Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Calgary is a vibrant city surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. While the city itself offers a plethora of attractions and activities, there are many amazing places to visit near Calgary that are just a short drive away. From stunning mountain vistas to charming small towns, there’s something for everyone in this region. In this overview, we’ll explore some of the top places to visit near Calgary, making it easy for you to plan your next adventure.
Why Visit Places Near Calgary?
Visiting places near Calgary offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies while still being close to the amenities and attractions of the city. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing getaway, there are many reasons to explore the areas surrounding Calgary. Here are just a few benefits of visiting places near Calgary:
• Unbeatable scenery: The Canadian Rockies offer some of the most stunning natural scenery in the world, with towering mountain peaks, pristine lakes, and lush forests. Visiting places near Calgary allows you to experience this beauty up close.
• Variety of activities: From hiking and camping to skiing and snowshoeing, there are countless outdoor activities to enjoy near Calgary. You can also explore charming small towns, visit museums and galleries, and enjoy local cuisine.
• Easy access: Many of the places to visit near Calgary are just a short drive away, making it easy to explore the region without having to worry about long travel times or complicated logistics.
Top Places to Visit Near Calgary
In this overview, we’ll explore some of the top places to visit near Calgary, including:
• Banff National Park: Located just an hour and a half west of Calgary, Banff National Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With its stunning mountain scenery, abundant wildlife, and numerous hiking trails, Banff is a nature lover’s paradise.
• Lake Louise: Another popular destination in Banff National Park, Lake Louise is a picturesque lake surrounded by towering mountain peaks. Visitors can enjoy hiking, skiing, and ice skating in the winter, and swimming and canoeing in the summer.
• Canmore: Located just 20 minutes west of Calgary, Canmore is a charming small town with a rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the town’s many shops and restaurants, visit the Canmore Museum and Geoscience Centre, or enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and biking. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Uttarkashi)
• Kananaskis Country: Located just 45 minutes west of Calgary, Kananaskis Country is a scenic region with numerous hiking trails, lakes, and mountains. Visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, and skiing in the winter, and hiking and biking in the summer.
• Drumheller: Located about an hour east of Calgary, Drumheller is a charming small town with a rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the Royal Tyrrell Museum, visit the Drumheller Valley, or take a guided tour of the town’s many attractions.
In this overview, we’ll explore each of these destinations in more detail, providing you with all the information you need to plan your next adventure near Calgary.
Places To Visit Near Calgary
Calgary, a vibrant city in the heart of Alberta, Canada, offers a wide range of exciting places to visit near its borders. From stunning natural wonders to charming towns and cities, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top places to visit near Calgary, including national parks, museums, and cultural attractions.
Outdoor Adventures
Calgary is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, with numerous parks and trails waiting to be explored. Here are some of the top outdoor destinations near Calgary:
- Banff National Park: Located just an hour and a half west of Calgary, Banff National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. With its stunning mountain scenery, glaciers, and abundant wildlife, Banff is a paradise for hikers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Kananaskis Country: This scenic region is just 45 minutes west of Calgary and offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, including hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
- Elbow Falls: Located in Kananaskis Country, Elbow Falls is a picturesque waterfall that’s perfect for a day trip or picnic.
Cultural Attractions
Calgary is also home to a rich cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and performance venues. Here are some of the top cultural attractions near Calgary:
- The Glenbow Museum: Located in downtown Calgary, the Glenbow Museum is one of the largest and most respected museums in Western Canada, with a collection of over 1 million objects.
- The Calgary Zoo: Home to over 1,000 animals from around the world, the Calgary Zoo is a fun and educational destination for families and animal lovers.
- The National Music Centre: Located in Calgary’s East Village, the National Music Centre is a state-of-the-art museum dedicated to the preservation and celebration of Canada’s music heritage.
Towns and Cities
There are also several charming towns and cities near Calgary that are worth visiting. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Canmore: Located just 20 minutes west of Calgary, Canmore is a picturesque town with a rich history and culture. Visit the Canmore Museum and Geoscience Centre to learn more about the area’s mining and geological heritage.
- Okotoks: This charming town is located just 20 minutes south of Calgary and is known for its historic downtown area and scenic parks.
- Cochrane: Located just 30 minutes northwest of Calgary, Cochrane is a growing town with a rich history and a strong sense of community.
Table: Top Places to Visit Near Calgary
| Destination | Distance from Calgary | Must-see attractions |
|---|---|---|
| Banff National Park | 1.5 hours | Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Johnston Canyon |
| Kananaskis Country | 45 minutes | Elbow Falls, Nakoda Lakes, Barrier Lake |
| Canmore | 20 minutes | Canmore Museum and Geoscience Centre, Ha Ling Peak |
Whether you’re interested in nature, culture, or history, there’s something for everyone near Calgary. So why not start planning your next adventure today? (See Also: Best Places To Visit Near Los Angeles)
As we conclude our journey through the best places to visit near Calgary, we hope you’ve been inspired to plan your next adventure. From the stunning natural beauty of Banff National Park to the rich history and culture of Drumheller, there’s something for everyone in this region.
In this article, we explored the top destinations to visit near Calgary, including the scenic towns of Canmore and Kananaskis, the majestic Rocky Mountains, and the charming city of Lethbridge. We also highlighted the unique attractions and activities that each place has to offer, from hiking and skiing to museums and festivals.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, the places to visit near Calgary have something for every interest and budget. So why wait? Start planning your trip today and discover the beauty and charm of this incredible region.
Recap:
Banff National Park: A must-visit destination for nature lovers, with its stunning mountains, glaciers, and wildlife.
Drumheller: A unique blend of history and culture, with its dinosaur fossils and cowboy culture.
Canmore: A charming town with a rich history, scenic trails, and a vibrant arts scene.
Kananaskis: A beautiful destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with its mountains, lakes, and forests.
Lethbridge: A charming city with a rich history, cultural attractions, and a vibrant downtown area.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this article and are ready to start planning your next adventure near Calgary. Happy travels!
Here are five FAQs related to “Places To Visit Near Calgary”: (See Also: Places To Visit Near Tumkur)
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular national parks near Calgary?
There are several national parks near Calgary that offer stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. Some popular options include Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, and Kananaskis Country. These parks offer hiking trails, lakes, mountains, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.
What are some must-visit attractions in Calgary itself?
Calgary has a rich history and culture, and there are many attractions to explore within the city. Some must-visit attractions include the Calgary Tower, the Glenbow Museum, and the Calgary Zoo. You can also take a stroll through Prince’s Island Park or visit the historic Inglewood neighborhood.
Are there any scenic drives near Calgary?
Yes, there are several scenic drives near Calgary that offer breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and surrounding countryside. The Icefields Parkway, which connects Banff and Jasper national parks, is a popular option. You can also take the Trans-Canada Highway west to the town of Lake Louise, or drive south to the town of High River.
Can I go skiing or snowboarding near Calgary?
Yes, there are several world-class ski resorts near Calgary that offer skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Some popular options include Lake Louise Ski Resort, Nakiska Ski Resort, and Sunshine Village. These resorts offer a range of trails for all skill levels, from beginner to expert.
Are there any family-friendly activities near Calgary?
Yes, there are many family-friendly activities near Calgary that are suitable for all ages. Some popular options include visiting the Calgary Zoo, taking a trip to the Heritage Park Historical Village, or exploring the many playgrounds and parks in the city. You can also take a scenic drive to the town of Bragg Creek, which offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a playground.