7 things in and around Calgary you have to experience this summer

Jul 7 2026, 7:09 pm

If you’re looking for something to do in and around Calgary this summer, there are a ton of experiences that are worth checking out.

From river floats to train rides and tours, we’ve rounded up seven experiences in and around Calgary you have to check out this summer

Aspen Crossing

Aspen Crossing/Facebook

Located an hour southeast of Calgary, Aspen Crossing is a unique way to spend a summer day. You can hop aboard a historic train, take in the prairie views, or enjoy one of the exciting excursions they offer throughout the season.

Explore the Badlands

RamCG Photography/Shutterstock

If you head east of Calgary, you’ll come across the Alberta Badlands, which feel like a completely different world. You can spend a day exploring the hoodoos, checking out scenic viewpoints, or even making a stop in Drumheller to visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum.

Float down the Bow River

summer in calgary

JZAerial Inc/Shutterstock

If you’re looking for a way to cool off this summer, there’s nothing like floating down the Bow River when it’s at a perfect flow rate. You can grab a tube, a kayak, a paddleboard, or anything to float down the river and enjoy a relaxing trip through the city’s natural scenery.

Have a beach day

Kendall Collins/Daily Hive

Spots in and around Calgary are full of awesome beaches. From Sikome Lake, which just opened for the season, and Sandy Beach Park to Chestermere Lake and Ghost Lake, there are tons of spots to enjoy a beach day near the city.

Check out a small town

calgary summer experiences

Jeff Whyte/Shutterstock

An amazing way to spend a summer afternoon is exploring the charming towns around Calgary. Between Diamond Valley, Bragg Creek, Okotoks, and more, there is no shortage of places to take a short day-trip to.

Visit an Alberta ranch

calgary summer experiences

Travel Alberta

Alberta has quite the ranching history, and what’s better than taking a day to experience it firsthand? Sites like Bar U Ranch National Historic Site offer a glimpse into the province’s cowboy roots through exhibits, demonstrations and events.

Spend an evening at a night market

calgary summer experiences

Inglewood Night Market/Facebook

It’s easy to make the most of a summer night in Calgary, and one of the best ways to spend one is at a night market. From Kensington to Inglewood, you can find local vendors selling handmade goods, live music, and food trucks. These markets are an easy way to spend a night out.

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