Guide: How to spend 48 hours in Calgary

So your best pal from out of town is coming by. It’s super last minute, they’ve only got 2 days in good old Cowtown, and tour guide duty falls to you. Cue panic, right? Wrong! We’ve got you covered, friend! Stay tuned for 8 things you have to do while your buddy’s in YYC. 48 hours in Calgary starts now!

Indulge in a Cleaver Caesar

Buckle up, ’cause we’re about to hit you with some facts. The Caesar, in all its tomato-y, soup-like glory, was invented in Calgary. It all went down in 1969 when Walter Chell of the Calgary Inn was tasked to create a signature drink for the restaurant. Now, it’s been revamped into a gorgeous tower of waffles, wings, and sliders. God bless.

Get ginger beef’d at Leo Fu’s

Yet another iconic Calgary invention? Don’t mind if we do. Ginger Beef was developed during the mid-1970s by chef George Wong. We can’t thank him enough for his contribution to our lives, but what we can do is scarf down an ungodly amount of Chinese food. Leo Fu’s is the perfect spot to do so (they’ve got the best lunch buffet in the city)!

Take a stroll down Stephen Ave

This pedestrian hub has been huge in Calgary for years. Even though it’s being redesigned pretty soon, we have to say we like it a lot now. Snap a pic with the Galleria Trees, check out the $6 drinks and eats at El Furny, or peep the Farmer’s Market on Tuesday aft (should be starting up again later this month!).

Get rowdy at Ship & Anchor

Want a real pub experience? You’ll find it at the Ship. This place has perfect pub food and an eclectic crowd. Whether you’re more of a business suit person or ride a Harley on the reg, Ship’s big patio on 17th is the place to be. We also love ’em for their live music and wicked Punk Rock Bingo nights!

Do a Banff blitz

We know, we know. You’re short on time! But Banff is one of those towns that people from around the world come to see. It’s only a 1.5-hour drive (and a scenic one at that), so head on up to the mountains. We highly recommend checking out the iconic Grizzly House for fondue and exploring the magical Banff Springs castle.

Embrace rooftop patio vibes at National 8

You’ve been on patios, but you haven’t seen anything till you’ve been to Natty Patty. As Western Canada’s largest rooftop patio, this is the perfect spot to soak up the sun and enjoy a round of cornhole or ping pong. Grab a tasty brew and don’t forget to post an Insta story– it’s an unwritten rule.

Do AB beef right at Caesar’s Steakhouse

We’re gonna make a bold claim here: Caesar’s is probably the best steak you can get, like… anywhere. It’s been killing it since 1972, with rich burgundy leather, golden hues, and dark wood finishes. They’ve got Alberta’s best beef– properly aged, individually cut to order and charbroiled on the open flame grill. Bonus: you can watch the chefs go to work through a little glass offshoot of the kitchen!

Sip in a new world at Shelter

Shelter is one of the coolest spots in Calgary, and arguably the country. Designed with a post-apocalyptic world in mind, this place has gas masks and unique art that makes up an unforgettable space. Their cocktails are renowned for being tasty, so get ready for some unconventional ingredients. Pro tip: don’t miss $7 Negronis Wednesday to Saturday from 5 pm to 7 pm!

That about does it Calgary! We’re guaranteeing an unreal 48 hours here, but if you think we missed something, don’t hesitate to let us know with the hashtag #CuriocityCalgary! Cheers.