Calgary Hotels

Calgary, Canada

Calgary is a vibrant city in the Canadian province of Alberta, which has an abundance of things to explore, from cowboys to culture and much more. Aside from having a fascinating history, Calgary is only an hour or two from the Canadian Badlands – a striking desert-like landscape full of dinosaur fossils.

Western Heritage

Every July there is a massive influx of visitors from Canada and the rest of the world who come to see the Calgary Stampede. This major rodeo event, described as ‘the greatest outdoor show on earth’, dates back to the agricultural fairs of the 19th Century. Bull riding, chuckwagon racing and concerts are among the activities, plus there is a lively street party atmosphere around the city. The First Nations people play a key part in this festival, setting up an Indian Village in Stampede Park to showcase their rich history and traditions.

Western wear is readily available, with many specialized shops in the city center. Particularly noteworthy is Riley & McCormick on 8th Avenue SW, which opened in 1901. There is a distinctive horse figure in the front that is a popular spot for photographs. This charming mascot has been here since the 1930s and is fitted with the championship saddle given to rodeo cowboy Harry Knight in the 1928 Stampede.

General Sightseeing

Whether one has a fortnight, a weekend or a day to spend in Calgary, there is no shortage of sights to see. A great place to visit is the award-winning Sports Hall of Fame. Spanning over 40,000 square feet, it profiles Canadian sporting heroes and includes galleries and interactive exhibits like wheelchair racing and a rowing challenge.

It is also well worth visiting the WinSport Canada Olympic Park, where the 1988 winter games took place, to experience the thrill of a bobsleigh ride, ice skating, skiing on the slopes or mountain biking.

Panoramic views can be enjoyed from the observation deck in Calgary Tower – a prominent feature of the city’s skyline. Other essential attractions are the Calgary Zoo and the Heritage Park Historical Village which depicts life in Alberta in the early 20th Century.

Eating and Shopping

Calgary is home to a number of major shopping malls, such as the Chinook Centre, offering a combination of big brands and exclusive retailers, and the beautifully designed CrossIron Mills. Delicious local produce is on sale at the Crossroads farmers’ market, whereas antiques and gourmet food can be found on the Haskayne Mercantile Block of the Heritage Park.

Other top areas for dining and shopping are Inglewood, Victoria Park (one of Calgary’s oldest neighborhoods), Olde Towne in Okotoks, and 17th Avenue’s retail and entertainment venues.

In addition, Calgary has an established beer scene – a wide selection of brews, along with tasty food, can be sampled at pubs like the CRAFT Beer Market and the National Beer Hall.

Want to experience the delights of this country for yourself? Take a look at our accommodation options in Canada.