Before & After Heading Out to the Rockies: A Two-Day Stop in Calgary, Canada

The city has a distinct downtown with modern, high-rise buildings interconnected by the +15 Skywalk. In summer, it’s a great way to explore downtown without being beaten by the sun. And in winter, oh well… the below zero temperatures outside will make you appreciate it even more! A premium place for shopping, the +15 Skywalk has also some architectural gems and nice surprises like the botanical opulence of Devonian Gardens at the CORE shopping mall.

Moving north, you can explore Eau Claire district - perhaps renting a bike at the old-fashioned mall. Eau Claire cinema hosts in September the Calgary International Film Festival, which drives cinema-lovers to the area - you might want to check out their program, it’s usually packed with good titles. Eau Claire backs on the Bow River and its enjoyable river walk, a favorite place for Calgarians to bike, run, or skate in summer, and stroll in every season. The nearby Prince Island is a lovely summer spot: check out the events, you might enjoy one of the Shakespeare by the Bow performances or one of the many music festivals. Explore the west side of the island, and don’t miss the beautiful Peace Bridge by architect Calatrava. From there, you can continue on to Kensington and its hip eateries, unique shops and quaint little cinema.

Follow the river back to the Peace Bridge and continue towards East Village, one of the newest urban redevelopments where residential high-rise buildings meet intriguing shops and restaurants. East Village is also home to interesting urban art and graffiti, the Studio Bell Music Canter, and the stunning Calgary Central Library building.

Calgary with kids

If you’re traveling with kids, Calgary has plenty of beautiful playgrounds along the river walk, and some favorite activities that will keep them entertained! You can start with a climb of the Calgary Tower, where they will enjoy the panoramic views and vertigo floor open on the city below (it’s scary!). Another favorite destination is the Calgary Zoo with its animals and all-year round activities. If you’re not worn out, you can pair a visit to the zoo with a quick drop in at Fort Calgary, which isn’t far and has an intriguing history. Perhaps the most intriguing kids’ destination is Heritage Park, a 65 acres historical park where old buildings and shops give a taste of what life was like in the Pioneers’ age. Kids love it, and parents can take a well-deserved break in one of the cafes.

Calgary has a surprising gourmet attitude, and finding delicious eateries is never an issue. You can stroll along Kensington Road or 17th AVE and pick your favorite or try one of these suggestions:

EAU CLAIRE:

Joey offers a casual, clever menu with delicious desserts in a relaxing, lively urban setting.

For breakfast try Al Forno, a bakery with food and gorgeous sandwiches just near the main pedestrian area.

EAST VILLAGE:

If you’re a bread or mezze enthusiast, you won't want to skip Sidewalk Citizen Bakery. Be there early to taste their delicious pastry and try some sourdough bread before it’s gone or grab a scrumptious breakfast in their cozy cafe.

The Simmons building, a red brick former factory with a distinct design, is also home to one of Calgary’s favorite cafes, Phil & Sebastian, and to Charbar, a go-to place for Argentinian meat.

KENSIGNTON:

If you’re partial to pizza, Pulcinella is the best place in town for an authentic Neapolitan pizza - Nonna approved.

MEAT LOVERS:

In a city that doesn’t lack options for Alberta AAA beef steak houses, try Charcut for a different experience. The sister restaurant of Charbar is located just outside the Calgary Tower, and the smoky scent will lure you in.