8 things I want to do in Calgary this summer as a B.C. transplant

From lively streets to amazing events, summer in Calgary is built for getting out and exploring, and for anyone new to the city, it’s quite the spectacle.

With the weather warming up and summer kicking off, I’ve started thinking about how I want to spend my time in Calgary. Here are eight things I want to do in Calgary this summer as a B.C transplant. 

Enjoy a patio 

Patio season in Calgary is no joke, and it seems like spots fill up the second the weather turns warm. Whether it’s a casual outing after work or a weekend plan, there’s something about the warm evenings, busy sidewalks, and a cold drink that just feels like summer in the city. From Stephen Avenue to 17th Avenue, there is no shortage of places to go. 

Float the Bow River

Floating down the Bow River feels like one of those peak Calgary summer days that have to happen at least once. Drifting through the city on a sunny afternoon, surrounded by people doing the same thing, feels relaxing but chaotic in the best way. 

Check out an outdoor market

Calgary’s market scene is great all year, but in the summer, it’s high on the list of ways to spend a weekend afternoon. Wandering between different vendors, food trucks, and local finds feels like an amazing way to slow down and enjoy the little things Calgary has to offer.

Experience the Calgary Stampede

While I’ve visited the Stampede for a day or two before, this year I’m excited to watch how the entire city transforms. From the annual Stampede Parade to pancake breakfasts and watching Western culture spilling into every corner of the city, it’s an experience that’s hard to find anywhere else.

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Visit the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo

Standing as Canada’s second-largest zoo,  the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo seems like the perfect way to spend a day out this summer. From wandering through the exhibits and observing all the animals up close to seeing all the amazing flower displays in the sun, it’s an awesome way to spend a summer day.

Take a day trip to the mountains

While this one isn’t right in Calgary, with the mountains so close, it feels like a must-do summer plan. From shopping along Banff’s main street and enjoying the scenery at Lake Louise to taking on alpine hikes, it feels like a reset that can’t be beat.  

Explore Calgary’s neighbourhoods

Calgary is home to over 200 neighbourhoods, each with its own character and feel. Summer seems like the perfect time to get out and see which ones stand out, from inner-city streets to quieter spots that come alive; there is really no shortage of areas to explore.

Catch a summer festival

Calgary fills up with festivals in the summer, turning nearly every weekend into something happening somewhere in the city. From GlobalFest, the Great Outdoors Comedy Festival, and the Calgary Folk Music Festival to the BUMP Festival, the Lilac Festival and Brewery and the Beast, there are tons of festivals I’m looking forward to checking out.