Calgary tours

Things to do in Calgary

Calgary presents itself as a curious mix of cowboy boots and skyscrapers. The Rockies hover in the distance, almost like they're keeping an eye on the city. It's a place that seems to hum with a kind of energy, a nod to its Wild West roots while firmly planted in the now. With a local guide, you get to see beyond the surface. Inglewood is more than just a street—it's where history quietly whispers alongside the buzz of modern life. The private tours peel back the layers, revealing Calgary's character in neighborhoods like Kensington and the Beltline. Art and food dance together here in a way that's surprisingly harmonious. A food and wine tour lets you taste the city’s essence, whether it's through a perfectly cooked Alberta steak or the freshness of something straight from the farm. Your guide knows the nooks and crannies that aren't in the guidebooks, offering a glimpse into the heart of Calgary, where the spirit of adventure and a welcoming warmth seem to be waiting at every corner. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Calgary inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Taking a private walking tour in Calgary gives you the chance to explore the city's vibrant neighborhoods with a local guide, ensuring a more authentic experience. Consider these neighborhoods when planning your itinerary: - Downtown Calgary: A bustling area filled with skyscrapers and cultural hotspots, downtown is ideal for those interested in arts, shopping, and dining, offering something for everyone in the group. - Inglewood: Known as Calgary's oldest neighborhood, Inglewood is perfect for cultural tourists who enjoy historic sites, boutique shopping, and eclectic dining experiences. - Kensington: With its trendy shops and cafes, Kensington caters to a younger crowd and families looking for a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great place to enjoy local art and community events. Day trip ideas from Calgary From Calgary, you can reach mountains, badlands, and ranch country in a few hours, so day trips feel simple and the variety keeps your plans open for private tours built around your interests. Banff National Park: Peaks, turquoise rivers, and a lively town give you classic Rockies scenery, and your tour can lean active with short hikes or stay relaxed with scenic drives and easy walks to viewpoints. Canmore and Kananaskis: Close to the city, this area offers quieter trails, valley views, and wildlife chances, and you can mix an easy ridge walk with time in town for coffee and a bakery stop. Drumheller and the Badlands: Eroded canyons, hoodoos, and wide open views feel different from the mountains, and you can tailor the day around short walks, roadside lookouts, and fossil-rich landscapes. Yoho National Park: Emerald Lake, waterfalls, and the Natural Bridge show a deeper green side of the Rockies, and the route pairs well with a loop through Lake Louise for more views if you want a longer day. Cowboy Trail and Foothills towns: Rolling ranchland, small cafés, and views of the Front Range make an easy ramble south and west of the city, and you can add short river walks or scenic photo stops without rushing. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Calgary most travellers miss. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Calgary.