Discover the best 25+ things to do in Calgary in 2025; festivals, outdoor adventures, family fun, museums, day trips & more. Plan your ultimate Calgary trip now!
1. Calgary Stampede
Known as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,” the Calgary Stampede is a world-renowned annual event held every July. It features rodeos, live concerts, thrilling carnival rides, and parades that celebrate the city’s western heritage and spirit. Visitors from around the globe come to experience this iconic festival, making it a must-see Calgary attraction.
More about Calgary Stampede
2. Calgary Tower
Standing 191 meters tall, the Calgary Tower offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city skyline and the nearby Rocky Mountains. Its glass floor experience and observation deck attract visitors seeking stunning photo opportunities and a unique perspective on Calgary’s urban landscape.
Visit Calgary Tower
3. Calgary Zoo & Botanical Gardens
Home to over 1,000 animals and 1,000 species of plants, the Calgary Zoo combines wildlife conservation with education. Stroll through themed habitats like the Canadian Wilds, Eurasia, and the Prehistoric Park, or enjoy the beautifully curated botanical gardens. It’s perfect for family visits and nature lovers.
Calgary Zoo info
4. Heritage Park Historical Village
Step back in time at Canada’s largest living history museum, Heritage Park. This expansive site features authentic historical buildings, a steam train, a vintage midway, and live interpreters recreating life in Western Canada from the 1860s to the 1950s. It’s an immersive way to explore Canadian history and culture.
Heritage Park details
5. Glenbow Museum
Explore one of Western Canada’s premier museums, Glenbow, known for its vast collection of Indigenous art, historical artifacts, and contemporary Canadian art exhibitions. It’s a cultural hub that educates visitors about Canada’s rich and diverse heritage through innovative displays and events.
Explore Glenbow Museum
6. Calgary Selfie Museum
A newer and unique attraction, the Calgary Selfie Museum is an interactive art space designed for immersive selfie experiences. Featuring vibrant, themed rooms with creative setups and colorful backdrops, it’s perfect for groups, families, and influencers looking to capture unforgettable photos in a fun environment.
Visit Calgary Selfie Museum
7. TELUS Spark Science Centre
Engage your curiosity at TELUS Spark, Calgary’s science centre dedicated to interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and creative workshops. It appeals to all ages with hands-on learning in fields like technology, engineering, and the natural sciences. Check out the outdoor park and planetarium for a full-day educational experience.
Learn about TELUS Spark
8. Fish Creek Provincial Park
As one of the largest urban parks in North America, Fish Creek Provincial Park offers over 80 kilometers of multi-use trails for hiking, biking, and birdwatching. Its peaceful natural setting includes river valleys, wetlands, and picnic areas, making it an ideal escape for outdoor enthusiasts without leaving the city.
Fish Creek Park info
9. Nose Hill Park
Nose Hill Park is a vast natural grassland offering easy-to-moderate walking trails with panoramic views of downtown Calgary and the surrounding foothills. It’s a favorite spot for locals who enjoy jogging, dog walking, and spotting native wildlife in an urban wilderness setting.
Discover Nose Hill Park
10. Riverwalk
Stretching along the Bow River, the Riverwalk pathway is perfect for walking, running, or cycling. Enjoy scenic views, public art installations, and numerous parks along the route. The pathway connects several downtown attractions, making it a great way to explore Calgary’s urban core outdoors.
Explore Bow Riverwalk
11. Contemporary Art Galleries
Calgary boasts a growing contemporary art scene. Visit galleries like Esker Foundation and TRUCK Contemporary Art to experience thought-provoking exhibitions featuring local, national, and international artists. These spaces foster artistic innovation and community engagement.
Esker Foundation
12. Food Tours
Experience Calgary’s diverse culinary landscape on a guided food tour. Sample local favorites, farm-to-table eateries, and craft breweries, while learning about the city’s food culture and history. These tours offer an authentic taste of Calgary’s dynamic dining scene.
