Top 20 Hidden Gems in Calgary

Are you tired of visiting the same old tourist hotspots on your vacations? Do you want to experience something off the beaten path? Look no further than Calgary, Canada.

Calgary is a city that offers a wide range of options for travellers, from natural beauty to cultural treasures, but it can be overwhelming to know where to start and what to see. Many travellers stick to the usual tourist hotspots, missing out on the city's unique experiences.

But don't worry; we've done the hard work for you. At Canadian Train Vacations, our team of Canadian insiders has scoured the city to find the best hidden gems of Calgary. We've covered you, from historic villages to natural parks, iconic landmarks to world-class museums. So, whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a fun time, our curated content has something for everyone. These 20 hidden places in Calgary will surely make your next trip unforgettable. 

1. Fish Creek Provincial Park

Fish Creek Provincial Park is a nature lover's paradise in the south of Calgary that offers plenty of hiking and biking trails and a variety of wildlife. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, hiking, trekking, or swimming in one of their favourite Calgary secret spots.

It can be reached by car or public transportation. The park is open year-round, and the best time to visit is during the spring and fall for the beautiful foliage. The average time spent at the park is 2-3 hours, but it can be extended if you want to do more activities like hiking.

2. Inglewood Bird Sanctuary and Nature Centre

Inglewood Bird Sanctuary and Nature Centre is a must-see for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. This sanctuary is located in the heart of the city and is home to over 200 species of birds and other wildlife. The sanctuary offers a variety of walking trails, educational programs, and bird-watching opportunities.

The sanctuary is free of charge, and the average time spent here is 1-2 hours. It is easily accessible by public transportation or by car. It is open year-round, and the best time to visit is June-August when the migratory birds stop by. 

3. Panorama Hills Coulee and Ponds

Panorama Hills Coulee and Ponds is one of the hidden places in Calgary that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban convenience. The coulee is a natural ravine that provides a haven for wildlife, and the ponds are a popular spot for fishing, bird watching, and nature walks. Visitors can also take in the stunning views of the city skyline from the top of the coulee.

The Panorama Hills Coulee and Ponds are located north of the city and can be easily reached by car or public transit. The park is free to see, and the average time spent here is 1-2 hours. The park is open year-round, and the best time to visit is spring and fall when the trees are most vibrant. 

4. Carburn Park

Carburn Park is a hidden gem in Calgary known for its stunning natural beauty and peaceful surroundings. Located along the Bow River, this park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and picnicking. To reach the park, take bus routes 19 or 46 from downtown Calgary. 

Carburn Park is a perfect destination for those seeking a tranquil escape from the city and is one of Calgary's secret spots for locals. The park is open year-round and is free to visit. Early mornings and evenings are the most peaceful. On average, visitors spend 1-2 hours exploring the park's trails and enjoying the scenery. 

5. Secret Heritage Trail

Explore Calgary's rich history and culture by walking along the Secret Heritage Trail. This hidden gem is a self-guided walking tour that takes visitors through the city's historic neighbourhoods and landmarks, highlighting the city's rich heritage and diverse communities. 

The Secret Heritage Trail is located in the central part of the city and can be easily accessed by foot or public transportation. The trail is open year-round and is free to access. The average time spent on the course is about an hour, depending on how much you want to explore.

6. Historic Restaurants

Take advantage of the opportunity to dig into a delicious part of Calgary's past and add a visit to one of the city's historic restaurants to your itinerary. These restaurants — located in 100+ year-old houses and buildings — transport you back in time while indulging your taste buds with local dishes and ingredients. Examples include Rouge, located in the house built in 1891 by the founder of the Calgary Stampede. Another option is Teatro, housed in the historic Dominion Bank Building built in 1911.

These restaurants are easily accessible by public transportation or car. They are open year-round, and lunch and dinner are the perfect time to visit. The average time spent over a meal is 1-3 hours.

