10 Great Things to Do in Calgary in One Day
A Perfect Start to Your Canadian Adventure
When planning our Banff National Park trip, we knew Calgary had to be on the list. This vibrant city gave our Canadian adventure the perfect start. Even with only 24 hours, there’s plenty to do. We explored lively streets with colorful murals, admired bold architecture, enjoyed tasty local food, and relaxed in peaceful parks. Calgary has a unique energy you won’t want to miss, so set aside a day to discover this hidden gem.
Short on time?
- 🐴 Calgary Stampede: Experience the legendary rodeo, parades, and concerts each July.
- 🏞️ Banff National Park: Just 90 minutes away — turquoise lakes and jaw-dropping mountain scenery.
- 🌆 Calgary Tower: Get panoramic city views from the glass-floored observation deck.
- 🌸 Prince’s Island Park: Stroll riverside trails and enjoy outdoor summer festivals.
- 🎨 Glenbow Museum: Explore Western Canadian art, Indigenous culture, and history exhibits.
- 🚠 Canada Olympic Park: A hub for skiing, mountain biking, and family adventures.
Top Picks for Your Perfect Stay in Calgary
When visiting Calgary, staying close to the main attractions made our trip easy and enjoyable. Here are our top hotel picks:
Hyatt Regency Calgary, located near Calgary Tower and Stephen Avenue Walk, this hotel offers spacious rooms and standout amenities like a heated pool and spa. Members of their loyalty program can enjoy a free night—something we’ve taken advantage of often.
Hilton Garden Inn Calgary Downtown is ideally located near East Village, the Bow River, and Olympic Plaza. Comfortable rooms, a pool, and a delicious breakfast make it a solid choice. The riverfront is great for walking and biking. Hilton Honors members can enjoy a free night, which we loved.
Alt Hotel Calgary East Village is a modern hotel located in a vibrant neighborhood near St. Patrick’s Island Park and Calgary Tower. Its sleek design and cozy vibe made it the perfect spot for us to unwind after a day of exploring.
Exploring Downtown Calgary
After renting a car, we parked in the heart of Calgary and set out on foot. The streets were alive with energy, and towering skyscrapers caught our eye. The Bow rises 236 meters (774 feet), while Brookfield Place East reaches 247 meters (810 feet), making it the tallest building in the city. Modern glass towers and sleek designs gave Calgary a bold, cosmopolitan feel as we explored downtown.
Visit the Powerful Symbol of Unity in Calgary
When exploring Calgary, don’t miss The Family of Man sculpture. Its tall figures symbolize unity and human connection. Each statue shows a different emotion, capturing the depth of human feelings. The work, created by artist Mario J. Armengol (not Augusto Giacometti), leaves a lasting impression. Whether you love art or just want to see something unique, this sculpture is worth a visit.
Calgary Tower
One of Calgary’s most famous landmarks is the Calgary Tower. Rising 191 meters above the city, it gives stunning 360-degree views. On clear days, you can even see the Rocky Mountains. Built as the Husky Tower in the 1960s, it was renamed in the 1970s and has since become a symbol of the city skyline.
At night, the tower lights up with colorful LEDs, creating a glowing show that’s perfect for photos. Whether you have just one day or more in Calgary, the Calgary Tower is a must-see for a fresh view of the city.
Calgary Tower: Hours, Fees, and Tips for Visiting
💵 Admission: Adults $19 CAD, Seniors $17 CAD, Youth $9 CAD
💡 Tip: Visit near sunset to enjoy both daylight views and the tower’s evening light show.
Heritage Park
Heritage Park was a great way to spend a few hours during our 24 hours in Calgary. The variety of activities makes it fun for all ages. Kids will have a blast too! The park is a chance to step back in time and experience Western Canadian history in an interactive way.
🕒 Winter Hours: 10 AM – 4 PM (Nov to Apr, limited exhibits)
💵 Admission: Adults $34.95 CAD, Seniors $26.95 CAD, Youth (7–15) $19.95 CAD, Children (3–6) $14.95 CAD, Under 3 Free
💡 Tip: Tickets include unlimited rides on the antique steam train and midway attractions.
It’s always a good idea to visit the official Heritage Park website for the latest pricing and seasonal changes to their hours before your visit.
