Backyard destinations: 8 fun Calgary staycation ideas to help you reset
Everyone needs to kick back and relax every once and a while, but sometimes work, life, and financial demands can make it hard to escape the city, so we’ve collected some fun and unique staycation ideas to try in Calgary that will no doubt leave you feeling refreshed.
No matter your budget, we’ve got ideas that won’t cost you a dollar to a little more expensive if you want to treat yourself.
You can try these any time, so you can start your mini vacation as early as this weekend!
Spa day at the Fairmont Palliser
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What:Ā The iconic Fairmont Palliser is synonymous with class and elegance city-wide. It’s the go-to venue for many looking to host luxury events, but there are also many ways to pamper yourself to a mini-luxury afternoon or weekend of your own.
Spend a night in one of the historic hotel rooms or book a massage! You don’t have to be a guest to book an appointment.
Finish off your stay — however you choose to spend it — with a glass of wine and a shrimp cocktail at the hotel’s restaurant, the Hawthorne.
When:Ā The spa at the Palliser is open from 9 am to 7:30 pm
Where: Fairmont Palliser, 133 9th Avenue SWĀ
Price: Room rates vary but are currently starting at around $250 to $300 a night. You can check room availability and prices here. 60-minute massages start at $155. To view a full list of spa services and prices, click here.
Have a catered charcuterie night in
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What:Ā Sometimes one of the best things about going on vacation is being able to stay in a soft robe and not leave the hotel room… even to eat (that’s what room service is for, right?). Bring a slice of that paradise to the comfort of your home by enjoying a relaxing night in.Ā
One of the benefits of being at a hotel is not having to cook or do the dishes afterwards, so to get the full effect, try ordering a fancy catered meal like what La Bella Graze has to offer.Ā
Where:Ā Delivered to the comfort of your home for $10 or available for pickup at 4517 1st Street SE
Price:Ā Orders are customizable, but grazing boards start at $45 and can be purchased here. For the full menu and to see other tasty options, click here.
Rent an Airbnb
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What:Ā Even if you’re not leaving Calgary, what staycation is complete without some change of scenery? There are some really neat Airbnbs around Calgary; you can see what’s available here.
If you’re missing Stampede or just want to embrace some of the city’s country roots, this five-star room is completely rodeo themed. The owners @airbnb_calgary have a handful of themed options, including a couple of luxury spots in Marda Loop with complimentary wine!
When:Ā Airbnb’s are available year-round, and there are still available dates for our recommended spots into September.
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Be a tourist in your own city by taking a walking tour
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What:Ā It can be easy to take your own city for granted because you experience it every day, and it may not have the same novelty. It might be worth getting a fresh perspective, and a walking tour is just the way to do that.Ā
There are quite a few walking tours offered throughout the city to choose from. Walk the YYC has a bunch of different tours on offer, with a handful of free options and even a $20 The Last of Us film site walking tour.
When:Ā Various times throughout the week; view the full schedule here.
Where:Ā Tours are available through many of Calgary’s most popular neighbourhoods like Kensington, Inglewood, and Stephen Avenue.
Have a beach day
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What:Ā Calgary may be in the middle of the prairies, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy a beach day! Sikome is a popular spot in Fish Creek Park where you can bring your beach towel, bask in the sun or splash around in the water. There is also a concession and changing rooms.
When:Ā Open until September 4; hours differ and are listed here
Where: Sikome Lake can be accessed by Bow Bottom Trail SE or Sun Valley Boulevard SE off Highway 22x
Price: $10 for the whole family!
Go out for a board game night
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What:Ā Some of the best vacations involve a family board game night. The Hexagon Board Game Cafe is a cozy little spot with tons of board games to pick from. Choose an old favourite or break out and try something new!
When:Ā 10 to midnight Sunday to Thursday and 10 to 1 am Friday and Saturday
Where: 1140 Kensington Road NW #200
Price:Ā $4 per hour gaming fee when paired with a drink or snack
Visit a cute bookstore
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What:Ā The key to a good vacation is being able to shut off and escape from your daily routine; for some people, the best way to escape is into a good book. There are many great local bookstores to check out around the city. Don’t forget to turn off your phone notifications.Ā
Some of our favourite bookstores are Pages on Kensington, Fair’s Fair, and Slowburn Books.
Have a relaxing yoga day
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What:Ā Yoga is a great way to centre yourself and relax. There are a lot of places to practice in the city, but we really like Junction 9 in Inglewood. The energy gives spa day, and you can even end your practice with a complimentary cup of tea.
When:Ā There are many classes to choose from; view the full schedule here.
Where: Junction 9, 919 9th Avenue SE
Price:Ā $24 drop-in fee, but many pricing options are available; view them here.
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