12 Amazing Things To Do In Canada's Calgary If You¡¯re Bored

Calgary, known for its friendliness and vibrant atmosphere, offers a delightful array of attractions, from a thriving restaurant scene to excellent hotels, underground nightclubs, quirky antique shops, retro-themed bars, and captivating museums. The city is renowned for its warm and welcoming locals, adding an extra layer of charm to the experience.

To truly immerse yourself in the essence of Calgary, explore its historic venues and independent gems that contribute to the city's unique character. Here, we've compiled a list of fantastic activities to enjoy in Calgary. Be forewarned: You may find it hard to say goodbye to this captivating city.

kensington

For food, entertainment & vibes

1) Kensington

Kensington is a gem in Calgary, exuding a cool and vibrant vibe reminiscent of Camden in London or the Lower East Side in NYC. Exploring this eclectic neighbourhood is undeniably one of the top things to do in Calgary, especially if you have a penchant for independent stores and delectable restaurants.

Speaking of which, Kensington is a must-visit for some mouthwatering bites that will tantalize your taste buds. Additionally, don't miss out on the excellent coffee at Higher Ground; their roast is truly exceptional and worth savouring.

2) Inglewood

Inglewood is a convenient and delightful area to explore, just a short 25-minute stroll from the heart of Calgary. A weekend or evening visit is highly recommended to experience the charm of its unique bars and eateries fully. Our standout choice is Gorilla Whale, a Japanese-fusion restaurant celebrated for serving some of Calgary's best ramen.

The yakitori skewers and cocktails are equally phenomenal, making it an ideal spot for a delicious dinner¡ªjust be sure to secure a reservation, as it tends to fill up quickly. While in Inglewood, a visit to Fair's Fair Books is a must.

This cosy bookstore offers an extensive selection of both old and new books, making it a true haven for bookworms. And for a comfortable spot with great coffee (and wine), along with the bonus of live DJs on certain days, don't miss Gravity Espresso & Wine. It's the perfect place to warm up and unwind in style.

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3) Commonwealth Bar & Stage

Once a run-down warehouse, this place has been converted into a contemporary and cool nightclub space popular with a young generation of revellers. Commonwealth is the place to go if you want to dance and drink until late.

They're open until 2 am Wednesday to Saturday and have regular live DJs and bands. The space is big, but not so much that you feel lost. The exposed brick walls and air ducts add a nice industrial touch.

4) Bottlescrew Bill's Pub

Situated just steps from the iconic Calgary Tower, Bottlescrew Bill's Pub is one of the city's oldest and beloved hangout spots. Since its establishment in 1985, the pub has been a beacon for beer enthusiasts, offering an extensive selection of well over 300 different kinds of beers¡ªthe largest variety in the city. The spacious patio provides an ideal setting to enjoy a summer sunset, while in the winter, the bar's four cosy rooms exude the warmth of a welcoming living room.

5) Crossroads Market

Since 1987, this farmers' market has been selling goods made by Calgary's top local businesses. Beyond the fresh vegetables, there are crafts to bring home, like handmade jewellery, purses and clothing. Also, expect street food vendors that sell everything from sausages to pancakes with Canadian maple syrup.

crossroads

For arts & culture

6) Lunchbox Theatre

This independent theatre, with a legacy spanning over 40 years, is pivotal in elevating underground art to the forefront of Calgary's cultural scene. Recognized as the go-to venue for discovering the next great Canadian playwright before they hit the Hollywood big leagues, this space also offers a unique experience with lunchtime plays starting at noon¡ªan ideal break from the workday hustle, in our opinion.

7) Studio Bell

Perched in the centre of Calgary, Studio Bell is one of Canada's biggest and best homes of Canadian music. Housing thousands of exhibits, it's somewhere that any music lover will totally love. If that's you, you'll quickly find this to be one of Calgary's best things to do. Not only that, the building is pretty cool, too.

A visit to Studio Bell will likely take around 90 minutes and is well worth stopping by on your stroll around the centre. That being said, if you're not a music lover, you might want to give this spot a miss. After all, it's all about the music!

Afterwards, you've had your fill at Studio Bell; King Eddy is well worth visiting (next door). It's a historic music venue and eatery that's perfect for a bite or an obligatory Ceasar!

studio-bell

8) Glenbow Museum

Explore the rich tapestry of Western Canadian art and culture at the Glenbow Museum, one of Calgary's most esteemed cultural institutions. This renowned museum showcases an extensive art collection, featuring everything from captivating landscape paintings to intricate Aboriginal sculptures.

As you wander through the galleries, immerse yourself in the narrative of Canadian art history, paying special attention to the abstract paintings and historic oil portraits depicting iconic Canadians' stories.

For history & heritage

9) Fort Calgary

This wooden fort, built in 1875, is a museum and a restaurant all in one. The 40-acre fort is also a public park known as the birthplace of Calgary.

The museum is a walk into Canadian history, with interactive installations, old maps and newspapers all on display. Also on the grounds, walk through the oldest building in Calgary, the Hunt House, erected in 1876.

10) Calgary Tower

Standing tall as an iconic landmark, the Calgary Tower is not just a striking structure reminiscent of the Space Needle but also a symbol of Canada's centennial celebration in 1967.

Soaring 190 meters, this impressive tower boasts an observation deck that offers unparalleled panoramic views, making it an ideal vantage point for capturing the majestic beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

Additionally, the tower features a revolving restaurant where you can indulge in a delightful dining experience while the staff eagerly shares their favourite sights. Feel free to inquire, as their insights can enhance your visit to this remarkable Calgary landmark.

calgary-tower

For adventure junkies

11) Spruce Meadows

Spanning vast expanses, this expansive public park in Calgary beckons visitors with its year-round allure. Encompassing picturesque walking paths, inviting picnic grounds, a charming 1940s carousel, and delightful train rides tailored for kids, the park caters to diverse interests.

For adults seeking educational pursuits, the park hosts a range of agricultural programs, providing valuable insights. A unique highlight includes the opportunity to feed horses, fostering a connection with these majestic creatures.

Additionally, the park transforms into a venue for world-class horse jumping competitions from late January to late October, offering an exciting spectacle for spectators.

12) Canada Olympic Park

Canada Olympic Park, the iconic venue for the 1988 Winter Olympics, stands as a massive winter sports complex, serving not only as a training ground for aspiring Olympians but also as a recreational hub for visitors.

Beyond the traditional thrill of skiing, the park offers more adventurous options such as bobsleigh and luge, providing an adrenaline-pumping experience for those seeking an extra dose of excitement.

As you explore the park, be sure to visit the Olympic Museum, a captivating tribute to the historic events and achievements that unfolded during the 1988 Winter Olympics.

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