Calgary Attractions
Calgary, Alberta
By John McKiernan
Staff Writer
Long long gone are the days when Calgary was considered a boring city. Before heading up to the delights of Banff, Canmore and Jasper, why not stay a few days in Calgary. The list of things to do is practically endless. If you have time to stop for a few days before hitting the mountains, here are just a few of the things to keep you occupied.
The sights and adrenalin from a Calgary rollercoaster.
Calaway Park: There is no end to the fun at Calway Park. It has everything you would expect from Western Canada’s largest amusement park including a roller coaster, train ride, log ride, Ferris wheel, and all the other classics you have come to expect. It is set in a wonderful location also. On a clear day, you can get a great view of the surrounding mountainside from the top of the Ferris wheel. Refreshingly, entrance is with a “one price, all rides” ticket so you don’t have to spend half an hour outside pondering your options. There are rides for all ages, even the oldies! In the summer, there are some great live shows too. It is always a great day out with the family. On Hwy 1 (Trans-Canada Hwy, aka 16 Ave N. in Calgary) about 10 minutes west of Calgary; use exit 169.
The distinctive sight of the Calgary Towers.
Calgary Tower: Built in 1968, this Calgary landmark had its greatest moment of glory when it acted as a torch for the Olympic flame for the winter Olympics in 1988. The 3D view that you get from the look-out deck is something else but with the new glass floors built in, it offers a whole new view. It is nothing short of terrifying and the kind of experience that every human should at least attempt once. If you are feeling a little shaky on your feet after looking down to your doom, there are two great restaurants in the tower to get your heart beating at normal pace again.
Canada Olympic Park: This is one of the most visible reminders in Calgary of the successful 1988 Olympics. Today, athletes still continue to be trained here to try and maintain Canada’s great record in the winter sports. There are three ski jumps here as well as a bobsleigh and luge track. Among the many things you can do, during summer you can use the skyline which lets you experience flying off the 90-metre tower like the ski-jumpers. Freakin awesome!
Calgary Zoo: This is one of North America’s largest zoos and not so coincidentally has many animals from around the world. It is very popular with kids and there is also a large conservatory and garden area for the parents to relax. Speaking of parents, there is also the Prehistoric Park, featuring life-sized sculptures of dinosaurs, and many animal and nature-themed playgrounds dotted around the zoo.
Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre: This is a fairly self descriptive museum. Everything you need to know about the history and culture of Chinese Albertans. There are some small businesses here too.
Keep an eye on the local media to see what sort of events are coming up that might suit you or your family. Also ask the staff at your hotel who are usually happy to help.