7-Day Nature and Adventure Itinerary in Calgary and Alberta

Day 1: Calgary Exploration

Calgary, Canada on May 2, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at OEB Breakfast Co.

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at OEB, known for its creative takes on classic breakfast dishes.
Located in downtown Calgary, easily accessible from your accommodation.
CAD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Calgary Zoo

Spend your morning exploring the Calgary Zoo, home to over 1,000 animals and beautiful botanical gardens.
A short 10-minute drive from OEB, with ample parking available.
CAD 36, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Charcut Roast House

Savor lunch at Charcut Roast House, offering locally sourced meats and a cozy atmosphere.
5 minutes drive back towards downtown.
CAD 30, 1 hour

2:30PM

Heritage Park Historical Village

Explore Canada's largest living history museum showcasing the settler life of Western Canada.
A 15-minute drive from Charcut; head south on 14 St NW.
CAD 30, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Nash

Experience a unique dining atmosphere featuring locally-inspired dishes made with fresh ingredients.
Take a 20-minute drive to the trendy neighborhood of Inglewood.
CAD 50, 2 hours
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Day 2: Adventure in Calgary

Calgary, Canada on May 3, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters

Enjoy a rich cup of coffee and a fresh pastry at this local favorite café.
Located in the Mission district, a short drive.
CAD 15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Calgary Tower

Head to the Calgary Tower for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
A 5-minute drive; parking is available nearby.
CAD 18, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Stroll through Prince's Island Park

Take a relaxing walk around Prince's Island Park and enjoy the natural beauty within the city.
Just a 7-minute walk from the Calgary Tower.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Italian Centre Shop

A great spot for a unique sandwich made with fresh local ingredients.
A 10-minute drive to the Italian Centre in Inglewood.
CAD 20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Drive to Banff

Prepare to embark on an unforgettable drive to Banff, taking in breathtaking views along the way.
Take the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1).
Free (petrol CAD 50), 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Accommodation Check-In

Settle into your budget-friendly accommodation at HI-Banff Alpine Centre, located just outside downtown Banff.
A short drive from the Banff Park Gates.
CAD 40, 30 min

6:00PM

Dinner at Magpie & Stump

Enjoy some hearty pub food in a cozy setting, perfect to end your day.
A 5-minute drive from HI-Banff.
CAD 30, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Nature in Banff

Banff, Canada on May 4, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Tooloulou's

Start your day with a delicious breakfast featuring local specialties and hearty portions.
Located in downtown Banff, a short drive or walk.
CAD 25, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Lake Louise

Explore the breathtaking turquoise waters of Lake Louise and take in the serene mountains surrounding it.
A 35-minute drive from Banff.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Hiking at Johnson Canyon

Embark on a stunning hike through Johnson Canyon, witnessing spectacular waterfalls and picturesque views.
A 30-minute drive from Lake Louise.
CAD 10 (parking fee), 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Juniper Bistro

Experience a delicious and scenic lunch while overlooking the Bow Valley.
A 30-minute drive back to Banff.
CAD 35, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Banff Gondola

Take the exhilarating gondola ride to the summit of Sulphur Mountain for breathtaking views of Banff National Park.
A 10-minute drive from the bistro.
CAD 60, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Bear Street Tavern

Enjoy delicious pizza and local beers at this trendy tavern known for its laid-back atmosphere.
A 5-minute drive from the gondola.
CAD 30, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Explore Banff National Park

Banff, Canada on May 5, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Maple Leaf

Enjoy a fresh and hearty breakfast featuring local ingredients.
Located conveniently in downtown Banff.
CAD 25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Yoho National Park

Visit Emerald Lake and Takakkaw Falls for stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventure.
A 45-minute drive from Banff.
CAD 10 (parking fee), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Truffle Pigs Bistro

Savor locally sourced bistro food near Field, BC, with stunning mountain views.
A short drive from Yoho, easy to find.
CAD 35, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Emerald Lake

