If you’re planning a trip and searching for the best things to do in Calgary, get ready for a blend of modern city life, riverside parks, mountain views, world-class attractions, and vibrant seasonal events. Whether you’re visiting in November 2025 or planning a trip in the coming years, Calgary offers a mix of classic sights and constantly updated events that keep the city exciting year-round.
Below is your complete, fact-based guide to help you build the perfect Calgary itinerary—covering top attractions, family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, cultural events, and seasonal happenings for November 2025 and beyond.
Top Things to Do in Calgary for First-Time Visitors
1. Take in the Views From the Calgary Tower
A classic starting point, the Calgary Tower rises 191 meters above downtown. The observation deck offers stunning 360° views of the skyline and the Rocky Mountains. You can even stand on a glass floor that gives a thrilling straight-down view of the streets below.
2. Explore Prince’s Island Park & the Bow River Pathways
Located on an island in the Bow River, Prince’s Island Park is one of the city’s most loved green spaces. It’s perfect for walking, cycling, picnics, and photography, and hosts major events like the Calgary Folk Music Festival. Scenic pathways along the river make it ideal for outdoor lovers.
3. Walk Across the Peace Bridge
Designed by architect Santiago Calatrava, the bright red Peace Bridge is one of the city’s most photographed landmarks. Whether you’re biking or strolling, it’s a beautiful spot to enjoy Calgary’s skyline and river views.
4. Visit the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo
Home to more than 1,000 animals, the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is one of Canada’s most respected conservation-focused zoos. Highlights include Penguin Plunge, Destination Africa, and the Canadian Wilds.
5. Step Into the Past at Heritage Park Historical Village
Covering 127 acres, Heritage Park is Canada’s largest living history museum. Explore a recreated village, ride a steam train, walk through early Western settlements, and visit the Gasoline Alley Museum with vintage vehicles.
6. Experience Hands-On Fun at TELUS Spark Science Centre
This modern, interactive science center features STEAM exhibits, live demonstrations, and the Infinity Dome theatre. It’s perfect for families, rainy days, or anyone who loves immersive learning.
Image Source: Arch Daily
Seasonal Things to Do in Calgary (November 2025 & Beyond)
To help you plan your 2025 travels, here’s a curated list of attractions, activities, and special events happening in Calgary in November 2025 and recurring annually.
Top Calgary Attractions (Open Year-Round)
Calgary Tower
Rating: 4.5 (10.2K reviews)
Address: 101 9 Ave SW
One of the highest observation decks in Calgary, offering incredible views of downtown and the Rockies. Ideal for sightseeing and dining.
Heritage Park
Rating: 4.7 (7.9K reviews)
Address: 1900 Heritage Dr SW
Step inside the history of Western Canada with a steam train, pioneer homes, and a beautifully restored heritage village.
Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo
Rating: 4.6 (22K reviews)
Address: 210 St. George’s Drive NE
Canada’s second-largest zoo, with over 1,000 animals from around the world.
TELUS Spark Science Centre
Rating: 4.2 (7K reviews)
Address: 220 St Georges Dr NE
Explore hands-on exhibits, science shows, and the immersive Infinity Dome theatre.
Peace Bridge
Rating: 4.6 (6.6K reviews)
Location: Sunnyside
A modern pedestrian and cycling bridge known for its striking red architectural design.
Image Source: City of Calgary Newsroom
Family-Friendly Activities in November 2025
Calaway Park
Western Canada’s largest outdoor amusement park with 32+ rides and entertainment options (seasonal hours vary).
Flying Squirrel North Calgary
An energetic trampoline park with foam pits, dodgeball, aerial silks, and obstacle courses.
Hide N Seek Indoor Playground
A popular indoor play area offering slides, climbing zones, and toddler-friendly sections.
Kids Pasta Class at Lina’s
A fun hands-on cooking experience where parents and children create colorful pasta together.
Date: November 23, 2025
Price: $35 CAD
“The 3 Mooseketeers” at Loose Moose Theatre
A family-friendly show for ages 4–10.
Dates: November 23, 2025
Tickets: Starting at $17 CAD
Outdoor Adventures & Recreation
Canada Olympic Park / Winsport Canada
A legacy of the 1988 Winter Olympics, offering skiing, snowboarding, tubing, mountain biking, and bobsled experiences depending on the season.
Downhill Karting at Skyline Luge Calgary
A thrilling luge-style downhill karting track where you control your speed.
Bow River Pathways
Enjoy one of North America’s largest urban pathway systems along the Bow River for walking, cycling, and sightseeing.
Image Source: Tripadvisor
Stocking Stuffer Holiday Walk/Run (Bowness Park)
A festive 1K/5K/10K event perfect for families.
Date: November 30, 2025
Bow Habitat Station – Guided Fish Feeding
A unique experience where visitors can feed trout and learn about Alberta’s aquatic ecosystems.
Arts, Culture, Festivals & Special Events (November 2025)
Spruce Meadows International Christmas Market
One of Calgary’s largest holiday markets.
Dates: November 14–30, 2025
ZOOLIGHTS at the Calgary Zoo
A magical winter festival with millions of lights and themed displays.
Starts: November 14, 2025
CUFF.Docs Documentary Film Festival
An annual documentary film festival featuring compelling non-fiction films.
Dates: November 19–23, 2025
MJ (Touring) Musical
A tribute to Michael Jackson’s life and music at the Jubilee Auditorium.
Dates: November 21–23, 2025
Tickets: From $70 CAD
Contemporary Kids: “Eyes, Ears, Mouth and Nose” Workshop
A free fabric collage workshop at Contemporary Calgary.
Date: November 23, 2025
Ages: 5–12
Hindu Heritage Month — Calgary Public Library
Family-friendly cultural activities celebrating Hindu traditions.
Date: November 22, 2025
Martin Kerr Live at Studio Bell
A performance by the Canadian folk artist.
Date: November 21, 2025
“Farmer Fizz: A Sparkling Wine Festival”
Perfect for sparkling wine enthusiasts.
Date: November 22, 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many days do you need in Calgary?
Two to three full days are enough to explore the major attractions, parks, and food spots. Add extra days if you’re visiting for festivals or planning day trips to Banff or Kananaskis.
2. Is Calgary a good base for exploring the Rockies?
Yes—Calgary is about 90 minutes from Banff, making it a convenient starting point for mountain adventures while still offering plenty of urban attractions.
3. Do I need a car in Calgary?
Not necessarily. Downtown is walkable and the C-Train covers most major spots. However, a car (or guided tour) is recommended for mountain trips.
4. What’s the best time to visit Calgary?
Summer (June–August) is ideal for outdoor activities and festivals. November–December is perfect for holiday markets, ZOOLIGHTS, and winter activities.
Conclusion: Building Your Personalized List of Things to Do in Calgary
When you start exploring the best things to do in Calgary, you’ll find a city that effortlessly mixes nature, culture, history, and year-round events. Whether you’re here for iconic attractions like the Calgary Tower and Heritage Park, outdoor adventures along the Bow River, or special November 2025 happenings like ZOOLIGHTS and the Spruce Meadows Christmas Market, Calgary offers something unique every season.
Use this guide to plan your perfect 2025 visit—and experience Calgary the way locals do: outdoors, curious, and always discovering something new.