provides a first-hand introduction to the city with local experts through a variety of tours including a Free Walking Tour, their one-of-a-kind Street Art and Craft Beer Tour, a classic Bike Tour, or a Scootsee City Highlights Tour. 

Tour Olympic City Hall in Calgary (Photo credit: Neil Zeller).

Top Ways to Tour Banff National Park

Explore the beauty and wonder of Banff National Park with a guided tour company that will provide transportation and helpful information along the way. These tours depart from Calgary and provide transportation to and from Banff.

Tour Banff National Park, visit Tunnel Mountain, ride the gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain, or cruise the waters of Lake Minnewanka with Blue Sky Tours .

Discover Banff Tours guides small groups to the major highlights in Banff along with custom experiences at Lake Louise, and Grotto Canyon, and Johnston Canyon. Looking for adventure? Try hiking, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, snowshoeing, dogsledding, skiing, or snowmobiling with Discover Banff Tours.

Canadian Scenery Travel and Rocky Mountain Scenic Tours provide tours of the Canadian Rockies and Banff National Park in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese.

You can even tour Banff National Park with an award-winning tour guide and his furry friend Reno. Tours with Big Wolf Tour Company are small groups, up to ten people, and explore Banff from sunrise to sunset with big adventure in mind.

Hammerhead Scenic Tours provides a full day tour through the Alberta foothills and the Canadian Rockies, with stops at Two Jack Lake, Lake Minnewanka, Moraine Lake, and the Valley of the Ten Peaks, with key stops at Lake Louise and the Town of Banff. This full day tour lasts approximately 10-11 hours.

RTB Tours & Shuttles offers guided tours to Banff National Park with key stops at the Town of Banff, Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, and the Victoria Glacier. This year-round tour departs Calgary at 7:30 a.m. from the base of the Calgary Tower and returns at approximately 6:30 p.m.

Brewster Sightseeing gives you the opportunity explore Banff and the charming shops, galleries, cafes, and restaurants of this mountain town. Finish it all off with a ride up the Banff Gondola and a tour of Lake Minnewanka . Tours depart from Calgary, Canmore, and Banff.

Tour Banff National Park with Brewster Travel Canada.

Top Tours of Drumheller and the Badlands 

Explore Drumheller and the Badlands with expert tour guides and comfortable transportation. These tours depart from Calgary and provide transportation to and from Drumheller and the Badlands.

Experience the Canadian Badlands with Blue Sky Tours and visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum and Horsethief Canyon just east of Calgary.

Calgary Tours departs from the Chinese Cultural Centre every Sunday for a one day tour of the Badlands, with Horseshoe Canyon, hoodoos, and a visit to the Royal Tyrrell Museum on the itinerary.

Hammerhead Scenic Tours provides a full day tour from Calgary that includes stops along Horseshoe Canyon and the North Dinosaur Trail, a visit to the World’s Largest Dinosaur, and a key stop at the Royal Tyrrell Museum. This full day tour lasts approximately 9.5 hours.

Explore Drumheller and the Badlands with RTB Tours & Shuttles , with key stops along Horseshoe Canyon, the Hoodoos, Atlas Coal Mine, Rosedale Suspension Bridge, and the world famous Royal Tyrrell Museum. Tours begin in May each year and departs Calgary at 7:30 a.m. from the base of the Calgary Tower and returns at approximately 6:15 p.m.

Tour Drumheller (Photo credit: Nate @natesvscrocodile).

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Tours

Blue Sky Tours offers a 1 day interpretive tour of Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tour can also be combined with a trip through the town of Nanton, Bar-U Ranch, or Bragg Creek.

Hammerhead Scenic Tours offers a full day tour of this historic site with a scenic drive along the Legendary Cowboy Trail and admission to the Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Interpretive Centre . This full day tour lasts approximately 9.5 hours.

Tour Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump (Photo credit: Travel Alberta/Jeremy Fokkens).

Top Waterton National Park Tours

Take a multi-day tour of Waterton Lakes National Park with Blue Sky Tours and discover the spectacular scenery and wildlife just along the Canadian/American border.

Hammerhead Scenic Tours provides a guided tour along the historic Cowboy Trail with stops at the Buffalo Paddock, Prince of Wales Hotel, Cameron Falls, and Red Rock Canyon, before arriving at Waterton Lakes National Park and Glacier International Peace Park. This full day tour lasts approximately 12.5 hours.

Tour Waterton (Photo credit: Travel Alberta/Mike Seehagel).

Calgary's Top Food Tours

Let your appetite lead the way with Alberta Food Tours and meet the farmers and chefs behind the food. From Sunday Brunch at the Calgary Farmers’ Market and Craving Kensington to Inglewood Edibles and the food of 17th Avenue SW, Alberta Food Tours will take you on a delicious culinary adventure. Alberta Food Tours also offers tours with local guides in Banff and Canmore.

Ready to discover the best brews in Calgary? Canadian Craft Tours offers a Calgary Brewery Tour that will take you behind the scenes of the local craft beer scene. Round trip transportation, tours, and tasting flights are included in each tour. YYC Tours  provides bookable brewery, distillery and wine tours, with 'Jump On' tours offered a few Saturday's every month.

Toonie Tours' Street Art & Craft Beer Tour  showcases some of Calgary's favourite brewpubs while introducing you to Calgary's vibrant public art scene.

Calgary Food Tours at Rouge.

Float Through Calgary on a Self-Guided Tour

Self guided river rafting from Lazy Day Raft Rentals and The Paddle Station start in the northwest with greats views of downtown Calgary. These floats last between 2-4 hours. 

Rafting along the Bow River (Photo credit: Travel Alberta)

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4-Day Rockies Relax Tour | Banff & Columbia Icefield & Yoho National Park

Depart before May 14th by booking before April 15th and enjoy a free upgrade to stay at Banff Mount Royal Hotel or Elk＋Avenue Hotel Book early for special rates from $564/person ● Stay Calgary Downtown Hotel ● Stop at LAKE LOUISE for 2 hours - Enjoy Deluxe Lunch at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise(*Optional) ● Stay atBanff town centre- Easy access for shopping & restaurants ● Visit 3 stunning Rocky Mt. National Parks -Banff/YOHO/Jasper National Park -  Chances to participate must-go activities (*Optional) ● Special arrangement toJohnston Canyon walk ● Discover Icefield Parkway& Ice Explorer (*Opt) ●Complementary Airport pick-up & drop-off services ● Assist in hotel check-in ● Provide In-depth and leisure experience

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Start your journey to Famous Canadian Rockies from Calgary and you will visit the Lake Louise and Yoho National Park. 【Lake Louise 】 This beautiful lake is named after Princess Louise Caroline Alberta. Famous photo-taking location. (stop for about 2 hours) 【 Moraine Lake/Ten Peaks Valley 】 Its waters are the most amazing color, a vivid shade of turquoise that changes in intensity through the summer as the glacier melt. Set in the rugged Valley of the Ten Peaks, Moraine Lake is surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, and rock piles, creating a scene so stunning it almost seems unreal. (stop for about 60 minutes) *Moraine Lake open from (early June to early Oct). If closed, it will be replaced by the Vermillion Lake 【 YOHO National Park 】 Named for a Cree expression of awe and wonder, Yoho lies on the Western slopes of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. 【 Spiral Tunnel 】 It is one of the most bizarre feats of engineering to get the grade of a train line to be at or below 2.2%. The current two spiral tunnels where the railroad forms two spirals, crossing beneath itself twice, almost forming a figure eight, before continuing in the proper direction down the mountain were completed in 1909. (pass through) 【 Emerald Lake 】 Name comes from her green water color. (stop for about 20 minutes) 【 Natural Bridge】 Sculpted by the erosive forces of rushing water over what had once been a waterfall, the Natural Bridge is a powerful reminder of how much influence water has in shaping the landscape. (stop for about 15 minutes)

Today you will visit the Banff National Park, Canada's first national park. 【Banff Sulphur Mt Gondola (Optional) $$ 】 Enjoy a 360º view of Banff. (stop for about 90 minutes) 【 Johnston Canyon 】 Known for its walking trail throughout the year. (stop for about 60 minutes) 【 Bow Falls 】 Location of the film "The River of no return" in 1960's. (stop for about 15 minutes) 【 Surprise Corner 】 Good view for the Castle in the Rockies. (stop for about 15 minutes) 【 Hoodoos 】 Hoodoos are composed sedimentary rock covered by harder rock that is harder to erode. Once softer sediment erodes rock needle, only tower like natural obstacles are left. (stop for about 15 minutes) 【 Banff Town】 The biggest town of National towns, many shops and restaurants waiting for your discovery. (stop for about 90 minutes)

