Canada is a beautiful and diverse country with so much to offer visitors. Calgary, located in the western province of Alberta, is a vibrant city that attracts tourists from all over the world. From stunning natural landscapes to urban adventures, there are plenty of things to see and do in Calgary and beyond. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at three must-see attractions in Calgary, unique Canadian things that represent the country, and travel tips for visiting Canada.
Must-See Attractions in Calgary
Explore the Calgary Tower
The Calgary Tower is a landmark attraction in the city, standing at 191 meters tall. It offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains. Visitors can take a high-speed elevator to the observation deck for panoramic views, enjoy a meal at the revolving restaurant, or take a glass floor tour to see the city from a new perspective.
The Calgary Tower is open daily from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm, with the last elevator departing at 8:45 pm. General admission tickets start at $18.00 CAD for adults and $9.00 CAD for children ages 4-12. Discounts are available for seniors, students, and groups of 15 or more. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Calgary Tower website.
Visit the Calgary Zoo
The Calgary Zoo is a must-visit attraction for families and animal lovers. It’s home to over 1,000 animals from around the world, including tigers, penguins, and gorillas. The zoo also features botanical gardens, playgrounds, and interactive exhibits. Don’t miss the Penguin Plunge exhibit where you can get up close to these adorable birds.
The Calgary Zoo is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with extended hours during the summer months. General admission tickets start at $29.95 CAD for adults and $19.95 CAD for children ages 3-15. Discounts are available for seniors, students, and groups of 15 or more. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Calgary Zoo website.
Discover the Heritage Park Historical Village
For a glimpse into Canada’s past, visit the Heritage Park Historical Village. This living history museum features over 180 exhibits that showcase life in Western Canada from the 1860s to the 1950s. Visitors can ride on a steam train, explore historic homes and shops, and even try their hand at old-fashioned crafts like blacksmithing and candle-making.
Heritage Park is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, with extended hours during the summer months. General admission tickets start at $28.95 CAD for adults and $18.95 CAD for children ages 7-14. Discounts are available for seniors, students, and groups of 15 or more. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Heritage Park website.
Unique Canadian Things
Maple Syrup
Maple syrup is a quintessential Canadian product that is made from the sap of maple trees. It’s a staple of Canadian cuisine and can be enjoyed on everything from pancakes to bacon. If you’re visiting Canada, be sure to try some fresh maple syrup and bring a bottle home as a souvenir.
Maple syrup is produced in many parts of Canada, but the province of Quebec is the largest producer, accounting for over 70% of the world’s supply. Every spring, the province holds a Maple Syrup Festival to celebrate the harvest. Visitors can sample maple syrup and other maple products, watch demonstrations of syrup-making, and enjoy traditional Quebecois cuisine.
Canadian Wildlife
Canada is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including moose, bears, wolves, and beavers. Wildlife viewing is a popular activity in Canada, with many national parks and wildlife reserves offering guided tours and opportunities to spot animals in their natural habitat.
One of the best places to see Canadian wildlife is Banff National Park, located in the Canadian Rockies. The park is home to elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats, as well as grizzly and black bears. Visitors can take guided tours, hike the park’s many trails, or simply drive through the park and keep an eye out for wildlife.
Ice Hockey
Ice hockey is Canada’s national winter sport and is loved by Canadians of all ages. If you’re visiting Canada during the winter months, don’t miss the chance to catch a game and experience the excitement of this fast-paced and thrilling sport.
The National Hockey League (NHL) is the premier professional ice hockey league in Canada and the United States. Many Canadian cities have NHL teams, including Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, and Calgary. Tickets to NHL games can be expensive, but there are also minor league and amateur teams that offer more affordable options for hockey fans.
Canadian Bacon
Canadian bacon is a popular breakfast meat that is similar to ham. It’s often served with eggs and toast and is a must-try for breakfast lovers. Canadian bacon is also a popular topping on pizza.
Canadian bacon is made from pork loin that has been cured and smoked. It’s typically sold pre-cooked and can be found in most grocery stores in Canada and the United States. If you’re interested in trying Canadian bacon at a restaurant, look for it on the breakfast or brunch menu.
