52 Free Things To Do in Calgary

For the first Thursday of every month it's free to visit Contemporary Calgary. Can't wait for next month? It's only $10 entry. 

The National Music Centre (Studio Bell) has discounts for students, seniors, and youth. Children under 3 are free.  However, if the price is still too steep, they also offer a pay-what-you-can option to anyone regardless of their financial situation with no questions asked. 

There are a number of free admission trivia nights that occur on an ongoing basis. Check my website calendar for upcoming dates.

The city of Calgary offers free cemetery tours (with registration) during the warmer weather months. These are usually on Sunday afternoons and can be found on my website calendar. (These almost always book up because they are small tours.)

Not only do you get cool views from High Park, it's also super instagrammable with "sets" designed for photographing. Plus a great place for an urban picnic.

If you haven't yet been to the "Bow Head" you should definitely stop by.  While this isn't public art (it was privately commissioned) it's still open to the public to see at anytime of day (just don't climb on it because building security will stop you).

Market Wines regularly offers low budget tasting events ($12-$15 to try 3 wines). See what fun theme they have coming up on eventbrite.

Summer in Calgary means a number of fun outdoor night markets to choose from.  When the temperatures drop these move indoors and may require small entry payments.  See my website calendar for upcoming night markets.

What's better than a yoga class? A FREE yoga class. These are obviously only in the summer months. See my website calendar for upcoming sessions (usually held on weekends).

This stunning piece of architecture is completely free to visit! (Just make sure you're quiet, it is a library after all.) You can also book a tour.

An oldie but a goodie. The Devonian Gardens (indoors) are a downtown staple. They are open to the public during The Core mall hours.

It's free to visit the Esker Art museum year round.  It's a small gallery in Inglewood that regularly updates their exhibits.

The nice people of Walk-the-YYC offer free walking tours in Inglewood and downtown. They are free but it's suggested you tip your guide.

Over 270 species of birds have been spotted at Inglewood Bird Sancturary. It's completely free to visit. (Note that bikes and dogs aren't permitted.)

St. Patrick's Island is a cool park detached from downtown Calgary by river. Nice views and pathways and a great place for a picnic or grab an ice cream cone nearby and go for a walk.

In recent years the City of Calgary has focused on adding a number of murals to the downtown area. You can find info on the murals on yycbump.ca and I found this blog helpful as well. 

The Reader Rock Garden is a historical site and is filled with various flowers and unique plants. It is a free-to-visit public park (no dogs permitted though).

Stephen avenue is a well-photographed area of Calgary.  It's an avenue filled with bars, restaurants and shopping. 

Olympic Plaza is a neat area downtown. In the winter you can skate and in the summer it has a little water park. It was built for the '88 Olympics.

While Glenbow Museum is currently closed for renovations (it's gonna be big!). You can still visit temporary exhibits at the Edison. Admission is free!

Theatre Calgary puts on live Shakespeare plays each summer by the Bow River (hence the name). These are free to attend but they are very popular so I recommend you go early and set up your spot (blanket, snacks etc.). 

The Peace Bridge, is just a cool bridge. It's something Calgary is known for and a hot spot for tourists.  If you've never been, you should check it out!

Calgary's downtown skyscrapers are connected via a network of above ground "tunnels" or pathways between buildings.  They are called the "Plus 15's" because they are 15 feet above the street. They allow office workers to travel easily between buildings during the winter months. While the network is designed for the corporate world, anyone can use them.  You'll get an insider look into buildings, shopping, and lots of places to eat.  You can use a map to find your way or you can just wander and see what you find! Note that some paths will close after business hours.

It's free to visit Calgary's Farmer Market locations. Choose from CFM South or the newest location: CFM West. Or visit the Crossroads Market.

17th avenue is one of Calgary's biggest tourist attractions and its free to visit! There are lots of shops and restaurants along the way should you want to spend some money. Or grab an ice cream cone or slurpee and just enjoy the walk!

Calgary has a number of outdoor skating rinks you can visit for free. There are also 2 ice trails you can skate!

