Best Things To Do In Calgary, Canada 2024

Want to find interesting Calgary activities for young adults? Our ultimate millennial and Gen Z bucket list of cool and distinctive attractions. Let’s explore Calgary’s best hangouts.

Calgary, set against the Rocky Mountains, combines western charm with modern adventure. A skyline of buildings shows the city’s dynamic nature. The Bow River winds through the city, adding beauty. From Stephen Avenue’s antique elegance to the East Village’s artistic pulse, every street and alleyway is alive. Calgary is one of North America’s best locations to live.

Calgary is ideal for young adults because to its beautiful scenery, world-class sports, and vibrant culture. Every park has a trail, every neighborhood has a new dish, and every night delivers memorable memories. Calgary is one of the greatest cities to live in Canada for adventurers due to its lively yet grounded lifestyle. Let’s explore Calgary’s top attractions and activities for adventurers, foodies, and cultural lovers.

Top Things to Do in Calgary for Young Adults

This guide takes us on an exciting tour of Calgary’s greatest young adult venues. Calgary offers a variety of activities, from skiing at WinSport to drinking craft beer in hip breweries. Bring your adventure spirit and discover Calgary’s vitality.

1. Soak in the views from Calgary Tower

Ever considered a different take on Calgary? You can do that at the Calgary Tower. This monument towers over the city, offering 360-degree views. If you dare, climb onto the glass floor observation deck to see the city streets 191 meters below you. It’s adrenaline-pumping and breathtaking. From the snow-capped Canadian Rockies to the bustling streets and flowing river below, the Calgary Tower offers a panoramic perspective.

If you time your visit perfectly, seeing the sunset from here is spectacular. The sky turns color as the city lights twinkle, creating a stunning scene. Young adults and adventurers should visit the Calgary Tower. It’s a location to observe Calgary from a different perspective, enjoy its beauty, and maybe overcome a phobia of heights. Anyone for an elevator journey to the top?

2. Discover the East Village

Calgary’s past and future converge in the East Village, creating a lively hub. This neighborhood showcases Calgary’s creativity with innovative buildings and a vibrant arts community. Get the greatest coffee in town at the Simmons Building to start your adventure. This ancient mattress factory turned restaurant is just the start of the East Village’s offerings. The Bow River provides a tranquil setting for a stroll or bike ride on the RiverWalk.

3. Explore Fish Creek Provincial Park

Fish Creek Provincial Park is a huge Calgary oasis. One of Calgary’s exciting spots where you may shift from urban explorer to wilderness lover in minutes. Imagine having almost 80 kilometers of paths through forests, creek beds, and meadows. Fish Creek is perfect for riding, hiking, or just walking. You might see a beaver or two!

The park hosts outdoor music and movies around twilight in summer. Relax on a blanket under the stars with friends, music, or a movie. Perfect blend of nature and city life. Fish Creek Provincial Park provides urban wilderness. It shows that adventure doesn’t always require a long journey to the mountains (though those are nice too). Sometimes you simply need to explore your backyard.

4. Conquer the slopes at WinSport

Ready for some fresh powder without leaving the city? Calgary’s WinSport, a 1988 Winter Olympics legacy, is thrilling. Speed down the hill with the wind in your face and the city skyline in the background on a winter day is thrilling.

Snowboarders may catch air and show off their feats at WinSport’s terrain park. Winter sports enthusiasts can rent equipment, take lessons, and ski at night. Like many Calgary activities, it brings together friends, families, and lone travelers for winter pleasure.

5. Dive into history at Heritage Park

Heritage Park is Canada’s largest living history museum. It’s one of Calgary’s most exciting young adult activities because it takes you back to the Western Canadian frontier. Imagine walking through a perfectly restored historical village where everything tells a narrative from 100 years ago.

Every detail draws you in, from the blacksmith’s hammer to the park’s steam train whistle. Try traditional crafts, ride a horse-drawn wagon, or sail on the Glenmore Reservoir with the S.S. Moyie paddle steamer. When hunger hits, visit a historic bakery or saloon for tasty, educational period food.

6. Enjoy the nightlife on 17th Ave

17th Ave hosts city nightlife. This stretch offers fresh thrills every night, making it a Calgary hotspot for entertaining things to do with friends. Vibe, people, and memorable evenings out matter. Start your night with The Ship & Anchor, with its famed patio and friendly atmosphere. Nice place to relax with a pint. Why not move to National on 17th as the night goes on? Its large craft beer variety and lively rooftop patio make it popular with residents and travelers.

Proof is a must-see for cocktail lovers. This bar elevates mixology with a private, intimate atmosphere and Calgary’s best cocktails. If you’re feeling dancey, Music Calgary is nearby. Are you ready to experience 17th Ave’s nightlife and see why Calgary’s funsters flock there? We’ll go out, try the greatest bars, and maybe locate our new hangout. Night is young, and 17th Ave calls!

