Are you interested in fun things to do in Calgary that are off the beaten track? Whether you are a local Calgarian, or you are planning to visit, we’ve compiled a guide for new and exciting things to do in Calgary!

  1. Telus Spark Science Centre

Embark on an intergalactic journey through space at Spark Science Centre. Did you know, one day on Venus lasts longer than an entire year? With interactive environments and installations, this extraterrestrial tour is must-see in Calgary.

Be sure to double-check your camera battery so you can capture the fascinating elements of this walk-through experience. Guests can walk through 6 different habitats that recreate what life would be like on Venus. From living pods to sleeping quarters, don’t miss out on this Instagram-worthy excursion.

While you are visiting the science centre, you can also catch a glimpse of Calgary’s new Digital Immersive Experience. The 6,000 square-foot gallery takes viewers on an immersive digital projection experience. The current exhibit is called ‘Every Second,’ narrated by Isabella Rossellini, takes the viewer on a journey of moments through life.

You’ll be telling friends and family about your visit for years to come. Both, the ‘One Day on Venus’ exhibition and the ‘digital immersive gallery’ are included with admission.

  1. Kayak or Raft Along Calgary’s Skyline

Calgary is home to plenty of green space, natural parks, and river valley pathways all within an admirable skyscraper backdrop.

What better way to see the beautiful city skyline than floating down the Bow River? With options to kayak or raft, a friendly local expert can take you on a guided adventure. They will accompany you through the heart of downtown Calgary while you enjoy the view.

The experience begins at 11 am where you’ll meet at Calgary Zoo. You can catch the train to the pickup location which is a 9-minute walk from the train station. You’ll go to the starting point and receive your kayak and a safety briefing from your tour guide.

The kayaks are safe and easy to paddle, all you need to bring is a water bottle and some sunscreen! The kayak experience is for participants aged 16 and over and booking is available throughout August.

If you would like a little more flexibility, then perhaps you might want to try The Lazy Day Experience. Glide through Calgary at your own pace and take a full day to float down the river. You can take a picnic, go for a swim, or stop at some of your favourite spots along the way. Rentals include full use of safety equipment, rafts, and life jackets.

  1. Segway Adventures via River Valley Adventure Co.

If kayaking or rafting isn’t your thing, why not try a Segway adventure? Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the river valley like never before! The certified Segway trainers will teach you everything you need to know before you begin your adventure.

Each adventure lasts 60 minutes, but if you are having fun you can upgrade to a 90-minute ride! Just let your instructor know you’d like to upgrade during the adventure.

Once you have completed your adventure, you’ll be presented with a Segway Operator’s License which will allow you to skip the training session on future adventures. Most of the adventures are available for ages 14+, however, you can book a specific kids adventure for the younger ones. All participating children must be over 60lbs and have a parent or guardian sign a waiver.

Advanced riders can also book an early morning or sunset adventure once they have passed the training stage.

  1. Downhill Karting at Winsport Canada Olympic Park

Step into the driving seat and wind your way down 1.8km of downhill track at Calgary’s number one outdoor attraction! Skyline’s Downhill Karting adventure is a unique gravity fuelled ride. It provides guests with control over their descent on a purpose-built track. The speed is completely down to you! You control the steering and braking system. Climb aboard your luge cart for over 50 twists and turns. When you’ve tried it once you’ll realize why once is never enough!

This exciting adventure is fun for all the family. Children can ride in the luge with an adult, or children over the age of 6 can ride by themselves. You can even save money by purchasing a family pass for your group.

Downhill Karting is open 7 days a week from 10 am until 7 pm.

  1. Market Nights at Heritage Park

Enjoy an evening under the stars sampling delicious local produce at Heritage Park’s Market Nights this August and September. Take a walk through the wide selection of artisan booths and plaza shops for a delightful evening shopping experience. Choose tasty treats from the special Market Night’s menu at Harvey’s Confectionary, the Railway Cafe or Selkirk Patio.

You can also enter Heritage Park’s expansive antique car museum – Gasoline Alley – to enhance your evening even further at a special rate of only $10 per person.

