Categories > Guides and Tips
The Ultimate Guide: How to Spend One Day in Calgary (+ Local Tips!)
- How to Spend One Day in Calgary
- Best Time to Go to Calgary
- Things to Know When Visiting Calgary
- How to Get around Calgary
- By Car
- By Public Transit
- By Bike or Scooter
- What to Do in One Day in Calgary
- Have breakfast at Queens Breakfast Cocktails
- Visit Prince’s Island Park
- Have lunch at King Eddy
- Head over to Studio Bell
- See the Calgary Tower
- Explore and have dinner at Kensington
- Have a late night pint at Kensington Pub
- Where to Stay in Calgary
- Fairmont Palliser
- Element Calgary Airport
- Le Germain Hotel
- Where to Eat in Calgary
- Noble Pie Pizza
- Bridgette Bar
It’s no secret that there are so many things to explore in Calgary, but sometimes, we just don’t have the time. The good thing about Calgary is you can see several places and try different shops even if you just have one day!
We’ve been here many times before, and frankly, it’s one of our favourite cities. So, we’re sharing our go-to stops that you have to see and try!
That’s why we did the footwork to see which areas you can visit with just a day to spare. Whether you have a layover in Calgary, taking a day off, or stopping by on your way to Jasper (Calgary to Jasper), we’ve got the ultimate one-day itinerary to make your visit an epic one!
How to Spend One Day in Calgary
| For a one-day trip in Calgary, spend the morning in Prince’s Island Park, have lunch at King Eddy, and do some sightseeing at Calgary Tower and its surrounding areas. At nighttime, shop downtown and eat your dinner there. |
Expect there to be traffic in Calgary since so many people drive to go from point A to point B. So if you’re only spending a day in the city, it’s recommended to visit places close to one another to avoid wasting time on your commute.
Best Time to Go to Calgary
The best months to visit Calgary are in the summer, from June to August, because of the warm weather. During this season, there are many events and activities in the city for you to enjoy.
The temperature reaches an average of 23°C to 30°C or higher. Calgary weather is not consistent, though, so it’s best to prepare for rain—bring your umbrella just in case!
However, the summer season also means the kids are out of school and tourists will flock to the city. This results in crowded places, especially in popular tourist spots.
In addition to that, peak season means peak prices. Expect hotels and experiences to cost more than usual.
If you want to avoid peak season, visit from September to the start of October. It starts off pretty warm, but as the summer ends, you get cold weather in October.
Things to Know When Visiting Calgary
When visiting Calgary, remember to pack comfortable clothing and shoes, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and insect spray. Don’t forget to bring a light sweater for chilly evenings.
Language: English
Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Time Zone: Mountain Time
How to Get around Calgary
Here are the options you can choose when exploring Calgary:
By Car
Cost: Under $100/day (depending on vehicle and rental service)
If you’re visiting, you can rent a car from the Calgary International Airport or look for a service near your hotel. Many hotels will have suggestions if you’re unsure.
You can rent a car for under $100 a day, but keep in mind that the price depends on the vehicle model and type and the number of days you’ll rent it. You can find cars under $50 a day.
If you’re not travelling as a large group, you can stick to a sedan as a cheaper option. Avoid luxury vehicles if you’re on a budget.
By Public Transit
Cost:
- Cash Fares: $2.50 – $37
- Day Pass: $8.50 + $11.60
The Calgary Transit provides public transportation services in Calgary. You can ride the CTrain (Light Rail Transit lines) or the bus for as low as $3.70 for adults.
You can check the Calgary Transit website for the trip schedule or look at Google Maps, which is integrated with the transit system.
Riding the CTrain is free downtown between City Hall Station and Downtown West/Kerby Station. But remember you need proof of fare.
By Bike or Scooter
Calgary is known for its extensive cycle pathway network. You’ll find many bike lanes on Calgary’s major streets, especially in the city centre.
As for the scooters, Neuron (orange scooters) and Bird (blue scooters) are available in the city as sustainable transportation options. Keep in mind that these are permitted in bike lanes, pathways, empty sidewalks, and roadways with lower speed limits.
What to Do in One Day in Calgary
Have breakfast at Queens Breakfast Cocktails
Media credit: queensyyc
Website: https://queensyyc.ca/
Location: 3927 Edmonton Trail
Contact: (403) 764-0878
Hours: Monday – Sunday: 8 am – 2 pm
Price Range: $19 – $24
Time to Visit: 8 am – 9 am
Before embarking on your one-day Calgary adventure, you have to fill your tummy first because you’re going to need all that energy! Head over to the local favourite, Queens, for some authentic breakfast experience!
It’s only a 15-minute drive from the Calgary International Airport, which is convenient if you’re flying in. It’s also 10 minutes away from downtown, where all the fun things happen and where we recommend staying if you’re looking for a hotel.
The space feels fancy but somehow manages to be unassuming. The dishes are carefully plated on aesthetically pleasing plates that make the whole experience awesome!
