7 things you need to do in Calgary if you're a university student
September is right around the corner, which means school is starting and Calgary is about to welcome thousands of university students ready to explore, settle in, and call Calgary home.
From sporting events to discovering the city’s best spots, here are seven things every university student should do during their time in Calgary.
Get your transit pass
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It’s no secret that Calgary is a big city, and if you’re new, getting around can feel a little overwhelming. Luckily, The City of Calgary has teamed up with post-secondary schools to make life easier with the UPass.
Included in tuition at participating post-secondary institutions, the UPass gives students unlimited access to Calgary Transit at a discounted rate, making commuting around the city much easier and accessible.
Explore the city
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Calgary is a bustling city, full of surprises around every corner. From the lively energy of Stephen Avenue to hidden coffee shops and cute boutiques, there’s no shortage of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Stop by any of the libraries to get your studies in, stroll along the Bow River for some fresh air, or check out some of the quaint neighbourhoods within the city. There’s always something new to see and do just around the corner.
Embrace Calgary’s culture
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One of the great things about Calgary is its arts, music, and cultural scene. You can find murals and street art scattered around the city, catch live music performances at local venues or outdoor parks, and there is almost always some sort of festival or event to check out.
Exploring the city’s creative side is a great way to meet new people, connect with the community, and experience what makes Calgary so unique.
Take a weekend trip
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While Calgary itself is great, Southern Alberta is full of quick escapes, perfect for a break from the city and your studies. The Rocky Mountains are a favourite, sitting about an hour and a half away from the city, you can visit the charming towns of Banff or Canmore and see the beauty the Rockies have to offer.
If you’re looking for something even closer, smaller towns like Okotoks, High River, and Cochrane provide local shops, cafes, and a slower-paced escape from city life.
Go to a Flames game
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While you’re in the city, why not join Calgary in cheering on the Calgary Flames? Students can take advantage of the Student Rush program using their school email, giving them access to last-minute tickets and special deals, making it easier to enjoy the excitement of the games and a student-friendly price.
You can also get access to last-minute Stampeders, Wranglers, Roughnecks, and Hitmen games. The Calgary Surge have its own student discounts available.
Check out the food scene
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Calgary is home to some fantastic eats. From big chains to local favourites, there is no shortage of places to grab a bite to eat. You can explore trendy cafes, food trucks, and brunch spots, or dive into Calgary’s international cuisine.
Calgary was even dubbed a “food mecca” by the legend himself, Guy Fieri.
See some of the big attractions
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No visit to Calgary is complete without checking out some of the things that put the city on the map. The Calgary Tower offers stunning views of the city and the Rockies. Heritage Park brings Alberta’s history to life with its interactive exhibits and historic buildings. The Calgary Zoo, home to a wide variety of wildlife from all across the globe.
If you want to really get to know Calgary, we made a list of things every Calgarian needs to do at least once.