Things to Do in YYC – Explore the Best of Calgary in 2025

Calgary, known by its airport code YYC, is a dynamic city where prairie meets mountain and urban energy blends with western charm. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or exploring your hometown like a tourist, there are endless things to do in YYC—from skyline views and festivals to breweries, markets, and hiking trails.

Here’s your ultimate guide to the top things to do in Calgary (YYC) in 2025.

Must-See Attractions in YYC

Calgary Tower

Enjoy 360° panoramic views of downtown Calgary and the Rocky Mountains.
Step onto the glass floor for a thrilling view straight down.
Dine at Sky 360, a revolving restaurant at the top.

Studio Bell – National Music Centre

Explore Canada’s music history in a five-storey interactive museum.
Play instruments, mix tracks, and see artifacts from icons like Rush and Oscar Peterson.

Heritage Park Historical Village

Canada’s largest living history museum.
Ride vintage trains, visit pioneer homes, and sail on the SS Moyie paddlewheeler.

Outdoor Things to Do in YYC

Prince’s Island Park

A downtown oasis for walking, picnicking, biking, and festival events.
Great for summer Shakespeare in the Park or winter walks by the frozen river.

Fish Creek Provincial Park

One of Canada’s largest urban parks, ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography.
Home to Sikome Lake for summer swimming.

St. Patrick’s Island

A beautifully redeveloped park near East Village.
Enjoy riverfront hammocks, a playground, and scenic walkways.

Best Local Experiences in Calgary

Calgary Farmers’ Market

Fresh local produce, gourmet food, and handcrafted goods.
Try local favourites like perogies, Alberta beef, or organic honey.

Stephen Avenue Walk

Historic pedestrian mall with shops, restaurants, and street performers.
Close to CORE Shopping Centre and downtown Calgary Tower.

Inglewood District

Calgary’s oldest neighbourhood with independent shops, vintage stores, and artisan cafés.
Don’t miss Recordland, one of the largest record stores in North America.

Best Food & Drink Spots in YYC

Eat at Top Calgary Restaurants

Model Milk (contemporary Canadian cuisine)
Ten Foot Henry (vegetable-forward dining)
Charcut (local meats and craft cocktails)

Visit YYC Breweries

Try local beer at Banded Peak, Annex Ale Project, or Tool Shed Brewing.
YYC’s craft beer scene is booming with brewery tours and patio hopping.

Coffee & Dessert in Kensington or Bridgeland

Trendy neighbourhoods for relaxing cafés and sweet spots like Made by Marcus (ice cream) or Lukes Drug Mart (coffee and culture).

Culture, Events & Nightlife in YYC

Calgary Stampede (July)

“The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth” featuring rodeo, concerts, midway rides, and a world-famous pancake breakfast tradition.

Arts Commons & Glenbow Museum

Catch live performances, theatre, and art exhibitions.
Glenbow is undergoing a major renovation—watch for its 2025 relaunch.

17th Avenue SW

Calgary’s go-to nightlife strip for bars, live music, patio drinks, and people-watching.

Active Adventures in and Around YYC

Biking the Bow River Pathway

Ride along more than 48 km of scenic river trails.
Connects downtown to parks, nature reserves, and the zoo.

Day Trip to the Canadian Rockies

Calgary is the gateway to Banff, Canmore, and Kananaskis—only 1–1.5 hours away.
Ideal for hiking, skiing, hot springs, and mountain views.

Best Time to Visit Calgary

Season	Highlights
Spring	Chinooks, blooming parks, early hiking trails
Summer	Festivals, patios, outdoor adventures
Autumn	Fall colours, cozy cafés, off-season deals
Winter	Skating rinks, snow festivals, proximity to ski hills

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Secondary Keywords: Calgary attractions, best places in Calgary, top things in Calgary, YYC tourism
LSI Terms: Calgary events, Calgary downtown, things to do Calgary today, Calgary Stampede activities

Conclusion

Whether you’re into art, adventure, food, or festivals, there are endless things to do in YYC. Calgary offers a perfect mix of city buzz and natural beauty, making it one of Canada’s top destinations for both locals and international travellers in 2025.

So pack your bags, grab your boots, and start exploring the best of YYC!

FAQs

1. What does YYC stand for?

YYC is the airport code for Calgary International Airport, often used as a nickname for the city.

2. What are the top 3 things to do in YYC?

Visit Calgary Tower, explore Prince’s Island Park, and take a trip to Heritage Park or the Stampede Grounds (in July).

3. Is Calgary good for families?

Yes! Attractions like the Calgary Zoo, Telus Spark Science Centre, and outdoor parks are great for kids.

4. Can I visit Banff from Calgary?

Absolutely. Banff is just 1.5 hours away by car or shuttle, making it a perfect day trip from YYC.

5. Is YYC walkable or do I need a car?

Downtown Calgary is very walkable and has excellent transit and bike lanes, but a car is helpful for exploring beyond city limits.

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