We will go deeper into Rockies today; visit Jasper National Park, the biggest National Park in Canada. 【Icefield Parkway 】 One of Canada's national treasures and most rewarding destinations. Stretching 232km (144mi) through the heart of Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site, this world-class journey offers access to a vast wilderness of pristine mountain lakes, ancient glaciers and broad sweeping valleys. (pass through) 【 Bow Lake 】 The most visited lake on the Icefield Parkway. On calm mornings, the reflection of the Crowfoot Mountain Range on the mirror-like surface of the lake creates a serene and enchanting atmosphere, making it the most delightful scenery for visitors. In the summer, this area serves as a foraging ground for bears, providing frequent opportunities to spot their tracks. For your safety, please remember to maintain a safe distance from bears. (stop for about 20 minutes) 【Columbia Icefield - Snocoach (Optional) $$】 This ice sheet is the largest single ice mass south of the Arctic Circle in North America, with dozens of glaciers originating from here. Being in its midst always evokes a profound sense of awe for nature. The region is also renowned for its Earth meteorological database, preserving centuries of climate changes. You can embark on an ice exploration journey here aboard the Glacier Adventure ICE Explorer - Snocoach to the surface of the glaciers. (stop for about 2.5 hours) **Closed before the 1st Saturday of May and after the 2nd Saturday of October, will be replaced by Minnewanka Lake (20 minutes) & Banff Upper Hot Springs (Optional $$ - Pay onsite / 60 minutes) **Will be replaced by Cave & Basin if Banff hot spring not available. Please bring the bathing suite for Banff Upper Springs if you plan to participate 【 Peyto Lake 】 The ever-changing colors are the most famous scenery of Peyto Lake. The high-density glacial minerals in the water make the lake appear as if the waves are frozen at the edge, often leaving visitors questioning the reality of the water. The lake's colors can change with the seasons or weather, earning it the reputation as one of the representative lakes of the Rocky Mountains. (Stop for about 20 minutes) *If not accessible, it will be replaced with Waterfowl Lake 【 Crowfoot Glacier】 Because, when initially discovered, the glacier had three ice masses resembling the claws of a crow, it was named accordingly. Unfortunately, due to climate change, one of the claws melted and collapsed in the early 20th century. Currently, only the remaining two claws are visible, serving as a compelling testament to the impact of the Earth's greenhouse effect. (Stop for about 15 minutes)

Start your journey to Famous Canadian Rockies from Calgary and you will visit the Lake Louise and Yoho National Park. 【Lake Louise 】 This beautiful lake is named after Princess Louise Caroline Alberta. Famous photo-taking location. (stop for about 2 hours) 【 Moraine Lake/Ten Peaks Valley 】 Its waters are the most amazing color, a vivid shade of turquoise that changes in intensity through the summer as the glacier melt. Set in the rugged Valley of the Ten Peaks, Moraine Lake is surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, and rock piles, creating a scene so stunning it almost seems unreal. (stop for about 60 minutes) *Moraine Lake open from (early June to Early Oct). If closed, it will be replaced by the Vermillion Lake 【 YOHO National Park 】 Named for a Cree expression of awe and wonder, Yoho lies on the Western slopes of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. 【 Spiral Tunnel 】 It is one of the most bizarre feats of engineering to get the grade of a train line to be at or below 2.2%. The current two spiral tunnels where the railroad forms two spirals, crossing beneath itself twice, almost forming a figure eight, before continuing in the proper direction down the mountain were completed in 1909. (pass through) 【 Emerald Lake 】 Name comes from her green water color. (stop for about 20 minutes) 【 Natural Bridge】 Sculpted by the erosive forces of rushing water over what had once been a waterfall, the Natural Bridge is a powerful reminder of how much influence water has in shaping the landscape. (stop for about 15 minutes)

1 Compulsory Selection Adult $85 / 0-15 YR $55 National Park Fee + Daily Breakfast 2 Optional Tours-upon Calgary Arrival (Required to book at the same time of the tour registration. We do not accept adding afterwards) Only available for guests arrive before 12:00N 1. Calgary City Tour - $84 2. CrossIron Mill Outlet Shopping Tour - $55 3. Heritage Park - Adult $64 / 3-15 YR $55 / 0-2 YR Free (Available from May-20 to Sep-09 departure) 4. The Calgary Zoo Safari - Adult $38.50 / 3-15 YR $27.50 / 0-2 YR Free Calgary City Tour 3 hours - CT01 CrossIron Mill Outlet Shopping Tour 5 hours - CSR Heritage Park 3.5 hours - HTP The Calgary Zoo Safari - ZOO 3 Calgary Hotel Designation 1 Night Hotel Designation Hotel Designation - Single Double Room price per room CAD$80; 3rd/4th person $20 per person (Coast Calgary Downtown Hotel or Ramada Plaza Calgary Downtown) Designate Coast Calgary Downtown Hotel Designate Ramada Plaza Calgary Downtown 4 Group Meal (Rockies Area) - Departure after Apr-28 / Required to book at the same time of the tour registration. We do not accept adding afterwards Not recommended for customers with any special dietary requirements (e.g., vegetarian) or allergies $160/ per person (price for all ages) Pre-select main dish is required (each guest can have own option) - Beef/Chicken/Vegetarian 3 Lunches (Asian Cuisine ＆ Deluxe Lunch at Chateau Lake Louise ＆ Western Set Menu / Please select one for main dish / each guest can have own option) - LH 5 Optional Activities-Banff Area (Required to book at the same time of the tour registration. We do not accept adding afterwards) Banff Area Adult $60/ 6-15 YR $40/ 0-5 YR Free Banff Sulphur Mt. Gondola (Child 6 to 15 YR / Infant 0 to 5 YR) - BGD 6 Optional Evening Tours -Banff Area (Available only from May to Mid-September) Available only for Banff Pick up / Drop off Guests A 2.5-hour journey takes you to capture beautiful moments and provides the opportunity to encounter wildlife (including transportation) $74/per person (Available till Sep-12) Banff 2.5 hrs Photo + Wildlife Night Tour (Min. 4 guests for departure) - PHOTO 7 Optional Admission-Columbia Icefield / Available from May-01 to Oct-10 departure (Required to book at the same time of the tour registration. We do not accept adding afterwards) Columbia Icefield Adult $82 / 6-15 YR $54 / 0-5 YR FREE (Snocoach) Columbia Icefield Ice Explorer (Child 6 to 15 YR / Infant 0 to 5 YR) - ICE 8 Banff Hotel Designation 2 Nights Per room per night $130 Hotel Designation Banff (Banff Mount Royal or Elk + Avenue Hotel) 9 Additional Check in Luggage - $50+5% GST per piece Multiple Days Tour - One piece of checked luggage & carryon luggage are allowed for each person $50 per piece entire trip Piece

Departure Time / Location Calgary Airport N/A (Hotel Self Chek In) Drop-off Location Calgary Airport Coast Calgary Downtown Hotel & Suites Banff Aspen Lodge Extended Stay Hotel (Booked with Calgary Tours)

**Calgary Optional Tours (Only available for guests arrive before 12:00N) 【 Calgary City Tour (3 hours) 】$$ A guided tour takes you to explore the city; from the historic site to the newest modern building. (Includes guide service, transportation, and admission) 【 Heritage Park with Transportation/Admission (3.5 hours) 】$$ Explore Canada's second largest living history museum in Calgary. See and feel the past as it comes to life in front of your eyes. 【 CrossIron Mill Outlet Shopping Tour with Transportation (5 hours) 】$$ Discover the biggest one-level shopping centre in Alberta. 【 The Calgary Zoo with Public Transportation Ticket/Admission 】$$ The Calgary Zoo takes you to see almost 900 animals from around the world, including popular gorilla, hippos, grizzly bear, penguins, endangered red pandas and amur tigers, and etc for you to explore. **Banff Optional Tours (Additional evening tours) 【 Photography/Wildlife Tour 】$$ A 2-3 hours tour for sunset and wildlife *All above tours are subject to availability. Calgary Tours reserves the right for final confirmation.

• Calgary Tours has put forth all necessary efforts to ensure that, at all times of publication, all descriptions in the present brochure are exact
• Calgary Tours reserves the right to postpone, cancel, or change the tour and/or hotel accommodation
• If the tour package includes complimentary items, there is no cash value or refund for unused services
• Any loss or additional expenses incurred shall be bound by the participant
• Calgary Tours shall not be liable for failure in the performance of its obligations for any loss or damage resulting from any delay, cancellations, loss of personal belongings, illness, bodily injury, accident, death, deterioration of services, inconvenience, loss of enjoyment, disappointment or frustration (either mental or physical), attributable to a fault, negligent act or omission by a provider or any employee thereof. Each agency has various regulations; it is responsible for passengers, and in case of accidental casualties or property damage, it should be resolved in accordance with the safety regulations established by various agencies.
• more detail please click HERE
• More than 32 days prior to departure: 10% of the total booking amount per person will be charged.
• 15 - 31 days prior to departure: 60% of the total booking amount per person will be charged.
• Within 14 days (including the 14th day) of departure: tour will be NON-REFUNDABLE and NON-CHANGEABLE.
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Tours From Calgary

3-day calgary to vancouver, banff national park, lake louise, johnston canyon, johnston canyon and kamloops tour tour code : gol-cgy-0011.

Departure City : Banff AB, Calgary AB

Available Days : Wednesday

Highlights : Welcome to Canada’s first national park: Banff! It is also known today as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the abundant wildlife and all the amazing views along the scenic drives to Banff National Park. Enjoy a complimentary Banff Hot Spring ticket and fully get to experience the original ecological Sulphur Mountain Hot Spring. Visit the beauty of Canada’s greatest adventures for an unforgettable tour filled with many memories to cherish!

