Thank you to everyone who is traveling from afar to share our big day with us! We wanted to share a few of our favourite spots in and around Calgary for those spending the week or weekend.
The Calgary Stampede
The Stampede is the biggest local event of the year and will be held from July 8th-17th. The 10-day event, which bills itself as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth”, features one of the world’s largest rodeos, a parade, midway, stage shows, concerts, and agricultural events.
Heritage Park Historical Village
Heritage Park features family-friendly attractions and exhibits spanning Western Canadian history from the 1860s to 1950s.
The Calgary Zoo
The Calgary Zoo is a globally recognized conservation organization and is one of the top spots in Calgary (and the Bride’s favourite!)
Telus Spark
Telus Spark is a science museum with interactive exhibits, multimedia presentations and educational demonstrations and is great for families. It is right next to the zoo, making it easy for a combined visit.
Prince’s Island Park
Prince’s Island Park is an urban park located immediately north of Downtown Calgary and is a great spot for an afternoon stroll or picnic.
Bowness Park
Bowness Park is an urban park located on the Bow River, and is a nearby favourite of the Bride and Groom. Featuring a cafe and numerous outdoor picnic spots, it is a great way to spend the afternoon. Right across the river is Baker Park, and home to the couple’s favourite spot for disc golf!
Bow river rafting
Rafting down Calgary’s rivers is a favourite local pastime every summer. Raft rentals are available (check out Lazy Day Raft Rentals or the Paddle Station). We recommend starting at Bowness Park and ending at Prince’s Island Park for easy entry/exit and nice views of west Calgary.
The Calgary Tower
The Calgary Tower offers great 360° views of the city, the Rocky Mountains, foothills, and prairies. The revolving restaurant on the observation deck, Sky 360, is a popular dining spot for upscale dining and great views.
Studio Bell: Home of the National Music Centre
A family friendly museum with exhibits on Canadian music history, hands-on instrument areas and concerts.
Bow river rafting
Rafting down Calgary’s rivers is a favourite local pastime every summer. Raft rentals are available (check out Lazy Day Raft Rentals or the Paddle Station). We recommend starting at Bowness Park and ending at Prince’s Island Park for easy entry/exit and nice views of west Calgary.
Day Trips
Have a bit more time? These spots are all located within two hours of Calgary and make for a great day trip. Some locations offer shuttles (eg. Banff and Lake Louise), but we recommend renting a car. Note that this is Calgary’s busy season so please book car rentals well in advance to ensure availability.
Banff
Banff is approximately 1 hour’s drive from Calgary. Banff Avenue, located in the town’s centre, features many shops and restaurants and a beautiful view of nearby Cascade Mountain and Mt Rundle. Banff is home to the historic Banff Springs Hotel and natural hot springs, the Columbia Icefields and world class hiking. Check out the Grizzly Steak House for cheese fondue and a chance to try local meats like moose and elk!
Lake Louise
Lake Louise is located 40min past Banff (just under 2h drive from Calgary) and is known for its turquoise, glacier fed lake surrounded in mountains. The Historic Chateau Lake Louise is also located at the edge of the lake. Arrive early in the summer as the parking lot can fill up fast, especially on weekends.
Royal Tyrell Museum
The Royal Tyrell Museum of Palaeontology, located 1h 45min east of Calgary in Drumheller, boasts one of the world’s largest displays of dinosaurs and a variety of family friendly activities and educational programs. Check out the boardwalk hikes around the area for breathtaking views of Alberta’s badlands and hoodoos.
Luke & Kylie's Wedding 