Step into the lively atmosphere of Calgary as it welcomes the arrival of spring! In this guide, we invite you to explore the best and most enchanting activities that the season has to offer.
From the iconic Calgary Tower casting its shadow over blooming streets to the picturesque parks, Calgary transforms into a spring haven. If you are seeking new experiences or planning your trip, this curated list promises a journey filled with the essence of spring in Calgary.
Imagine strolling through parks adorned with colorful blossoms, attending lively festivals, or exploring outdoor adventures under the crisp spring sky. This article is your key to unlocking the secrets of Calgary's springtime charm, providing insights, tips, and a carefully crafted list of the best things to do.
Join us as we uncover the beauty of Calgary in spring, a season that brings the city to life with a kaleidoscope of activities and experiences.
1. Calgary Tower Observation Deck
Spring in Calgary isn't complete without a visit to the iconic Calgary Tower Observation Deck. Imagine stepping onto the deck, feeling like you're on top of the world, with the cityscape stretching out beneath you.
The panoramic views are simply breathtaking, offering a unique perspective of Calgary awakening to the vibrant colors of spring.
What makes this experience stand out is the thoughtful addition of a free audio tour. Easily accessible by scanning a QR code, it's like having your personal guide, narrating the stories and secrets of the city's landmarks that sprawl below.
This interactive element adds depth to your visit, making it educational as well as visually stunning.
The tower's location is another huge plus. Nestled in the heart of downtown Calgary, it's a stone's throw away from a plethora of other attractions.
This means you can effortlessly combine your aerial adventure with a stroll through bustling city streets or a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café. Enjoy a morning feasting your eyes and taste buds before exploring more of what downtown Calgary has to offer.
Location: Calgary Tower Observation Deck - Google Maps
2. Calgary Zoo
Spring in Calgary blooms with opportunities for adventure, and the Calgary Zoo is a must-visit on your spring bucket list. Step into Wild Canada at the zoo, and you're in for a treat that's as grand as the Canadian wilderness itself.
This immersive experience takes you on a journey through seven of Canada's ecological zones, each teeming with life and a story to tell.
The most striking feature? The sheer scale of it all. The habitats are expansive, allowing animals like the majestic polar bears to thrive. Speaking of polar bears, their 12-inch-wide paw prints are a sight to behold and a stark reminder of the grandeur of Canada's wildlife.
It's not just about size, though. In Wild Canada, even the tiniest creatures leave a lasting impression, proving that every inhabitant, big or small, plays a vital role in the ecosystem.
This experience is more than just a visit to a zoo. It's an educational journey that highlights the intricate connections between people, animals, and the environment.
As you explore, you're not just observing; you're becoming part of a larger narrative that celebrates the diversity and beauty of Canada's natural world.
Location: Calgary Zoo - Google Maps
3. Prince's Island Park
When spring unfurls its colors in Calgary, Prince's Island Park becomes a top spring destination, offering a serene escape right in the city's hustle.
Renowned as Calgary's most beautiful park, this urban oasis is a celebration of nature's revival, with lush greenery that provides a stunning contrast to the cityscape.
Your visit to Prince's Island Park could be your fifth or your first, but each stroll feels uniquely enchanting.
As you meander through the trails, the golden hues of early autumn lingering on some trees add a magical touch to the vibrant spring backdrop. It's a painter's palette of colors that change with the seasons, always offering something new to admire.
What adds charm to this park are its furry little inhabitants - the squirrels. These playful creatures are a delight to watch, darting around and adding life to the tranquil surroundings.
Location: Prince's Island Park - Google Maps
4. Heritage Park Historical Village
Spring in Calgary brings not just natural beauty but also a chance to travel back in time at the Heritage Park Historical Village.
Sprawling over 127 acres of lush parkland, this living history museum is a treasure trove of stories and experiences, making it a prime destination for family-friendly spring activities in Calgary.
With over 200 exhibits and attractions, Heritage Park immerses you in the rich tapestry of Western Canada's past. Each corner of the park offers a different slice of history, from the rumble of an antique steam train to the quiet charm of a recreated historical village.
It's like walking through a living, breathing postcard from the past, where every detail is meticulously crafted to offer an authentic glimpse into yesteryears.