• For groups departing on 12/15/2023-01/07/2024, an additional fee of CAD$157.5/USD$120 per room per night will be charged in peak season.
• If the order includes children, please make sure to note and inform them of their age in advance when booking the itinerary, otherwise fees will be charged on-site according to adult standards.
• A minimum of 2 people are required to book this tour. 

3-Day Calgary to Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise, Banff, Columbia Icefield, Revelstoke, Kamloops and Vancouver Tour Tour code : GOL-CGY-0013

Departure City : Calgary AB

Available Days : Mon, Tue, Thu, Friday, Sat, Sun

Highlights :

4-Day Vancouver to Banff Town, Rocky Mountains, Calgary, Yoho National Park, ColumbiaIce Icefield and Kamloops Tour Tour code : GOL-VAN-205A

Available Days : Mon, Tue, Wed , Thu, Fri & Sun

• If the order includes children, please make sure to note and inform them of their age in advance when booking the itinerary, otherwise fees will be charged on-site according to adult standards.  

4-Day Calgary to Rocky Mountains, Banff National Park, Kamloops, Bow Falls, Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise and Vancouver Tour (Free Airport Pickup) Tour code : GOL-CGY-0012A

Available Days : Tuesday

• For groups departing on 12/15/2023-01/07/2024, an additional fee of CAD$157.5/USD$120 per room per night will be surcharged.
• If the order includes children, please make sure to inform us their age in advance when placing the order, otherwise they will be charged according to adult standards.

4-Day Calgary to Rocky Mountains, Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise, Banff, Columbia Icefield, Kamloops and Vancouver Tour (Free Airport Pickup) Tour code : GOL-CGY-0014A

Available Days : Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat & Sun

• During maple season from 07/04/2024-07/14/2024, staying in Calgary during this period is subject to an additional peak season surcharge of USD$90/room/night or CAD$120/room/night. If the order includes children, please make sure to note and inform them of their age in advance when booking the itinerary, otherwise fees will be charged on-site according to adult standards.

4-Day Calgary to Banff National Park, Columbia Icefield, Jasper National Park and Mount Robson Provincial Park Tour Tour code : GOL-CGY-0016

Available Days : Mon, Thu & Sun

Highlights : Stay in two major national park towns: Banff Town and Jasper TownFour major national parks + two provincial parks --- Rich attractions, value-for-money experienceJasper National Park + Banff National Park + Yoho National Park + Glacier National ParkRobson Provincial Park + Wells Gray Provincial ParkIce Explorer - Giant Snowmobile Tour to the Columbia IcefieldMaligne Lake Cruise – Visit the second largest glacial lake in the world and the largest glacial lake in the Rocky Mountains, and explore the mysterious Elven IslandJohnston Gorge - a stunning natural attraction carved by thousands of years of water erosionExclusive visit: BC Wildlife Park,

5-Day Calgary to Rocky Mountains, Banff, Moraine Lake, Kamloops and Free time in Banff Town Tour (Free Airport Pickup) Tour code : GOL-CGY-0010

Available Days : Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat & Sun

5-Day Calgary to Rocky Mountains, Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise, Banff, Columbia Icefield, Kamloops and Vancouver Tour (Free Airport Pickup) Tour code : GOL-CGY-0015A

Available Days : Mon, Thu & Sat

• During maple season from 07/04/2024-07/14/2024, staying in Calgary during this period is subject to an additional peak season surcharge of USD$90/room/night or CAD$120/room/night.

5-Day Calgary to Yoho National Park, Banff, Columbia Icefield, Mount Robson Provincial Park, Vancouver and BC Wildlife Park Tour (Free Airport Pickup) Tour code : GOL-CYG-017A

Available Days : Wed, Sat & Sun

5-Day Calgary to Banff, Jasper National Park, Jasper, Kamloops, BC Wildlife Park, Maligne Lake and Vancouver Tour (Free Airport Pickup) Tour code : GOL-CGY-0018A

Highlights : Stay in two major national park towns: Banff Town and Jasper TownFour major national parks + two provincial parks --- Rich attractions, value-for-money experienceJasper National Park + Banff National Park + Yoho National Park + Glacier National ParkRobson Provincial Park + Wells Gray Provincial ParkIce Explorer - Giant Snowmobile Tour to the Columbia IcefieldMaligne Lake Cruise – Visit the second largest glacial lake in the world and the largest glacial lake in the Rocky Mountains, and explore the mysterious Elven IslandJohnston Gorge - a stunning natural attraction carved by thousands of years of water erosionExclusive visit: BC Wildlife Park

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Calgary Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

4-Day Winter Fairmont Experience Vacation Package

• Self-Guided
• Personalized
• Christmas & New Year

Ready-to-book adventures, personalized

Make your adventure more you

Enjoy a tour focused solely on your travel group

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Access our Travel Experts’ insider knowledge

Travel within your own bubble

• Introduction
• Day 1 HOMETOWN — CALGARY — BANFF
• Day 2 BANFF — LAKE LOUSIE
• Day 3 LAKE LOUSIE
• Day 4 LAKE LOUSIE — HOME

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Reviews About This Operator

• Tour Operator Calgary Tours 4.2
• Teresita · 8th October 2023 Great experience and great guides like Allan and David.
• chhaya · 6th October 2023 The navigation of trip using Tourradar was easy and helpful. The Calgary Tours arrangement of the bus trip along with... Show more
• Balkrishna · 29th September 2023 It was Fantabulous!!! Enjoyed every moment. Hotel and travel arrangements were superb. Tour guides knowledgeable and... Show more

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• Upcoming departures
• Thursday 11 Apr, 2024 Sunday 14 Apr, 2024 Multiple Room Types €619 + €145 Hotel Breakfast Confirm Dates
• Friday 12 Apr, 2024 Monday 15 Apr, 2024 Multiple Room Types €619 + €145 Hotel Breakfast Confirm Dates
• Monday 22 Apr, 2024 Thursday 25 Apr, 2024 Multiple Room Types €619 + €145 Hotel Breakfast Confirm Dates
• Tuesday 23 Apr, 2024 Friday 26 Apr, 2024 Multiple Room Types €619 + €145 Hotel Breakfast Confirm Dates

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Travel Calgary Itinerary:4 days Must-do list in Calgary

by Trip.com

December 19, 2022

• Calgary 4-Days Itinerary: Cheap Flights to Calgary

• Sort by: Lowest Price
• Sort by: Earliest Flight

Crossed out prices are calculated based on the average price of the corresponding route on Trip.com.

Day 1 | Morning

Calgary tower.

Opening Hours: Sun - Sat 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Ticket Price: 18 CAD

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-3 Hours

Location: 101 9th Avenue SW, Calgary, AB T2P 1J9

The Calgary Tower is a landmark in Calgary , 190.8 meters high. There is an Observation Gallery on the tower, which can overlook the panoramic city streets and the Rocky Mountains 80 kilometers away. There is also a revolving restaurant and cocktail hotel that turns every hour.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Trip.com User: Highly recommended! really nice 360 view of the city and downtown

Rock Rocky: it’s best of my memory, good to roaming around

Day 1 | Afternoon

Now we come to another great highlight in the city: Heritage Park Historical Village.

Heritage Park Historical Village

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Ticket Price: 10.95 CAD

Location: 1900 Heritage Dr SW, Calgary, AB T2V 2X3, Canada

This is a park showing the buildings and costumes of the Western Canada pioneering era. The construction in the park is like a western fortress. There are post offices, bakeries, wooden churches, schools, restaurants, iron houses, etc. in the early part of this century. The appearance of the town, with the entrance to the steam locomotive Selkirk type 5934, which used to travel through the Rocky Mountains and Selkirk Mountains.

Day 1 | Evening

After visiting the glorious Heritage Park Historical Village, Grey Eagle Resort nearby is the best place to stay.

Grey Eagle Resort

An indoor pool and an outdoor hot tub are featured at this Calgary property. A flat-screen cable TV is provided in all guest rooms. Calgary Stampede is 16 minutes’ drive away.A coffee machine and a desk are provided in each room at Grey Eagle Resort. Private bathrooms offer free toiletries and a hairdryer. Select rooms include a minibar.A restaurant and a bar are located on site at Calgary Grey Eagle Resort and serves a daily free breakfast. A fitness centre is available for guest use.Calgary city centre is 11 km from this property. Heritage Park Historical Village is 8 km away.

Swimming pool

Pets allowed

Check Availability

Day 2 | Morning

Calgary zoo.

Opening Hours: Sun - Sat 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Ticket Price: 29.95 CAD

Location: 210 St. George's Drive NE, Calgary, AB T2E 7V6, Canada

Calgary Zoo is one of the best zoos in the world, especially known for its efforts to restore endangered wildlife. Visit the majestic African Quarter, home to Canada's underwater hippo observation pool; the Botanical Gardens; the Prehistoric Park and the Canadian Wilderness, a safe place to view grizzly bears, cougars and many other mammals and native Canadian birds. The giant pandas Da Mao, Er Shun and twin babies Panpan and Yueyue, who originally lived at the Toronto Zoo, have also moved to the Calgary Zoo since May 2018.

