Travel around Calgary with Bobby
Day 1Arrival in the Foothills – The Heartbeat of the Rocky Mountains
The first day in Calgary welcomed me with fresh mountain air as my plane touched down, and the sight of the Rockies looming in the distance immediately set the mood. I checked into Hotel Arts, a trendy downtown boutique hotel with a perfect location for exploring the city. After unpacking, I strolled along Stephen Avenue Walk, a bustling pedestrian street filled with restaurants, local shops, and stunning historic buildings. Grabbing a bite at Charcut Roast House, I couldn’t resist their Alberta beef—a must-try when in Calgary. The evening ended with a leisurely walk along the Bow River Pathway, watching the sunset over the city’s skyline.
Start your trip with a relaxed pace. The downtown area is easy to navigate on foot, and Stephen Avenue offers a perfect introduction to Calgary’s blend of modern and historic charm.
Day 2Into the Wild – Calgary Zoo and the Inglewood Experience
Day two was all about wildlife and nature. I began at the Calgary Zoo, one of Canada’s largest zoos, located on St. George’s Island. From watching playful pandas to learning about conservation efforts, it was a rewarding way to spend the morning. I then hopped on Calgary’s reliable CTrain and made my way to Inglewood, Calgary’s oldest neighborhood, full of boutique shops and cafes. For lunch, I stopped at The Nash, a stylish restaurant housed in a restored hotel, serving mouth-watering contemporary Canadian dishes. The afternoon was spent wandering through Inglewood Bird Sanctuary, a peaceful retreat where I encountered various bird species.
This upscale dining spot offered a memorable lunch with modern Canadian cuisine. The presentation was elegant, and the ingredients were fresh and flavorful. A bit on the pricier side but worth every bite.
Food
After a day of exploring, coming back to this stylish hotel felt like a retreat. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the poolside lounge added a nice touch for unwinding in the evening.
Accomodation
The Calgary Zoo is a fantastic experience for animal lovers, offering well-maintained exhibits and engaging educational programs. Inglewood Bird Sanctuary provided a serene, nature-filled escape, with plenty of wildlife to observe.
Activity
If you love animals and nature, make sure to dedicate a full day to the zoo and Inglewood. The CTrain is a great way to move around the city, and it’s super easy to use.
Day 3Sky-High Views and the Heritage of the West
Located in the middle of Prince’s Island Park, the River Café offers a farm-to-table dining experience that perfectly complements its scenic setting. I enjoyed a fresh, locally sourced lunch with a beautiful river view.
Food
The central location made it easy to explore Calgary Tower and Glenbow Museum without hassle. The staff was accommodating, and the room remained a comfortable haven after each day’s adventure.
Accomodation
The glass-floor observation deck at Calgary Tower is a must for anyone looking for city views, while Glenbow Museum offers an in-depth look at Alberta’s history and culture. Both sites are well worth a visit.
Activity
If you’re into culture and history, Glenbow Museum is an absolute gem. Plus, after soaking in the views from Calgary Tower, the city’s skyline takes on a whole new meaning.
Day 4 Stampede Spirit and the Rodeo Roots
Dinner at Fort Calgary was an exciting mix of history and cuisine. The meal was hearty, with a modern twist on western classics, and the historical significance of the venue added to the experience.
Food
My final night at Hotel Arts continued to be a relaxing stay. The hotel’s attention to detail, from room cleanliness to helpful staff, remained consistent throughout.
Accomodation
Although the Stampede wasn’t happening, Stampede Park still offered a peek into Calgary’s western roots. Heritage Park was a true highlight, with interactive historical exhibits and a steam train ride that felt like stepping back in time.
Activity
Whether or not you visit during the Stampede, the western vibe is alive all year round. Heritage Park is a must-visit for history lovers, especially if you enjoy interactive experiences.
Day 5 Day Trip to Banff – Rocky Mountain Majesty
The setting at the Chateau was stunning, with large windows offering views of Lake Louise while enjoying a delightful meal. The food was luxurious, with a focus on local and sustainable ingredients.
Food
After a day in Banff, returning to Hotel Arts was like coming home. The boutique atmosphere, combined with the friendly staff and modern amenities, made it a great base for this Calgary adventure.
Accomodation
The natural beauty of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake is breathtaking and well worth the trip. The hike around the lake was serene, and the views were some of the best I’ve ever seen.
Activity
A day trip to Banff is the perfect way to end your Calgary adventure. The natural beauty of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake is unbeatable, and it’s a great way to soak up some nature before heading home.
Summary of My Trip
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Calgary surprised me in the best way possible. It’s a city where you can feel the pulse of urban life while standing just a short drive away from the rugged beauty of the Rockies. The blend of modern culture, rich history, and deep connection to nature creates a unique energy that keeps you engaged. I loved how easy it was to navigate, whether by walking, taking the CTrain, or simply strolling along the river paths. The food scene was outstanding, with a focus on local, fresh ingredients that really let you taste the flavors of Alberta. Each day offered a new adventure, from the breathtaking views at Calgary Tower to the wild beauty of Banff’s crystal-clear lakes. If you’re looking for a destination that mixes urban excitement with outdoor adventure, Calgary should be high on your list.
The Alberta beef was juicy, tender, and cooked to perfection. The menu is rich with local flavors, and the ambiance is cozy yet stylish. Service was friendly, making this the perfect introduction to Calgary’s food scene.
Food
The hotel’s modern design and central location were ideal for a walking tour of the downtown area. Rooms were spacious and comfortable, with excellent service throughout my stay. The only downside was a bit of noise from the street below, but nothing too disruptive.
Accomodation
Stephen Avenue’s mix of historic buildings, street performers, and shops created a lively atmosphere. A walk along the Bow River at sunset offered a peaceful close to the day, with stunning views of the skyline. A great introduction to the city.
Activity