  1. Jubilations Dinner Theatre

Do you enjoy dinner and a show? Why not combine the two with Jubilations Dinner Theatre! Enjoy the best of pop culture and musical theatre whilst you tuck into a three-course meal. Immerse yourself in a unique experience that will create long-lasting memories. Sit back as the cast serve your meal before performing hilarious parodies of your favourite movies, TV and music.

Described by visitors as a “fun and lively experience”, Jubilations Dinner Theatre combines traditional Canadian culinary favourites with the best that showbusiness has to offer. Be sure to have your camera ready as the cast might even invite you up on stage!

The dinner is always a set three-course meal consisting of a set soup and salad, a choice of 3 dinner entrees and 2 desserts options. You can even upgrade your meal to include prime rib when booking your tickets!

Their current show for August is ‘Rockin’ The Jukebox’ which is about a bunch of teenagers who find a jukebox in an old boarded-up diner. Once they plug it in the show begins!

You can book tickets for their upcoming show ‘Rockin’ The Jukebox’. The show is running all through July and up until August 14th 2021.

  1. Global Fest International Firework Festival

Coming to Elliston Park this August is the sensational International Firework Festival hosted by not-for-profit organization ‘Globalfest’. Showcasing some of Calgary’s cultural heritage, fashion and food, the One World Festival and International Firework Festival are Alberta’s most explosive festivals to attend this August!

Featuring four different stages with performances from around the world and a multitude of food booths, the International Firework Festival is bound to bring out your festival spirit! This year’s theme is ‘Pearls of the Orient’ which will be showcased on all five nights of the performances. To allow for social distancing measures, a new area will be opened up for spectators on the South side of the hill.

The International Firework Festival takes place from August 19th to August 28th. The festival performances will illuminate the sky with pyro-musical performances from China, the Philippines, India and Japan. Tickets are available to purchase throughout July for this sensational community experience.

  1. Indigenous-Led Hike Through the Mountains

If you love the great outdoors, then this is one for you. Specializing in “Indigescapes”, Buffalo Stone Woman is a new guided tour company offering adventurous, indigenous-led hikes through the Canadian Rocky Mountains. The mountains are home to many indigenous people. Explore their unique culture while enjoying the crystal-clear lakes and towering peaks of the mountains.

Natural-born adventurist, Heather Black, leads the tours. Heather enjoys sharing the beauty of the mountains and connecting to the land and animals. What makes each hike so special is being able to share her indigenous culture and stories of resilience.

Buffalo Stone Woman Indigescapes are the perfect way to get active outdoors. Their tours are suitable for any skill level and are level 1 and level 2 terrain. A typical hike will begin in the morning around 10 am and finish in the afternoon between 3 pm and 4 pm. A safety briefing is at the beginning of each hike.

  1. Sushi House Restaurant in Banff Village

Japanese barbeque and sushi – what more could you ask for from a restaurant? Sip on a bubble tea whilst you watch the Japanese chefs prepare your delicious meal!

Sushi House Banff is in the majestic, snow-capped surroundings of Banff village. Banff boasts extended daylight hours, warm summer days and cool evenings. In the summer, Banff is perfect for every outdoor activity imaginable! You could spend the day working up an appetite by rock climbing, river rafting or wildlife watching. Later, retire for the evening at the sensational sushi restaurant – Sushi House Banff.

There is an offering for everyone from traditional sushi to delicious rice bowls plus an exceptional drinks menu. The restaurant is a “Kaiten” style sushi bar using a model Canadian Pacific train you can select dishes from as it circles the room. Sushi House is the only conveyor-style sushi restaurant in the Rocky Mountains!

With a wide range of activities available day and night, you’ll be spoilt for choice. You can even catch a round of golf before your meal at The Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course.

Create Exciting New Memories

There are so many unique and memorable experiences to choose from in and around Calgary this August. Whether you choose from fine dining experiences or thrill-seeking adventures, there is plenty to add to your itinerary! Be sure to check back often as we continue to watch for Polar Bears coming to the Calgary Zoo!

Did you find this article helpful? Calgary has plenty of amazing experiences to offer in the winter season too! For more tips and ideas for things to do in our great city, read more of our blog!

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Richard is a born-and-raised Albertan, who has over 30 years of experience in the real estate market. If you have questions about buying or selling your Calgary home, get in touch by calling (403) 651-4400.