Durah: This is really a nice park in the city. It is very accessible since the train stops here. They have various animals including pandas,penguins,bears,cougars etc. It is quite tiring since it has a large area but it's worth a visit.

Day 2 | Afternoon

After finishing the tour at Calgary Zoo, you can head to Calgary Stampede, the most worth visiting place around the corner.

Calgary Stampede

Opening Hours: Open on Mon-Thu,Sun,9:00am-5:00pm

Location: 1410 Olympic Way SE, Calgary, AB T2G 2W1, Canada

The Calgary Stampede is an annual rodeo, exhibition and festival every July in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The ten-day event, which bills itself as "The Biggest Outdoor Show on Earth," attracts more than one million visitors each year and features the world's largest rodeo, a tour, stage shows, concerts, agricultural competitions and exhibitions.

Trip.com User: unfortunetly I joined Calgary Stampede only for one day but I enjoyed a lot. I went for 1:30 show including bull and horse riding. The show is amazing. After that just walked around where is plenty different perfomances... some of them for free. You will never regret that!

Trip.com User: Bardzo wahałam się, kupując bilety na tę imprezę czy powinnam tam iść ale byłam bardzo pozytywnie zaskoczona. Impreza była vardzo udana i po raz pierszy ogladałam ujeżdzanie byków. Bardzo polecam

Day 2 | Evening

After visiting the glorious Calgary Stampede, Hotel Le Germain Calgary nearby is the best place to stay.

Hotel Le Germain Calgary

Located across the street from Calgary Tower, this centrally located boutique hotel offers on-site dining, a 24-fitness centre and in-room massages. A flat-screen cable TV is featured in every room.Free Wi-Fi and an iPod docking station are provided in the spacious, modern rooms at Hotel Le Germain Calgary. They have a minibar and safety deposit box as well as 10-foot ceilings.Charcut Roast House offers chef-driven American cuisine with local ingredients. Lounge Central 899 serves cocktails and appetizers. Room service is available. Continental breakfast is provided daily.Santé Spa facilities offer a luxury retreat with a variety of treatments available. A complimentary Kindle e-Reader is available for guests’ shared use.Le Germain Hotel Calgary is less than 5 minutes’ walk from Glenbow Museum, Epcor Centre for the Performing Arts and The Art Gallery of Calgary. Calgary Stampede is 2 km away.

Airport pickup service

Day 3 | Morning

Glenbow museum.

Opening Hours: Open on Wed,Sun,10:00am-5:00pm;Open on Mon-Tue,11:00am-7:00pm

Ticket Price: 16 CAD

Location: 130 9 Ave SE, Calgary, Alberta T2G 0P3, Canada

The Glenbow Museum is the largest museum in Western Canada, displaying aboriginal cultural traditions, railway development, etc., leading you to the nature and humanities of Western Canada. Here you can see the comfortable cottages built by the early settlers, as well as the works of contemporary Canadian painters, and the feathered handicrafts of the Plains Cree Indians. The four major collections include historical culture, ethnicity, military history, and mineralogy. In addition to these, there is a rich collection of Asian handicrafts with over 28,000 works of art. When visiting the Glenborough Museum, be sure to remember to visit Glenborough's new $12 million exhibition hall - the innovative Mavericks: a splendid history of Alberta from the perspective of 48 calves.

Day 3 | Afternoon

After finishing the tour at Glenbow Museum, you can head to Fort Calgary, the most worth visiting place around the corner.

Fort Calgary

Opening Hours: Open from 9:00am-5:00pm

Ticket Price: 12 CAD

Location: 750 9th Ave SE, Calgary, Alberta T2P 2M5, Canada

This is the historic site where the Northwest Mounted Police built the castle in 1875, but it's gone now, and it's this beautiful park with wide lawns that oozes its charm. In the Interpretation Center located in a corner of the park, the scene of the Northwest Mounted Police at that time was reproduced, and the video was also shown.

Day 3 | Evening

For convenient access to more popular attractions, The Westley Calgary Downtown, Tapestry Collection by Hilton is the best places.

The Westley Calgary Downtown, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

The Westley Calgary Downtown, Tapestry Collection by Hilton provides a great place for travelers to relax after a busy day. Visitors to Calgary will find that the Westley Calgary Downtown, Tapestry Collection by Hilton is a fantastic accommodation choice.

The hotel is conveniently located just 400m from WB 4 Street SW CTrain Station and 10km from Calgary International Airport. With Peace Bridge, Calgary Court House No. 2 and Sitting Eagle statue all within a short distance, there is no shortage of things to do in the area.

At the end of a busy day, travelers can unwind and relax in the hotel or go out and enjoy the city. Guests of this Calgary hotel can make use of the parking facilities.

There's never a dull moment at this hotel, our guests indicate that the facilities are excellent.

Day 4 | Morning

Gasoline alley museum.

Opening Hours: Tue - Sun 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Ticket Price: 11.5 CAD

Recommended Length of Stay: 2.0-3.0 Hours

The Gasoline Lane Museum is a car-themed museum. Thousands of exhibits show the changes that the emergence and development of cars have brought to human society. The collections in the museum are all donated by local businessman Ron Carey and his staff, and most of the collections are from before World War II.

Day 4 | Afternoon

After finishing the tour at Gasoline Alley Museum, you can head to Canada's Sports Hall of Fame, the most worth visiting place around the corner.

Canada's Sports Hall of Fame

Opening Hours: Open on Mon-Thu,Sun,10:00am-5:00pm

Location: 169 Canada Olympic Rd SW, Calgary, AB T3B 6B7, Canada

This building is full of the sense of the times and has the characteristics of interactive display. It also hosts various events of famous Canadian sportsmen and famous stadium architects all year round. It is a unique stadium artwork in the world. Inside, the use of various high-tech digital technologies and unique architectural design concepts bring the vivid stories of Canadian sports "heroes" into your field of vision, allowing people to have close contact with the superstars at zero distance.

• Calgary 4-Days Itinerary: Cheap Flights from Calgary

* All reviews in the blog are machine-translated.

Table of Content

• Day 1: Calgary Tower, Heritage Park Historical Village
• Day 2: Calgary Zoo, Calgary Stampede
• Day 3: Glenbow Museum, Fort Calgary
• Day 4: Gasoline Alley Museum, Canada's Sports Hall of Fame

Calgary Weather

Find What to Do in Calgary in 4 Days Tour

Studio bell, national music centre, heritage park admission, coal mine hike and beer, survival hike, calgary's stampede park: art & the wild west walking tour, day hike in kananaskis country, <h3>besides calgary itinerary 4 days, people also search for ...</h3>.

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3 Day Calgary Itinerary – Adventure in the City to the Mountains

Last Updated January 10, 2024 William Tang

You are here: Home » Travel Itineraries » 3 Day Calgary Itinerary – Adventure in the City to the Mountains

If you have a weekend or 3 days to work with and you’re looking to do an easy trip to a beautiful west coast city in Canada that has that perfect balance of drop dead scenery, adventure, culture, and culinary, then look no further than Calgary.

This is an adventurous 3 day Calgary itinerary that has you based in the city and allows you to explore the best of Calgary, Canmore, and Banff.

Read more about Canada

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Where to stay in Calgary

• Look no further than Booking.com for your place to stay in Calgary. We stayed at the Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Calgary Airport .

3 Day Calgary Itinerary

With the eastern face of the Rockies as its backdrop, the history of the 1988 Winter Olympics in its wake, and the rowdy rodeo events of the Calgary stampede, there’s actually a lot you can see and do from a city that some nickname “Cowtown”.

If you have a weekend or long weekend to spare and thinking about exploring a new Canadian city, this is a perfect 3 day Calgary itinerary that’s packed with a ton of adventure and answers the call of the mountains. While based in the city, you’ll see what this Alberta cosmopolitan has to offer while also heading to the allure of the Rocky Mountains with visits to Canmore to Banff.

Map of Calgary Itinerary

Here’s a map of all the places we visited in this 3 day Calgary itinerary. I’ve found over the years that having something like this with you on-the-go is extremely valuable when paired with a well-planned itinerary.

Maps are a bit of staple when it comes to our itineraries including our 2 week Greek island hopping , 2 days in Istanbul , 2 days in Hong Kong , and 2 weeks in French Polynesia .

TIP: Open this map in a new tab and create a copy. From there, you’ll be able to access this map on desktop, mobile, and in the Google Maps app. Note that you’ll need data to be able to see all the pins on the app.

Day 1: Exploring the City

Whether you’ve arrived in Calgary the previous night or you’re taking an early morning flight, you’re going to hit the ground running!

First things first, make sure you have your rental car picked up from the airport because you’re going to be doing a ton of driving

BEFORE YOU CONTINUE 

You need to know this trick to make sure you save hundreds on your car rental in Calgary.

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Your first stop is the WinSport Canada Olympic Park .

It may seem like a distant memory but the 1988 Winter Olympics were held in Calgary.  For a place that’s over 30 years old, it’s definitely kept well.  In the summer, ski jumping, bobsleigh, and the ski hill itself are closed for the season but what makes this a great destination are the activities that are available.

