City

Calgary

Welcome to Calgary, the dynamic metropolis nestled at the foot of the majestic Rocky Mountains.

Welcome to Calgary, the dynamic metropolis nestled at the foot of the majestic Rocky Mountains. Here, you'll discover a captivating blend of urban energy, authentic Western charm, and a profound connection to nature.

You'll love the modern skyline, the vibrant arts and culinary scene, and the warm hospitality of its residents. Calgary serves as the perfect gateway to alpine adventures while offering a rich urban experience.

Sights

Discover the most important sights and attractions

Calgary Tower

The Calgary Tower is an iconic landmark offering you unparalleled 360-degree views of the city, the surrounding prairies, and the majestic Rocky Mountains. If you truly want to grasp the scale of the city, a visit to the observation deck, which also features a glass floor section, is highly recommended. You'll be amazed at how the landscape stretches from the urban core to the expansive natural surroundings, transforming into a spectacular play of colours, especially at sunset.

Heritage Park Historical Village

Step back in time at Heritage Park Historical Village, one of Canada's largest living history museums. You can ride horse-drawn carriages, explore historic buildings, and meet costumed interpreters who reenact life in Western Canada from the 1860s through the 1950s. It's a fascinating and interactive experience for all ages, offering you deep insights into the pioneer era and the region's development.

Studio Bell, National Music Centre

Visit Studio Bell, the National Music Centre, an architectural masterpiece in East Village that celebrates the history and future of music in Canada. You'll discover interactive exhibits, musical instruments from various eras, and the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. The building's design itself is breathtaking, offering you unique acoustics in its various galleries and performance spaces. It's a must-visit for music lovers and anyone interested in innovative architecture.

Restaurants & Cafés

Culture & History

Calgary, a city renowned for its dynamic blend of Western heritage and modern urbanity, offers a rich insight into Canada's history and a vibrant cultural scene. The city's roots are deeply embedded in Indigenous history, long before European settlers reached the area.

Indigenous Roots and Founding

The area of present-day Calgary is the traditional territory of the Blackfoot Confederacy, which includes the Siksika, Kainai, and Piikani, as well as the Tsuut'ina Nation and the Stoney Nakoda First Nations. These cultures shaped the landscape for thousands of years.

The city was founded in 1875 as a post of the North-West Mounted Police (NWMP) to maintain order and suppress the whisky trade.
In 1876, Colonel James Macleod (NWMP) named the city Calgary, after Calgary Bay on the Isle of Mull in Scotland.
The arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) in 1883 marked the beginning of rapid growth, establishing Calgary as an important center for ranching and agriculture.

Wild West Heritage

Calgary is inextricably linked to its history as a cowboy and ranching metropolis, a heritage still palpable and celebrated annually.

The first Calgary Stampede took place in 1912 and grew into one of the largest rodeos and outdoor spectacles in the world, attracting millions of visitors annually.
This event is a tribute to the pioneering era and ranching traditions, featuring rodeos, chuckwagon races, concerts, and agricultural exhibitions.
Visit the Heritage Park Historical Village to immerse yourself in the past and experience historic buildings, steam trains, and an authentic frontier town.

Modern Culture and Art Scene

Beyond its historical charm, Calgary has evolved into a significant center for contemporary art and culture, encompassing a variety of expressive forms.

The Arts Commons is a cultural complex in the heart of the city, housing theaters, concert halls, and art galleries, and home to many performing arts.
Discover the Glenbow Museum, showcasing the art, culture, and history of Western Canada and its Indigenous peoples. Note that the museum is currently being renovated and is expected to reopen in 2027.
The city is home to a growing number of independent galleries, live music venues, and festivals that extend beyond the Stampede, offering a diverse program throughout the year.
Calgary's architecture displays an interesting blend of historic sandstone buildings, such as the Old City Hall, and modern skyscrapers that define its skyline.