The spirit of the West meets modern style and hospitality in Calgary and Edmonton, the two largest cities in Alberta, Canada. Here, prairie skies stretch above mountain peaks, and each destination offers a blend of art, history, and natural beauty. And yes, Alberta beef is just as tender and delicious as you’ve heard.
Whether you begin or end your Rocky Mountaineer adventure in Calgary or Edmonton, both cities serve as easy gateways to the Canadian Rockies as they both have international airports: Calgary (YYC) and Edmonton (YEG). If your journey includes Banff or Lake Louise, Calgary is the closest major city, just a 90-minute drive away. If you’re heading to or from Jasper, Edmonton is your best connection, located three to four hours from Jasper National Park. Learn more about getting to our destinations.
We’ve selected a range of enriching activities and sights in Calgary and Edmonton to enhance your journey. All are centrally located and easy to explore, even with limited time.
Things to Do in Calgary
Looking for sweeping views of the Canadian Rockies with a side of laid-back cowboy charm? Stop in Calgary. It’s the closest major city to Banff and Lake Louise, and a wonderful place to spend a day or two before or after your journey onboard Rocky Mountaineer.
Photo credit: Heritage Park Historical Village
Heritage Park Historical Village
Heritage Park is one of Calgary’s most beloved attractions. This immersive outdoor history museum has costumed interpreters, old-fashioned food options, and historical buildings that bring Western Canada’s history to life.
There’s so much to do and explore that you could easily spend a day here. Ride a restored steam train, cruise the Glenmore Reservoir aboard the S.S. Moyie, or admire the impressive collection of vintage automobiles at Gasoline Alley Museum.
Please note: Heritage Park is a seasonal attraction that’s open from mid-May through early September, but Gasoline Alley Museum is open year-round. We recommend purchasing your tickets in advance, especially during the summer. Click here to book a ticket for Heritage Park through our partner link.
Where to eat nearby
There are plenty of dining options in Heritage Park, but we can help you narrow it down. Enjoy a casual sit-down lunch of Canadian comfort food at The Selkirk, or grab something quick from Club Café or Railway Café.
Photo credit: Justin Hu
Calgary Tower
The Calgary Tower is the city’s most iconic landmark. From the observation deck, you can see a 360-degree view of downtown, the prairie, and (on a clear day) the snow-dusted peaks of the Canadian Rockies. Feeling brave? Walk across the glass floor and linger as you look out.
Where to eat nearby
If you’ve never been to a revolving restaurant, Sky 360 will make a great first impression. Take in the entire skyline as you enjoy an elegant lunch or early dinner.
Note: Reservations are required for complimentary access to the restaurant, so book ahead if you are not planning on going to the tower.
Photo credit: Corey Myke
Peace Bridge and Bow River Pathway
The Peace Bridge is a funky red pedestrian bridge that spans the Bow River northwest of downtown. If you’re an architecture lover or a photographer, you’ll want to see it—it’s one of Calgary’s most photographed landmarks.
The Bow River flows all the way from the Rocky Mountains near Banff, bringing a little mountain magic right into the heart of the city. Make the most of the surrounding Bow River Pathway and go for a leisurely riverside walk, stopping to sit on a bench or appreciate the art installations.
Where to eat nearby
Stop at Alforno Bakery & Café, just a short walk from the bridge. Their pastries, sandwiches, and specialty coffees make for an ideal light lunch or midday treat.
Events and Festivals in Calgary
Get inspired by Calgary's western hospitality and pioneering spirit.
Calgary Stampede
If your travels align with early July, consider experiencing the Calgary Stampede. The Stampede is an outdoor event that blends rodeo excitement, music, food, and Western heritage into a ten-day celebration. Aside from the rodeo events, there are cultural exhibits (like the First Nations Village), artisan markets, musical performances, and agricultural showcases.
If you get the opportunity, don a cowboy hat and experience what the “greatest outdoor show on earth” has to offer. We recommend buying tickets for paid events in advance, especially the concerts, as they can sell out quickly.
Calgary Folk Music Festival
Prince’s Island Park transforms into a musical haven during the Calgary Folk Music Festival. Set against the backdrop of the Bow River, this four-day celebration in July invites you to relax, settle into a comfortable spot on the grassy lawns with your travel companion and let the music wash over you. Between performances, wander through the artisan market and grab a drink or bite from one of the local food vendors dotting the festival grounds.