The Lougheed House is a historic site and was built in 1891. Get a tour of the building for donation of $8.50. I recommend visiting in the summer so you can also check out the gardens.

East Village created the winter Hygge Hut with the Danish concept of Hygge in mind.  This Scandinavian word is a mood focused on being cozy, content and well. Expect a firepit, soft lighting and seating to enjoy a hot drink. (Winter months only).

Each winter Winsport opens up their 8 lane tube park. A regular ticket is $27, but you can grab one for only $16 on Fridays. 

It's completely free to hit up one of Calgary's toboggan spots! Check out this list here to find a hill near you.

It's only $4 per hour per person to play board games at Hexegon cafe. Enjoy coffee, desserts, beer, wine or cocktails while you play!

Throughout the year Cineplex will offer $2.99 movies on Saturday mornings. Selection is limited (it's usually a couple family friendly options). Check here to see what's upcoming.

Go to the Saddledome for less! Tickets to a Hitmen game start at $16 (Calgary's Junior Hockey League).

From mid-June to the Fall you can visit several spray parks around the city.

Can't say I've visited, but this could be a good activity especially if you have kids. Find more info here.

Calgary has over 139 km of bike paths. You can see some ideas for paths from BikeBikeYYC or from the City of Calgary.

Bowness Boathouse offers affordable ways to float. Try a pedal boat, kayak or canoe ($20 for 30 min).

Wednesdays at Greta Bar it's all you can game for a flat rate of $20.

Go for a ride down The Bow River! Bring your own tube to go for free or rent one from Lazy Day Raft Rentals starting at $19.

Catch an outdoor movie in the park! Check 17thave.ca for the next free showing at Tomkins park. East Village also offers occasional free movie nights.  And Sunalta is known for it's free Movie in the Park.  Big Art Drive-in also shows outdoor movies and charges for entry by car.

See an Okotoks Dawgs game! Tickets starting at $10. Definitely worth the short drive out of Calgary.

Looking to take an arcade break after work? On Wednesdays after 5PM you're in luck! It's FREE play Pinball at Pinbar on 17th Ave SW. Check out games like Star Wars, KISS, Iron Maiden and Batman.

Make your way to Ranchman's on Macleod Trail every Thursday for complimentary line dancing lessons! It's a great spot to learn, laugh, and meet new friends, with a fresh theme to keep things exciting each week. 

Discover a world of literary excitement with Shelflife Books! Each month, they host a variety of engaging events including book launches, readings, lively discussions, open mic nights, and book club gatherings. The best part? Most of these events are free of charge!

Experience the thrill of one of Canada's national sports! Enjoy FREE curling on St. Patrick's Island all winter. Visit East Village's 31-acre St. Patrick's Island, a hidden gem with a new synthetic curling rink. Open daily, 8am – 6pm, starting Jan 27, 2024.  Find it at the east end of the island, near Confluence Plaza and Calgary Zoo parking. 

You'll have to wait for snow covered ground, but trust us the wait is worth it!  Bring out the cross country skis and have fun going around The Nordic Loop in East Village, it's a great way to embrace being outside in the heart of winter.

Explore history at The Confluence!  Originally built to tackle the U.S. whiskey trade and pave the way for the Canadian Pacific Railway, it's a must-visit. Not free, but a steal at about $7-12. Don't miss this historical gem!

You never know what you'll see and discover at The Alberta Craft Gallery;  considered the largest public gallery in Alberta dedicated to exhibiting, supporting, and promoting craft arts.  It's free to visit and lots of ever-changing programming and exhibits to discover.

Explore the Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre Museum: a gateway to Chinese history with life-sized terra-cotta soldiers, royal chariots, and vibrant arts. A must-visit for a glimpse into China's rich legacy in the heart of Calgary! Admission is free but also you can have a guided tour for $5 so you don't miss a thing! 

Did you know you can pre-book a fire pit at select city park locations?  Both weekend and weekday bookings are accepted and some locations are designated for alcohol consumption as well. Hot dogs and smore's anyone? Great activity for winter or summer!

