Calgary and the surrounding area are full of one-of-a-kind attractions, places to visit, and things to do.
Whether you’re looking for a new place to explore in the city, planning a day trip, or want to impress your date or a visiting family member with a cool spot, you’re sure to find something on our list.
Ranging from an astrophysical observatory to a cat cafe, ghost towns to a windmill at a donut shop, and much more, our city has plenty to offer, so get ready to check out somewhere new this year.
Here are 11 unique places you can visit in and around Calgary.
Rothney Astrophysical Observatory
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Did you know there’s an observatory where you can stargaze just outside of the city? Rothney Astrophysical Observatory is operated by the University of Calgary and is open to the public for special events, including Space Nights, Sky Events such as the lunar eclipse, and more.
Location: 210 Avenue W, Highway 22 South, Alberta
World Famous Gopher Hole Museum
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This weird and wonderful museum in Torrington depicts stuffed gophers dressed as humans in various scenes and activities. The World Famous Gopher Hole Museum has been displaying these creatures since 1996 and is perfect for some unique content for the ‘gram – we’ll leave it up to you to decide if it’s cute or creepy (or a bit of both).
Location: 208 1st Street SW, Torrington, Alberta
The Donut Mill
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Halfway between Calgary and Edmonton, you’ll find the iconic Donut Mill. With delicious donuts, hot and cold beverages, and other drool-worthy eats, this Red Deer spot is made extra special by the fact that it’s located inside a windmill.
Location: 123 Leva Avenue, Red Deer
Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary
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What: See these majestic animals in a natural habitat a the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary. Take a guided tour to learn about the Wolfdogs and see them interact up close and personal. You even have a chance to feed the Wolfdogs and hang out with them.
Distance: 46 min (50.4 km)
Aspen Crossing
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Aspen Crossing is located just south of Calgary and is perfect for anyone who loves trains – or who’s just looking for a unique new place to check out. The venue offers train excursions (including a Polar Express-inspired ride at Christmas time and escape rooms), camping, dining options, and an annual music festival. You can even stay overnight inside of a caboose!
Location: Alberta Highway 24, Mossleigh, Alberta
The Little Church
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Sitting alone in the Badlands is the Little Church, a landmark in the Drumheller Valley. Making for an epic photo spot, road trip stop, or even a place to host a wedding or special event, the Little Church is free to enter and always open to the public.
Location: Murray Hill Road, Drumheller
Studio Bell, home of Canada’s National Music Centre
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The history of Canada’s incredible musicians and music industry can be found right here in Calgary. Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre, features interactive exhibits, memorabilia from famous artists, educational displays, and more. Plus, the building itself, designed to be reminiscent of musical instruments, is absolutely stunning, both inside and out.
Location: 850 4th Street SE, Calgary
Ghost towns
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Ready for a spooky road trip? The province is home to a number of ghost towns and abandoned places, many of them easily within driving distance from Calgary. Pack your camera, fill up the tank, and bring your bravest friend along to explore these eerie and ethereal spots.
Location: Throughout Alberta
Regal Cat Cafe
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Whether your landlord doesn’t allow cats, your family member is allergic, or you’re just not ready to commit to a pet, Calgary’s Regal Cat Cafe is the place for you. Grab a coffee and a cute pastry, and enjoy some quality time petting and playing with the cafe’s kitties.
Location: 303 10th Street NW, Calgary
Aussie Rules Piano Bar
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This dueling piano bar is always a lively, rowdy time. Request songs, be entertained by comedic piano players, enjoy a Party Pail drink, and maybe even get up and stand on your chair while you scream-sing along to the music.
Location: 1002 37th Street SW, Calgary
Downhill Karting by Skyline Luge
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Adrenaline junkies, this one’s for you! Skyline Luge allows riders to navigate more than 50 twists and turns over 1,800 metres as they fly down a continuous downhill trajectory. Plus, it’s located at Canada Olympic Park, so you can see the site where many of the sporting events were held during the 1988 Olympic Winter Games, and check out one of the many other onsite activities while you’re there.
Location: 88 Canada Olympic Road SW, Calgary
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