Calgary, known as "The Heart of the New West," is a vibrant city nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. As Alberta’s largest city, it blends modern innovation with rich Western heritage, making it a dynamic destination for visitors. Home to world-class engineering, technology, and energy industries, Calgary is a hub for scientific discovery and entrepreneurship. Beyond its professional landscape, the city boasts stunning natural scenery, a thriving arts and dining scene, and exciting outdoor adventures. Whether exploring its cutting-edge science centers, walking along the Bow River, or experiencing the iconic Calgary Tower, there’s something for every visitor to enjoy.

 

Engineering & Science-Related Activities

1. Telus Spark Science Centre
   📍 Address: 220 St. George's Dr NE, Calgary, AB T2E 5T2

   • Calgary’s interactive science museum with hands-on exhibits, immersive dome shows, and engineering-themed workshops.

2. The Hangar Flight Museum (Aero Space Museum of Calgary)
   📍 Address: 4629 McCall Way NE, Calgary, AB T2E 8A5

   • Explore the history of aviation, space technology, and aerospace engineering with real aircraft displays.

 

Outdoor & Sightseeing

1. Calgary Tower
   📍 Address: 101 9 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 1J9

   • Experience panoramic city views from 191 meters high, with a glass floor and breathtaking scenery of the Rockies.

2. Bow River Pathway & Peace Bridge
   📍 Address: 698 Eau Claire Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 5N4

   • A scenic riverside pathway perfect for a casual stroll, with a striking red bridge designed by architect Santiago Calatrava.

3. Prince’s Island Park
   📍 Address: 698 Eau Claire Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 5N4

   • A beautiful urban park featuring walking trails, picnic areas, and outdoor events near the Bow River.

4. Heritage Park Historical Village
   📍 Address: 1900 Heritage Dr SW, Calgary, AB T2V 2X3

   • Step back in time to the 19th and early 20th centuries with a working steam train, historical buildings, and a hands-on gasoline alley museum showcasing vintage vehicles.

5. Fish Creek Provincial Park
   📍 Address: 15979 Bow Bottom Trail SE, Calgary, AB T2J 5E8

   • One of Canada’s largest urban parks, offering hiking, biking, and stunning views of Alberta’s natural beauty.

 

Fun & Team Bonding Activities

1. The Rec Room (Deerfoot City)
   📍 Address: 1180-901 64 Ave NE, Calgary, AB T2E 7P4

   • A massive entertainment complex with arcade games, virtual reality experiences, and team challenges.

2. Escape Rooms (The Locked Room, Escape 60, Exit Calgary)
   📍 Multiple Locations:

   • The Locked Room: 2015 32 Ave NE, Calgary, AB T2E 6Z3

   • Escape 60: 1638 10 Ave SW #201, Calgary, AB T3C 0J5

   • Exit Calgary: 880 16 Ave SW #60, Calgary, AB T2R 1J9

   • Solve engineering-style puzzles and escape themed rooms using logic, problem-solving, and teamwork.

3. Brewster’s Calgary Brewery Tours
   📍 Address: 5516 1a St SW, Calgary, AB T2H 0E3

   • Learn about chemical engineering in the brewing process with guided tours of local craft breweries.

4. Skyline Luge at Winsport
   📍 Address: 88 Canada Olympic Rd SW, Calgary, AB T3B 5R5

   • Experience an adrenaline rush by racing down an 1.8 km gravity-powered luge track at Canada Olympic Park.

5. Calgary Zoo & Wilder Institute
   📍 Address: 210 St. George’s Drive NE, Calgary, AB T2E 7V6

   • One of Canada’s top zoos, home to over 1,000 animals and conservation research projects.

 

Dining & Chill Spots

1. Stephen Avenue Walk
   📍 Address: 8 Ave SW, Calgary, AB

   • A vibrant pedestrian street filled with restaurants, coffee shops, and live entertainment.

2. 17th Avenue SW
   📍 Address: 17 Ave SW, Calgary, AB

   • Known for trendy bars, diverse restaurants, and great late-night eats.

3. The Beltline & Inglewood Breweries
   📍 Address: Multiple locations in Calgary’s Inglewood & Beltline neighborhoods

   • A hub for Alberta’s best craft breweries, offering tasting flights and behind-the-scenes brewing insights.

4. Kensington District
   📍 Address: 10 St NW & Kensington Rd NW, Calgary, AB

   • A charming neighborhood with boutique shops, independent cafes, and a relaxed, artsy vibe.

 

Calgary Transit Pass Information:

https://www.calgarytransit.com/fares---passes.html

https://www.calgarytransit.com/fares---passes/tickets.html

 

Exploring Near Calgary!

Banff: A Stunning Mountain Escape Near Calgary

Located just 125 km (78 miles) west of Calgary, Banff National Park is a breathtaking alpine destination renowned for its towering Rocky Mountains, turquoise lakes, and abundant wildlife. As Canada's first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Banff offers stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and charming town vibes. Visitors can explore Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Johnston Canyon, and the Banff Gondola, or unwind in the historic Banff Upper Hot Springs. The town of Banff itself is filled with cozy cafés, local shops, and scenic viewpoints, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

 

Ways to Get to Banff from Calgary

🚗 By Car (Fastest & Most Flexible Option)

• Distance: 125 km (~1.5-hour drive) via Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1)

• Best for: Flexibility to explore at your own pace

• Rental Options: Available at Calgary International Airport (YYC) or downtown

🚌 By Bus

• Brewster Express: Comfortable shuttle service from Calgary Airport & downtown to Banff

• On-It Regional Transit: Affordable bus option from downtown Calgary to Banff on weekends & holidays

• Sundog Tours & Banff Airporter: Reliable shuttle services from Calgary to Banff

🚆 By Train (Luxury Option)

• Rocky Mountaineer: A scenic train journey through the Rockies (seasonal & premium-priced)

🚲 By Bike (For Adventure Seekers)

• Route: Follow the Legacy Trail, a 26 km paved cycling path from Canmore to Banff

• Note: You’ll need to first drive or bus to Canmore before biking into Banff

 

University District - Information!

 

University District: A Modern, Lively Hub in NW Calgary

Located in Northwest Calgary, the University District is a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly neighborhood adjacent to the University of Calgary. It combines urban convenience with green spaces, making it a hotspot for students, professionals, and visitors alike. The area features a mix of trendy restaurants, boutique shops, and entertainment options, all within walking distance. With easy access to parks, cycling paths, and cultural spots like the Alberta Children's Hospital and Market Mall, the University District is a great place to explore for dining, leisure, and community events.

 

Ways to Get to University District from Downtown Calgary

🚗 By Car (Fast & Direct Option)

• Distance: ~7 km (~15-minute drive) via Crowchild Trail NW

• Best for: Convenience and flexibility

🚇 By CTrain (Affordable & Efficient Option)

• Take the Red Line (Tuscany-bound) from downtown (City Hall or 7th Ave Stations)

• Get off at University Station (about 10-15 minutes)

• Walk or take a short bus ride to University District

🚌 By Bus

• Multiple Calgary Transit buses, including Route 9 (Varsity Acres) and Route 31 (Dalhousie), connect the area to other parts of the city

🚲 By Bike or Walk

• Well-maintained bike lanes and pathways make it accessible from downtown and other NW neighbourhoods​