Calgary Canada 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Downtown Calgary

Places to Go:

  • Calgary Tower: Take in the panoramic views of the city from the top of this iconic tower.
  • Stephen Avenue Walk: A pedestrian mall lined with shops, restaurants, and street performers.

Activities:

  • Visit the Glenbow Museum to learn about the history and culture of Alberta and Western Canada.
  • Explore the Telus Spark Science Centre, a museum featuring interactive science exhibits.

Where to Eat:

  • The Nash: A trendy restaurant serving modern Canadian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
  • Bridgette Bar: A cocktail bar offering handcrafted drinks and small plates.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel Arts Calgary: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of downtown, offering comfortable rooms and top-notch amenities.
  • Hyatt Regency Calgary: A modern hotel featuring spacious rooms and an indoor pool.

Things to Know:

  • Weather: Expect warm temperatures (average high 22°C/72°F) during summer months. Be prepared for cooler temperatures and possible rain showers in spring or fall.
  • Currency: Canadian dollars are the local currency, with US dollars widely accepted at tourist destinations.

Transportation:

  • Calgary International Airport (YYC): Conveniently located about 15 minutes from downtown Calgary by taxi or shuttle bus.
  • C-Train: A convenient public transportation system that connects downtown Calgary to surrounding neighborhoods and attractions.

Day 2: Exploring Prince’s Island Park and the Inglewood Neighborhood

Places to Go:

  • Prince’s Island Park: A scenic park featuring beautiful walking trails, a lake, and plenty of picnic areas.
  • The Bow: Take in the stunning views of this sleek skyscraper, home to many businesses and organizations.

Activities:

  • Rent a bike and explore the Bow River Pathway, a scenic route following the river through downtown Calgary.
  • Visit the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary for a chance to spot local bird species.

Where to Eat:

  • The Ship & Anchor: A waterfront restaurant serving fresh seafood and steak in a cozy atmosphere.
  • Vegan Glutton: A plant-based cafe offering delicious bowls, sandwiches, and baked goods.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel Blackfoot: A comfortable hotel located near the Calgary Stampede grounds, featuring clean rooms and basic amenities.
  • Winnipeg Hotel: A budget-friendly option with simple rooms and a convenient location for exploring Inglewood.

Things to Know:

  • Be prepared for crowds and noise in popular areas like Prince’s Island Park and The Bow.
  • Explore the unique shops and cafes along 9th Avenue SE, offering a taste of Calgary’s eclectic charm.

Day 3: Exploring Heritage Park and the Glenbow Museum

Places to Go:

  • Heritage Park: A living history museum featuring historic buildings, farm animals, and period-accurate artifacts.
  • Glenbow Museum: Delve into the rich history and culture of Alberta and Western Canada through engaging exhibits.

Activities:

  • Take a guided tour of Heritage Park, offering insights into pioneer life and showcasing historical significance.
  • Explore the Canadian Pacific Railway Museum, featuring historic locomotives, cars, and artifacts.

Where to Eat:

  • The Cactus Club: A trendy restaurant serving fresh seafood and steaks with an upscale atmosphere.
  • Cibo: A casual eatery offering Italian-inspired dishes, salads, and pasta.

Accommodation:

  • Hampton Inn & Suites Calgary Downtown: A clean and modern hotel featuring comfortable rooms and basic amenities.
  • Residence Inn Calgary Downtown: An all-suite hotel providing spacious rooms and a convenient location for exploring the city.

Things to Know:

  • Weather: Expect warm temperatures (average high 22°C/72°F) during summer months. Be prepared for cooler temperatures and possible rain showers in spring or fall.
  • Heritage Park offers guided tours, horse-drawn carriage rides, and a scenic railway – be sure to explore these unique attractions.

Day 4: Exploring the Calgary Zoo and Prehistoric Park

Places to Go:

  • Calgary Zoo: A world-class zoo featuring over 1,000 animals from around the globe.
  • Prehistoric Park: Explore life-sized dinosaur replicas in a fascinating exhibit of prehistory.

Activities:

  • Take a guided tour of the Calgary Zoo, learning about animal conservation and education programs.
  • Visit the Tundra Grill, offering casual eats and refreshing drinks in a unique setting inspired by Canadian wilderness.

Where to Eat:

  • The Zoo Café: A cozy eatery serving sandwiches, salads, and baked goods with scenic views of the zoo.
  • Glen’s Diner: A classic diner featuring burgers, fries, and milkshakes in a nostalgic atmosphere.

Accommodation:

  • Homewood Suites by Hilton Calgary Downtown: An all-suite hotel providing spacious rooms and basic amenities.
  • The Westin Calgary: A modern hotel featuring clean rooms and top-notch amenities.

Things to Know:

  • The Calgary Zoo offers interactive exhibits, animal encounters, and educational programs for kids of all ages.
  • Prehistoric Park features animatronic dinosaurs, offering an immersive experience in a prehistoric setting.

Day 5: Exploring the Bow River Pathway and Last-Minute Shopping

Places to Go:

  • Bow River Pathway: Take a scenic stroll or bike ride along this beautiful route following the river through downtown Calgary.
  • 17th Avenue SE: A vibrant shopping district featuring unique boutiques, galleries, and restaurants.

Activities:

  • Visit the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, offering world-class performances in an intimate setting.
  • Explore the Art Gallery of Calgary, showcasing local and international art exhibitions.

Where to Eat:

  • The Beltliner: A trendy restaurant serving fresh seafood, steak, and pasta with a modern atmosphere.
  • Vero Bistro Moderne: A cozy eatery offering French-inspired cuisine in a comfortable setting.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel Le Germain Calgary: A luxurious hotel featuring clean rooms, top-notch amenities, and stunning views of the city skyline.
  • The Fairmont Palliser: An upscale hotel providing spacious rooms and world-class service.

Things to Know:

  • The Bow River Pathway offers scenic views of the river, parks, and historic buildings – be sure to explore this beautiful route.
  • Visit the 17th Avenue SE shopping district for unique boutiques, galleries, and restaurants showcasing local culture.