Things to Do In Edmonton
If you’re wrapping up your journey in Jasper or just beginning it, nearby Edmonton offers plenty of activities and soft adventures to fill a day or two. Known for its river valley, thriving arts scene, and friendly atmosphere, Edmonton blends a smaller city's charm with the cultural perks of a capital.
Photo credit: Courtney @courtneywithcamera
Muttart Conservatory
You can’t miss Muttart Conservatory: the four striking glass pyramids look like they’re rising from the riverbank just east of downtown. Inside, you’ll find thousands of plant species from around the world, arranged by climate zone. This peaceful, temperature-controlled conservatory is home to one of Canada's largest indoor plant collections and many art installations. It’s a low-key outing that’s ideal if it happens to be raining while you visit.
Where to eat nearby
If you want somewhere top-notch and convenient, head to Café Bloom inside the Muttart Conservatory. They even have private dome seating available on the patio.
If you don’t mind taking a quick cab ride (under ten minutes), more options await across the river. For a time-honoured and classic choice, try Bistro Praha for a taste of authentic Czech cuisine. Never tried Indigenous cuisine before? Head to Bernadette’s for natural wine and seasonal, traditional dishes.
Photo credit: Steven Fortier
Art Gallery of Alberta
Art and architecture lovers will both love the Art Gallery of Alberta. Located downtown, the building is a swirl of glass and steel with a calming, light-filled interior. The exhibits showcase Canadian and international artists, and the size is just right for a relaxed half-day visit. The gallery is fully accessible and often features guided tours or talks.
Where to eat nearby
Bianco is an upscale Italian restaurant serving rustic food in a modern space. It’s only six minutes from the Art Gallery of Alberta on foot, and well worth the walk.
Photo credit: Travel Alberta / Cooper & O'Hara
Edmonton Streetcars
From May to October, step aboard a vintage streetcar for a short but scenic ride with Edmonton Streetcars. Operated by the Edmonton Radial Railway Society, these restored cars have volunteers aboard who share the line's history. It’s a relaxed way to learn about Edmonton’s past and take in views of the North Saskatchewan River as you travel from downtown to the character-filled Old Strathcona district.
We recommend the High Level Bridge Streetcar, which runs on historic CPR tracks—the same railway network Rocky Mountaineer travels on. It’s a fitting way to extend your rail journey and a great opportunity to see the city from a different perspective.
Where to eat nearby
For a sit-down hearty meal, hop off the streetcar and pop into MEAT, a relaxed spot serving slow-smoked Alberta brisket, ribs, and southern sides.
If you feel like exploring and seeing what strikes you, Old Strathcona Farmers Market is an indoor, year-round market with various foods and goods from local farmers and makers.
Photo credit: Darby P.
Edmonton River Valley Trails
Edmonton’s river valley is home to North America’s most extensive stretch of urban parkland, offering over 20 parks and scenic green spaces in the city's downtown.
Louise McKinney Waterfront Park and Gallagher Park (home to the Muttart Conservatory) are both centrally located and well-loved. For a quieter option, head to Hermitage Park, where you’ll find accessible, paved trails winding past duck ponds and forested pockets of calm.
If you’ve been on your feet all day and want to find a bench and enjoy the view, the Rowland Park Lookout and Government House Park offer some of the best sunset views in the city.
Events and Festivals in Edmonton
Also known as "Festival City", Edmonton celebrates a thriving arts and culture scene all year long.
Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival
Every August, Old Strathcona comes alive with the Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival. Stroll through this historic district where street performers entertain on every corner, sellers line the street for an outdoor market, and theatre productions unfold in venues throughout the neighborhood. This walkable festival invites you to go at your own pace and meet people as you move from venue to venue.
Edmonton Heritage Festival
Experience a world tour without leaving the city at the Edmonton Heritage Festival on August long weekend. Hawrelak Park transforms into a global village where you can sample authentic cuisines from over 100 countries and celebrate Edmonton's diverse heritage. Rest your feet and relax as you watch traditional music and dance performances.
Explore What Calgary and Edmonton Have to Offer
Whether you're beginning or ending your rail journey with Rocky Mountaineer, Calgary and Edmonton offer so many different ways to experience comfort, culture, and soft adventure. From rodeos to riverside walks, these city stays invite you to linger a little longer in the magic of the West.
Packages to Edmonton
Discover Edmonton's rich cultural scene and riverside beauty as part of your rail journey with Rocky Mountaineer.
Packages to Calgary
Begin or end your Rocky Mountaineer adventure in Calgary, where you get cowboy culture and all the comforts of a major city.
