Cultural & Historical Destinations in Calgary, Canada

Calgary, Canada, Calgary, Destination & Trip Type Pages, Cultural & Historical Destinations

Cultural & Historical Destinations in Calgary, Canada

1. Calgary Tower

A landmark offering panoramic views of the city, featuring a revolving restaurant and an observation deck.
  • Historic Landmark: Built in 1968, it's one of Calgary's most iconic structures.
  • Panoramic Views: Offers stunning vistas of the city skyline and the Rocky Mountains.
  • Revolving Restaurant: Enjoy a meal while rotating for a constantly changing view.

2. Heritage Park Historical Village

Experience the Canadian West in the late 1800s and early 1900s through costumed interpreters, historical buildings, and vintage vehicles.
  • Living History Museum: Preserves the history of western Canada in a unique, interactive way.
  • Historical Buildings: Includes over 180 historic buildings and artifacts.
  • Vintage Vehicles: Offers a collection of vintage automobiles, horse-drawn vehicles, and steam engines.

3. Glenbow Museum

Explore Western Canadian art, Indigenous culture, natural history, and military history through engaging exhibitions.
  • Multi-Disciplinary Museum: Covers a wide range of subjects from various perspectives.
  • Indigenous Art: Features significant works by Indigenous artists.
  • Permanent & Temporary Exhibits: Offers both long-term and rotating exhibitions.

4. Calgary Zoo

Home to over 1000 animals from around the world, including endangered species like the Siberian tiger and black rhinoceros.
  • Animal Conservation: Actively involved in conservation programs for many endangered species.
  • Zoological Education: Offers educational programs about wildlife and conservation.
  • Variety of Exhibits: Features numerous habitats and exhibits, including the Prehistoric Park dinosaur exhibit.

5. National Music Centre

Explore the history of Canadian music through interactive exhibits, instrument collections, and live performances.
  • Interactive Experience: Allows visitors to interact with musical instruments and technology.
  • Canadian Music History: Celebrates the rich history of Canadian music across various genres.
  • Live Performances: Hosts concerts and live performances by Canadian artists.

6. Telus Spark Science Centre

Engage with science through interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and innovative workshops.
  • Hands-On Learning: Allows visitors to learn through hands-on experimentation.
  • Innovative Workshops: Offers workshops on various topics such as robotics, coding, and astronomy.
  • Temporary Exhibits: Hosts rotating exhibitions on a variety of science-related topics.

7. Calgary Farmers' Market

Experience local produce, artisanal goods, and diverse food options in a vibrant indoor marketplace.
  • Local Produce: Supports local farmers and producers by offering fresh produce year-round.
  • Artisanal Goods: Features a variety of handmade goods from local artisans.
  • Diverse Food Options: Offers a wide range of food vendors, including international cuisine.

8. Calgary Stampede Park

Known for the annual Calgary Stampede, the park offers year-round events, attractions, and museums.
  • Annual Calgary Stampede: One of the largest rodeos in the world, attracting millions of visitors annually.
  • Year-Round Events: Offers events and attractions beyond the Stampede, such as concerts and festivals.
  • Historical Museums: Includes museums dedicated to Western Heritage and the Calgary Stampede's history.

9. Louis T. Bickle Centre for Invasive Species

Learn about invasive species and their impact on ecosystems through interactive exhibits.
  • Invasive Species Education: Educates visitors about the dangers of invasive species.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Allows visitors to engage with exhibits that teach about invasive species.
  • Regional Focus: Focuses on invasive species specific to the Rocky Mountain region.

10. Peace Bridge

A modern architectural landmark connecting Calgary and Siksika Nation, offering beautiful river views.
  • Architectural Landmark: Designed by Santiago Calatrava, a renowned Spanish architect.
  • Connection to Siksika Nation: Symbolizes cooperation between the City of Calgary and the Siksika First Nation.
  • River Views: Provides stunning views of the Bow River and downtown Calgary.

11. Spruce Meadows

International equestrian competition facility hosting events throughout the year.
  • International Equestrian Events: Hosts competitions for Olympic, Pan American, and World Cup riders.
  • Year-Round Activities: Offers events and activities beyond competitions, such as horse shows and exhibits.
  • Natural Beauty: Set on a beautiful natural landscape, providing a peaceful atmosphere.

12. Canada Olympic Park (COP)

Former site of the 1988 Winter Olympics, offering year-round recreational activities and attractions.
  • Winter Sports Facility: Offers winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.
  • Summer Activities: Provides summer activities like biking, hiking, and a luge ride experience.
  • Historic Site: Preserves the history of the 1988 Winter Olympics and its legacy.

13. Storybook Island Park

A children's park themed around popular fairy tales and nursery rhymes.
  • Children's Literature Theming: Inspired by well-known children's stories like Little Red Riding Hood, Peter Pan, and Goldilocks.
  • Interactive Play Areas: Allows children to engage with the stories through play equipment.
  • Outdoor Environment: Set in a beautiful, natural park environment.

14. Stanley Park

Calgary's largest urban park featuring gardens, pathways, and historical sites.
  • Largest Urban Park: Covers over 150 hectares of green space.
  • Historical Sites: Includes historical sites such as the Military Museums and the Calgary Zoo.
  • Gardens & Pathways: Offers a variety of gardens, pathways, and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.

15. Devonian Gardens

An indoor botanical garden featuring tropical plants, waterfalls, and a variety of educational programs.
  • Indoor Botanical Garden: Offers a tropical oasis in Calgary's cooler climate.
  • Educational Programs: Hosts educational programs about plants, conservation, and horticulture.
  • Year-Round Attraction: Allows visitors to enjoy a green space regardless of the weather outside.