This cultural, culinary hub is more than just a route to the Rockies, finds Laura French.
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Star attraction… Calgary Tower
The city’s most prominent landmark, this 191m-high tower was the tallest structure in Canada when it opened in 1968. Today, visitors can ascend for panoramic views from the Observation Deck or dine at the rotating Sky 360 restaurant and admire the city twinkling below. Back on the ground, daily light shows illuminate the surrounding streets every night. Admission is about £10 for adults.
calgarytower.com
“Unusual creations such as scallop poutine and lobster crepes meet some of the most-indulgent French toast you’ll ever come across.”
We love… Stephen Avenue
Locals flock to this lively street for shops, galleries and restaurants, with live music performances and cultural events turning its patioed pavement into an outdoor fiesta each summer. Stop by The Guild for hearty steaks served in industrial chic surrounds, or wander a few streets along to sample one of Calgary’s most famous outposts, OEB Breakfast Co, where unusual creations such as scallop poutine and lobster crepes meet some of the most-indulgent French toast you’ll ever come across.
Don’t miss… Calgary Zoo
Canada’s most-visited zoo is home to nearly 1,000 animals, spread over 120 acres. It’s split into several zones, including a Canadian Wilds section where you can see wolves, cougars, bison, black bears and other creatures from across the country.
calgaryzoo.com
“There’s a Canadian Wilds section where you can see wolves, cougars, bison, black bears and other creatures from across the country.”
“Highlights include a deck where you can mix your own tracks, a singing booth where you can test out your vocal cords and several legendary artefacts.”
Make time for… Studio Bell
Opened in 2016, this contemporary, interactive museum is seriously impressive, with five floors dedicated to celebrating music in Canada. Highlights include a deck where you can mix your own tracks, a singing booth where you can test out your vocal cords and several legendary artefacts, including a former piano of Elton John’s. It also houses some fancy-looking recording studios and a plush performance hall.
studiobell.ca
Where to stay… Fairmont Palliser
Located in the middle of downtown, this landmark hotel has been something of an institution since it opened in 1914, and has been graced by the likes of Cary Grant and King George VI, as well as Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip. Today, it boasts 407 rooms (all recently renovated), alongside a spa, ballroom and restaurant that serves Albertasourced dishes and afternoon teas amid opulent decor. Rates from £104 per night, room-only.
fairmontpalliser.com
“This landmark hotel has been something of an institution since it opened in 1914, and has been graced by the likes of Cary Grant and King George VI.”
Book it
North America Travel Service offers four nights at the Fairmont Palliser from £1,045 per person, based on two sharing a Fairmont Room and including Air Canada flights from Heathrow in October.
northamericatravelservice.co.uk
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