Are you visiting Calgary? Or do you live here and are you looking for something to do? Whether you have kids to entertain, your parents are visiting, you’re looking to spend some quality time with your significant other, or you’re just looking to find some good times solo, here are some of the best things to do in Calgary this spring.

With the Kiddos

If you find yourself with bored kids or a group of playmates with more energy than your home can contain, then it’s time to bring them out to do something fun. TELUS Spark has hands on exhibits for children of all ages to help them develop a curiosity about science. Learn about Indigenous knowledge and discover holistic methods of discovery that link science with the land. Spark also hosts birthday parties and sleepovers.

Take a walk on the wild side at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo. Enjoy the wildlife, learn about conservation and coexistence, and enjoy a sunny walk along the beautiful zoo grounds. There’s something for everyone with great dining, events, education, and even fun adult-only nights, in case you need a break from those kiddos.

Visit Sam Centre and live the excitement of the Calgary Stampede all year long. The interactive exhibits are perfect for kids of all ages, and kids-at-heart will have a great time as well. The tactile exhibits invite guests to actually feel various elements of Stampede, and the interactive displays allow everyone to create characters for the parade, put yourself into a Stampede poster, or just generally get swept away by the cowboy spirit.

With Your Parents

Are your parents in town? Do you need a way to entertain your in-laws? Take it easy with great ways to explore and fun evening entertainment. Visit the CORE Shopping Centre and shop ‘til you drop. This massive downtown shopping complex spans three city blocks, featuring four levels of retail, restaurants, and services all beneath North America's largest skylight. Within the CORE, the Devonian Gardens make for a great place to enjoy lunch surrounded by an indoor oasis.

Take in a show at Arts Commons. This unique facility supports the arts in all expressions, from theatre to music to dance to visual arts and beyond. Take in professional theatre from Alberta Theatre Projects, Theatre Calgary, One Yellow Rabbit, or Downstage Theatre. Enjoy world class music from the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra or learn something new with Arts Commons Presents. Laugh the night away with a comedy show, marvel at professional dance, listen to the music, or just enjoy a creative night out. There is so much going on at Arts Commons, there’s bound to be something that catches your interest.

Visit Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre, and discover the history of music in Canada in one of most unique experiences the city has to offer. From the building that’s designed like an instrument to the Canadian music Halls of Fame to the changing exhibits and the live shows, there is always something entertaining happening at Studio Bell. Get lost in the rhythm of the music and spend the whole day in this museum, recording studio, and performance space.

With Your “Plus One”

Are you looking to spend some quality time with your best friend? Or maybe you want some one-on-one time with your significant other? Calgary has options for dynamic duos of all kinds, and there are fun ways to explore this city together. Check out Spark After Dark or special events at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo that are adults-only. These events are designed to spark creativity, get involved, and generally have a good time. They’re perfect for date nights or get togethers. 

Enjoy a lovely meal with creative cocktails at Hawthorn or Smuggler’s. Discover cocktail culture at Proof or take in some evening-entertainment at Twisted Element or the Ironwood Stage. If you’re looking to taste something new, sample some home-grown distilled liquors at Bridgeland Distillery or sample craft beer at Bottlescrew Bills, Calgary’s craft beer bar.

Maybe you and your plus-one need a break from the city. Take a road trip to Drumheller for out-of-this-world scenery, hoodoos, dinosaurs, ghost towns, and more. This short drive takes you to a completely different landscape, and the charming small-town is a change from the bustling city. If outdoor adventure is your schtick, travel an hour west to Banff and lose yourself in Canada’s first national park. Find the best places without the traffic with Banff Day Trips. With trips leaving right from the city, you can experience the best of Banff without the fuss and muss of planing travel time. You can spend less time driving and more time gawking at the amazing views.

On Your Own

No waiting for others, no cancelled plans, no disappointments—sometimes all you need for a successful day out is some time to fly solo. You can do anything mentioned in this article alone and have a fantastic time. For some other sweet solo options, check out some hand-crafted workshops in the city. Stash has classes in cross stitch, knitting, crocheting, loom weaving, and more. Whether you're an absolute beginner or a clever crafter,  a workshop at Stash will bring your skills to the next level. Moonstone Creation shares traditional knowledge through Indigenous art making classes. Learn how to create traditional beadwork, fish scale art, a dream catcher, ceremonial drums, and so much more. There are in-person and online classes, so you can choose what works best for your
learning style.

Sometimes taking yourself out for a coffee date is the best way to relax, unwind, and treat yourself to something fun. Rosso Coffee is a Calgary favourite, and their award-winning, locally roasted beans are sourced from direct relationships with ethical farmers. MIK Coffee & Shop is a Korean coffeehouse with specialty drinks, hand crafted desserts, and gorgeous art. Their creations almost look too good to eat! Lil E Coffee Café serves great drinks with award-winning Rosso coffee while employing and supporting people with disabilities. Stop by for a fantastic drink with a side of social change.

If a solo night on the town is your style, then visit the AGLC’s Best Bar None website and see who is serving up good times with a side of safety. All establishments in this program uphold strict safety standards, have professionally trained staff, are community focused, and strive to provide a quality experience. Some award-winning bars in this program include Blanco Cantina, Commonwealth Bar, and Home & Away.

Taylor Jaine