Solo Traveller's Guide to Calgary: Exploring the Heart of Alberta
Are you a solo traveller looking for an adventure in the heart of Alberta? Look no further than Calgary, a vibrant city with a rich history and plenty of activities to keep you entertained. From exploring museums to hiking in the great outdoors, Calgary has something for everyone. In this guide, we'll provide you with a suggested itinerary, accommodation recommendations, local cuisine options, transportation information, and more to help you plan your perfect solo trip to Calgary.
Destination Highlights
- Solo Travel
- Calgary Tower
- Glenbow Museum
- Prince's Island Park
- Heritage Park Historical Village
- Fish Creek Provincial Park
Calgary is a great destination for solo travellers, with plenty of activities to keep you busy and a welcoming community to make you feel at home. Whether you're interested in exploring the city's history, hiking in the great outdoors, or trying out local cuisine, Calgary has something for everyone.
Suggested Itinerary
To help you make the most of your time in Calgary, we've put together a suggested itinerary with activities for each day of your trip. We've grouped the activities logically by location and time slot to help you make the most of your time.
| Day | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Visit the Calgary Tower | Explore the Glenbow Museum | Walk around Prince's Island Park |
| 2 | Visit Heritage Park Historical Village | Hike in Fish Creek Provincial Park | Try local cuisine at a restaurant |
| 3 | Visit the Calgary Zoo | Explore the Inglewood neighbourhood | Attend a local event or festival |
Realistic Time Management
When planning your itinerary, it's important to be realistic about how much you can accomplish in a day. We recommend choosing no more than three activities per day to ensure that you have enough time to fully enjoy each experience. Be sure to factor in travel time between locations and any breaks you may need throughout the day.
Local Cuisine
Calgary is known for its diverse culinary scene, with plenty of options for every taste and budget. Some local cuisine options to try include:
- Alberta beef
- Poutine
- Saskatoon berry pie
- Wild game (such as bison or elk)
For a taste of the best local cuisine, we recommend checking out one of these highly-rated restaurants:
- Charcut Roast House
- River Café
- Model Milk
Accommodation Recommendations
Calgary has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Here are our top picks for each price range:
Budget:
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Calgary NW - University Area
- Days Inn by Wyndham Calgary Northwest
- Super 8 by Wyndham Calgary Shawnessy Area
Mid-Range:
Luxury:
How To Get There And Away
Calgary is easily accessible by air, with the Calgary International Airport serving as a major hub for both domestic and international flights. Once you arrive, you can get around the city using public transportation, taxis, or rental cars.
Comprehensive Packing List
To help you pack for your trip to Calgary, we've put together a comprehensive packing list organized by category:
Clothing:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Warm jacket
- Raincoat or umbrella
- Hat and gloves (if visiting in winter)
Electronics:
- Camera
- Phone charger
- Travel adapter
Toiletries:
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
Miscellaneous:
- Travel guidebook
- Passport and travel documents
- Cash and credit cards
Cost of Living
The standard cost of living per person per day in Calgary is around $100 CAD. This includes accommodation, food, transportation, and activities. To save money, we recommend looking for deals on accommodation and transportation, cooking some of your own meals, and taking advantage of free activities such as hiking in the parks.
Language and Cultural Etiquette
English is the primary language spoken in Calgary, but you may also hear French and other languages spoken in certain areas. When interacting with locals, it's important to be polite and respectful of their culture and customs. Some tips to keep in mind include:
- Saying "please" and "thank you" when interacting with locals
- Dressing appropriately for the weather and cultural norms
- Being mindful of personal space and avoiding physical contact unless invited
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you're looking for something a little different during your trip to Calgary, consider checking out these off-the-beaten-path experiences:
- Take a hot air balloon ride over the city
- Visit the Calgary Corn Maze and Fun Farm
- Attend a Calgary Flames hockey game
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is the best time to visit Calgary? A: The best time to visit Calgary is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.
Q: What should I wear in Calgary? A: Be sure to pack warm clothing, especially if visiting in the winter months. Layers are key, as the weather can be unpredictable.
Q: Are there any festivals or events in Calgary? A: Yes, Calgary is home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Calgary Stampede, the Calgary Folk Music Festival, and the Calgary International Film Festival.
Conclusion
Did you know that Calgary is home to the world's largest outdoor music festival? With so much to see and do, it's no wonder that Calgary is a popular destination for solo travellers. We hope this guide has provided you with the information you need to plan your perfect trip to Calgary. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip today and start exploring the heart of Alberta!