Get ready to taste the delicious and famous Queens Breakfast for a complete meal composed of two eggs of any style, chorizo, bacon, lemon ricotta pancakes, and potatoes with tomato chilli jam.
Visit Prince’s Island Park
Media credit: kvnscpr
Website: https://www.calgary.ca/parks/princes-island-park.html
Location: 698 Eau Claire Ave SW
Hours: Monday – Sunday: 5 am – 11 pm
Time to Visit: 9:15/9:30 am – 11:45 am
From Queens Breakfast Cocktails, take a 10-minute drive north of downtown to Prince’s Island Park. This urban oasis is a must-see in Calgary because it’s a popular destination amongst the residents.
It’s also the prime venue for many events and activities, so it’s your lucky day if you happen to visit on festival day. Try to visit on the fourth weekend of July when the Calgary Folk Music Festival is held at Prince’s Island Park.
On non-event days, you can have a nice walk in the park to burn off your breakfast. You can check out the Bow River’s pathway system, which runs through the park.
There are so many things to explore, like the Chevron Learning Pathway, flower gardens, a playground, and hiking trails. If you want to walk the loop, the 2.7 km trail only takes less than an hour.
If you visit from December to March, you can skate at the outdoor skating rink on Prince’s Island Lagoon. This is on a seasonal basis, so try to visit during the very cold days in Calgary when the lagoon is sure to be frozen.
Have lunch at King Eddy
Media credit: kingeddyyyc
Website: https://kingeddy.ca/
Location: 438 9 Ave SE
Contact: [email protected]
Hours:
- Monday – Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 11 am – 9 pm
- Thursday: 11 am – 11 pm
- Friday – Saturday: 11 am – 12 am
- Sunday: 11 am – 5 pm
Price Range: $18 – $26
Time to Visit: 12 pm – 1:30 pm
Experience one of the best lunch spots in Calgary just a 5-minute drive from Prince’s Island Park. King Eddy is a dining and music venue that serves a delicious menu of comfort food.
King Eddy has a laid-back ambience that’s ideal for casual lunches. You’ll get a filling meal at this restaurant, perfect after a long walk at Prince’s Island Park.
There are sandwiches, salads, and popular brunch meals. We like the King Eddy SmashBurger, a toasted brioche bun with ground beef patties, American cheese, tomato, red onion, pickles, lettuce, and burger sauce.
All sandwiches also come with either fries or salad. We prefer the fries unless we’re ordering poutine topped with a poached egg.
For families and friends, we suggest checking out the for-sharing meals, like the King Eddy Platter, composed of tandoori chicken drumsticks, lemongrass chicken spring rolls, vegetarian samosas, lamb sliders, tortilla chips, and housemade dips.
Head over to Studio Bell
Media credit: nmc_canada
Website: https://www.studiobell.ca/
Location: 850 4 St. SE
Contact: (403) 543-5115, [email protected]
Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm
General Admission:
- Adult: $24.50
- Student/Senior (65+): $19.50
- Youth (4-12): $16.50
- Children (3 and under): Free
Time to Visit: 1:30/1:45 pm – 4:00 pm
After a filling lunch, walk across the street from King Eddy to Studio Bell, home of the National Music Theatre. This well-designed museum is worth the visit because you can learn about Canada’s music history.
Explore five floors of music exhibits, interactive games, and live performances. Check out the instruments, learn about music pioneers, sing inside the vocal booth, play the instruments, and see the hall of fame.
We recommend spending at least two hours here to check all the activities. But if you’re a music buff, you’ll probably spend three hours (or more).
See the Calgary Tower
Media credit: calgarytower
Website: https://www.calgarytower.com/
Location: 101 9 Ave SW
Contact: (403) 266-7171, [email protected]
Hours:
September to May
- Monday – Sunday: 10 am – 9 pm
June to August
- Monday – Saturday: 10 am – 10 pm
Admission:
- General (13-64): $19 -$22
- Senior (65+): $17 – $20
- Child (4-12): $9 – $10
- Infant (3 and under): Free
Time to Visit: 4:10 pm – 5:00 pm
When visiting Calgary, you have to take a picture with the Calgary Tower. It’s only a 10-minute walk from Studio Bell on 9th Avenue, so it’s easy to go to.
The observation deck brings you 191 m above the downtown core, offering 360° breathtaking views of the city and the Rocky Mountains. It’s a picture-worthy spot and a perfect souvenir for your Calgary trip—definitely one for the books!
There’s a cool glass floor lookout, which provides views of the streets below. But if you don’t like heights or are on a budget, you can take a photo from the outside instead of paying for admission.
When visiting the Calgary Tower, expect around an hour inside. If you don’t plan on entering, you can add those extra minutes by venturing to our next stop.
