Calgary
Alberta
Description: Originally, the area of the present city was home to the Blackfoot. Then in 1883, the Canada Pacific Railway founded a place that is now the largest city in the province of Alberta and the fourth largest in Canada. Calgary is located on the prairies, but only 80km west of the Rocky Mountains. This location makes it a good starting point for explorations in the adjacent national park.
Our rating: We perceived Calgary as a pleasant, chilled out city. We have been there in 1998 and 2002 and can recommend a visit.
Downtown Calgary
Description: Downtown Calgary is basically similar to many major North American cities, as there are numerous skyscrapers that are mostly occupied by offices and stores. One of the most prominent buildings is the 190m high Calgary Tower which serves as an observation tower. The ride up to the observation deck costs 18CAD/person.
For the GPS: 101 9 Ave SW, Calgary, (Calgary Tower)
One of the most famous events takes place every year in July. Calgary hosts the world's largest rodeo, the Calgary Stampede. There is not only the actual rodeo, but also numerous other activities such as parades and a huge fair surrounding it.
Our rating: The visit to Calgary and especially the Calgary Stampede was a lot of fun for us. Even though such huge crowds are not really our cup of tea, we can highly recommend a visit to the rodeo.
Olympic Park Calgary
Description: In 1988, Calgary was the first Canadian city to host the Winter Olympics. Many of the sports facilities from that time have been preserved and are still used for training purposes. The Olympic Park Calgary also includes a large visitor center where you can learn everything worth knowing about the major event.
For the GPS: Canada Olympic Rd SW Calgary AB T3B, Canada Olympic Rd SW, Calgary
Our rating: We visited the Olympic Park in 1998 and found it exciting to stand at the place where sporting top performances were once accomplished. For sports fans, this is certainly a nice stop on a trip. We can recommend a visit.
