If Calgary wasn't close to the Rocky Mountains, it would rank quite low in terms of travel destinations. Compared to places like New York, London, Paris, Tokyo, etc. Calgary has very little for tourists. That doesn't mean that we have nothing to do. Calgary can be quite fun and interesting. But, the options here, compared to the world's major cities, are limited.
Spruce Meadows is a world-famous equestrian show-jumping facility. They host major tournaments each year that attract thousands of viewers. The Nationals, Masters, and Internationals are some of the biggest events. These events are broadcast internationally, as they are some of the biggest in the sport. The grounds at Spruce Meadows are beautiful, as well, and it's worth-while to take a tour of the stables, as well as watching the event.
Heritage Park is fun for all ages. It has rides, candy stores, farm animals, and many displays that take you back to the early days of Calgary's settlement. The steam-engine train can be heard for miles around the park.
The Calgary Tower once was the tallest building in Calgary, but it's now shorter than many buildings, which is a testament to the growth this city has seen since 1988. Built to celebrate the Winter Olympics, this structure provides some of Calgary's best views, particularly of the Rockies on clear days. It also has a glass floor that you can scare yourself on.
The Calgary Stampede is the biggest draw to the city. It happens every year in July for 10 days. Over 1 million people attend the Stampede every year, and it's one of the most prestigious rodeo and chuck-wagon events on the circuit. The midway and carnival are typical standard, but the actual animal related events are great fun and really unique.
18011 Spruce Meadows Way SW
World-famous equestrian tournaments...
1900 Heritage Dr. SW
(At 14th Street Southwest)
Calgary's living history...
1300 Zoo Rd. NE
A wide variety of animal exhibits...
101 9th Avenue SW
9th Ave. and Centre St. SW
Calgary's most famous urban landmark features a rotating dining room from which to take in the best view in the city...
1410 Olympic Way South East
(Stampede Park)
The "greatest outdoor show on Earth" - Calgary's biggest and most popular tourist attraction...
88 Canada Olympic Park Rd. SW
Skiing and snowboaring in the city...
2500 University Drive Northwest
(at the University of Calgary)
Olympic speed-skating facility open to the public...
701 11th St. SW
Host of a variety of scientific exhibits...
245033 Range Rd. 33
The Calgary's only theme park...
130 9th Ave. SE
At 1st St
Calgary's premier art museum, with a rotating selection of world class exhibits...