Calgary: Pro Sports, Hotels, the Stampede and Recreation in the Canadian Rockies

Located in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies where the plains meet the mountains, Calgary is Alberta’s largest city and gateway to the scenic alpine wonders of its mountains, not to mention the boundless recreational opportunities there.

Located on the Trans Canada Highway, Calgary is just 129 kilometers east of Banff, making it just a few hours away by car from the heart of the Canadian Rockies. During the spring, summer and autumn months The Rocky Mountaineer train also connects downtown Calgary to Vancouver via Banff. Served by Canada’s fourth-largest airport, Calgary International, Calgary is the perfect place for your Canadian Rockies vacation or holiday to begin or end.

But Calgary is an excellent vacation destination in its own right. Home to the 1988 Winter Olympic Games, Calgary is more than just a gateway to mountains and winter sports. With an eclectic downtown mix of restaurants, bars, and clubs – not to mention professional hockey and football – and an assortment of hotels and other accommodations, there is plenty to see and do in this Canadian city of 1 million.

While Calgary is a modern city, it hasn’t forgotten its Western roots. It is home to the greatest outdoor show on earth, the Calgary Stampede, held at the beginning of every July. Events include the Rodeo, Chuckwagon Races, and Grandstand Show among others. If you want to attend the Stampede, however, book early, because the city fills up quickly around that time, and rooms are scarce.

Calgary Area Map

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Calgary Monthly Average Weather