Sample Calgary Food Tours
13. Hot Air Balloon Rides
For a truly unique adventure, take a hot air balloon ride over Calgary and the stunning Rocky Mountains. The breathtaking aerial views during sunrise or sunset provide unforgettable photo opportunities and a peaceful escape from the city below.
Hot Air Balloon Info
14. Nightlife
Calgary’s nightlife scene offers something for everyone. From cozy craft beer pubs and cocktail lounges to vibrant live music venues, the city comes alive after dark. Popular areas include Stephen Avenue, 17th Avenue, and East Village for dining and entertainment options.
15. Winterlude Festival
Celebrate Calgary’s winter spirit with the Winterlude Festival each December. The event features spectacular ice sculptures, festive markets, outdoor skating, and family-friendly activities, turning the city into a winter wonderland.
Winterlude Festival
16. Music Festivals
Calgary hosts numerous music festivals throughout the year, including the renowned Sled Island Festival. Enjoy a range of genres from indie rock to electronic music, featuring both local talent and international headliners in diverse venues.
Sled Island Festival
17. Sports Events
Sports fans can catch Calgary’s professional teams in action: NHL’s Calgary Flames at the Scotiabank Saddledome and CFL’s Calgary Stampeders at McMahon Stadium. The city’s passionate fanbase creates an electric atmosphere during games.
Calgary Flames | Calgary Stampeders
18. Free Museum Days
Many Calgary museums, including Glenbow and Heritage Park, offer free admission days several times a year. Planning your visit around these dates is a great way to enjoy culture and history without spending a dime.
Glenbow Museum | Heritage Park
19. Public Art & Murals
Explore Calgary’s vibrant street art scene by visiting neighborhoods like Inglewood and East Village. Colorful murals and creative installations showcase local artists’ talents and provide perfect backdrops for photos.
20. Hangar Flight Museum
A must-see for aviation enthusiasts, the Hangar Flight Museum showcases Canada’s aviation history through restored vintage aircraft, interactive exhibits, and flight simulators. Located at the Calgary airport, it’s accessible and educational for all ages.
Hangar Flight Museum
21. Prince’s Island Park
Located downtown along the Bow River, Prince’s Island Park is a scenic urban oasis perfect for picnics, festivals, and leisurely walks. The park hosts events throughout the year, including outdoor concerts and markets.
Prince’s Island Park
22. Bowness Park
A favorite family spot, Bowness Park offers playgrounds, picnic areas, a lagoon for paddle boating, and walking trails. It’s a peaceful retreat within city limits ideal for a relaxing day outdoors.
Bowness Park info
23. Drumheller Dinosaur Museum
Just a short drive from Calgary, the Royal Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller is the world’s leading dinosaur museum. Discover interactive exhibits and an extensive fossil collection, perfect for families and history buffs.
Royal Tyrrell Museum
24. Banff National Park
Only an hour from Calgary, Banff offers stunning mountain landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and abundant wildlife. Popular activities include hiking, skiing, and relaxing in hot springs, making it a top day trip destination.
Banff National Park
25. Kananaskis Country
Kananaskis is a vast wilderness area near Calgary offering hiking, mountain biking, skiing, and tranquil retreats. It’s ideal for outdoor enthusiasts wanting to explore Alberta’s natural beauty.
Kananaskis Country
Tips for Visiting Calgary in 2025
- Best Time to Visit: Summer (June to August) is ideal for festivals and outdoor activities, while winter offers skiing and holiday events.
- Getting Around: Utilize Calgary’s efficient public transit and bike-share programs for easy city exploration.
- Where to Stay: Downtown Calgary provides convenient access to major attractions, dining, and nightlife.
Conclusion
With its mix of iconic festivals, outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and unique experiences, Calgary offers over 25 exciting things to do in 2025. Whether you’re seeking family fun, nature escapes, or urban excitement, Calgary has it all. Be sure to include the Calgary Selfie Museum for a one-of-a-kind interactive experience that’s perfect for photos and memories.
Start planning your Calgary trip now and get ready to explore everything this vibrant city has to offer!
