Fun Things to Do in Calgary in Winter

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Are you curious about how to enjoy the cold winter months in Calgary? As the weather gets colder and the days get shorter, it can be easy to fall into a winter funk. However, there’s no need to worry, as a visit to Calgary in winter will definitely help lift your spirits! 

Calgary is home to many winter festivals and activities to make these darker months more fun and exciting. From Christmas markets to New Year’s Eve parties, winter sports, delicious food, and cultural offerings, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy. 

Best of all, if you visit Calgary in winter, you’ll probably save money on accommodation (at least, outside of the Christmas/New Year period), and get to enjoy attractions with a fraction of the usual crowds. So bundle up and enjoy these fun things to do in Calgary in winter!

Is It Worth Visiting Calgary in Winter?

Calgary is the largest city in Alberta and is located in the southern part of the province. It is a young city, with a population of just over 1.3 million people, and is one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada. 

Coming to Calgary in winter is a great choice, and we recommend coming for a classic Canadian winter to enjoy snowboarding in the Rockies, Christmas Markets, ice skating, amazing museums, and a great culinary scene.

While it may not be as well-known as some other Canadian cities, Calgary has a lot to offer visitors. 

Here are just a few reasons why Calgary should be on your list of places to visit.

The Rocky Mountains are just on your doorstep

Calgary is situated just an hour away from Banff National Park, which means that there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities all year round. 

In the winter, you can hit the slopes at any of the nearby ski resorts, or go for a hike in one of the many Provincial Parks. 

The food scene

Calgary’s food scene is incredible, and we just LOVE it. There are fine dining options, international cuisine (Thai, Indian, Mexican, and more), plus many cool roasters and cafes to choose from! 

• Dine at Alloy for an elevated experience
• Try Vegan Street or Happy Veggie House for plant-based options
• Check out Ten Foot Henry for a plant-forward hip eatery for brunch, dinner, and cocktails. 

There are also many farmers’ markets where you can get fresh local produce. Calgary Farmers Market West and South are open on select days in winter!

Warm up with a spirit from Two River Distillery afterwards. 

Experience a Canadian city covered in snow + winter festivities

As the winter season approaches, many Canadian cities begin to plan their annual festivals, and Calgary is no different. 

From light shows to tree lighting ceremonies and outdoor skating rinks, there is lots to do and see in Calgary in winter.

Stay cozy indoors with art & culture

When temperatures are so cold, it is a great excuse to stay indoors. Calgary is home to many museums and galleries that provide an inviting warmth to escape the bitter cold. 

Calgary also has a lively nightlife scene with something for everyone. There are plenty of bars and clubs if you’re looking to dance the night away and keep warm. 

Or, if you’re looking for something a little more low-key, there are lots of pubs and lounges where you can relax with a drink and some good company. 

No matter what your preferred method of nighttime entertainment is, Calgary has got you covered.

Sustainable year-round economy

Visiting Calgary in winter helps to stimulate a year-round tourism economy. This is both better for local businesses, spreading out tourism’s benefits, and better for you, as accommodation options are often cheaper and fewer crowds are heading to the Rockies, etc.

If you are looking for ways to travel more mindfully, visiting in the off-season is a great way to ensure your tourist dollar is going further to help keep places sustainable year-round, rather than adding to the summer tourism boom that many destinations struggle to cope with.

Things to do in Calgary in winter: The Complete Guide

Now, here are some fun things to do in Calgary during the winter season. We have an events calendar added to the post as well. 

1. Go ice skating at Calgary Olympic Plaza

For a truly unique ice skating experience, head to Olympic Plaza in Calgary. 

Nestled in the heart of downtown, Olympic Plaza is surrounded by high-rise buildings and features a stunning view of Calgary’s cityscape. 

The rink is open to the public from early November to late February. Skate rentals are available on site. It is open to skaters of all ages and abilities. 

After a few laps around the rink, you can enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and sweet treats from one of the nearby cafes, such as Chocoland.

2. Visit Santa Claus at the Calgary Heritage Park Historical Village

Get into the holiday spirit by taking photos with Santa Claus at Heritage Park in Calgary, Canada. This festive event takes place every year from late November to mid-December, and it’s a great opportunity to take some holiday-themed family photos. 

Santa will be available for photos at various times throughout the day, so be sure to check the schedule in advance. Bring your own camera to capture the memories.

Once Upon a Christmas at Heritage Park is the official festive event. The dates for 2025 were from December 6 – 23 (Saturdays and Sundays). The time was from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. We’ll update this as soon as the dates for 2026 are announced!

The Heritage Park is a living heritage museum where you can ride a train, visit museums, hang out with friends, eat, and soak in the (sun) or festive cheer. 

You can also enjoy wagon rides, meet furry animals, and visit the popular Gasoline Alley Museum! There are both indoor and outdoor activities for the entire family to enjoy. 

Note: Entry tickets for the Once Upon A Christmas event are $19.95 CAD per person ($14.95 for children), but this doesn’t include the new Heritage Holiday Train Experience. You can purchase tickets for both attractions for $29.95 CAD per person ($24.95 for children).

More Photo ops with Santa in Calgary

• Millarville Christmas Market – November 6-9, 13-116, 2025 (2026 dates TBA)
• Shriners Santa Photos at Santa Village – 2026 dates TBA
• Granary Road’s Christmas Market – November 22 – December 14 (Saturdays and Sundays), 2025 (2026 dates TBA).

3. Climb up to the Calgary Tower for views (and dining)

One of the most iconic landmarks in Calgary is the Calgary Tower. The tower was built in 1967 and stands 626 feet (191 meters) tall. 

You can take an elevator to the top of the tower for stunning 360-degree views of the city. From up there, soak in the views of the snow-dusted cityscape while keeping it warm. 

Sky 360 is located inside Calgary Tower. Reserve a table here for a date night or brunch. Perfect when you are in Calgary in winter!

4. Soak in the ambiance at various winter lights festivals + events

As the winter season approaches, all Canadian cities begin to plan their annual festivals. 

Here are the popular winter festivals happening worth checking out in Calgary this year:

GLOW Winter Light Festival Calgary

Dates: Dec 4 to 31, 2025 (2026 dates TBA)

Enjoy over 70,000 square feet of indoor winter magic at Glow Calgary. Tickets are required for entry.

Lions Festival of Lights

Dates: Nov 22, 2025 – Jan 8, 2026 from 5:30 pm to midnight (2026 dates TBA)

One of Calgary’s most popular winter festivals is the (free!) Festival of Lights organised by the local Lions Club. This event features lights and illuminated displays at the Confederation Park Golf Course. 

The festival has a variety of family-friendly activities, such as ice skating and wagon rides. You can also take a self-guided tour to see all the different light displays, along 14 St NW, North of 24 Avenue. 

Winter Walk Day

Dates: Feb 4, 2026

Winter Walk Day is a community spirit-building exercise organized by SHAPE (Safe Healthy Active People Everywhere) Alberta, where everyone is encouraged to stay active in the winter.

Individuals, schools, community groups, and businesses can register – then make sure you get outside on the date (and throughout winter) to go for a walk and embrace the season!

The day has been running since 2006 and is just a nice way to encourage people to get outside in winter, usually with a bit of community spirit added in to make it easier to go outside in the cold.

Chinook Blast

Date: Jan 30 – Feb 16, 2026

ChinookBlast is a winter festival in Calgary, which is filled with free activities for all. There are art installations, light displays, live music, ice-skating, markets, and pop-up performances from talented locals.

This much-awaited winter event lasts four weeks, and the festival truly brings people together – enjoying some great food, and swaying to live music! 

5. Enjoy skiing and snow-related activities at Winsport Canada Olympic Park

Winter is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the snow, and there’s no better place to do it than at the Winsport – Calgary Olympics Stadium. 

Located just a short drive from downtown, the stadium offers a wide range of winter activities, from skiing and snowboarding to ice skating. 

With its world-class facilities and breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains, the stadium is the perfect place to enjoy all that winter has to offer. 

The Calgary Olympic Park was built for the 1988 Winter Olympics and still stands today as a popular tourist destination. In the summer, visitors can enjoy biking, basketball and hockey camps, and hiking. 

The park also has a myriad of amenities, such as a restaurant and gift shop. 

And, as the park continues to evolve, it is clear that the legacy of the 1988 Winter Olympics will continue to live on in Calgary for many years to come. It is so nice to see Canada repurposing their old Olympic facilities.

Reusing facilities is such a great sustainable approach when available. In other regions, such as Sarajevo (where the 1984 Winter Olympics were held), that is not the case due to the influence of the Bosnian wars and dissolution of the USSR that has left Olympic stadiums in ruins.

6. Check out a local museum or gallery

Calgary is home to numerous excellent museums and art galleries, where you can easily spend a few hours inside, enjoying some culture to beat the winter blues! Here are just a few worth checking out:

• The Glenbow Museum (currently undergoing renovations and expected to reopen in 2027) – conveniently located in downtown Calgary and houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts from all over the world. 
• Contemporary Calgary – focuses on modern art from around the world; it’s also housed inside the former Centennial Planetarium.
• Tsuut’ina Nation Cultural Museum – a great spot to learn more about the Tsuut’ina First Nation through regalia, artifacts, crafts, and even the original homestead of Chief Bull Head.
• Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre – another excellent place to learn more about the Chinese community in Calgary, while also looking at beautiful replicas of Chinese art and artifacts.

7. Visit The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland (formerly Fort Calgary)

The Confluence is a great place to visit when you are in the city. The fort was built in 1875 by and for the NW Mounted Police. It is now a National Historic Site and is open to the public year-round.

You can visit the Confluence in winter as they have both indoor and outdoor exhibits for you to check out and learn about the history of the city, including the diverse histories of traditional Treaty 7 territories.

8. Hang out at the Prince’s Island Park

In the heart of downtown Calgary, Prince’s Island Park is a quiet oasis away from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

The park is situated on an island in the Bow River, and it is a popular spot for walking, picnicking, and enjoying the outdoors. 

In the winter, the park is transformed into a wonderland of snow and ice, with the pathways winding their way through dusted with frost. The air is crisp and fresh, and the stillness of the park is broken only by the sound of skates sliding across the ice. 

You will find an outdoor skating rink here (no rentals on-site – rink conditions are weather dependent). 

Prince’s Island Park is the perfect place to enjoy a winter’s day out, whether you’re skating around the pond or enjoying a hot chocolate.

9. Enjoy a stroll in Downtown Calgary (when the weather is warm)

Wintertime in Calgary is truly a magical sight. The snow-dusted buildings and sparkling lights make it feel like you’re walking through a scene from a movie. 

And there’s no better way to take in the sights than by strolling through downtown Calgary. 

The streets are lined with trees adorned in twinkling lights, and the downtown core comes alive with festive activities. 

You can go on a self-guided tour starting at the Olympic Plaza, where you can skate around the outdoor rink or enjoy a cup of hot chocolate from one of the nearby cafes. 

Then make your way down Stephen Avenue, stopping to admire the holiday window displays at the chic boutiques. 

And finally, finish up your walk at Core Shopping Centre. 

10. Catch a Calgary Flames game at the Saddledome

The Scotiabank Saddledome is the home of the NHL team Calgary Flames, and has been since its construction in 1983. The arena is located in downtown Calgary and is easily accessible by public transit. 

If you’re looking for a fun night out, catching a game at the Saddledome is a great option. Hockey is a Canadian classic and the perfect thing to do in Calgary over winter. 

You’ll definitely want to arrive early to get your hands on some souvenirs and to explore all that the arena has to offer.

11. Take a break at the Calgary Central Library

Calgary’s new Central Library is an incredible feat of architecture and engineering. It is worth seeing from the outside, but even better inside. 

The building was designed by world-renowned architect Snøhetta, and it features a striking combination of wood, glass, and steel. 

There are four floors of public space, which include a children’s library, a lounge, an Indigenous learning centre, and much more. Head there when you are in downtown Calgary and wish to warm up with a nice book inside! 

12. Or at Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre

Music lovers will be in heaven at Studio Bell, which contains five floors of interactive exhibits all about music in Canada.

You can join a tour that’s included in your ticket to learn more about the artifacts, instruments, and other memorabilia that’s on display, or just have fun wandering around by yourself.

The complex is also where you can find the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, Quebec’s ADISQ Hall of Fame, and the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame!

13. Eat and chill out in Kensington Road

If you’re looking for a dining experience that’s truly unique, you’ll want to check out Kensington Road NW in Calgary. 

This vibrant street is home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and more, all of which offer something different. Some of our favorites include:

• Blanco Cantina – offers a modern take on traditional Mexican food, with some vegetarian options available
• Hexagon Board Game Café – a fun spot where you can have a coffee and snack while playing one of their more than 1,000 board and card games
• Tupí Açaí Bowls and Gelatos – for delicious vegan sweet treats

And if you’re looking for something different, be sure to visit Kensington Market, where you’ll find a variety of independent shops selling everything from clothes to books to vintage items. 

14. Shop in one of the Calgary malls

Calgary is a great city for shopping, with plenty of malls to choose from. Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion trends or for something more unique, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in one of Calgary’s malls. 

The CORE Shopping Centre is an easy visit when you are exploring downtown Calgary. There is an indoor garden and play area as well. 

For a more upscale shopping experience, check out Chinook Centre, which features high-end retailers such as Louis Vuitton and Burberry. 

A little outside of Calgary is the premium outlet mall – CrossIron Mills – where you can shop discounted clothing, bags, and more! 

15. Soak in the starry skies at the Telus Spark

The Telus Spark is a must-visit for people of all ages. The centre features a state-of-the-art planetarium with a reclining theatre. 

Visitors can also view the night sky through high-powered telescopes or take part in educational workshops and programs. 

The centre is open late on Friday and Saturday nights (Spark After Dark evenings), making it the perfect place to stargaze. 

With its world-class facilities and knowledgeable staff, the Telus Spark is an ideal place to learn about the night sky.

16. Go tubing at the Winsport Servus Tube Park

If you’re looking for something fun to do with kids – or just the young at heart – then you’ll definitely want to spend some time flying down an icy hill in a donut-shaped tube!

This seasonal event is set up at the Canada Olympic Park, and an entry ticket grants you a two-hour session of winter fun.

The Tube Park kicks off by mid-December and continues until March 29, 2026. With an entry fee of $16-25 CAD, you can enjoy tubing on 8+ lanes with your friends and family!

17. Enjoy skiing at South Glenmore Park

South Glenmore Park is a great place to enjoy skiing in Calgary. The park offers a variety of different trails to suit all skill levels, and the scenic views are sure to take your breath away. 

It is completely free to use the trails, and they are managed and maintained by the City staff.  And best of all, the park is open for skiing from late November to late March, so you can enjoy the slopes all winter long. 

Other skiing trails in Calgary include:

• Bowness Park (more on that below)
• North Glenmore Park
• Lakeview Golf Course

Not all areas have washrooms on-site. You can access trail information here.

On all trails, ensure you follow all signs and stay within the designated areas, and do not remove or cross barricaded areas. 

18. Go ice skating, ice biking, and more at Bowness Park

Bowness Park is a beautiful place to visit in Calgary. Located on the banks of the Bow River, the park is home to a variety of ice-based activities, including skating, ice biking, and hockey. 

The outdoor skating on the lagoon is free to use, and it is open from mid-November to mid-March (weather dependent). Visitors can rent skates, making it easy to enjoy the park’s winter amenities. 

The park also has a picturesque lagoon that is surrounded by walking trails. In addition, there are several heated shelters where you can warm up and take a break from the cold. 

Whether you’re looking for a fun family activity or a romantic outing, Bowness Park is sure to provide an enjoyable experience.

19.  Tobogganing in Calgary

There’s something special about tobogganing in Calgary in winter. Maybe it’s the way the cold air nips at your cheeks, or the way the snow crunches under your boots. Whatever the reason, tobogganing is a great way to enjoy the winter months. 

And with so many great hills to choose from, there’s sure to be a perfect spot for everyone. 

The City maintains a few hills where you can go tobogganing and sledding. They are:

• Deerfoot Athletic Park
• Rundle – dry pond
• Monterey Park
• Thorncliffe/Greenview
• Royal Oak
• McKenzie Towne​
• Hidden Valley
• Glendale Park
• Richmond Green
• More information here

From nose-dives to upside-down spins, tobogganing is a great way to get your adrenaline pumping. 

20. Celebrating Christmas in Calgary

Every year on December 25th, the city of Calgary comes alive with the spirit of Christmas. 

Families and friends gather to celebrate the holiday, exchange gifts, and enjoy a festive meal. This is truly a time to soak in the winter bliss and enjoy with near and dear ones. 

On Christmas Day, stores, restaurants, and light events are closed. 

But Downtown streets are lined with twinkling lights, and outdoor rinks and trails are still open for use. 

The very next day, shoppers can find great deals at the many sales and pop-up markets.

21. Celebrating New Year’s in Calgary

Celebrate New Year’s in Calgary. See the sights and sounds of the city while enjoying a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants. 

Unlike Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, you will find a lot of places to eat, and malls will be open as well (limited hours). Other things to experience include:

• New Year’s Eve Fireworks: Enjoy the City of Calgary’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks at midnight. 
• TELUS Spark Science Centre: Visit the TELUS Spark Science Centre for family-friendly events and activities. 
• Zoo New Year’s Eve: Activities and early countdowns for kids at the Calgary Zoo.
• New Year’s Eve Dinners: Enjoy New Year’s Eve with special dinner menus and champagne toasts at the Selkirk at Heritage Park. 
• The Fairmont Palliser: For festive music and events.
• New Year’s Eve Events at the Wild Horse Pub at Deerfoot Inn & Casino.
• Mystique NYE: Culinary Experience at the Carriage Inn.

A lot of restaurants will have seasonal menus and live music/DJ performing as well!

Outdoor Winter Activities Beyond Calgary

22. Visit Canmore in winter

Canmore in winter is a truly magical place. The snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes are picturesque, and there are plenty of activities in Canmore to keep visitors entertained. And it is only an hour’s drive away (and no park fees). 

One of the best ways to experience Canmore in winter is to go snowshoeing and skiing (at the nearby Canmore Nordic Centre). 

The temperate climate and dry snow make for perfect conditions, and there are plenty of trails to explore. 

Canmore is also home to many cosy cafes and restaurants where you can warm up after a day in the snow. 

So if you’re looking for a winter wonderland to explore, be sure to add Canmore to your list.

23. Go on a day trip to Banff and Lake Louise

Calgary is the closest airport to Banff National Park, and you will love visiting the Canadian Rockies in the winter. 

The crisp air and snow-capped mountains make for a truly magical experience. There are plenty of winter activities to enjoy, from snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails to ice skating and sleigh rides. And of course, no visit would be complete without taking a dip in the Banff hot springs. 

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Banff and Lake Louise are sure to create lasting memories.

The popular ice sculpture festival takes place at the iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise between Feb 5-8 in 2026. There’s even an ice-carving competition on Bear Street in Banff between Feb 6-8, 2026!

24. Visit Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary in Cochrane

The Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary is a true rescue facility for a rare type of animal called a wolfdog. Wolfdogs are a wolf and dog hybrid that are difficult to find suitable homes for. They also do not always do well in the wild on their own. The sanctuary rescues and rehabilitates these wolfdogs and works with the public to find specialized and vetted homes if that is the right fit. 

The sanctuary is home to over 55 wolfdogs, including more social ambassador wolfdogs. Visitors can observe the animals and interact safely and humanely with the ambassador dogs. 

The Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary is open all year round, but winter is an especially magical time to visit. All profits are invested back into the welfare and well-being of the wolfdogs. 

The snow-covered landscape provides a stunning backdrop for wolfdog watching, and the invigorating cold air is sure to leave you feeling refreshed.

25. More winter activities beyond Calgary

Other than the popular day trips from Calgary (as listed above), you can also check off the following when in the city, 

• The Polar Express at Alberta Prairie Railway (2.50 hours from Calgary) – 2026 dates TBA
• Mossleigh – Aspen Crossing Polar train rides (December) – 2026 dates TBA 
• Sylvan Lake in the winter (festivals and more from December to February)

Read: Best day trips from Calgary.

26. Ski resorts near Calgary

Just a short drive from Calgary, you’ll find some of the best ski resorts in the country. With towering mountains and pristine forests, Banff National Park is a winter wonderland waiting to be explored. 

And with world-class ski resorts located within its boundaries, it’s no wonder that Banff is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. 

Sunshine Village is one of Banff’s most popular ski resorts, and for good reason. With an average of 30 feet of snow each year, it’s no wonder that Sunshine Village is a mecca for powder hounds. 

In addition to its stellar skiing and snowboarding, Sunshine Village also offers a variety of other winter activities, including cross-country skiing, ice skating, and snowshoeing.

Just down the road from Sunshine Village is Lake Louise Ski Resort. Nestled in the heart of Banff National Park, Lake Louise Ski Resort boasts some of the most spectacular scenery in the Canadian Rockies. With 4,200 acres of skiable terrain, it’s one of the largest resorts in Alberta. 

If you’re looking for a smaller ski resort with a more intimate atmosphere, Nakiska Ski Area is the perfect spot. Located just an hour’s drive from Calgary, Nakiska Ski Area offers 1000+ acres of skiable terrain. 

When you travel to Canmore, you can surely stop by the Nordic Centre Provincial Park. 

Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park offers over 72+ kilometres of groomed trails for cross-country skiing, including night skiing. The park is located just minutes from the town of Canmore and provides a stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.

In addition to the trails, the park also offers a biathlon range, a ski loop, and a newly built amenities building. You can also rent equipment on-site. 

The park is open year-round and provides a great opportunity to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. 

With so many great ski resorts located near Calgary, it’s no wonder that this city is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts from all over the world. 

So whether you’re looking for big mountain thrills or small-town charm, you’ll find it all just a short drive from Calgary.

27. Hot springs and spas near Calgary

One of the best things about living in Calgary is that there are plenty of hot springs and spas to choose from, all within an hour’s drive. 

One of the most popular hot springs near Calgary is Banff Upper Hot Springs. This facility is situated in a stunning setting overlooking the Rocky Mountains, and the naturally hot water is perfect for easing sore muscles. 

For those looking for a more luxurious experience, Willow Stream Spa at The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel offers a variety of treatments and services, as well as access to a mineral pool and an outdoor hot tub.

Next is the gorgeous Kananaskis Nordic Spa, with its alpine ambiance and hydrotherapy packages that you can access at your fingertips. 

No matter what your preference is, you’re sure to find a hot spring or spa near Calgary that’s perfect for you. 

28. Afternoon tea experiences near Calgary

If you love afternoon tea like us, know that there are plenty of great options in Calgary. 

One popular spot is the Fairmont Palliser Hotel, which offers a traditional afternoon tea service in its stunning lobby. 

Another option is Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant, which offers a variety of teas as well as a light menu of sandwiches and pastries. 

Or for something truly unique, check out the seasonal afternoon tea at Deane House, which has a Christmassy spin during winter! Whichever spot you choose, you’re sure to enjoy a wonderful afternoon tea experience.

29. Northern lights near Calgary

Winter makes it the perfect time to chase the northern lights. These elusive lights are best seen in open areas away from city lights, and Calgary has no shortage of these. 

Some of the spots include Nose Hill Park, or on your way to Canmore at night, where you can get a front-row seat to nature’s light show. 

We recommend checking the Aurora forecast website to stay up-to-date on when these lights show up! 

30. Road trips from Calgary to nearby areas in the winter

There’s something special about winter road trips. Part of it is the excitement of the unknown; you never quite know what weather conditions you’ll encounter, or what kinds of adventures await you around every bend. 

But there’s also something to be said for the rugged beauty of a winter landscape. 

If you’re planning to hit the road this winter, Calgary is the perfect place to start your journey. Just a short drive from the city, you’ll find yourself in the heart of some of Canada’s most stunning scenery. 

Here are a few road trip ideas to get you started.

• Banff and Lake Louise: as mentioned above
• Yoho National Park: The snow-capped mountains and frozen Emerald Lake are an unforgettable sight, and there’s no shortage of things to do, from snowshoeing to skating here 
• Waterton Lakes National Park: You could easily spend a week here and never get bored – make it a nice road trip with stops at Pincher Creek, Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump World Heritage Site, and Red Rock Canyon
• Short trips to Drumheller, Sylvan Lake, or a weekend in Edmonton are still possible from Calgary. You can visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller, or enjoy Family Day celebrations in Sylvan Lake in winter

Be sure to have winter tires on when you embark on a road trip!

Calgary winter temperatures & what to pack

The winter months in Calgary are from December to February. However, it is possible to see the first signs of snow in early November, and snow/ice can be on the ground until the end of March. 

Winter temperatures in Calgary range from -1 degrees C (31 F) to a low of – 14 degrees C (7 F). With the wind chill, the temperatures can drop to below – 20 degrees C.

The air in Calgary is very dry, and even people with normal skin and with moisturizer on can feel the struggle!  So remember to doll up with a thick moisturizing cream and wear a hood. Plus layer up!

Although it is cold, there is hardly any rain (2-4 days) in the winter in Calgary. 

We have listed the temperatures (highs and lows) for the primary winter months above. Note that January is the coldest month of the year in Calgary. 

What to pack for Calgary in winter

Calgary is a beautiful city; it is one of our favorites. But if you’re not from around here, the thought of braving the winter might be a little daunting. 

With the right preparation, you can have a great time in Calgary during the winter months. Here are a few tips to help you enjoy your stay.

Read: Our complete guide to packing for winter in Canada.

1. A warm coat: Make sure you have a coat that will keep you warm in Canada’s frigid temperatures. Look for a coat or a parka up to knee length. Ensure it has a hood. Always look for Gore-Tex products for your wind- and waterproof layer. You can also check the parka’s temperature threshold. Choose something warm up to -25 to -30 degrees Celsius. 

• I wear this exact North Face when temperatures reach -20 (I also utilize layering underneath!).
• 3-1 Jackets are also great because they serve as both your mid and outer layers. 
• Men’s Outer Layers include this Parka or 3-1 Jacket.

2. Snow pants: Again, temperatures in Calgary can dip well below freezing, so you’ll want waterproof snow pants that will keep you warm and dry. 

3. Winter boots: A good pair of winter boots is essential for any winter trip. Make sure your boots are insulated and waterproof to keep your feet warm and dry all day long.

• My recommended winter boots for men and women.

4. Gloves, hat, and mittens: You’ll definitely want to pack

• Hat
• Glove liners
• Mittens while you’re in Canada in winter
• Hand warmers are also a great addition. 
• Wool socks (long ones that offer more calf protection are a great idea) are also an important staple. 

5. Base Layers

Base layers stay close to your body, keeping you warm and dry while wicking sweat. Your base layer should be Merino wool; it stays warm even when damp from sweat or rain, and you can wear it for days.

• I always wear Smartwool base layers on my top and bottom.
• Men’s base layer bottom and top.

6. Mid-Layer

Mid layers insulate and keep you warm.

• You’ll want a waffle fleece (the waffle traps air)
• and an insulated jacket (synthetic or ethical down).
• For winter day trips from Calgary, choose a warm, water-resistant option on the bottom.
• Having some warm sweaters packed for cozy pubs and nights in the van or cabin is ideal too!
• Men’s mid-layer waffle fleece, nanopuff, and pants.

7. Accessories

• Moisturizer and lip balm 
• Sunnies (the sun can be bright when reflecting off snow)
• Swimmers (bring a swimsuit and towel for hot springs)
• Underwear, bra, etc. I wear merino undies and a cami
• Camera and tripod for astrophotography
• Daypack, water bottle, and thermos

Getting to Calgary, Alberta

Calgary is accessible by plane, bus, and car. If you’re flying, you will arrive at the Calgary International Airport (YYC). You can also ride Canada’s VIA Rail into Calgary for a novel and eco-friendly transit choice. Yes, we do have trains here in Canada! Budget more time in your itinerary, though, if you catch the train in from another Canadian city, as they are not high-speed.

If you are driving to Calgary from Vancouver, British Columbia, on an extended winter holiday, exercise caution driving the snowy mountain passes through the Rockies. You will need AWD with snow tires. 

