Calgary – gateway to the Rockies but worth a visit in its own right

20 Reviews

Star Travel Rating

5/5

Review type

Destination

Location

Date of travel

May, 2022

Product name

Calgary, Alberta

Product country

Canada

Product city

Calgary, Alberta

Travelled with

Group

Reasons for trip

Culture/Sightseeing

If you’re planning a trip to explore the Rocky Mountains it’s likely you’ll either start or end your trip in the gateway of Calgary! It would be easy to see this as simply a stopover – but I would definitely recommend making the most of your time here – there is plenty to see and do.

It’s a really easy city to get around, thanks to a great initiative whereby all tram journeys within the downtown area are free of charge – the exact free zone is clearly marked on all maps at the stations and announcements will be made before you enter a chargeable zone. But to be honest, even without free tram rides, the city is easily walkable and it’s a pleasant area to stroll with lots of interesting buildings and green spaces.

Some of my top things to do include Calgary Tower – an obvious one, but it is worth it, the views are far reaching and the glass floor panel viewpoints are a fun addition if you’re brave enough to step on and look down; Olympic Park is a nice area to wander or have a picnic lunch – I loved the Famous Five Statue which recognises the role Canadian women played in the growth of the country; Studio Bell is also a great place to visit if you are into music – there are five floors full of memorabilia and history.

For shopping there are two main shopping centres in the downtown area – CORE Shopping Centre and CF Chinook – both offer plenty of stores including well-known retail brands. There are other malls and discount centres located a short distance out of the centre too. You won’t be short of drinking and dining options in Calgary with a collection of the bars and restaurants all over the city – however a main concentration in the main area of 7th, 8th and 9th Avenues.

I ran out of time during my short stay here, hence why I would recommend trying to allow for at least two full days to fit everything in.

Kerry Gallagher

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