This is well worth the price admission ($14.29) as The Hangar Flight Musuem has just gone through a major revamp and is great to explore!  Their collection includes crowd favourites such as the Avro Lancaster, Hawker Hurricane, DC-3, Twin Otter, Avro Anson, deHavilland Vampire, and more!

The views from the 7th floor of this downtown outdoor parkade are outstanding! Plus the parkade is welcoming to visitors who are there just for the sightseeing!  The top is even a designated photo  area.

Fun fact! Calgary has one of the longest pathway networks in the world!  The city maintains 1000 km of pathways that are open to explore throughout the city.  The hardest part is deciding where to get started! (I recommend Glenmore reservoir loop!)

Endorphin Exotics Car Rentals  (~$2,000 per day)

• Speed past all those losers in "regular" cars because you've got a luxury ride!  Remember, not only are you faster, you're sexier too. Choose from an exclusive selection of high-end vehicles, including Lamborghinis, Ferraris, and even a James Bond-style Aston Martin. Vroom vroom you beautiful thang!

The Plaza Theatre  ($300-$500)

• Be the director of your own life and your friends lives!  Who wouldn't be impressed to receive an invite to a private movie screening? The movie is whatever you want it to be (have you seen Richie Rich? A classic). Perfect for anniversaries, date nights, or extravagant nights out. Fill the theatre with 300 of your closest friends!  For an extra $45, they’ll even change the marquee for you! Honestly, this one's not a bad deal.

Espy/Holt Renfrew Personal Shopping Experience ($1,000+) 

• Ditch Zara and instead book an exclusive one-on-one personal shopping session at Holt Renfrew.  This is guaranteed to make you look less homeless, I mean, ummm "elevate your personal style." Spend your savings on top designer brands such as Eton, Prada, Gucci, and Tom Ford. Espy & other names I'm too poor to pronounce. 

The Ska Thermal Spa  ($2,500+ per person)

• Having money is stressful, so let's get rid of it at the spa.  Rest easy at SKA, Calgary’s premier urban thermal spa offering both hot and cold hydrotherapy. Get hot wet, then get cold wet, and then repeat.  If all your stress isn't gone after that, well seems like a YOU problem. 

Springbank Air Plane Ride  ($750 per ride)

• Driving is for peasants!  You can soar above the riffraff in your own private airplane ride. Behold breathtaking vistas of downtown Calgary, the majestic Banff National Park, or the picturesque foothills. Check out Springbank Air for an unforgettable aerial adventure, Don't forget to post an airplane selfie. No selfie = didn't happen.

The Fairmont Palliser's most luxury suite - The Wild Rose  ($2,963+ per night)

• Is this the most expensive sleep you've ever had? It's probably close. The historic Fairmont Palliser's most luxurious suite, "The Wild Rose," epitomizes opulence and elegance. This exquisite suite is only booked by the rich and famous. It features a spacious living area adorned with sophisticated furnishings, a lavish bedroom with plush bedding, and an expansive marble bathroom complete with a deep soaking tub and rainfall shower.  Maybe Beyoncé used that pillow? (probably not)

Take A Chef - A Personal Chef  ($300+ per person)

• Order pizza? Get real, you uncultured swine!  Have a personal chef prep a perfect meal for you and your guests. It's the at home restaurant experience that will leave your guests impressed and thinking "how the heck did he afford that?" (Stolen credit cards, that's how.)

Private whiskey or wine tastings: $2,850 (whiskey) $1,750 (wine)

• Treat your friends and fam, or I donno, maybe your office? To a super fancy whiskey tasting where each sip will be worth at least $10's of dollars. For those with a taste for the exquisite, nothing will compare to a curated, guided exploration of the world's finest wines and whiskies. Kensington Wines specializes in sourcing top-rated selections, offering you the opportunity to sample and delve into their intricacies with the expert guidance from their team. This is not regular drunk - it's fancy drunk!