7. The CORE Shopping Mall

Experience the ultimate shopping and entertainment at the CORE Shopping Mall, another hidden gem in the heart of Calgary. This state-of-the-art mall features a wide variety of shops, including high-end fashion, electronics, home decor, and more. Don't miss the secret garden on its top floor!

The CORE is located in the city's downtown area and can be easily accessed by car or public transportation. The shopping centre is open year-round, with extended hours during holidays and weekends. The average time spent at the mall is 2-3 hours.

8. Nose Hill Siksikaitsitapi Medicine Wheel

Nose Hill Siksikaitsitapi Medicine Wheel is one of the hidden gems in Calgary, located on the northern edge of town. The Medicine Wheel is a sacred site used by the siksikaitsitapi (Blackfoot) people for thousands of years for spiritual ceremonies and teachings. 

The Medicine Wheel is accessible by car and public transportation, with a parking lot and walking trails leading to the site. It is open year-round and is free to access. The best time to visit is during the day, and the average time spent at the site is 1-2 hours.

9. National Music Centre

The National Music Centre (NMC) is a cultural institution that celebrates and preserves the rich music history of Canada. It is home to a museum, performance space, and recording studio facility known as Studio Bell. Studio Bell features five state-of-the-art recording studios, a flexible performance space, and a recording studio residency program.

Make sure to add the NMC to your itinerary and immerse yourself in the music world. This hidden gem in Calgary is perfect for music lovers of all ages, offering a unique and interactive experience that will leave you humming a tune. 

The NMC is located downtown and easily accessible by public transportation or car. The Centre is open all week from 10 AM to 5 PM, except on holidays and weekends. The average time spent at the Centre is 2-3 hours.

10. Peace Bridge

Take a stroll across the iconic Peace Bridge, a hidden gem that connects the north and south sides of the Bow River in Calgary. This stunning architectural structure, designed by Santiago Calatrava, offers a unique pedestrian experience and beautiful views of the river and downtown skyline. 

The Peace Bridge is located in the downtown area and is easily accessible by public transportation or car. The bridge is open year-round; the best time to visit is when the sun shines. The average time spent on the bridge is around 30 minutes.

11. The New Central Library

Explore the New Central Library, one of Calgary’s hidden gems in the East Village of the town. This stunning building is much more than a library, and offers a oasis in the city — plus lots of photo ops.

The library boasts a collection of over 600,000 items, including books, e-books, audiobooks, magazines, and more. Additionally, it offers spaces for study, collaboration, and relaxation, as well as programs and events that engage the community and encourage lifelong learning.

The New Central Library is easily accessible by public transportation or car and is open year-round, with extended hours during holidays and weekends. The average time spent at the library is around 2-3 hours.

12. Udderly Art Pasture

Udderly Art Pasture is a hidden gem in Calgary, showcasing a unique blend of art, agriculture, and nature. This place is perfect for those looking to explore the city's rural areas, appreciate art outdoors, and learn about the farming industry. Enjoy the natural beauty of the site and discover the creativity of local and international artists.

Get there by car or bus, and visit during open hours, usually daily. No entrance fee is required. The best time to visit is in the daytime. Spend an hour or so exploring the artistic cow sculptures in the peaceful pasture setting—a must-visit for those searching for unique experiences in Calgary's secret spots.

13. Travelling Light

"Travelling Light", now known as The Blue Hoop, is a stunning public art installation in Calgary. This thought-provoking piece comprises glowing light bulbs suspended mid-air, creating a mesmerising effect. Located in the city centre, it is easily accessible via public transportation. 

"Travelling Light" is open 24/7, with no entrance fee. It's best to visit in the evening, when the lights are lit up, creating a magical atmosphere. The average time spent on this art piece is around 15 minutes. Please take advantage of this unique and captivating piece on your next visit to Calgary, one of its hidden gems.

14. Reader Rock Garden

The Reader Rock Garden is located in the central area of the city, and it is easily accessible by public transportation or car. The garden is open every day from 8 AM to 8 PM, with the best time to visit during the summer and spring when the flowers bloom. The average time spent in the garden is around 1-2 hours.

