There are tons of neat experiences near Calgary waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a full-on adventure, there’s something for everyone to check out.
From historic sites to fascinating cultural landmarks, we’ve rounded up seven unique experiences near Calgary to check out this spring.
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump
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Located about two hours south of Calgary, Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can walk through one of the most significant buffalo hunting grounds in North America. It was even recently mentioned in the popular TV show The Pitt.
Bar U Ranch National Historic Site
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Opening for the season this May, the Bar U Ranch National Historic Site is located an hour southwest of Calgary and lets visitors step into one of Canada’s most iconic ranches, where you can explore historic buildings and learn about early ranching life.
Frank Slide Interpretive Centre
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If you’re up for a little bit of an adventure, Frank Slide Interpretive Centre is located in the Crowsnest Pass and tells the story of one of Canada’s deadliest rockslides. Visitors can walk through exhibits inside the centre and then step outside to see the massive boulder field that still covers part of the original townsite.
Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park
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Located about 45 minutes northwest of Calgary, Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park offers sweeping Bow River valley views, a bunch of wildlife, historic ranchland, and easy walking paths. It’s perfect for a quick getaway out of the city.
Okotoks Erratic
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If you’re looking for a massive piece of natural history not too far from the city, the Okotoks Erratic, also known as Big Rock, is a huge glacial boulder that was dropped in the foothills thousands of years ago. It’s one of the largest erratics in the world, making it a fascinating stop just outside Calgary.
Royal Tyrell Museum
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Located in Drumheller, the Royal Tyrell Museum is a world-renowned dinosaur museum featuring one of the world’s largest displays of dinosaurs with over 130,000 fossils. While you’re visiting the museum, you can also take some time to explore the Alberta badlands.
Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park
Found about an hour and a half east of Calgary, Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park is a major cultural and interpretive site on the Siksika Nation reserve that explores Blackfoot history and the deep Indigenous roots of the region. Visitors can explore the museum space, learn through exhibits, and take in some sweeping prairie views.