Calgary, located in southern Alberta, Canada, is a vibrant city in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies. The city is easily accessible by air, car, and train. Calgary’s main international gateway is the **Calgary International Airport (YYC)**, which is approximately 17 kilometers (10.5 miles) from downtown. The airport offers numerous international and domestic flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers from around the world.
For those traveling by road, Calgary is connected to other major cities in Canada through well-maintained highways. From Edmonton, you can take the **Queen Elizabeth II Highway (Highway 2)**, which is a direct route south to Calgary. If coming from the U.S., the city is accessible via the **Crowsnest Highway (Highway 3)** or **Interstate 15** from Montana.
Additionally, the city is well-served by bus and train services from other provinces, with several companies offering convenient travel options. For instance, Greyhound and VIA Rail Canada operate routes that connect Calgary to neighboring cities like Vancouver, Edmonton, and Toronto.
Calgary has a continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons, including cold winters and warm summers. The city is known for its unpredictably fluctuating weather, particularly in the spring and fall. While winter temperatures can dip to -15°C (5°F), summer temperatures can soar to 25°C (77°F) or higher. Calgary’s unique climate is influenced by the **Chinook winds**, which can bring sudden temperature increases of up to 20°C (36°F) within hours, especially during the winter months.
Summer (June to August) is the most popular time to visit Calgary, as the weather is warm and ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and attending festivals. If you’re interested in winter sports, the city’s proximity to the **Canadian Rockies** makes winter a fantastic time for skiing and snowboarding (typically from November to March).
The city also sees considerable snow in winter, making it a great destination for snow lovers, especially in the months of December to February. However, spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are quieter, with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.
The best time to visit Calgary depends on your interests. If you want to experience Calgary's famous **Calgary Stampede**, a world-renowned rodeo and festival, visit in July. The Stampede takes place every July and attracts millions of visitors, offering rodeo events, concerts, parades, and a carnival atmosphere.
If you're more interested in outdoor activities like hiking or attending Calgary’s festivals, the summer months of June to August are perfect. During this period, you can explore **Banff National Park**, **Lake Louise**, and **Kananaskis Country**, which are located just a short drive away from the city. For those looking to experience Calgary in its winter glory, the months of December to February are perfect for skiing at nearby resorts like **Canada Olympic Park** and **Banff Ski Resort**.
Calgary is famous for its **Calgary Stampede**, often referred to as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.” This 10-day event celebrates Western heritage with rodeo competitions, chuckwagon races, and a carnival. It draws tourists from all over the world, making it one of the largest annual events in Canada.
The city is also known for its striking **modern skyline** and its proximity to the **Canadian Rockies**, which offer excellent outdoor adventure opportunities. Calgary is the gateway to the Rockies, and it's a popular stop for travelers heading to **Banff**, **Lake Louise**, and **Jasper National Park**. The city is also renowned for its oil and gas industry, which has contributed to its rapid growth over the past few decades.
Calgary is a highly accessible city with a range of accommodations, transportation options, and attractions for visitors. Once you arrive in Calgary, you can take advantage of the city’s **public transportation system**, including buses and the **CTrain**, which is a light rail system that operates in the downtown and surrounding neighborhoods. Calgary is also very walkable, particularly in areas like **Stephen Avenue**, **Inglewood**, and **Kensington**, which are home to shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
If you're visiting from out of town, you can find various accommodation options ranging from budget hotels to luxurious resorts. **The Fairmont Palliser** and **Hotel Arts** are two popular upscale hotels, while there are also numerous affordable hostels and Airbnb options. It’s a good idea to book accommodations well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons like the Calgary Stampede or summer months.
Calgary was originally founded as a **fort** by the **North West Mounted Police** in 1875. The city's growth was significantly influenced by the arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1883, which turned Calgary into a major transportation hub for the Canadian West. Calgary officially became a city in 1905 and quickly developed into a center for agriculture, ranching, and, later, the oil industry.
The **architecture** of Calgary blends historic buildings with modern skyscrapers. One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the **Calgary Tower**, a 191-meter tall observation tower that provides panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes. The **Glenbow Museum**, with its distinctive modern design, is a great place to learn about Calgary’s history and culture. Additionally, areas like **Inglewood** feature beautiful heritage buildings, while the **Stephen Avenue Walk** in downtown Calgary showcases Victorian-era architecture.
There is no shortage of things to do in Calgary, whether you're interested in outdoor activities, culture, or shopping. Here are some top recommendations: