Calgary Tourist Trap Tips by penumbra Top 5 Page for this destination

Calgary Tower

I like the Calgary Tower. At the time of it’s building, 1967, it was the tallest free standing structure in North America. I remember seeing it slowly rise into the sky during 24 days of continuous concrete pouring. The view from the top was breath taking. You could see the tower from just about anywhere in town and it became one of our proud symbols of the city.

Unfortunately, at 191m, the tower is now only the sixth tallest structure in Calgary . To paraphrase a Canadian comedian, “What are you supposed to do when you get to the observation deck of the Calgary Tower? Look at the buildings above you and wonder what the view is like from up there?” I just don’t see the point any more.

Unique Suggestions: Make sure that you go on a clear day or you won’t be able to see very much.

Fun Alternatives: Downtown Calgary is in a river valley and there are plenty of surrounding hills that provide vantage points for viewing and picture taking. Close to downtown, try the North hill (about 8th Ave N) for beautiful views of downtown. For views of the entire city, try the hill above Edworthy Park (Sarcee Trail) or Nose Hill (John Laurie Blvd).

Fort Calgary

Calgary began as a fort built between the Bow and Elbow rivers. On the original site, the part of the fort has been rebuilt, the front wall (what Hollywood calls a façade). To the side is a small expensive museum with some frontier artifacts.

Fun Alternatives: Save your money for the Glenbow museum which has a better collection of artifacts and Heritage Park with its authentic period buildings.