Eat. play. explore. calgary.

Discover Calgary like a true local. From hidden gems to must-see attractions, experience the heart of the city with Helena Berman. Let's explore Calgary together!

SnowDays ’26 – Skijoring in Banff (January 17–18, 2026)

What it is:
A free, high-energy skijoring exhibition — where horses, riders, and skiers team up for speed, tricks, and aerial stunts right in downtown Banff as part of the SnowDays Festival. skijorcanada.com+1

When:
📅 Saturday, January 17 & Sunday, January 18, 2026
⏰ Afternoon show (typically around ~2:00 PM – 3:30 PM) on both days (exact times can vary, so check local signage/updates before you go). Banff & Lake Louise Tourism+1

Where:
📍 Banff Avenue (200 & 300 Block), Banff, Alberta – the main street is transformed into the skijoring course right through town. skijorcanada.com

Cost:
💸 Free to attend — there’s no admission fee to watch the skijoring exhibition. Banff & Lake Louise Tourism

Must-experience calgary

New to Calgary? You absolutely HAVE to experience these:

  • Sky 360 Restaurant: Enjoy panoramic views of central Calgary without breaking the bank.

 

  • East Village Walking Paths & the old Brick Simmons Building: Explore the scenic paths By the Bow River, Inside the Simmons building, you'll find Phil and Sebastian's coffee , Char Bar restaurant a truly cozy atmosphere.

 

  • Telus Spark Science Centre: State-of-the-art exhibits and fun for all ages.

 

  • Calgary Zoo: A great date spot. Pack a picnic and enjoy the beautifully maintained grounds and diverse animals.

 

  • Calgary Stampede: A definite must-experience.The Stampede is Calgary’s most iconic annual event, earning its nickname as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.” Held every July, it celebrates western heritage with world-class rodeo events, chuckwagon races, live music, parades, midway rides, and legendary food.

Calgary's hidden gems

Discover Calgary's "if you know, you know" side, with hidden speakeasies and local rituals:

  • Proof: Hidden behind a bookshelf, candlelit, intimate, and expertly crafted.
  • Betty Lou’s Library: Prohibition-era vibes with no signage, no windows, and fantastic rum cocktails.
  • Sweet Loretta: Tucked behind a pizza spot, a retro vinyl house party with disco, funk, and soul.
  • The Wednesday Room: Jazz, moody lighting, and meaningful conversations in a locals-only setting.

  • Blue Rock Swim Club is a hidden-gem speakeasy in Calgary, tucked behind an unassuming entrance in Mission. Inspired by vintage swim clubs and old-school lounges, it offers a moody, intimate vibe with craft cocktails, elevated bites, and late-night energy. A perfect stop for a stylish night out or a memorable first visit to the city.

  • UNTITLED Champagne Lounge is one of those downtown Calgary spots that instantly feels special the moment you walk in. Tucked along Stephen Avenue, it offers a chic, intimate vibe with moody lighting, art-deco touches, and an effortlessly elegant atmosphere. Known for its impressive champagne and sparkling wine selection, elevated cocktails, and refined small plates, it’s the kind of place that’s perfect for celebrations, date nights, or ringing in the New Year. Stylish, vibrant, and unapologetically glamorous, UNTITLED delivers a memorable night out with a true “treat yourself” feel. 🥂

  • Fairmont Palliser is one of Calgary’s most iconic luxury hotels, offering timeless elegance right in the heart of downtown. Even if you’re not staying overnight, you can still soak in the experience with a cocktail or dinner at Hawthorn Dining Room & Bar, where classic sophistication meets modern Canadian cuisine. A perfect stop for a refined night out or a taste of old-world glamour in the city.

Locals also enjoy late-night walks through Inglewood, Kensington after 9 pm, and Scotsman’s Hill at night for skyline views. Consider a Mission wine crawl for good conversation over club hopping.

Calgary isn’t boring  you just have to know where to look.

24 hours in calgary: a perfect itinerary

Here’s a perfect 24-hour itinerary to experience the best of Calgary:

Morning: Start Local & Scenic

  • 8:00 AM – Coffee + Breakfast: Hutch Café, Purple Perk, or Alforno Bakery.
  • Walk it off along the Bow River pathway or over the Peace Bridge.
  • 9:30 AM – Calgary Tower: Panoramic city views and the Rockies in the distance.

Late Morning: Neighbourhood Vibes

  • 11:00 AM – Explore Kensington, Inglewood, or Mission. Browse local shops, galleries, and vintage stores.

Afternoon: Food & Culture

  • 1:00 PM – Lunch: River Café, Shokunin, or a casual spot along 17th Ave SW.
  • 2:30 PM – Studio Bell (National Music Centre) or the Glenbow Museum.

Late Afternoon: Nature Break

  • 4:30 PM – Prince’s Island Park: Relax or rent bikes/scooters along the river pathways.

Evening: Dinner & City Lights

  • 6:30 PM – Dinner: Major Tom (views + vibes), Ten Foot Henry, or Teatro.
  • 8:30 PM – Night Stroll or Drinks: Walk Stephen Avenue or grab a cocktail in Beltline or East Village.

Bonus (If You Have Energy)

  • Catch live music or comedy, enjoy a rooftop patio in summer, or find a cozy wine bar.