One of Canada’s biggest cities, Calgary is a unique blend of the past and the present. Modern amenities meet a connection with history that you won’t find anywhere else.
But you might be wondering how to enjoy this destination on a budget. And you’re not alone.
Today, we’re featuring five of Cowtown’s best and free things to do.
Let’s get into it!
Discover Calgary, Canada’s Contemporary Cowtown
The city of Calgary is in the southern end of Alberta, Canada. It’s the closest cosmopolitan area to Banff National Park, only about an hour-and-a-half drive. Nestled just outside the Rocky Mountains, the snowy peaks form an idyllic background to the sparkling skyline. Two major rivers, Bow and Elbow, meander through the center.
It sits in the transitional zone between the high mountains and the Canadian Prairies. Summers are comfortable and warm, while winters are frigid and dry. The temperature can drop to 20 degrees below zero during extremely cold months.
Multiple First Nations occupied the region, dating back 11,000 years. The first Europeans moved in around 1875, quickly bringing in a railway.
It was a humble ranching town in its early days, leading to its nickname, Cowtown. However, the population exploded during the oil boom of the 1900s. By the 80s, it was a full-blown metropolis. Nearly 1.5 million people live here today, making it Canada’s third-largest city.
Still, locals often stay true to their roots, donning cowboy hats and leather boots. The Calgary Stampede takes place every year in July. It’s the perfect way to celebrate its Wild West origins. Its first stampede took place in 1912. Even then, 100,000 people attended the six-day event.
Today, it’s a bustling urban center with everything you’d expect from a big metropolis. Shops, restaurants, and a thriving arts scene are major draws for tourists, as well as its proximity to the great outdoors.
Driving from the USA? These are the 5 Worst Canadian Border Crossings for US Citizens
Check Out These Unique and Budget-Friendly Calgary Activities
Calgary has plenty to offer visitors. Fortunately, many of those options are low-cost, so you won’t have to blow your budget on entertainment.
Here are five ways to keep busy without spending too much hard-earned cash.
#1 Explore an Indoor Oasis at Devonian Gardens
Despite its subarctic climate, Calgary is home to an incredible botanical refuge. This indoor park features 20,000 plants, including hundreds of trees. One feature, the living wall, is 900 vertical square feet of greenery. You’ll also find koi ponds, waterfalls, and bridges throughout.
Devonian Gardens is on the fourth floor of the CORE Shopping Centre. This central location makes it the perfect spot to sit back and relax. You can grab lunch downstairs and enjoy it in the atrium, surrounded by living flora. If you need a break during a long shopping day, you won’t find a more suitable retreat.
There’s even a playground where your little ones can burn off all that pent-up energy.
In 2012, the operators spent $37 million to renovate the gardens, so today, it’s better than ever. Although initially constructed in the 70s, the vibe is chic and modern.
You can visit the oasis daily, which typically runs on the shopping center’s schedule. Best of all, entry is entirely free.
Pro tip: Check out the CORE Shopping Centre’s website for current hours of operation.
#2 Admire the Interesting Architecture of Peace Bridge
One of its most unusual architectural marvels is in the heart of downtown Calgary. The Peace Bridge is a pedestrian walkway that crosses the Bow River, connecting the Sunnyside and Eau Claire neighborhoods.
Outside, the tube’s wavey pattern almost resembles a gigantic Chinese finger trap. It’s painted bright red as an homage to Canada.
Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava designed the self-supporting steel structure. Construction took four years to complete. And while the $25 million price tag raised some eyebrows, it’s now one of the most iconic spots in the area. It’s since won multiple architectural awards.
To see this landmark for yourself, head to Eau Claire Park. You can stroll through the greenway and take in the sites before crossing the river. You’ll be in good company, as thousands of people use the bridge daily. While you’re there, be sure to enjoy the views of the surrounding city.
And, of course, this public destination is free to visit.
#3 Visit the Unique Central Library
Another architectural feat is Calgary’s New Central Library in the East Village. It’s not your average library. It’s also a hub for the light rail transit system.
The modern building features massive glass windows in geometric patterns, offset by graceful wooden arches. Inside, the elegant woodwork continues. Curving balconies surround the expansive atrium.
From the outside, the glasswork pattern looks randomly placed. But you’ll find it serves an important purpose when you step inside. Solid panels lend privacy to study areas, while plenty of natural light permeates the public portions of the building.
The New Central Library is in the East Village, just across the street from City Hall. It’s open daily, but hours vary. You’ll definitely want to stop in during the day for the full experience. However, be sure to drive by after dark to see how beautiful it is when lit from within.
Is Canada the best destination for you? 5 Reasons to Avoid Canada for Vacation
#4 Stroll Along the Stephen Avenue Walk
Stephen Avenue Walk is a pedestrian-only shopping area on 8th Avenue. These three blocks hold some of Calgary’s best restaurants, bars, and shops. During the summer, you can hear live music, watch street performers, or enjoy one of the many festivals held here.
Winter is considerably quieter, with less hustle and bustle. The city hangs festive lights and plays seasonal music over speakers along The Avenue.
You can make a whole day of your visit here and spend as much or as little as you like. Start by strolling the grounds to get your bearings. Stop by the Glenbow Museum to enjoy some of the region’s finest art. Then, hit the CORE Shopping Centre to see Devonian Gardens. End your night with live music at the Palace Theatre.
While you’re on Stephen Avenue, keep an eye out for public art displays. One of these, Trees, embodies both form and function.
Twelve metal structures, vaguely shaped like natural plants, line the street. They not only pay tribute to the special relationship Canadians have with Mother Nature, but they also help dull the wind tunnels that form between the surrounding buildings. Cutting down on the breeze keeps the area comfortable in winter when frigid gusts make it miserable.
#5 Find Tranquility at the Nose Hill Siksikaitsitapi Medicine Wheel
Get outside of downtown for a moment of reflection at Nose Hill Park.
Before Europeans moved in, several First Nations used this land for ceremonies. In 2015, members of the Blackfoot Confederacy built a large medicine wheel, using rocks to form the shape of the Siksikaitsitapi logo. This emblem represents the four groups in the Confederacy, which are the Blood, Siksiika, and Northern and Southern Peigan.
They intended to pay tribute to their unique connection with the land and acknowledge its sacred history. They hope visitors will use the space to reflect on the past and connect with the Earth.
From Nose Hill Park, you can observe the city below. It’s easy to imagine what the rolling hills looked like in the early days before towering skyscrapers dominated the skyline.
Start at the parking lot or the Calgary Winter Club and follow the trails leading to the Medicine Wheel. It’ll allow you to stretch your legs and enjoy the natural beauty around you.
Add more fun to your trip with Calgary Travel Guide 2024: Unveiling the Heart of the Canadian Rockies!
Don’t Miss Out On All That Calgary Has To Offer!
Calgary is a unique destination with plenty to offer. Of course, like any big city, you could easily spend a wad of cash if you’re not mindful. But the area has loads of free amenities just waiting to be enjoyed.
Whether you want to explore an indoor oasis, marvel at architectural feats, or step into the past, you can do it here despite your budget!
Discover the Best Free Camping Across the USA
To be honest with you, we hate paying for camping. There are so many free campsites in America (with complete privacy).
You should give it a try!
As a matter of fact, these free campsites are yours. Every time you pay federal taxes, you’re contributing to these lands.
Become a FREE CAMPING INSIDER and join the 100,000 campers who love to score the best site!
We’ll send you the 50 Best Free Campsites in the USA (one per state). Access the list by submitting your email below: