Short Vacation Ideas for Calgary, Alberta

Calgary Tower - Calgary, AB

Calgary at Night

Get a bird's eye view of scenic Calgary, Alberta from atop the city's most recognizable landmarks, the Calgary Tower!

Calgary is one of the largest growing cities in Canada, so there's no lack of things to do when you visit on vacation. To make the most out of your trip to the area, you'll want to make sure you hit the brightest and best attractions. Below are some places you'll definitely want to add to your list.

For The Nature Lover...

• Banff Gondola. Take a glass-enclosed gondola ride to the Sulphur Mountain Summit where you can enjoy the breathtaking sights from the observation terraces. The awe-inspiring scenery of the area is sure to leave you with fond memories.

• Calgary Tower. One of the most popular Calgary attractions, the tower offers a panoramic view of Calgary and the Canadian Rocky Mountains and features a revolving restaurant and observation terrace.

• Devonian Gardens. Visit one of the world's largest indoor gardens. Visitors can enjoy the waterfalls, pathways, flowers fish, turtles, fountains and sculptures that this fabulous indoor garden features.

For the Animal Lover...

• Calgary Zoo. Spend the day visiting with the animals at the Calgary Zoo. There are over 900 animals representing over 260 different species. You'll see mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, butterflies, fish and more.

For History Lovers...

• Fort Calgary. Fort Calgary is now a museum that takes you back in time to experience the events that make up Calgary's history. You'll see exhibits that feature the environment, lifestyles and events that make up Calgary's past.

• Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump. This site was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1981. The site takes this title of honor alongside other World Heritage Sites such as the Egyptian Pyramids and Stonehenge. Here you can tour the Interpretive Center and learn about the ancient custom of the Blackfoot Indians and see the largest and best preserved buffalo jump that is known to exist.

• Heritage Park Historical Village. Visit this historical village where you can see pre 1914 life recreated right before your eyes. The sixty-plus acre park brings the past back to life with the sights and sounds of a living historical village.

• Bar U Ranch National Historic Site. Learn all about how the ranching industry contributed to Calgary's development at this interpretive center. Visitors can learn from interactive exhibits and demonstrations enjoy and a wagon ride.