7. Paddle along the Bow River

Imagine floating on the Bow River while the city fades behind you. Paddling this historic stream from the city takes you into nature. The Bow River offers a unique view of Calgary from kayaking, canoeing, and SUP. You may see the city from a different perspective and possibly see wildlife. The best part? You needn’t be pro. Everyone can enjoy the pleasure with many rental stores and guided tours for all ability levels.

Be careful to drift by Prince’s Island Park. It’s a lovely place to relax, picnic, or just relax. The park’s bustling festivals and activities contrast with the river’s tranquility. Paddle the Bow River for adventure and natural beauty in Calgary. It reminds us that tranquil retreats are close to the metropolis.

8. Visit the Calgary Zoo

Calgary Zoo transports you from Africa to the ocean in a day. The zoo offers education, conservation, and pleasure for young adults in Calgary. Meet lions, penguins, and adorable pandas. The Calgary Zoo has a diverse collection of animals in habitats that imitate their natural surroundings. It’s an opportunity to learn about varied habitats, species’ struggles, and the zoo’s conservation and research initiatives.

Explore animal stories through interactive exhibitions, behind-the-scenes excursions, and educational seminars. It entertains and enhances nature appreciation. Are you ready to explore Calgary’s wild side? Let’s go on a fun and educational zoo trip.

9. Take in art at the Glenbow Museum

Exploring Calgary’s art scene? The Glenbow Museum is your Canadian destination. Young adults seeking inspiration will love this museum’s history, art, and creativity. The Glenbow offers enlightening encounters with its broad holdings of Canadian Indigenous cultures and contemporary works.

Explore galleries featuring magnificent art and interactive displays about Alberta and beyond. Each room tells a story, whether about the vivid Blackfoot customs or early settlers’ pioneering zeal.

Explore art through hands-on activities, curator talks, or film screenings. Art ignites conversations and imaginations here Calgary visitors looking for amazing stuff should visit the Glenbow Museum. Let’s enjoy the stories, beauty, and thought-provoking experiences ahead. Who knows what thoughts and inspirations you’ll get?

10. Hang out at Prince’s Island Park

Who’s up for a relaxing Calgary day? The place is Prince’s Island Park. It’s a lush haven in the city that’s excellent for escaping the concrete jungle without leaving town. Picnics, river views, and frisbee may be involved. Calgary’s favorite spot for group fun.

You may bike or walk around the island on its winding paths. With the Bow River nearby, your city retreat will have a cool water aspect. Calgary says, “Hey, take a moment, slow down, enjoy.”
Ready to create memories at Prince’s Island Park? This place is perfect for a relaxing day or festival excitement. Get our gear, maybe a frisbee, and go. Prince’s Island Park invites enjoyment, relaxation, and excellent company.

11. Dive into the Calgary Stampede

Ever heard of “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth”? The Calgary Stampede is a summer highlight you don’t want to miss. Calgary becomes a wild western fantasy for ten days of nonstop action, fun, and cowboy vibes in July. Summer is here, the sun is shining, and you’re entering the Stampede grounds with excitement. Sweet mini-donuts, smokey BBQ, and the thrilling rodeo fill the air.

Beyond the rodeo, the Stampede’s vast midway has rides that will throw you in every direction. What about music lovers? The Stampede grounds host top musicians, making every night a memorable entertainment. The food is important too. There’s plenty for everyone, from outlandish new delicacies to Stampede favorites. The rodeo, rides, food, and music make it Calgary’s ultimate summer party. Come experience the Stampede, an adventure you’ll remember for years.

12. Sample local brews

The Calgary craft beer sector is flourishing, making it a utopia for hopheads and casual consumers. Touring the city’s leading breweries is the best way to experience local beer culture. Start your beer journey at Village Brewery, where community and craftsmanship meet. Their tours and tastings show how their beloved beers are brewed and let you try them.

Visit Tool Shed Brewing Company next. The brewery’s love of beer appears in every batch. Their tale is captivating and their beers are tasty, making a visit instructive and enjoyable. Why stop there? There are more breweries than pints in Calgary. Another must-see is Last Best Brewing & Distillery, with its creative beers and great environment. This is the perfect place to unwind after a day of brewery hopping or start your night out.

13. Hit the farmers’ markets

Calgary farmers’ markets sparkle with local culture, craftsmanship, and community. Spend a day at one of these markets to experience the local vibe. You may sample, shop, and explore Calgary’s uniqueness there. Start your weekend at the Calgary Farmers’ Market. The bustling aisles provide fresh fruits, artisan cheeses, and freshly baked delights. Support local, load your basket with goods, and maybe catch some live music.

The Crossroads Market has vintage items, fresh fruit, and international food. It’s like a mini-world tour from Calgary. Grab a coffee, a delicious treat, and enjoy the bustling environment that makes this market a weekend favorite. Farmers’ markets are a fantastic way to experience Calgary’s soul. It’s an opportunity to meet the product makers, hear their stories, and join a Calgary-loving community.