Calgary, Canada 3 Day Itinerary
Title: 3-Day Itinerary for Exploring Calgary, Canada
Day 1: Downtown Calgary & Cultural Exploration
Morning:
- Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Juice Traders, a popular spot known for its fresh juices and acai bowls.
- Visit the Calgary Tower to get an amazing panoramic view of the city.
Afternoon:
- Explore the National Music Centre, home to the Canadian Music Hall of Fame and numerous interactive exhibits.
- Stroll through the beautiful Prince’s Island Park and visit the Glenbow Museum to learn about the rich cultural history of Calgary and the Indigenous peoples.
- Enjoy lunch at Charbar, a modern steakhouse offering unique twists on classic dishes.
Evening:
- Take a leisurely walk along the Eau Claire Market Promenade and enjoy dinner at one of its many restaurants.
- Catch a show at The JUNO Award-winning Arts Commons, home to five performance halls and numerous artist residencies.
Day 2: Calgary’s Outdoor Adventures
Morning:
- Fuel up for the day at Famous Five, a charming café serving delicious brunch options.
- Head to Banff National Park (about 1.5 hours drive from Calgary). Explore the beautiful Lake Louise and the majestic peaks of the Canadian Rockies.
Afternoon:
- Continue your journey to Moraine Lake for more breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
- Return to Calgary in the evening and relax at one of the city’s many brewpubs, such as Tool Shed Brewing Company or Wild Rose Brewery.
Day 3: Calgary’s Western Heritage & Contemporary Art
Morning:
- Begin your day with a visit to the historic Heritage Park Historical Village, where you can learn about the early days of western Canada through interactive exhibits and demonstrations.
- For breakfast, try The Diner, a classic 50s-style diner offering generous portions of comfort food.
Afternoon:
- Visit the Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park to explore its vast grasslands and hiking trails.
- Head to the Contemporary Calgary (formerly known as the Museum of Modern Art) to immerse yourself in contemporary art exhibitions, workshops, and artist talks.
- Enjoy lunch at Sidewalk Citizen Bakery, a popular bakery offering artisanal breads, pastries, and sandwiches.
Evening:
- Take a stroll along the scenic Elbow River Pathway and watch the sunset over the city skyline.
- Dine at one of Calgary’s many excellent restaurants, such as Anju for modern Korean cuisine or Pigeonhole for innovative vegetarian dishes.
Things to Know:
- Calgary is known for its friendly locals and vibrant festival culture. Check out what’s happening during your visit on the Calgary Events Calendar.
- Public transportation in Calgary is provided by Calgary Transit and offers an affordable way to get around the city.
- Renting a car can be very useful for exploring the surrounding area, but it’s not necessary if you plan on sticking to downtown Calgary.
- Calgary experiences cold winters (November - March) and mild summers (June - August). Be sure to dress accordingly!