Once you arrive in Calgary, getting around is easy thanks to the city’s extensive public transportation system. Utilizing the city’s public transportation is a great sustainable choice! Calgary Transit operates buses and Light Rail Trains throughout the city. If you are staying downtown, you can use the LRT or walk to nearby areas. Make sure to bundle up for the cold, though!

If you are planning to explore the Canadian Rockies from Calgary, renting a car is a good idea. 

Without a car, you can book specific tours to reach the Rockies. Tours are a great option for those who aren’t a fan of winter driving.

• Visit Abraham Lake in winter to see the ice bubbles! 
• Go Snowshoeing in Banff
• Winter Tubing in Banff
• Banff Lakes and Winter Canyon

Where to stay in Calgary in Winter?

Two of the popular areas to stay in Calgary include the downtown core and the airport. Both are excellent choices for sightseeing. Remember that in the winter, walking downtown is quite difficult, and you have to layer well and wear warm boots to enjoy long walks. 

We usually stay in the downtown area near the Calgary Tower, or Eau Claire, so that our walks are shorter. Keep in mind that many properties charge for valet parking, but trust us, it is worth it in this weather. 

The airport is perfect for those who wish to head to the Winsport complex or drive to Banff National Park. Pros of staying here are that parking is mostly free (but uncovered), and breakfast is also included in most properties.  You will need a vehicle if you are staying in the Calgary airport area. 

The Beltline is another neighborhood that you can consider for accommodation. There are hotels and Airbnbs in the mid-budget range, plus you are still close to bars and restaurants. 

Read: Our complete guide to the best hotels in Calgary and where to stay.

Here are our top picks for Calgary hotels for your trip.

Palliser Fairmont (luxury):

Fairmont is one of the premier hotels in Calgary (this is also where we got engaged). Perfect for a staycation in Calgary in winter, in the heart of everything, and you can experience luxury dining and spa packages. 

Fairmont is a classic Canadian hotel chain, with impressive sustainability initiatives, service, and lots of local Canadian touches. 

In December, they set the lobby in festive colors! Highly recommend it. Book your stay here.

Alt Hotel Calgary East Village (3 star):

This cute and colorful Calgary downtown hotel is amazing, and it offers modest but vibrant suites. Alt Hotels are owned by a local Canadian family-owned hospitality company, which is another great local choice. 

The Alt Hotel in Calgary’s East Village is a comfortable, modern boutique hotel with Canadian hospitality and cozy communal spaces. 

Check out pictures and availability here.

Sandman Signature Calgary Airport (3 star)

If you are looking for a stay near the airport, then Sandman Signature is another Canadian-owned hospitality brand. The Sandman at the airport is perfect for an overnight stay on your way to Banff, or for long-term stays with spacious suites and a kitchenette. 

Don’t miss the iconic Canadian restaurant Moxies that comes with every Sandman experience. Book your stay here.

Land Acknowledgement

The City of Calgary is on the ancestral lands of the Blackfoot People and home to Treaty 7 Nations and Métis Nations Districts 5 and 6.

Long before the city known as Calgary was settled, this area where the Bow and Elbow rivers meet was called Otos-kwunee by the Métis, Moh’kinstsis in the Blackfoot language, Wicispa Oyade by the Îethka Nakoda Wîcastabi, and Guts’ists’i by the people of the Tsuut’ina nation.

This area has always been a place where people come together to share ideas and opportunities, so make sure you do the same while visiting. Take the time to learn a bit about the history, particularly the pre-colonial history, while you’re in Calgary, so that you come away with a deeper appreciation and understanding of this unique place.

Comment and Share Winter in Calgary

Hopefully, this guide has shown you that winter in Calgary is a great time to visit and enjoy all the city has to offer! Whether you want to get outside and enjoy snowy activities or rug up warm indoors, winter is truly an excellent time to spend exploring Calgary.

With so many things to do, you’ll never be bored, and you can also feel good about spending your tourist dollars in a way that benefits the local community.

What are your favourite winter activities in Calgary? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to pin and share these if you might be planning a wintry trip to Calgary in the future!

Exploring more of Canada this winter? Check out our winter guides for things to do in.

• Toronto in Winter
• Edmonton in Winter
• Vancouver in Winter