Travel Tips for Visiting Canada
Understand the Weather
Canada is a country with diverse weather patterns. In the winter, temperatures can drop well below freezing, while summers can be hot and humid. When planning your trip, be sure to research the weather conditions for the area you’re visiting and pack accordingly.
If you’re visiting Calgary in the winter months, be prepared for cold temperatures and snow. Dress in warm layers, including a hat, gloves, and winter coat. In the summer, temperatures can reach the high 20s and low 30s, so be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, and light, breathable clothing.
Embrace Multiculturalism
Canada is known for its cultural diversity, with people from all over the world calling it home. Embrace the multiculturalism by trying different cuisines, attending cultural events, and learning about the traditions of different communities.
If you’re interested in exploring Calgary’s multicultural neighborhoods, check out the International Avenue district, also known as 17th Avenue SE. The area is home to a variety of restaurants and shops that showcase the cultural diversity of the city.
Respect the Environment
Canada is home to some of the world’s most beautiful natural landscapes, from the Rocky Mountains to the Canadian Shield. When visiting Canada, it’s important to respect the environment and practice responsible tourism.
One way to do this is by following the Leave No Trace principles. This means packing out all garbage, staying on designated trails, and minimizing your impact on the environment. When hiking or camping in remote areas, be sure to carry bear spray and know how to use it in case of an encounter with wildlife.
Tips for Driving in Canada
If you plan on driving in Canada, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, be aware of the speed limits, which are in kilometers per hour. Also, be prepared for changing weather conditions and plan for extra travel time in the winter months. Lastly, be mindful of wildlife on the roads, especially in rural areas.
It’s important to note that driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal in Canada and can result in severe penalties, including fines and jail time. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for drivers is 0.08%.
Calgary’s Mayor, Naheed Nenshi
Biography
Naheed Nenshi is the current mayor of Calgary and has been in office since 2010. He was born in Toronto to parents who immigrated from Tanzania and India. Nenshi is the first Muslim mayor of a major Canadian city and is known for his progressive policies and community engagement.
Nenshi is a Harvard-educated economist who worked in the private sector before entering politics. He has been recognized for his leadership on issues such as affordable housing, transportation, and community engagement. In 2014, he was named the World Mayor of the Year by the World Mayor Project.
Calgary Acts
Calgary Acts is a community initiative launched by Nenshi to promote volunteerism and community involvement. The program encourages Calgarians to give back to their community by participating in volunteer activities and making a positive impact in their neighborhoods.
Calgary Acts offers a variety of volunteer opportunities, including park cleanups, community events, and fundraising campaigns. The program also partners with local organizations to support initiatives such as affordable housing and mental health awareness.
Canada 150 Celebration
In 2017, Canada celebrated its 150th anniversary, and Calgary was no exception. Nenshi was instrumental in organizing Calgary’s celebrations, which included a Canada Day concert and fireworks display, cultural performances, and community events.
The Canada 150 celebration was a nationwide initiative that included events and activities in communities across the country. The celebrations highlighted Canada’s history, culture, and diversity and encouraged Canadians to come together to celebrate their country.
Discovering the Best of Calgary and Canada
Calgary and Canada have so much to offer visitors, from stunning natural landscapes to vibrant urban attractions. Whether you’re exploring the city’s iconic landmarks or immersing yourself in Canadian culture, there’s something for everyone. With a little planning and an open mind, you can experience the best that Calgary and Canada have to offer.
FAQs
- What is the weather like in Calgary?
Calgary has a semi-arid climate with warm summers and cold winters. Temperatures can vary greatly depending on the season.
- What is the best time of year to visit Canada?
The best time to visit Canada depends on your preferences. Summer is a popular time for outdoor activities, while winter offers opportunities for skiing and snowboarding.
- What is Canadian bacon?
Canadian bacon is a type of breakfast meat that is similar to ham.
- Who is the current mayor of Calgary?
Naheed Nenshi is the current mayor of Calgary.
- What is Leave No Trace?
Leave No Trace is a set of principles that promote responsible outdoor recreation and minimize the impact on the environment