Explore and have dinner at Kensington
Media credit: kensingtonyyc
Website: https://kensingtonyyc.com/
Location: Kensington Neighbourhood
Time to Visit: 5:10 pm – 8 pm
The quirky neighbourhood of Kensington is the perfect place to spend your night in Calgary, just a 10-minute drive from Calgary Tower. There’s a large number of shops, cafes, pubs, and diners to check out!
This time, you’re free to explore the village, which is one of the best ways to travel like a local. Shop at local businesses for an authentic Calgarian experience.
Then, try Niko’s Bistro for dinner along Kensington Road. This hidden gem is a quiet and intimate place to get some Italian food.
Start with bruschetta and then the penne calabrese for your pasta. This delicious tomato sauce pasta has Italian sausage they made in-house!
Have a late night pint at Kensington Pub
Media credit: thekensingtonpub
Website: https://www.kensingtonpub.com/
Location: 207 10A St NW
Contact: (403) 270-4505
Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 11 am – 12 am
- Friday: 11 am – 1 am
- Saturday: 10:30 am – 1 am
- Sunday: 10:30 am – 11 pm
Price Range:
- Food: $20 – $25
- Drinks: $8 – $11
Time to Visit: 8 pm – 9 pm
There’s no better way to end your one-day trip in Calgary than drinking beer on tap. The Kensington Pub is one of the local favourites you have to try!
This place feels like a proper British pub. The ambience is laid back and it almost feels like you’re hanging out at a relative’s house.
There are decent choices of beer on tap, including Kilkenny and Guinness. If you’re not full yet, you can order the famous Canadian poutine, but this time, with a twist! They use housemade Guinness gravy!
Where to Stay in Calgary
Fairmont Palliser
Media credit: fairmontpalliser
Website: https://www.fairmont.com/palliser-calgary/
Location: 133 9 Ave SW
Contact: (403) 262-1234, [email protected]
Price Range: $300 – $1500+
Fairmont Palliser is a 4-star hotel located near the downtown core. It’s near the Calgary Tower and the business district, making it a convenient place to stay.
This luxury hotel has 407 guest rooms with business amenities and additional ones available upon request, such as a microwave, rollaway bed, and crib.
Enjoy the spa, heated indoor pool, and fitness facilities to relax and recharge. Have breakfast or afternoon tea at the on-site restaurant to complete your luxury stay.
Element Calgary Airport
Media credit: elementbywestinyyc
Website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/yycel-element-calgary-airport/
Location: 2855 Sunridge Way NE
Contact: (403) 984-5515
Price Range: $180 – $230
Element Calgary Airport is a 15-minute drive from the Calgary International Airport and 10 minutes from downtown. This hotel is a convenient place to stay if you’re only in Calgary for a few days.
Guest rooms are equipped with kitchenettes, kind of like a small apartment. Amenities include free WiFi, an indoor pool, and a complimentary continental breakfast, so you basically have everything you need!
Le Germain Hotel
Media credit: legermainhotels
Website: https://www.germainhotels.com/en/le-germain-hotel/calgary
Location: 899 Centre St S
Contact: 1 (877) 362-8990, (403) 264-8990
Price Range: $229 – $429
Le Germain Hotel is located right across from the Calgary Tower. It’s only a 10-minute walk from Stephen Avenue Walk, a dining, shopping, arts, and entertainment pedestrian hub.
Enjoy a comfortable stay with free WiFi, Ruby Brown toiletries, and clean and comfortable rooms. If possible, ask for a top floor for fantastic views of the city.
Where to Eat in Calgary
Noble Pie Pizza
Media credit: noblepiepizza
Website: https://www.noblepiepizza.com/
Location: Back Alley Entrance, 720 11 Ave SW
Contact: [email protected]
Hours:
- Monday – Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday: 4 pm – 9 pm
- Friday – Saturday: 4 pm – 10 pm
Price Range: $15 – $38
Noble Pie Pizza is a local favourite in the Beltline. With every bite, you’ll taste the high-quality ingredients and the crispy crust! Our favourite, The Sweet Cheeses, for a delish treat filled with different types of cheeses—a real must-try!
Just don’t get lost when visiting this pizza place, as it’s tucked away at the back alley of 10th Avenue.
Bridgette Bar
Media credit: thebridgettebar
Website: https://www.bridgettebar.com/calgary
Location: 739 10 Ave SW
Contact: (403) 700-0191
Hours:
- Monday – Wednesday: 11:30 am – 12 am
- Thursday – Friday: 11:30 am – 1 am
- Saturday: 2 pm – 1 am
- Sunday: 2 pm – 11 pm
Price Range:
- Food: $8 – $24
- Drinks: $9 – $26
In Calgary’s Design District, you’ll find the trendy Bridgette Bar. It has a flair for delicious small plates and creative cocktails that are sure to make your night.
The eggplant fries are surprisingly good and the garlic bread is filled with cheese curd for that stringy deliciousness. For the main dish, the ricotta dumplings are worth checking out because of their flavourful vodka tomato sauce.