Start off by spending some time learning the history of the events that happened here and also the sights of the ski jumping platforms and bobsledding track

Something that you have to do while you’re here is the Downhill Karting at Skyline Luge which features a unique wheeled gravity ride that takes you 1.8 kilometres of twists and turns that drop in over 100 meters of elevation.  

Operated by the same company that runs the downhill karting in Queenstown, New Zealand , you start off with the gondola and make your way up the mountain. With your helmet on and after a quick lesson, your group will line up together on the starting line. Once ready, you’re given the green light to go and you let gravity do the rest.

Steering around wide sweeping corners and evading others on the track, you’ll find this so much fun that you’ll be yelling wildly as you pass (or get passed) around the 50+ twists and turns.

Other activities you can look into doing while you’re here are mini golf , free fall bungee , monster zipline , summer bobsleigh , and mountain biking in the summer. Many of these activities require advanced planning so make sure to make reservations in advance.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Address: Winsport Canada Olympic Park, 88 Canada Olympic Road SW, Calgary, AB T3B 5R5

Hours: Mon-Fri 1PM-7PM, Sat-Sun 10AM – 5PM (open in the summer subject to weather)

• 2 rides – $24
• 3 rides – $30
• 4 rides – $35
• 5 rides – $39
• Family packages are also available

Website: Downhill Karting with reviews here .

• The karts are pretty safe and even at full speed, never something where you’ll feel out of control or at the cusp of flipping.
• 1 lap of the course takes approximately 15 minutes
• Helmets are provided but you can also bring your own
• The speed of the karts are dependent on you as you have control of the brake as you’re going downhill. The karts are easy to operate but will require the first run to master.
• Children (17 or younger) must be at least 110cm tall to ride alone.
• Children under 110cm tall are considered a PeeWee and can ride in tandem with an adult (20+)

Parking: WinSportCanada Olympic Park has a huge parking lot that’s also free so you shouldn’t have any issues finding parking.

Before you go, make sure to drive your car up to the top of the hill where you can get a different vantage point of the ski jumping towers and also the city down below.

Your next stop is the Calgary Farmers’ Market which will be perfect timing to refuel and re-energize.

Open all-year round, this market features a wide variety of food stalls, fresh produce, and also many crafty boutique shops. Spend your time browsing around and eventually picking up a few yummy dishes and drinks.

There are plenty of tables to eat indoors and also picnic benches outside.

Address: 510 77th Avenue SE, Calgary, AB T2H 1C3

Hours: Thurs – Sun 9AM – 5PM

Website: Calgary Farmers’ Market

Parking: Parking is free with over 800 spaces all around the market. There are also additional street parking spots on 77 Ave and 5 St. SE.

READ REVIEWS

Next, head into the Calgary downtown core where you’ll get to see up-close a real slice of the city and daily life.

I recommend that you start off around Calgary Tower . You can go up to get panoramic views of the city but personally, I’d skip it if you’ve been up to places like CN Tower, and Top of the Rock.

From there, make your way to Stephen Avenue Walk , a pedestrian street that’s lined with shops, restaurants, and busy office buildings.

After peeking into a few stores and perhaps grabbing a latté on the way, it’s time to start your urban sculpture hunt!

Something that’ll really surprise you about the downtown district is just how many examples of public art there are scattered throughout. These are a few standout ones you’ll find which I recommend that you check out as you roam from Stephen Avenue Walk to Olympic Plaza .

• Galleria Trees – These are easy to spot right at the intersection of 8 Ave SW and 3 St SW and part of Stephen Avenue Walk. LED lights bring these towering trees to life at night.
• Wonderland – Created by Spanish artist, Jaume Plensa, this giant wire sculpture of a young girl’s head stands impressively at 12 metres high and is easy to spot as you wander through Calgary. You can even walk inside the sculpture.
• The Conversation – Two businessmen have an important conversation on Stephen Avenue.
• Sadko and Kabuki – Red and yellow painted bronze sculptures by Sorel Etrog that stands in front of Bow Valley Square.
• Famous Five – In Olympic Park you’ll find this sculpture of 5 important women in Canada that challenged British Canadian law to include women as “person’.
• NEW Van Gogh Monumental – Unveiled in late 2020, this can be found at the corner of 10th Ave and 1st St SE featuring portions of Van Gogh’s body, a common feature to Bruno Catalano’s work.

Beyond these sculptures, you’ll stumble upon many other graffiti and public art works as you meander through.

Before you leave downtown, make sure to drive by Calgary’s stampede area and take a look at the Saddledome. This is where the NHL team, Calgary Flames play, and is a major venue for other events throughout the year. Notice how the stadium is built to look like a horse’s saddle.

• Parking downtown, as you’d expect, is flat out a pain.  You’ll find that the commercial lots in the area are quite expensive.
• If you happen to be here on Friday, you’re in luck! In the Centennial, McDougall, City Centre, James Short, and City Hall (this is the most convenient) Green P lots, the price is only $5 from 11AM to 6AM on Saturday.  
• Weekend and evening rates are the cheapest and those rates typically start after 4PM on weekdays.
• On-street parking is free after 6 pm and before 9 am Mondays through Saturdays.
• Check out SpotAngels or BestParking to find out where the cheapest parking is for the time you’ll be downtown for.

Drive up to the affluent neighbourhood around McHugh Bluff . Perched on an outcrop that overlooks downtown Calgary, this is easily one of the best spots for a view of Calgary and Bow River that runs right north of it.

The bluff has an elevated view that follows Crescent Rd. NW. For an easy walk, you can park on the street and walk along its sidewalk or if you’re looking for a bit more exercise, you can make your way to the Lookout Point and take the wooden stairs down and back up for views of varying heights.

You can’t visit Calgary and not see the Peace Bridge . Spanning the Bow River, this was designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. This is the same architect that designed the Milwaukee Art Museum, the atrium of Brookfield Place in Toronto , and the architectural wonders of Valencia .

This bridge is a pedestrian walkway with a designated cycling path through the middle.

While it reminds me of a DNA helix, the locals have nicknamed this “Finger Trap Bridge” because from afar, it’s similar to a finger trap puzzle.

Photography: I found that that the best place to photograph it is from the Bow River Pathway on either side of the bridge and getting right down to the rocks by the river.

• There’s no convenient parking to see the Peace Bridge.
• Driving along Memorial Dr. W heading northeast doesn’t have any street parking. There is street parking going the other direction but will require crossing the street and median.
• You can also park on the street along the perpendicular 8 St NW.

End off your first day in Calgary by having an extraordinary meal at Pigeonhole .  A reservation is a must!

I first discovered this restaurant reading the Air Canada EnRoute magazine when it was touted as one of the best new restaurants of 2015. Since then, it’s been ranked the Number 16 restaurant on Canada’s 100 Best .

It sure didn’t disappoint with each dish that came through in rapid succession tapas style.  The highlight of your meal will no doubt the charred cabbage .  The name itself doesn’t quite do it justice but wow were our minds blown when we had it.  Somehow one of my least favourite vegetables turned into this explosion of flavours, erupting from the pan-charred wedges, and healthy dose of grated mimolette cheese on top.

Day 1 Summary

What you’ll see:

• WinSport Canada Olympic Park
• Calgary Farmers’ Market
• Calgary Tower
• Stephen Avenue Walk
• Olympic Plaza
• Scotiabank Saddledome
• McHugh Bluff
• Peace Bridge

What you’ll do:

• Downhill Karting by Skyline Luge

Where you’ll eat:

• Lunch – Calgary Farmers’ Market – Plenty of food stalls in this market to make you hungry.
• Dinner – Pigeonhole – Easily the best meal of the whole trip. Make sure to order their charred cabbage.

Where you’ll stay:

• Hampton Inn Calgary Airport

Day 2: Caving in Canmore

After a day in Calgary, it’s time to head west to an area known as Canmore in Alberta. Nestled in the Rockies, this former coal-mining town is open of my favourites because it’s a bit off-the-beaten-path. Surrounded by craggy summits, lakes, trails, canyons, and an underground labyrinth, there’s a ton to do here.

A secret of Canmore’s is the extensive cave systems that sits under Grotto Mountain. There’s one particular cave that you can visit and it’s the Rat’s Nest Cave. While a provincial historic site, its caretaker is Canmore Cave Tours which operate adventure caving experiences inside.

The tour that you want to pick is the Adventure Cave Tour , a 4 hour tour underground, making it their longest tour they offer. This allows you to see all of the main highlights of Rat’s Nest Cave including a couple of fun maneuvers.

The experience starts off at their main office where you’ll be introduced to your guide and fitted with the gear that you’ll need. They provide coveralls, kneepads, gloves, helmet, headlamp, harness, and safety lanyard. The helmet and headlamp stay on and the rest goes into a waterproof backpack they provide.

This is just the beginning though because you then drive your own car and follow your guide to the parking lot and trailhead to the cave.

The hike up to the cave is remarkable and there are a few openings along the way with beautiful vistas of the mountains.