Skydiving for 2 with video footage ($850)

• What is the point of having money if you don't spend it on crazy wild experiences?! Well this one is for thrill seekers! I'm personally too wimpy but if you want to jump from the sky and experience what plummeting towards the ground feels like - you can buy that! Just check out Sky Divers Extreme Calgary,  Jump from Alberta's only 0² equipped Skydive Rocket Ship and have it all filmed so you can share with your friends and family and most importantly the 'gram! 

Honorary Observer Experience for 2 at the Rogers Charity Classic: ($3,000)

• If you love golf, or just want to be seen doing fancy things alongside professional golfers, this is the experience for you. The Rogers Charity Classic tournament is a world-class event that brings golf's greatest legends to Calgary.  For the low price of "a lot of money" you can walk 18 holes alongside your golf heroes and enjoy lunch in the players’ dining area of the clubhouse etc. etc. (plus other stuff rich golf people do?)

Famous Vampire Facial ($1,200) 

• While I've never had a vampire facial, I've heard this is what celebrities are doing to stay suspiciously young.  And turns out you can get it right here in Calgary. Beacon Dermatology PRP facials allegedly harness the power of natural growth factors to rejuvenate and restore skin. This pricy treatment is said to brighten the complexion, enhance firmness, and improve texture, leaving you fully transformed into a vampire. Or at least your skin anyway.

Caviar Service ($179) 

• Eat like a Russian Prince (or someone fancy who eats lots of Caviar... idk I'm poor) at Pat & Betty's restaurant downtown. Get 30 grams of high quality caviar with Egg Yolk Gelèe, Crème Fraiche, Lemon, Chives, Shallots, Brioche, Sea Salt Potato Chips as fixings to go with it. Fish eggs never tasted so good.

The Royal Canadian Railway Excursion ($14,000+ per person)

• This unique train journey, spanning over five days and four nights, begins in Calgary and goes through British Columbia and comes back through Alberta ending in Calgary again. It includes views of Lake Louise, Kicking Horse, and Banff National Park. This exclusive tour is limited to 24 individuals at a time.

The Ultimate Farm Getaway at Thanksgiving Ranch  ($7,500+)

Why drive 3 hours deep into the mountains when you can take a helicopter right from The Calgary Airport? 

If you ever wanted to really get away and off the beaten path, but also have all the luxuries of home and not have to drive all the way to the mountains, then you have to look into Thanksgiving Ranch over in Pincher Creek and that helicopter ride is only 30 Minutes! 

This bespoke farm is a hidden gem amongst the luxury spots outside of Calgary and gives you 3,000 acres to explore!

You can charter a helicopter ($2,500 each way) from the Calgary Airport and land right on-site at The Ranch, where you are greeted by Brad Bustard (famous for Bustard’s Mustard, a family secret recipe that he bottles up and sells right on site).

You can book the entire lodge and have a rustic vacation, which can include a Horseback riding experience. I’d say it’s as close as you’ll get to a Yellowstone experience, with hiking, golfing, mountain biking, and a myriad of adventurous escapes.

Meals can be catered to your needs, there’s access to a heated indoor pool and Nordic Style sauna, and it's one way to relax away from it all.

Hot Air Balloon Ride with Sundance Balloons  ($325 Per Person)

• Explore the sky and experience Southern Alberta with a Sundance Balloons hot air balloon ride. With this scenic balloon ride, they give you a bird's-eye view of Calgary's breathtaking trails and provincial parks, as well as the Canadian Rockies. 

Kananaskis Nordic Spa massage and hydrotherapy ($289+)

• The Kananaskis Nordic Spa is your refuge from the cadence of the modern world. The surrounding alpine scenery provides a sense of calm while you immerse yourself in treatments. Phones are forbidden at this luxury spa so guests can truly detach from the world.

Clique Hotel Theme Room ($400+ per night)

• Who needs West Edmonton Mall when you can get your own theme room right here in Calgary?! (Well by the airport) Head to Clique Hotel for your choice of themed hotel room: Vinyl Rock n Roll, Cornerpocket/Pool, or Boudoir themed.