Calgary, Alberta, is a wonderful city to spend time in, ranked in the top five of the most liveable cities in the world for 10 years in a row, and named the most liveable city in North America for two consecutive years by The Economist. Those who do not live right in the city but are close by in a suburb may still want or need to drive into Calgary, Alberta, from time to time. Perhaps someone works in Calgary or is thinking of taking a job there, or maybe they want to visit for one of the many events this city hosts.
Regardless of why people will drive into downtown Calgary, they'll want to know driving and commute times into the city from the different surrounding suburbs. The following information details how long it will take to get downtown from
Calgary is well-known for its abundance of outdoor recreation and winter sports, as well as its proximity to the spectacular Canadian Rockies. Located in the Western Canada province of Alberta, it's true that Calgary is close to numerous national parks (most notably, iconic Banff and Jasper), and winter sports are a big deal throughout the city. However, there are plenty of other activities to do in Calgary, and people don't even need to head out of town to enjoy most of them.
Calgary Stampede
Often called the "greatest outdoor show on Earth," the Calgary Stampede began as a small agricultural fair in 1886. Today, it's evolved into an annual 10-day rodeo–one of the largest in the world, in fact–and festival celebrating Calgary's "Old West" roots,
Driving on busy roads in Calgary — or anywhere else in the Alberta province — can be challenging if someone is not prepared for the traffic or doesn't know the major highways in the area and where they go. Ultimately, getting around effectively in Calgary requires a bit of advanced knowledge. The following information provides what people should know about Calgary's most-used roads, what people should expect when they're stuck in rush-hour traffic, and how they should handle inclement weather when driving throughout the city.
Get to Know Calgary's Major Roads
View Larger Map
Learning how to get around in Calgary isn't difficult, but it's important for drivers to know the major roads and where they lead.
Calgary continues to grow rapidly as the center of Canada's oil industry. While it is lovingly nicknamed Cowtown due to its deep-rooted western culture, Calgary is a top destination for numerous water activities. Residents and visitors alike are hanging up their cowboy boots and grabbing their water shoes. From surfing and canoeing to fishing, diving, and yoga on the water, there is a water activity that can suit everyone. Whether you want a calm day on the lake shore today and an adrenaline pumping adventure tomorrow, there's no shortage of things to do in Calgary.
Go River Surfing
Address: Outlier Surf Shop 756 Parkridge Dr SE, Calgary, AB T2J 5E9, Canada
Despite being over 1,000km from the Pacific Ocean, it is possible to river surf in
Whether you are planning a trip to Calgary, relocating to the area, or you are a new resident, there are many lakes in and around the city providing hours of fun and adventure. With an abundance of pristine lakes to choose from, each offers a refreshing respite in natural and man-made settings year-round. The following list of the best lakes in Calgary provides a sampling of what you can expect on your next outing.
Lake Minnewanka
Lake Minnewanka Amenities
Scuba diving
Lake Minnewanka Landing
Kayak and canoe rentals
Fishing
Banff National Park
Camping
Address: Banff National Park Visitor Center 224 Banff Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1B3, Canada
One of the most-visited destinations in the province of Alberta is Banff
There are numerous top-tier golf courses located throughout Canada. In fact, Canada is the third-largest golfing nation across the globe. Whether people are interested in a laid-back afternoon on the green or want to challenge themselves and improve their golf game, they'll find exactly what they're looking for at one of Calgary's premier golf courses. The following options are some of the best golf courses in and around the city.
Blue Devil Golf Club
The Blue Devil course was created by Browning Horrocks Golf Design, a company owned by well-known course designers Wade Horrocks and Gary Browning. The 18-hole course is situated on 200 acres of beautiful land just West of the Bow River. It features a number of water hazards and dramatic bunkers,
When you need a break from the city, heading to one of Calgary's great parks is a way to get some fresh air without venturing too far. The following choices are some of the best parks in Calgary, where to find them, and what to expect when you get there.
Nose Hill Park
Address: Nose Hill Park, 5620 14 St NW, Calgary, AB T3K 2P6, Canada
Nose Hill Park Amenities
Hiking trail
Off-leash areas for dogs
Wildlife observation opportunities
Native Rough Fescue grasslands
Botanical specimens, such as Trembling Aspen trees
Public washrooms
Nose Hill Park, also called Nose Hill Natural Environment Park, is located west of the Calgary International Airport and Northwest from the Calgary Zoo. It was created at the start of
With a population of 1,285,711 residents, Calgary is Alberta's largest city and the third-largest municipality in all of Canada. Calgary is recognized as both a leader in the Canadian oil and gas industry as well as one of the country's cultural capitals. The city is home to the country's second-highest concentration of corporate headquarters, trailing only Toronto.
The cost of living index for Calgary is 69.85, which is below Canada's average. As such, Calgary falls very much in line with the cost of living in other major Canadian metro areas, including Toronto and Vancouver. Calgary's cost of living—particularly housing—tends to fluctuate according to how well the economy is performing.
Housing prices in Calgary have continued to trend slightly
Calgary, Alberta is a city known for many things from its oil to the annual Calgary Stampede. With more than 1.6 million residents, Calgary is the fourth most populous city in all of Canada, and it's growing with every passing year. Calgary is a beautiful city with a booming economy and plenty to see and do, so it's no wonder so many people choose to move there. Cowtown, as it is sometimes known, is full of western culture that any John Wayne or Sam Elliott fan will be able to appreciate, and this is just one reason why Calgary is so different from any other city in Canada. If you're looking for a new place to call home, Calgary has everything anyone could ever want.
Whether you are a hardcore trailblazer, an avid runner, or would like to enjoy nature while getting some fresh air and exercise, there's a trail for everyone in Calgary. With an assortment of lengths, terrains, and scenery, these paths offer something for outdoor enthusiasts of all interests and skill levels. Nature lovers may want to bring binoculars and have their smartphones ready to capture memories of birds, wildlife, and the natural beauty of the region. Lace up your best walking or running shoes, grab a snack and water bottle, and get ready to hit the trails in Calgary.
Douglas Fir Trail
Address: Douglas Fir Trail, 175 Bow River Pathway, Calgary, AB T3C 3A6, Canada
Part of Edworthy Park, this 5.8-kilometre trail follows a very steep and