Right outside the cave, they have a temporary shelter set up where you’ll be able to suit up with your technical gear you brought in with you.

From there, the caving experience begins as your guide takes you through a series of walk, crawl, squeeze and repels through a cave. There are times in the cave where it’ll look like there’s no way you can get through a passage but with a simple twist and push through, you manage to find a way.

Along the way, your guide will point out unique geological features inside the cave, examples of local fossils found, and the cave’s history. Eventually you’ll reach the largest room in the cave known as the Grand Gallery and also the Grotto and its crystal clear pool with stalactites and stalagmites.

The whole time you’ll manage your way through with the beam of your headlamp, the echo of your caving-mates, and sometimes even pure silence.

By the end of it, you’ll come out with your jumpsuits completely plastered with dust and physically exhausted.

Without a doubt, this will be the highlight of your 3 day Calgary itinerary. There aren’t many places in the world where you get to do something like this. You’ll come out of it amazed at what you saw and even more impressed that you somehow made it through all of those obstacles.

This is focused on the Adventure Tour package.

Address: 202-129 Bow Meadows Crescent, Canmore, Alberta

Hours: There are tour departures all days of the week at 8:45AM, 10:15AM, and 11:45M

• Adult – $175 + tax
• Youth (12-15) – $145 + tax

Website: Canmore Cave Tours . Read the reviews here .

• Total length of time is 6 hours so this is a half-day experience.
• Note that they don’t provide shuttle services from their main office to the trailhead so you’ll need to have your own car.
• Reservations are a must.
• You need to arrive at least 10 minutes prior to start time.
• Difficulty – There’s a 30-40 minute uphill trail to get to the entrance to the cave. Inside the cave, the footing isn’t flat, there is a lot of maneuvering, and there are no handrails or fixed lighting. This is a very raw cave in every sense of the word. I’d classify this as challenging.
• Maximum size – The safety harness fits to a waist size of 46″ (116cm) and leg size of 33″ (84cm). They say that fitness is more a concern over size though.
• Plan on bringing – Energy bar, water, sturdy shoes with good tread and be dressed in layers for warmth (i.e. long pants, long sleeved shirt, etc.) Also, bring outdoor gear for the hike to the cave that is appropriate for the weather.
• Warm clothing – It’s 5 degrees C inside so make sure you have long pants, long sleeves, and sweater/hoodie.
• Photography – You can’t bring any backpacks inside and as a result, cameras aren’t allowed beyond a small point and shoot and/or your smartphone. You can request a helmet with a GoPro mount and that’s how I captured some of the footage that you see in the video. Make sure to bring a couple of extra GoPro batteries. Everything else that you can’t bring inside will go in the backpack they provide which will just hang outside in the staging area outside of the entrance.
• Are there bats or rats? – Our guide, Chris explained to us that the name of the cave came from nests of cute rodents native to the area. Bats are a rare sight here as well as it’s not a location they hibernate in. We saw neither during our caving experience.

Parking: There is easy parking at both the Canmore Cave Tours office complex and the trailhead.

You’ll be pretty exhausted at this point after you return back to the Canmore Cave Tours to drop off your gear and you say goodbyes.

Before you grab dinner though, you’ll have to muster a bit more energy to see another highlight of Canmore.

Grassi Lakes is part of the Kananaskis Country park system and made up of two picturesque turquoise lakes – one upper and one lower. From the Upper Grassi Lake, you get postcard worthy shots of the mountains, Canmore, and Bow Valley.

There are a network if hike trails here and if you had a full day, I’d recommend doing the complete Grassi Lakes Trail but since you’ll only have time to catch the view from Upper Grassi Lake, I recommend taking the shortcut that isn’t so obvious from Google Maps but trust me, it’s there.

Trail Instructions: It might seem like you won’t have time to do this but a local tip we learned was that you can do a short version of the full Grassi Lakes Trail. From your parking spot, head north along the main road until you get to the end of the pond. This is when you can make a right. At this point, you’ll be able to descend into the pass that takes you to the crag where you’ll see limestone walls packed with rock climbers. Keep going and you’ll see the opening to Upper Grassi Lake. The best trail map can be found on AllTrails .

• As you drive south along Three Sisters Parkway, you’ll pass by Whitemans Pond. Eventually halfway things widen and you’ll see many cars parked on the left and right-side of the road. Park by this pond. There’s usually plenty of spots here but may be packed during high season. This spot is marked on the map .

To wrap up the day, head into downtown Canmore and have dinner at Rocky Mountain Flat Bread Company .

Without reservations, there might be a wait so try to do this before you leave for Calgary. That said, a short wait wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world because you’ll be able to explore a bit of the town.

Their flatbread pizzas made in a traditional wood burning oven are hearty, locally sourced, artisanal pieces of thin crust goodness.

Before you head home, grab an ice cream at Old Schol Bus Ice Cream in town.

Day 2 Summary

• Grassi Lakes
• Canmore Cave Tours
• Breakfast – Continental breakfast at the hotel.
• Lunch – Snack bars – There won’t be time for a proper lunch but there will be a snack stop during your caving tour where you’ll be scarfing down your granola bars and other snacks you pack in your pocket.
• Dinner – Rocky Mountain Flatbread Co. – Local eatery best known for their pizzas/flat breads. They also have a great selection of local beers and BC wines.
• Dessert – Old School Bus Ice Cream – Fun ice cream shop inside a yellow school bus with tons of flavours.

Day 3: Banff Canyons, Lakes, and Horses

For your final full day based in Calgary, you’ll be starting off with something that’s so iconic to what the city is best known for – the Stampede. This love affair of horses and cowboys is something you need to experience in person.

During our trip, we visited Griffin Valley Ranch located in Rocky View County however as of Spring 2020, they closed their doors so instead, I have a couple of recommendations for horseback trail riding that will suit equally well for this itinerary.

Depending on interest and skill level, here are the best ones:

• 2-Hour Horseback Ride in Kananaskis with Burger Lunch [9:30AM, 1PM] – This is a rustic Alberta mountain adventure operated by Boundary Ranch. You’ll travel high above the Kananaskis Valley that ends with a delicious BBQ lunch. No previous riding experience is required.
• Covered Wagon or Horseback Ride in Banff with Western Cookout [4PM, 5PM] – Saddle up along the Bow River in Banff like days gone by. This is an afternoon experience that includes a BBQ meal. For this experience you can either ride a horse or you can be in the comfort of a wagon.
• 1-Hour Horseback Trail Ride in Kananaskis [9:45AM, 11AM, 1:30PM. 3PM and 4:15PM] – If you want to spend more time in Banff, choose this horseback riding experience suitable for beginners and children over 6.
• 1-Hour Bow River Ride [11AM, 1PM, 2PM, 3PM]- Similar to the above except you’ll be riding on the trails of the Bow River or Spray River in Banff National Park.

After your epic ride through some of Alberta’s beautiful backcountry, hit the road again and make your way into Banff National Park .

While driving westbound along the main Trans-Canada Highway, you’ll eventually reach the East Banff gate. To your left is a pass-through lane which you can take if you purchased a ticket online already. If not, you can go to the manned kiosks on the right to purchase your day pass. This will allow you explore right away.

Price: Pass prices are calculated per person per day

• Adult $10 (age 18 to 64)
• Senior $8.40 (age 65 and up)
• Youth 17 and under is free
• Family/group $20 (up to 7 people in a single vehicle)

Website: Banff National Park .

• Buy the pass online – This is the most convenient way to ensure you don’t waste any time buying passes on the day of. If your dates are locked in, you might as well buy them online through Banff and Lake Louise Tourism . There are no extra costs for purchasing this online. Day passes can be printed at home.
• Remember to display – Make sure to place your passes prominently on the left-handside of the windshield.

Frequently asked questions:

• Where else can you buy the pass? There’s a Parks Canada Tourist Office in town at 224 Banff Avenue. You can also buy it at Wilson Mountain Sports in the Samson Mall of Lake Louise.
• Should I get a Family/Group pass? This becomes economical when you have 3 or more adult.
• Should I get a Discovery Pass? This is only valuable if you plan on spending 7 continuous days in the Rocky Mountains Parks.
• When do day passes expire? They are valid the day purchased and expires at 4PM the day after.
• Visiting Lake Louise
• Using a picnic area
• Stopping in Banff town to buy food
• Stopping at a viewpoint or pullout
• Driving along Bow Valley Parkway or Icefields Parkway
• Do they check passes? Yes, they definitely do. When we went, there was a checkpoint along Bow Valley Parkway.
• When do I not need a park pass? If you plan on driving right through Hwy 1 without stopping anywhere in the national park, you don’t need to buy a pass.
• Are bears a concern? During the summer, there will be bear warnings for certain trails all around Canmore and Banff. This particularly impacts backcountry hikes such as Lake Morraine and Lake Minnewanka where it’s required you to travel in groups of 4 and to carry bear spray .  This typically does not apply to Johnston Canyon. Make sure to check the weekly bear report by Parks Canada.

With your passes proudly displayed on your dash, exit onto the scenic Bow Valley Parkway (Hwy-1A). There are so many stops along the way that you can take but where I recommend that you invest your time on is Johnston Canyon .

