Welcome to Calgary, Canada! On your first day, settle into your hotel and get familiar with the city. In the morning, take a leisurely walk along the beautiful Prince's Island Park, located in the heart of downtown Calgary. Enjoy the stunning autumn foliage and the peaceful Bow River. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Stephen Avenue Walk, lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. For the evening, head to Kensington Village, an eclectic neighborhood known for its boutiques, eateries, and vibrant arts scene.
Prince's Island Park: Free, 2-3 hours
Stephen Avenue Walk: Free, 2-3 hours
Kensington Village: Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to OEB Breakfast Co., known for their creative and indulgent breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For lunch, try Ten Foot Henry, a popular spot for fresh and delicious vegetarian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
For dinner, indulge in the contemporary Canadian cuisine at CHARCUT Roast House. Average cost for a meal is about $50 per person.
Tuesday, October 17: Calgary Zoo
Start your day at the Calgary Zoo, home to over 1,000 animals from around the world. Explore the various exhibits, including the Penguin Plunge, Conservatory, and Canadian Wilds. In the afternoon, visit the Calgary Tower, an iconic landmark offering breathtaking views of the city and surrounding Rocky Mountains. As the evening approaches, head to 17th Avenue SW, known as the "Red Mile," for its lively atmosphere, dining options, and nightlife.
Calgary Zoo: $30 CAD, 3-4 hours
Calgary Tower: $18 CAD, 2-3 hours
17th Avenue SW: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Monki Breakfastclub & Bistro: Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Monki Breakfastclub & Bistro, known for its creative menu featuring dishes like their famous Eggs Benedict and fluffy pancakes. The average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
The Coup: For lunch, visit The Coup, a vegetarian and vegan restaurant that offers a variety of flavorful and innovative dishes made with organic, locally sourced ingredients. The average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Catch & The Oyster Bar: Indulge in a delicious seafood dinner at Catch & The Oyster Bar, an upscale restaurant known for its fresh seafood offerings and elegant atmosphere. The average cost for a meal is about $40 per person.
Wednesday, October 18: Heritage Park Historical Village
Immerse yourself in Western Canadian history at Heritage Park Historical Village. Spend the morning exploring the park's historical buildings, interactive exhibits, and vintage vehicles. Enjoy a scenic boat ride on the Glenmore Reservoir in the afternoon. In the evening, indulge in a delicious dinner at one of the restaurants in Inglewood, Calgary's oldest neighborhood, known for its unique shops and eateries.
Heritage Park Historical Village: $26 CAD, 4-5 hours
Glenmore Reservoir Boat Ride: $15 CAD, 1-2 hours
Inglewood: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at OEB Breakfast Co. Located in the Beltline neighborhood, this trendy spot offers creative, gourmet breakfast dishes such as Duck Confit French Toast and Steak and Eggs. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
For lunch, head to Charcut Roast House in downtown Calgary. This upscale eatery is known for its delicious charcuterie boards and inventive sandwiches like the Alberta Beef Dip. Average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at River Café, located in Prince's Island Park. This restaurant focuses on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, offering dishes such as Bison Short Rib and Alberta Trout. Average cost for a meal is about $50 per person.
Thursday, October 19: Banff National Park
Take a day trip to Banff National Park, located just a short drive from Calgary. Start your day early to make the most of your time in this stunning mountainous region. Explore the scenic trails around Lake Louise, marvel at the turquoise waters, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. In the afternoon, visit the charming town of Banff, known for its cozy shops, galleries, and mountain views. Don't forget to relax in the soothing Banff Upper Hot Springs before returning to Calgary in the evening.
Lake Louise: Free, 4-6 hours
Banff Town: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Banff Upper Hot Springs: $8.30 CAD, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, check out OEB Breakfast Co. This trendy spot offers a variety of delicious and innovative dishes, such as their famous breakfast poutine. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For lunch, try The Bison Restaurant & Terrace. Located in Banff, this restaurant offers a farm-to-table dining experience with a focus on local and sustainable ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
For dinner, visit River Café. Situated in the heart of Prince's Island Park, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a menu featuring seasonal and regional ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $50 per person.
Friday, October 20: Glenbow Museum
Discover the art, history, and culture of Western Canada at the Glenbow Museum. Spend the morning exploring the diverse exhibitions, which include Indigenous artifacts, contemporary art, and historical displays. In the afternoon, visit the Calgary Olympic Park, a legacy from the 1988 Winter Olympics. Take a guided tour of the facilities and even try your hand at winter sports like bobsleigh or skiing. For the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the trendy restaurants in the Mission district.
Glenbow Museum: $16 CAD, 3-4 hours
Calgary Olympic Park: $12-99 CAD, 2-3 hours
Mission District: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Diner Deluxe: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Diner Deluxe, located in the Mission district. This cozy diner offers a variety of classic breakfast options, including fluffy pancakes, hearty omelets, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant: For a delightful lunch experience, head to Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant. Situated in a historic ranch house in Fish Creek Provincial Park, this restaurant offers a serene ambiance and a menu featuring dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy their signature bison burger or their seasonal salad. The average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Model Milk: For dinner, treat yourself to an exceptional dining experience at Model Milk. This trendy restaurant in the Beltline district is known for its innovative menu that blends modern and traditional flavors. Try their mouthwatering roasted chicken or their delectable seafood dishes. The average cost for a meal is about $45 per person.
Saturday, October 21: Calgary's Local Breweries
Explore Calgary's vibrant craft beer scene by visiting some of its local breweries. Start your day at Village Brewery, known for its community-focused approach and delicious beers. In the afternoon, head to Annex Ale Project, a popular spot offering a variety of unique brews. For the evening, make your way to Last Best Brewing & Distilling, where you can enjoy their handcrafted beers and tasty food menu.
Village Brewery: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Annex Ale Project: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Last Best Brewing & Distilling: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Sunday, October 22: Prince's Island Park and River Walk
Wrap up your trip with a relaxing day at Prince's Island Park. Enjoy a morning stroll through the park, and if the weather permits, rent a bike to explore the surrounding pathways. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the picturesque Bow River pathway, admiring the city skyline and the natural beauty. End your evening with a delightful dinner at one of the restaurants in the Eau Claire Market area.
Prince's Island Park: Free, 2-3 hours
Bow River Pathway: Free, 2-3 hours
Eau Claire Market: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to OEB Breakfast Co. Known for their creative and inventive breakfast dishes such as lobster benny and duck fat fried potatoes, a meal here costs around $15-20 per person.
If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, try Holy Grill. They offer a variety of gourmet sandwiches and burgers, with options for vegetarians as well. Expect to spend around $10-15 per person for a meal here.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit River Café. Located in Prince's Island Park, this restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. A meal here costs around $50-75 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Calgary, don't miss out on these hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the quirky and artistic neighborhood of Inglewood, known for its vintage shops and trendy cafes. Explore the lesser-known Devonian Gardens, a beautiful indoor garden located on the 4th floor of The CORE shopping centre. For a unique experience, take a day trip to Drumheller, home to the Royal Tyrrell Museum and the stunning Badlands landscape.
Enjoy your time exploring Calgary and uncovering its hidden treasures!