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RiverWalk – Stroll Along the Bow River
We started with a walk along the Bow River – RiverWalk is one of those spots where the city slows down. A wooden promenade, wide pathways, joggers, cyclists, morning sunshine, and coffee from a local roastery – everything just fits. We paused for a while by the Simmons Building, sipping espresso and watching Calgary wake up. Even though we were in the city center, it felt more small-town than big city.
George C. King Bridge – A City Bridge with Character
From RiverWalk, we headed to the George C. King Bridge – a white, wavy structure connecting East Village with St. Patrick’s Island. It’s one of the prettiest urban bridges we’ve seen and a great photo spot. We stopped in the middle for a moment, looking at the water, people walking their dogs, and Calgary’s skyline reflected in the river.
Calgary Tower – 360° Panorama and Glass Floor
Next up was the Calgary Tower – a touristy attraction, sure, but the view is worth it. From the top, you get a sweeping panorama of the city, the river, the prairies on one side, and the distant Rocky Mountains on the other. Plus, the glass floor may look harmless, but it definitely gets your heart racing. We snapped some photos, wandered around the observation deck, and then headed out for lunch.
Glenbow Museum – Art and Western Canadian History
Right next to the tower is the Glenbow Museum, a great spot to learn about Western Canada’s history. We spent over an hour there exploring exhibits on Indigenous cultures, local art, and settler history. It’s well-curated and provides a deeper context for what you see around the city.
Prince’s Island Park – Urban Relaxation
In the afternoon, we slowed down at Prince’s Island Park – a green oasis in the heart of the city. Deck chairs, lawns, people strolling, all with a backdrop of skyscrapers and the sound of the river. The perfect urban break before our evening plans in the Inglewood district.
9 Avenue SE – Calgary’s Alternative Side
9 Avenue Southeast is the main street in Calgary’s oldest neighborhood, Inglewood. We found everything we love there – indie bookstores, vinyl record shops, galleries, and quirky cafés. We had dinner at a local pub and later stumbled upon a bar with live music. A jazz evening, local craft beer, and a completely relaxed vibe. Inglewood shows a totally different face of Calgary – less corporate, more creative, and very authentic.
Calgary Night Viewpoint – The City After Dark
We ended the day at a viewpoint in Crescent Heights. Calgary at night is stunning – illuminated skyscrapers, Calgary Tower glowing in full color, and the Bow River reflecting the city lights below. It’s the perfect spot to capture your last photo of the day and take in the city from a distance.
Can You Explore Calgary in One Day?
Yes, absolutely. Not everything and not in detail, of course, but with a plan and some energy, you can hit the highlights and get a real feel for the city. We returned to our friends exhausted but happy – and convinced that Calgary is more than just a stopover before the Rockies. It’s a city with its own character, and it’s worth giving it a chance when you visit Canada.
