6-Day Itinerary for Exploring Calgary

• Day 1 - Explore Downtown Calgary: Start your day at the CALGARY TOWER for stunning 360-degree views of the city. Then, visit the GLENBOW MUSEUM, which showcases Alberta's history and culture. End the day with a leisurely walk in PRINCE'S ISLAND PARK.
• Day 2 - Discover the Majestic Rockies: Go on a day trip to Banff National Park for breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains. Some popular activities include hiking around LAKE LOUISE, visiting the BANFF UPPER HOT SPRINGS, and taking a gondola ride up SULPHUR MOUNTAIN.
• Day 3 - Safari in the City: Take a tour of the CALGARY ZOO to see over 1,000 different animals from around the world. Then, head to FISH CREEK PROVINCIAL PARK for a peaceful nature walk or bike ride. End your day at Chinatown, where you can sample delicious Asian cuisine.
• Day 4 - Riverfront and Art Scene: Walk, bike or take a Segway along the RIVERFRONT PATHWAYS, stopping to admire the public art installations. Visit the ART GALLERY OF CALGARY to see diverse exhibits, and end the day with a concert or play at the ARTS COMMONS.
• Day 5 - History and Science: Visit the CANADA OLYMPIC PARK, a legacy of the 1988 Winter Games, and try Olympic-style activities. Then, head to the TELUS SPARK science center to learn through interactive exhibits. Before leaving, take a stroll through INGLEWOOD, a historic neighborhood with eclectic shops.
• Day 6 - Last Minute Shopping and Farewell: Visit the CHINOOK CENTRE, home to over 250 stores and restaurants, and shop for souvenirs. End the trip with a farewell dinner at SKY 360, the revolving restaurant atop the Calgary Tower.

Time and Costs Estimates:

• Calgary Tower (1-2 hours, $18 - $20)
• Glenbow Museum (2-3 hours, $18 - $26)
• Prince's Island Park (1-2 hours, free)
• Banff National Park (~10 hours, $80 - $100 for tour)
• Calgary Zoo (2-3 hours, $30 - $40)
• Fish Creek Provincial Park (1-2 hours, free)
• Riverfront Pathways (2-3 hours, free)
• Art Gallery of Calgary (2-3 hours, free)
• Arts Commons (2-3 hours, $20-$50 for tickets)
• Canada Olympic Park (2-3 hours, $25-35)
• Telus Spark (2-3 hours, $25-35)
• Inglewood (1-2 hours, free)
• Chinook Centre (2-3 hours, free)
• Sky 360 (1-2 hours, $40-$80)
Total Estimated Costs: $284 - $469 CAD

Transportation:

Calgary has a reliable public transit system that is easily accessible and affordable. You can also consider renting a car to explore the region outside the city. If you are going on a day trip to Banff National Park, organized tours are the most convenient option. Budget around $50-$80 CAD for car rental or $80-$100 CAD for a guided tour.

Useful Tips:

If you have more time, consider visiting the Calgary Stampede or taking a day trip to Drumheller's Royal Tyrrell Museum. If you have less time, prioritize the downtown area and Banff National Park. Always check the weather conditions beforehand and dress accordingly.

Airports:

The main airport serving Calgary is the Calgary International Airport (YYC), located approximately 17 km/11 miles from downtown Calgary. It is easy to access by taxi, shuttle, rental car or the express bus service (Route 300) which costs around $10 CAD per trip.