What makes Heritage Park stand out as a top spring destination in Calgary is its appeal to all ages. It's a place where kids can marvel at the old-world wonders and adults can indulge in a nostalgic journey.
The park's expanse ensures that there's always something new to discover, whether it's your first visit or your tenth.
Location: Heritage Park Historical Village - Google Maps
5. Calgary Farmers' Market
As spring awakens in Calgary, the Calgary Farmers' Market becomes a bustling hub of local flavors and artisanal delights. With over 100 incredible local vendors.
The market is a vibrant canvas of colors, scents, and sounds. Each vendor at the market brings a unique story and a deep passion for their craft.
Whether it's farm-fresh produce, bursting with the vibrant flavors of spring, or handmade treats that showcase the artistry of local bakers and makers, the market is a celebration of Alberta's rich agricultural and culinary heritage.
What sets the Calgary Farmers' Market apart as a top spring destination in Calgary is the diversity of flavors it offers.
The food hall is a mosaic of global cuisines, yet each dish has a local twist, made with ingredients sourced from the surrounding regions. It's a place where food not only nourishes the body but also excites the imagination.
Location: Calgary Farmers' Market - Google Maps
6. Biking Along Bow River Pathway
As the snow melts and the days grow warmer, biking along the Bow River Pathway is an invigorating way to embrace spring in Calgary.
This 27.0-mile loop trail, known for its moderate challenge and captivating scenery, is a highlight for outdoor enthusiasts and casual cyclists alike.
The pathway takes you on a journey along the serene Bow River, offering picturesque views and a fresh perspective of the city. Whether you're seeking a vigorous workout or a leisurely ride, the trail caters to all levels.
The rhythmic sound of your bike mingling with the gentle flow of the river creates a tranquil ambiance, perfect for clearing your mind and reconnecting with nature.
But the adventure doesn't stop there. Calgary boasts an additional 290 km of on-street bikeways and cycle tracks, including the impressive Rotary/Mattamy Greenway.
This 138 km pathway encircles the city, offering diverse landscapes and numerous points of interest. Each segment of the trail unveils a different facet of Calgary's natural beauty, making every ride a unique experience.
Location: Biking along Bow River Pathway - Google Maps
7. Walking Tours
Spring in Calgary is the perfect time to lace up your walking shoes and join in on the engaging Toonie Tours and Heritage calgary Historical Walking Tours.
These guided explorations offer a blend of local insight and historical perspective, turning a simple walk into a captivating journey through Calgary's streets and stories.
Toonie Tours provide a unique three-hour private city tour, where you walk alongside a local guide. It's an immersive experience that connects you with the heart and soul of Calgary.
As you wander through the city, your guide unveils lesser-known facts and hidden gems, offering a view of Calgary that even many locals haven't seen. It's a chance to see the city through the eyes of someone who knows it intimately.
On the other hand, the Historical Walking Tours, curated by Heritage Calgary, are a deep dive into the city's past.
These tours acknowledge and celebrate the traditional territories and communities of the area. Each step is a step back in time, providing insights into how Calgary has evolved over the years.
- Location: Toonie Tours - Google Maps
- Location: Historical Tours - Google Maps
8. 360 Mountain View - Banff Gondola
Spring in Calgary offers a unique opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of the Rockies from an extraordinary vantage point – the Banff Gondola.
Perched at the summit of Sulphur Mountain, this gondola ride presents an unparalleled 360-degree view of Banff National Park, a sight that is as mesmerizing in reality as it is on the live webcam.
As you ascend Sulphur Mountain, each moment in the gondola brings a new, awe-inspiring view. At the top, step out onto the observation deck and find yourself surrounded by the majesty of six different mountain ranges. The panoramic scenery, with the town of Banff and the meandering Bow River below, is a feast for the eyes.
On a clear night, the experience becomes even more magical, with the twinkling town lights complemented by the potential dance of the Northern Lights in the sky.
The Banff Gondola ride isn't just about the views. It's a journey to the heart of the Canadian Rockies. The Sulphur Mountain boardwalk leads you to Sanson's Peak and the historic Cosmic Ray Station, a National Historic Site of Canada.