Before that though, you’re probably hungry so an awesome trick to solve two problems is to make reservations at the Blackswift Bistro which is the restaurant that’s part of Johnston Canyon Lodge and Bungalows. This property is literally right next to the trailhead. While you won’t be staying here, this is a great spot to refuel, has dedicated parking, and lets you in if Highway 1A is closed.

Johnston Canyon is composed of two main waterfalls – upper and lower. Much of the trail follows the steeply carved limestone bedrock and fast-running Johnston Creek.

As you walk further in, the first waterfall you encounter is the Lower Falls , roughly around 30 minutes inn. There’s an iconic tunnel that you can walk to which brings you mere metres from the falls.

For the Upper Falls , you’ll have a bit of work ahead of you. Taking roughly around 1 hour with a good amount of elevation gain through the forest, you’ll eventually see where the water you saw earlier came from. Dropping a dramatic 40 metres below to a deep turquoise pool, you’ll be able to see it from a viewing platform at the base of the falls and another at an overhang in the gorge.

While this trail is quite touristy, it certainly doesn’t diminish the beauty of this part of the national park.

If you find that you have a lot of extra time, you can go further in (extra hour) to see the Ink Pots which are a set of emerald pools that bubble and swirl like a witches’ cauldron.

Address: Bow Valley Pkwy, Improvement District No. 9, AB T1L 1K2

Hours: 24 hours

Price: Included with your park pass.

Website: Johnston Canyon Day Hikes

Facilities: There are washrooms at the parking lot.

• Go early or late – The best time to visit is right in the morning before 8AM or going after 5PM. Anytime in between during high-season can be a zoo.
• Check Banff Now – Parks Canada has a Banff Now page which marks various events of notice within the park including information about the Johnston Canyon trails, parking, and access to Bow Valley Parkway.
• Take Roam Transit – Instead of dealing with insane parking, take Roam Transit Route 9 (seasonal and starts May 21, 2021) which can be accessed from the Town of Banff. The cost is $10 round trip for adults.
• Book a meal at Blackswift Bistro – If the highway is closed or want to avoid the parking situation, one way to bypass this is by making a reservation here so they’ll let you through.
• Is the hike to the Upper Falls difficult? There is some elevation gain and it’s a long trail but by no means difficult. If you’re planning to do this hike, make sure to bring water and snacks.

Parking: Spots are extremely limited and becomes overwhelmingly busy in the summer months and they’ve clamped down on parking along the highway which means that you’ll have to wait for a spot to open up. However, if you do see a line up of cars parked on the side of the road, you should be safe to do so.

With a few hours of sunlight to spare, you still have time to drive up to iconic Lake Louise and Chateau Lake Louise .  There’s something majestic about the glistening emerald water and imposing Victoria Glacier that provides the backdrop.

Grab a seat, watch the last few canoes head back to the boathouse as the sun begins to set.

To round out the night, make our way over to the town of Banff which has a welcoming ski-town vibe.  We had a quick stroll along the main street and then head over to The Juniper Bistro for dinner which will seem off-the-beaten path but is quite superb.

Find out more ways to explore Lake Louise and Banff here!

Day 3 Summary

• Johnston Canyon
• Lake Louise & Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
• Town of Banff
• Horseback riding experience
• Lunch – Blackswift Bistro – A great spot for breakfast or lunch with the bonus of reservations getting you into the area if the Bow Valley Parkway is closed and you get free parking for Johnston Canyon as well.
• Dinner – The Juniper Bistro – You don’t quite expect such a high quality restaurant in a hotel off the main strip of Banff but they consistently serve amazing local-inspired food.

In this weekend in Calgary itinerary, you’ll want to stay in the city for the entire trip. With that, there are a number of hotel recommendations to get you started on where to stay in Calgary.

WHERE WE STAYED

HAMPTON INN CALGARY AIRPORT

This is a no-frills type of hotel that’s conveniently located right by the airport, includes breakfast, and is both modern and comfortable. The property is also one of the most affordable in the city.

BEST WESTERN PLUS DOWNTOWN

Another extremely affordable option is located in the Beltline part of the city and not far from Pigeonhole. This Best Western, similar to the Hampton Inn, is one of those “you know what you’re going to get” – great value, comfy, and convenient.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

LE GERMAIN CALGARY

I’ve stayed at a few Le Germain hotels and they are simply incredible experiences. Located right in the middle of downtown Calgary, you’ll be treated to uniquely modern, clean, and comfy rooms with also superb service.

FAIRMONT PALLISER

The epitome of luxury, this is an iconic 5-star hotel that has great views, is extremely comfortable, features a world-class spa, and is located right in the heart of the city.

Quick Calgary travel guide

Here are a few need-to-knows when it comes to a trip to Calgary that also spans Canmore and Banff.

Money – The local currency in Calgary is the Canadian Dollar or CAD . It’s best to avoid money changers at the airport and in the city. Instead, rely on exchanging for CAD in your home country or use the ATMs in Canada. If you’re using an ATM, just make sure to keep an eye out for machines that charge its own fee.

When is the best time? – Calgary experiences extremely cold winters and since this is a summer itinerary, the recommendation is to come between June and August. This is when the weather is the most pleasant. That said, this is also high-season. For a good balance of climate and crowds, consider coming in late May or in September after Labour Day.

Getting here – Calgary International Airport (YYC) is the primary hub for flights into the city and is not far from the downtown core (17 minutes drive). Calgary is also easily reached by car and can be perfectly paired if you’re coming from Vancouver or interior BC (i.e. Kelowna) as you’re crossing the Rocky Mountains or coming south from Edmonton.

How do I get around? – Due to the distances between sights, lack of tourist-friendly transportation in the city and into the Rocky Mountains, your best bet is to rent a car. This way, you’ll have maximum flexibility to get to where you need to go. Make sure to use this trick to save a lot of money.

Where should I stay? – The above “ Where to stay in Calgary ” section is a good place to start. Overall, I recommend tapping into Booking.com because they have an awesome inventory of properties including B&Bs.

Do I need travel insurance? – As always, travel insurance is highly recommended.  My philosophy is that you want to make sure you’re covered in case the unknown happens.  With the amount of travel that I do, I always get basic travel insurance that’s good for multiple trips and lasts the full year.   World Nomads  is the best balance of coverage and price for anyone looking for travel insurance. Make sure to read my  full review  of why and a breakdown of how they work. For a more broader look at travel insurance, make sure to  read this .

Bottom Line

Calgary doesn’t always get the best reputation but as a first-time visitor, I was really surprised with everything the city has to offer. Yes, they’re best known for one of Canada’s biggest festivals, the Calgary Stampede, but come here in the summer and you’ll enjoy an incredibly walkable and friendly city, award-winning restaurants that’ll surprise you, a fresh take on street art, and great green spaces.

While I know some of you will say that this 3 day Calgary itinerary really only includes 1 full day in the city itself, I think it’s perfectly reasonable to answer the call of the Rocky Mountains. The hope was to show that you can absolutely see the gems of Canmore and Banff in a weekend without having to change hotels.

Come to Calgary and do this adventure-driven trip. You won’t regret it!

What you should read next

• Things to do in Richmond BC
• Free things to do in Toronto
• Unforgettable Weekend Getaways from Vancouver
• 4 day Newfoundland itinerary from St. John’s

About William Tang

William Tang is the Chief of Awesome behind the award-winning Going Awesome Places which is focused on outdoor adventure, and experiential travel. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring photography and videos, and writing detailed itineraries and travel guides. He is a member of Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Travel Massive. He has also been featured in publications such as Reader's Digest, Entrepreneur, Men's Journal, and Haute Living. Make sure to learn more about William Tang to find out his story and how Going Awesome Places started.

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Get Presale Tickets to HEART’s 30 New Royal Flush Tour 2024 Dates

Presale for SiriusXM listeners begins April 4 at 10am local time.

Get ready to rock with HEART as they’ve added new dates to their Royal Flush Tour 2024 — and SiriusXM listeners get special access to presale tickets.

HEART is extending their highly-anticipated return to the road after a five-year hiatus with 30 additional dates across North America this fall, including brand-new stops in San Francisco, Kansas City, Houston, Calgary, Vancouver, and more. The band returns to the road starting April 20 in Greenville, SC, touring Europe this June and July, before returning to the States to join forces with Def Leppard and Journey for three epic stadium shows in Cleveland, Toronto and Boston this summer. The tour concludes in Las Vegas on December 15.

HEART will be joined by iconic mega bands Cheap Trick, Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening, and Bachman-Turner Overdrive (BTO) featuring Randy Bachman on the Royal Flush Tour 2024 for select dates.

The band will also be on “The Howard Stern Show,” airing live on April 10 at 9am ET.

HEART Royal Flush Tour 2024

How to get presale tickets.

Presale for SiriusXM listeners begins April 4 at 10am local time using code SIRIUSXM  at Heart-Music.com .

Tickets go on sale to the general public April 5 at 10am local time.