This garden is perfect for those looking to escape the city's hustle and bustle and enjoy nature's beauty. Visitors can explore the different areas of the park, from the rock garden to the water features, the flowerbeds, and the trees. It's an excellent place for nature lovers and those looking to relax and unwind.

15. Bowden Sun Maze

Make the trip to the Bowden Sun Maze, one of the hidden gems near Calgary. It's a unique and intriguing attraction in Bowden, Alberta. This maze comprises sunflower, corn, and tree mazes covering two acres of blooming flowers and vegetables. 

The maze is located in Bowden and can be reached by car. It is currently closed but will re-open mid-August. The average time spent at the maze is 1-2 hours, and the entry fee is about $11 for adults. This is a perfect place for outdoor adventure seekers and those interested in sundials; the Bowden Sun Maze is a must-visit hidden gem.

16. Griffith Woods Park

Explore the hidden gem of Griffith Woods Park, a natural oasis in the heart of Calgary. This beautiful park is a true nature lover's paradise, featuring various plants, flowers, and wildlife. The park is also known for its hiking trails, which provide an ideal atmosphere for visitors to enjoy the great outdoors.

Griffith Woods Park is located in the city's southwest area and is easily accessible by public transportation or car. The park is open year-round, with the best time to visit during the summer and spring when the trees bloom. The average time spent at the park is around 1-2 hours.

17. Elbow Falls

Discover the beauty of Elbow Falls, a hidden gem near Calgary, located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. This natural wonder is a must-see attraction for nature lovers, featuring a small set of waterfalls cascading over a series of rocks and boulders. Visitors can enjoy a picnic while taking in the views or explore the hiking trails that lead to the falls.

Elbow Falls can be reached by car and is only a short drive away from Calgary. The falls are open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer and fall when the water flow is at its highest. The average time spent at the falls is around 1-2 hours.

18. Tucked-Away Trails Downtown

There are so many trails in downtown Calgary that you'll be amazed. Veiled within the bustling city, you may enjoy these hidden gems in Calgary with a cup of coffee in hand. You can relax, sit, and sip your coffee and people-gaze at the historic James Short Park or check out the aptly-named High Park, located on top of a parking building and offering a fantastic view of the city.

Take the lift to the fourth floor of the CORE Shopping Centre and explore the Devonian Gardens for something off the beaten path. Or, stroll the city streets on a spur-of-the-moment public art tour — there are simply no wrong turns here.

19. Big Rock Brewery

Experience the Big Rock Brewery, a destination for craft beer enthusiasts and those looking for a unique and fun-filled day out. It is a microbrewery that offers various beers, from traditional ales and lagers to experimental brews. Visitors can tour the brewery, learn about the brewing process and sample some beers on tap.

Big Rock Brewery is easily accessible by car or public transportation and is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the summer and fall seasons. The brewery offers tours and tastings, which take place on specific days and times. The average time spent at the brewery is around 1-2 hours.

20. The Military Museums

The Military Museums in Calgary are a must-see for history buffs and military enthusiasts. This museum offers a comprehensive look at the history of the Canadian military, with exhibits covering everything from the First World War to modern-day peacekeeping operations. The museum's collection includes artefacts, weapons, uniforms, and other historical items, as well as interactive displays and educational programs.

The Military Museums is located southwest of Calgary and can be reached by bus or car. The museum is open seven days a week, and the admission fee is $10 for adults. The best time to visit the museum is during the weekdays, as weekends can get quite crowded. The average time spent at the museum is 2-3 hours.

Final Thoughts

Calgary is a city filled with hidden gems that cater to various interests. From the Military Museums to the Big Rock Brewery, the city offers something for everyone. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or a craft beer enthusiast, there's something in Calgary waiting to be discovered.

Explore these hidden gems and make your next trip to Calgary memorable.