Calgary

Known as the big city with small-town charm, Calgary prides itself on being the innovative city of the west, while always honouring its cowboy roots.

The city is short-drive away from some of the most beautiful national parks in Canada—arguably the world. Head south, west or north and you’ll run into the Rocky Mountains, home to some of the most incredible mountain parks on earth. You can be in the Kananaskis in 45 minutes, Banff National Park in an hour, Kootenay National Park in 1.5 hours, Yoho is 2 hours, Waterton 2.5 hours and Jasper National Park in 3.5 hours. If you’re looking for the perfect home base to explore the mountains, Calgary is it with plenty of family-friendly parks, unrivalled walking and cycling paths. Plus, in the winter XC Skiing and skating keeps snow bunnies satisfied.

Calgary is truly a year-round destination, especially for those adventurous at heart. With world class skiing and snowboarding, Calgary turns into a winter paradise. Find WinSport Canada Olympic Park just on the city’s edge to experience an alpine trail and get ripping on freshly fallen powder. In the summer, travellers come from around the globe to experience some of the best urban hikes, alongside those more steeped in nature to catch a glimpse of the famed outline of the Rocky Mountains. Though, regardless of the time of year, you can always find a hiking trail open and ready to explore the great outdoors.

Every July, the city explodes with activity surrounding the popular Calgary Stampede, where the downtown core transforms into a wild west-inspired playground. But Calgary is always bustling thanks in part to its plush accommodations that make visitors feel at home, plentiful restaurants and beer halls (so you can après-ski on and off the resort), as well as endless options for adrenaline pumping adventure.

Calgary just may be the best kept secret of Canada, with endless options for food, drinks, shopping, camping and natural attractions. Plus, it's just plain fun. Visit Calgary, you won’t regret it.