Step Back in Time at Heritage Park
The historical village at Heritage Park feels like a world of its own. Charming shops, museums, and cozy restaurants line the streets. You can hop on the Calgary Train for a relaxing ride around the village and enjoy the views.
Walking here feels like stepping into a living museum. Historic buildings, staff in period costumes, and interactive exhibits bring the past to life. Everywhere you turn, there are photo opportunities—vintage storefronts, scenic views, and timeless details perfect for capturing beautiful shots.
Travel Vlog From This Trip
Gasoline Alley Museum and the Park’s Lake
We stopped by the Gasoline Alley Museum and loved its collection of vintage cars. It’s a must-see if you’re curious about transportation history.
For nature lovers, the park’s lake is just as special. Scenic trails surround the water, perfect for a peaceful hike. From above, the view of the lake is truly breathtaking.
A Must-Try Dessert: Calgary Cream Brûlée at Heritage Park
While exploring Heritage Park, we tried the Calgary Cream Brûlée — and it was one of the best we’ve had anywhere in the world. Made with coconut milk and dried coconut, it has a tropical twist that makes it stand out. A layer of homemade jelly adds extra flavor, blending perfectly with the creamy brûlée for a rich, smooth taste.
This special dessert was crafted by Chef Nicole Buckton, and it’s absolutely worth trying during your visit.
Stephen Avenue
Our one day in Calgary wouldn’t have been complete without visiting Stephen Avenue. This busy street is full of life, with musicians and street performers creating a lively atmosphere. Beautiful historic buildings line the avenue, alongside cafés, restaurants, and charming bakeries. Whether for lunch, dinner, or just a stroll, Stephen Avenue is the perfect place to enjoy Calgary’s vibrant vibe.
Lunch at Metropolitan Restaurant in Calgary: A Delicious Experience
While walking down Stephen Avenue, Calgary’s busiest street, we stopped for lunch at the Metropolitan Restaurant. Outdoor seating gave us the perfect spot to enjoy a meal and watch the lively scene. Nearby, a street musician performed, adding to the atmosphere. With historic buildings all around, the mix of good food and live music made for a simple but memorable lunch. If you’re in Calgary, this spot is a great place to relax and soak up the city’s vibrant energy.
Lunch at Metropolitan Restaurant in Calgary: A Delicious Experience
While walking down Stephen Avenue, Calgary’s busiest street, we stopped for lunch at the Metropolitan Restaurant. The outdoor seating gave us the perfect spot to enjoy our meal and watch the lively scene around us. A street musician performed nearby, adding to the atmosphere. Surrounded by historic buildings, the mix of good food and live music made for a simple but memorable lunch. If you’re in Calgary, this spot is a great place to relax and soak up the city’s vibrant energy.
Fresh Salads at the Metropolitan Restaurant
For lunch, we chose refreshing salads that were both tasty and creative. The menu offered a mix of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The Greek Salad came with crisp cucumber, feta cheese, and Kalamata olives. The Thai Mango Salad featured a tangy dressing and mixed herbs. Both dishes were light, flavorful, and the perfect addition to our meal on Stephen Avenue.
Central Memorial Park
Central Memorial Park, Calgary’s oldest park, underwent a significant revitalization between 2008 and 2009, with an investment of $11.5 million. This beautifully restored green space is home to the historic Memorial Park Library, Calgary’s oldest library.
Monuments, Fountains, and a Giant Chessboard
The park is filled with monuments honoring those who served in different wars, giving the space a sense of respect and reflection. Fountains and scenic walkways make it a relaxing place to unwind after a busy day. A fun highlight was the giant chess set on the grass—guess who won? 😉
Centre Street Bridge
The Centre Street Bridge is one of Calgary’s landmarks and a great spot for walking or biking. It spans the Bow River, connecting downtown with northern neighborhoods, and offers beautiful views of both the city and the water.
You can cross the bridge on foot or bike while enjoying the peaceful surroundings. It’s especially scenic at sunrise or sunset, when the skyline and river make perfect photo backdrops. Nearby parks and pathways, like Prince’s Island Park, make it an easy starting point for exploring more of Calgary.
The bridge’s stone and steel design adds historic charm. Around the area, you’ll also find coffee shops and cozy eateries where you can relax with a hot drink. In the evening, the city lights reflecting off the river make this spot even more photogenic.
