Whether you want to eat well, drink, have a good time or enjoy all kinds of experiences and adventures, Calgary has you covered, whatever the weather, season or occasion. I know what I’m talking about: it’s my hometown!
- Cycling as much as you want
To get around town, cycling is my preferred means of transport. Calgary has the largest urban network of trails and bike paths in North America! Hop on your bicycle or rent a bike for the day, then explore the beautiful riverside paths or cross Prince’s Island Park or St. Patrick’s Island . Not sure where to start? Let yourself be guided by the Calgary by Bike website .
- Music, maestro!
Calgary is the music capital of Canada. Okay, I’m exaggerating a bit, but since the city is now home to the National Music Center , it’s not completely wrong. Come admire this magnificent building which will not fail to thrill your architectural fiber, and take the opportunity to visit an exhibition, attend a concert or participate in a creative workshop. Even if you are not (yet) a musical prodigy, the National Music Center will know how to pass on a piece of magic to you.
- Time for a beer
How would you like to drink a cold lager and play ping-pong on a sunny roof terrace?
Alberta is currently experiencing a brewing boom , and Calgary’s Inglewood neighborhood is at the epicenter. Discover the Cold Garden , where you can taste beers with ease, including some with very surprising aromas, like the beer that tastes like birthday cake. And if you want to sip unfiltered, unpasteurized beer preserved in all-natural bottles, barrels, and kegs, stop by Dandy Brewing Company .
- Little winter joys
In Calgary, winter is fabulous. The city, one of the sunniest in Canada, sparkles under a blanket of snow.
I love going skating at the Olympic Plaza and feeling like a pro. There are often musicians playing and talented acrobats who entertain the gallery; what’s more, you will only have to take a few steps to enjoy a good hot chocolate. No skates in your suitcases? You can rent them on site.
On days when I prefer to bundle up and stay warm, I opt for Proof Cocktails & Curiosities and its original creations. Otherwise, I’ll dress up and have tea at the Fairmont Palliser Hotel .
- At the table!
The web is not big enough nor life long enough to allow me to show all the love I have for the culinary delights that Calgary abounds. There are so many fantastic restaurants, but I have a soft spot for those in the Beltline, along 17th Avenue and 4th Street SW. I always find something to satisfy my craving of the day, and new restaurants are opening their doors regularly. The safe bets: Model Milk , Calcutta Cricket Club , Una Pizza + Wine , Ox Bar de Tapas , Anejo , Shokunin and Mercato .
Credit: The original article by Stephanie Arsenault was published on the Travel Alberta website .