Each step is an invitation to explore and appreciate the natural wonders of this region.
Location: 360 Mountain View - Google Maps
9. Shooting Ranges
For those looking to add a bit of adrenaline-pumping action to their Calgary spring activities, the Calgary Shooting Centre offers an experience that's right on target.
The centre boasts state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or holding a firearm for the first time, the range is equipped to provide a memorable experience.
The wide selection of firearms available caters to diverse preferences, making it a haven for shooting enthusiasts.
What truly sets the Calgary Shooting Centre apart is its commitment to making shooting sports accessible and enjoyable. The First Time Shooting Experience is designed to ease newcomers into the world of shooting sports.
The friendly and knowledgeable staff ensure that every participant learns the basics of firearm handling and safety in a supportive environment. This approach not only demystifies shooting sports but also adds an educational aspect to the thrill of firing a gun.
Location: Calgary Shooting Centre - Google Maps
10. Kangaroo Petting Zoo
This Kangaroo Petting Zoo is an interactive adventure where you can get up close and personal with some of Australia's most famous marsupials – the wallabies and kangaroos!
Ideal for animal lovers of all ages, the zoo provides an opportunity to learn about and interact with these intriguing creatures in a safe, family-friendly environment.
The experience of petting a kangaroo or watching the playful antics of wallabies is both enchanting and educational, offering a glimpse into the wildlife of a different continent.
But kangaroos aren't the only attraction here. The zoo is also home to goats, lizards, and other fascinating animals, making it a diverse and engaging experience for children and adults alike.
Beyond animal encounters, the park features tractor rides, adding a touch of rustic fun to your visit, and a playground where younger visitors can expend some energy in joyful play.
Location: Cobb's Adventure Park - Google Maps
11. Helicopter Tours
As the spring season blossoms in Calgary, Mountain View Helicopters invites you to take to the skies for an unparalleled aerial adventure.
Their scenic helicopter tours, operating from bases in Calgary and Drumheller, offer a thrilling new perspective on the city and its surroundings.
Embarking on a helicopter tour is an experience that combines excitement with breathtaking vistas. The city tour, a popular choice among visitors, provides a unique opportunity to see Calgary from above.
As you soar through the sky, you'll witness the city's landscape unfold beneath you - a blend of urban architecture and natural beauty. The panoramic views of the bustling streets, serene parks, and distant mountains are simply astounding.
While the cost of a helicopter tour may be a consideration, the value it offers is immense. It's a chance to create a once-in-a-lifetime memory, capturing the essence of Calgary from an extraordinary vantage point.
Location: Mountain View Helicopters - Google Maps
12. Ice Cream Making Class (Made by Marcus)
Perfect for those with a penchant for frozen treats, this Ice Cream Making Class is more than just a fun activity – it's an immersive journey into the delicious world of ice cream making, guided by none other than the owner, Marcus Purtzki.
This isn't your typical ice cream experience. Marcus delves into the science behind great ice cream, making the class both informative and engaging. You'll learn about the delicate balance of ingredients and the techniques that transform them into creamy perfection.
But the real cherry on top is the opportunity to create your very own ice cream flavor. Imagine having an array of house-made caramels, fudges, crunches, toffees, and more at your disposal. This is where your creativity can run wild, crafting a signature flavor that's uniquely yours.
What makes this class a must-do Calgary spring activity is its blend of education, hands-on experience, and, of course, the joy of tasting your creation.
Location: Made by Marcus - Google Maps
To Sum It All Up
And there you have it – a spring in Calgary packed with exciting adventures and memorable experiences!
From the breathtaking views at the Banff Gondola to the unique thrill of creating your own ice cream flavor at Made by Marcus, there's no shortage of ways to make the most of this vibrant season. Whether you're soaring above the city in a helicopter, stepping back in time at the Heritage Park, or laughing with kangaroos, each activity brings its own flavor of fun to your spring days.
Remember, spring in Calgary is as diverse as it is delightful. It's a time for new experiences, whether you're exploring the city's scenic pathways by bike, delving into the past with a historical walking tour, or getting your adrenaline fix at the shooting range. And let's not forget the joy of simply relaxing by the Bow River or wandering through the bustling Farmers' Market.