Take a pleasant walk around Emerald Lake, capturing stunning photos of the forest and mountain backdrop.
Just a quick few minutes away from the bistro.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Return to Banff

Head back to Banff for some relaxation before dinner.
Take the same route back, enjoying the scenery.
Free (petrol CAD 20), 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Park Distillery

Dine in this unique distillery restaurant that serves delicious food paired with craft spirits.
A 10-minute drive from your accommodation.
CAD 40, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Drive to Edmonton

Edmonton, Canada on May 6, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Wild Flour Bakery

Start your day with freshly baked pastries and locally brewed coffee.
A quick walk from your accommodation.
CAD 15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Edmonton

Make the scenic drive to Edmonton, enjoying beautiful mountain views along the way.
Take the Trans-Canada Highway. Follow directions into Edmonton.
Free (petrol CAD 50), 2 hours

11:30AM

Accommodation Check-In

Check-in to your budget hotel like the Travelodge Edmonton South, offering affordable rooms.
Located near downtown Edmonton.
CAD 60, 30 min

12:30PM

Lunch at The Sugarbowl

Dig into tasty comfort food and craft beers at this iconic Edmonton spot.
A mere 10-minute drive from your hotel.
CAD 25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Edmonton River Valley Parks

Explore the extensive River Valley Park system, perfect for biking, walking, or relaxing in nature.
Head towards the river bank, easily accessible from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Royal Alberta Museum

Discover the fascinating history and culture of Alberta through interactive exhibits at this museum.
A short drive from the River Valley, about 10 minutes.
CAD 18, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Restaurants at the Art Gallery of Alberta

Enjoy a unique dining experience with locally inspired dishes and a stunning view of downtown Edmonton.
Just a minute's walk from the Royal Alberta Museum.
CAD 35, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Edmonton Life and Culture

Edmonton, Canada on May 7, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Jacek Chocolate Couture

Indulge in artisanal chocolates and fresh pastries at this delightful café.
Located in the Old Strathcona district, near downtown.
CAD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Muttart Conservatory

Visit this iconic plant conservatory featuring various climates and exotic plant species.
A short drive from the café, about 10 minutes.
CAD 12, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Art Gallery of Alberta

Discover incredible works of art from both contemporary and historical Canadian artists.
Located in the heart of downtown Edmonton, just a 5-minute drive.
CAD 12, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Pantry

Enjoy locally sourced ingredients and a casual atmosphere for lunch.
A 10-minute walk from the Art Gallery.
CAD 25, 1 hour

2:30PM

West Edmonton Mall

Explore the massive West Edmonton Mall, complete with shops, rides, and entertainment options.
A 20-minute drive from The Pantry.
Free (cost of activities and shopping extra), 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Earls Kitchen + Bar

Unwind with a wide selection of dishes and cocktails at this popular restaurant chain.
A short drive away from the mall.
CAD 35, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Return to Calgary

Calgary, Canada on May 8, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at YEG's Kitchen

Kickstart your day with wholesome breakfast options before heading back to Calgary.
Located near your hotel, a quick 10-minute drive.
CAD 15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive back to Calgary

Enjoy the scenic drive back to Calgary, reflecting on the highlights of your trip.
Follow the same route back via the Trans-Canada Highway.
Free (petrol CAD 50), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Calgary Farmers' Market

Experience a variety of local foods and browse through artisan products at this vibrant market.
Located near the city center, easy to find.
CAD 20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Glenbow Museum

Delve into Alberta's rich history and culture through exciting exhibits at the Glenbow Museum.
A 10-minute drive from the market.
CAD 18, 2 hours

4:00PM

Stroll through the Calgary Stampede Grounds

Take a leisurely walk through the iconic Stampede Grounds and admire the scenery.
Just a 5-minute drive from Glenbow Museum.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Farewell Dinner at The Visionary

Celebrate the end of your adventure with a delightful meal featuring thoughtfully crafted dishes.
Close to the downtown area and easy to catch.
CAD 50, 2 hours
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