With Cheap Trick unless otherwise noted *Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening **With BTO featuring Randy Bachman

New Dates: Sept 26 – San Francisco, CA – Chase Center Sept 28 – Los Angeles, CA – Crypto.com Arena Sept 29 – Phoenix, AZ – Footprint Center Oct 2 – Lubbock, TX – United Supermarkets Arena Oct 4 – Kansas City, MO – T-Mobile Center Oct 5 – St. Louis, MO – Enterprise Center* Oct 8 – Houston, TX – Toyota Center Oct 10 – Austin, TX – Moody Center Oct 12 – North Little Rock, AR – Simmons Bank Arena Oct 14 – Nashville, TN – Bridgestone Arena Oct 16 – Greensboro, NC – Greensboro Coliseum Oct 17 – North Charleston, SC – North Charleston Coliseum Oct 19 – Charlottesville, VA – John Paul Jones Arena Oct 21 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden Nov 13 – Birmingham, AL – Legacy Arena at BJCC* Nov 14 – Memphis, TN – FedExForum* Nov 16 – Wichita, KS – Intrust Bank Arena* Nov 19 – Des Moines, IA – Wells Fargo Arena* Nov 21 – Moline, IL – Vibrant Arena at The MARK* Nov 22 – Green Bay, WI – Resch Center* Nov 24 – Winnipeg, MB – Canada Life Centre** Nov 27 – Saskatoon, SK – Sasktel Centre** Nov 29 – Edmonton, AB – Rogers Place** Nov 30 – Calgary, AB – Scotiabank Saddledome** Dec 3 – Vancouver, BC – Pacific Coliseum Dec 5 – Spokane, WA – Spokane Arena Dec 7 – Boise, ID – Extra Mile Arena Dec 9 – Sacramento, CA – Golden1 Center Dec 12 – Bakersfield, CA – Mechanics Bank Arena (special guest TBA) Dec 13 – San Diego, CA – Pechanga Arena Dec 15 – Las Vegas, NV – Fontainebleau Las Vegas (An Evening With)

Previously Announced Dates: Apr 20 – Greenville, SC – Bon Secours Wellness Arena Apr 22 – Savannah, GA – Enmarket Arena Apr 25 – Hollywood, FL – Hard Rock Live (in Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood) (Non-AEG event) Apr 26 – Tampa, FL – Amalie Arena April 28 – New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival May 1 – San Antonio, TX – Frost Bank Center May 3 – Thackerville, OK – Lucas Oil Live at WinStar World Casino and Resort (Non-AEG event) May 4 – Tulsa, OK – BOK Center May 7 – Indianapolis, IN – Gainbridge Fieldhouse May 10 – Atlanta, GA – State Farm Arena May 11 – Charlotte, NC – Spectrum Center May 13 – Baltimore, MD – CFG Bank Arena May 15 – Columbus, OH – Schottenstein Center May 17 – Rosemont, IL – Allstate Arena May 18 – Louisville, KY – KFC Yum! Center May 21 – Detroit, MI – Little Caesars Arena May 23 – Pittsburgh, PA – PPG Paints Arena May 24 – Atlantic City, NJ – Hard Rock Live Jul 30 – Cleveland, OH – Progressive Field (with Def Leppard & Journey) Aug 1 – Ottawa, ON – Canadian Tire Centre Aug 2 – Toronto, ON – Rogers Centre (with Def Leppard & Journey) Aug 5 – Boston, MA – Fenway Park (with Def Leppard & Journey) Aug 7 – Quebec City, QC – Videotron Centre Aug 8 – Montreal, QC – Bell Centre Aug 10 – Albany, NY – MVP Arena Aug 11 – Buffalo, NY – KeyBank Center Aug 13 – Cincinnati, OH – Heritage Bank Center Aug 15 – Milwaukee, WI – Fiserv Forum Aug 16 – Hinckley, MN – Grand Casino Hinckley Amphitheater (Non-AEG event) Aug 18 – Lincoln, NE – Pinnacle Bank Arena Aug 21 – Grand Rapids, MI – Van Andel Arena Aug 23 – Charleston, WV – Charleston Coliseum Aug 24 – Knoxville, TN – Thompson Boling Arena at Food City Center Aug 27 – Norfolk, VA – Scope Arena Aug 28 – Allentown, PA – The Great Allentown Fair (Non-AEG event) Sept 17 – Portland, OR – Moda Center Sept 20 – West Valley City, UT – Maverik Center Sept 22 – Morrison, CO – Red Rocks Amphitheatre (An Evening With – SOLD OUT)

About HEART

With a career spanning nearly five decades, the 2013 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductees have sold more than 35 million albums worldwide, with 20 Top 40 singles to their name.

HEART will be performing their catalog of global chart-topping classic hits including “Magic Man,” “Barracuda,” “Crazy on You,” and “These Dreams.”

The current lineup of HEART features Nancy Wilson (rhythm, lead and acoustic guitar, backing and lead vocals), Ann Wilson (lead vocals and flute), Ryan Wariner (lead and rhythm guitar), Ryan Waters (guitars), Paul Moak (guitars, keyboards and backing vocals), Tony Lucido (bass and backing vocals), and Sean T Lane (drums and bike).

The Black Crowes Are Back on ‘The Howard Stern Show’: Stream

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Willow Glen Lifestyles Home Tour celebrates…

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Willow Glen Lifestyles Home Tour celebrates 40th year

Benefit for san jose day nursery set for may 4-5.

The Willow Glen Lifestyles Home Tour is celebrating its 40th year on May 4-5. As ever, the event benefits the San Jose Day Nursery (SJDN), a nonprofit early learning center founded in 1916 in downtown San Jose. Funds raised from the tour will enhance SJDN programs and provide scholarships for children of low-income working parents.

Each of the five homes on the self-guided tour is no more than a five-minute drive from the next. Docents will be on site at each home to answer questions.

Featured homes this year include the historic 110-plus-year-old former Wilcox Manor on Pine Avenue with seven bedrooms and eight bathrooms. Just across the street is a lovely Carmel -style contemporary five-bedroom, 4.5-bath home.

A renovated cottage, a modern farmhouse and a two-bedroom, two-story Spanish-influenced home in downtown Willow Glen round out the tour this year.

One of the homes on Pine Avenue has been designated this year’s “garden home,” where attendees will be able to enjoy beverages and refreshments in a garden setting, mingle over complimentary wine tasting and purchase snacks and gift items from local vendors and artisans.

Tickets for the tour, set for 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on both days, are $50 in advance at  willowglenhometour.com or in person at D’Anna’s Florist, 1712 Meridian Ave., and Bella James, 1371 Lincoln Ave. Home addresses will be revealed after purchase of a ticket. No pets or children under 12.

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The total solar eclipse 2024 is happening today! Here's what you need to know

Millions are ready to watch  —  are you?

It's the day we've all been waiting for! Total solar eclipse 2024 is finally here. Today (April 8) a total solar eclipse will sweep across North America from Mexico, through 15 U.S. States and up through Canada. For viewers inside the path of totality, the moon will completely cover the sun, darkening the sky and revealing our star's hidden outer atmosphere.

You can keep up to date with the latest eclipse content on our eclipse live blog and watch all the total eclipse action unfold live here on Space.com courtesy of NASA. Our livestream coverage begins at 1 p.m. EDT (1700 GMT). 

If you capture a great photo of the solar eclipse and would like to share it with us please email it to [email protected] . 

Related: 10 things you probably didn't know about the total solar eclipse 2024

Every U.S. State will experience at least a partial solar eclipse today. If you want to check what time you'll be able to see the solar eclipse and find out what it may look like from your location check out this great interactive map from NASA . 

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes directly between the sun and Earth, casting a shadow on our planet. It appears almost exactly the same size as our sun and for those witnessing the event from the path of totality, it will completely cover the sun's visible disk.

Last minute preparations  

If you haven't been able to get hold of a pair of eclipse glasses and are looking for an easy way to still view the solar eclipse safely we have a list of some alternative ways to view the eclipse with items from around the home . 

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Remember NEVER look directly at the sun. To safely view all of this event, you must use solar glasses or filters. Only those in the path of totality will be able to remove them briefly to see the sun's corona with their naked eyes. Those not in the path of totality must keep them on the entire time. 

Everyone observing the partial phases of this eclipse — and for those outside the path of totality, that's the entire event — will need to wear solar eclipse glasses while cameras, telescopes and binoculars will need solar filters placed in front of their lenses. 

Our how to observe the sun safely guide tells you everything you need to know about safe solar observations. 

Eclipse timings

Submit your photos! If you capture a photo of the April 8 total solar eclipse or any of these strange effects and would like to share it with Space.com's readers, send photos, videos, comments, and your name, location and content usage permission release to [email protected].

Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: [email protected].

Daisy Dobrijevic joined Space.com in February 2022 having previously worked for our sister publication All About Space magazine as a staff writer. Before joining us, Daisy completed an editorial internship with the BBC Sky at Night Magazine and worked at the National Space Centre in Leicester, U.K., where she enjoyed communicating space science to the public. In 2021, Daisy completed a PhD in plant physiology and also holds a Master's in Environmental Science, she is currently based in Nottingham, U.K. Daisy is passionate about all things space, with a penchant for solar activity and space weather. She has a strong interest in astrotourism and loves nothing more than a good northern lights chase! 

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