This western Canadian city is one like many others. Big buildings, traffic, people. There are however a few things that set Calgary apart.
It sits within viewing distance of the Rocky Mountains. A short drive along the Trans Canada Highway leads you right to the mountains, for hiking, skiing or sight-seeing. You will pass through the towns of
Canmore,
Banff,Banff National Park and farther along,
Lake Louise, with a couple of the bluest lakes ever. And in my opinion, the best ski hill in Alberta. Check out
www.visitcalgary.com.
Growing up in small cowtown (its nickname), Calgary has been a huge hub for oil and gas interests. But to keep its small town western feel, every year, 'The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth' - The Calgary Stampede takes place in July, summer in the north. Started over 100 years ago by 4 men, it endures to this day.
For 10 days novice cowboys and cowgirls don their western duds, dance up a storm and have a great time.
Yee hawww!
The rodeo brings bull riders, bare back riders, barrel racers and the like here for non-stop action to see who can win the big prize at the end of it all. The exciting and tension filled Chuck Wagon Races end the day followed by the Grand Stand Show should you get tickets. You can check out everything Stampede at
www.calgarystampede.com.
The Calgary Zoo has been around for decades, changing itself numerous times over the years to keep up with its strong conservation efforts. The zoo is partnered with Ghana and other parts of Africa to protect species that we would hate to see vanish from the earth. On beautiful grounds at the edge of the downtown core, it boasts animals from all over the world, including the Antarctic, South America, Australia and yes, even Canada. Go to
www.calgaryzoo.org to see more.
Heritage Park is a western heritage museum/town where old buildings and remnants of days gone by can be seen in their natural habitat. Visit
www.heritagepark.ca.
People in Calgary have to live by the seasons, so there are indoor facilities for sports, as well as outdoors. They, like Australians and Americans are into fitness, nature and having a good time. There are no shortages of good restaurants and entertainment venues. Go to
www.visitcalgary.com.
You can fly into Calgary from a number of points and go from there. There is so much to see from here, start your trip to Canada.
