Calgary is one of my favorite places in Canada, It may not be the first place that comes to your mind for a solo trip to North America, but I think it’s one of the most underrated for female solo travelers. If you like destinations that offer a mix of experiences, cowboy culture, some adventure, and a warm welcome then don’t overlook this bustling city.
Close to the Canadian Rockies, in the province of Alberta, Calgary blends Western charm with a thriving urban scene, offering something for everyone. It also delivers on both safety and accessibility, making it a great choice whether you’re embarking on your first solo adventure or you’re a seasoned traveler looking for somewhere new to explore. With friendly locals, a great public transit system, a lively cultural scene, and proximity to breathtaking natural beauty…hello mountains, Calgary offers the best of both worlds.
If you are still not convinced, or you’re considering adding this North American city to your bucket list, here are the reasons why I think visiting Calgary alone is worth the trip.
It’s A Perfect Choice In Canada For First-Time Solo Travelers
For women considering their first solo trip in Canada or just wanting a break from the U.S., Calgary is a great option. You will find that the city is very easy to navigate thanks to the transit system, and its compact downtown core means you can explore a lot of the main attractions on foot.
There is a mix of hotels, boutique accommodations, hostels, and Airbnb’s to choose from which cater to a range of budgets, and the well-lit streets make evening strolls feel pretty comfortable and safe providing you stick to the main areas. It’s also hard to get lost while exploring because the city layout is straightforward with lots of maps and signposting. I’ve found that the locals are also always happy to help with directions.
Whether you want to enjoy an afternoon at a museum, sip coffee in a charming neighborhood, or take in views from the Calgary Tower, you’ll find there are plenty of solo-friendly activities that allow you to set your own pace.
It Offers A Safe, Welcoming Environment for Solo Women
For those of us traveling alone, safety is always a top concern, and Calgary is consistently ranked among Canada’s safest cities. The crime rate is low, and the city center is well-patrolled, particularly in high-traffic areas. During big events like the Calgary Stampede there is also a really heavy police presence.
Staying in neighborhoods like Beltline, Kensington, Eau Claire, downtown, or close to a centrally located C-Train station will mean that you are close to the major attractions while feeling safe to go out in the evenings not just the daytime on your own.
The overall welcoming atmosphere in the city makes it easy to explore without constantly feeling on guard. I’ve spent several weeks in Calgary, with many late nights out on my own, and have only ever had one slightly scary experience where I was rescued by a group of young men. However, I still recommend taking basic solo travel precautions like being mindful of personal belongings and sticking to well-lit streets at night.
The Friendly Locals Will Make You Feel at Home
One of the best things about visiting Calgary alone is the warmth of its people. The locals are known for their friendliness, and striking up conversations is generally very easy. Whether you’re chatting with a barista at a café, meeting fellow travelers at a festival, or getting recommendations from shop owners, you’ll find that Calgarians are happy to offer advice and share their love for the city, especially during the Stampede. Hands down it is the friendliest place I’ve visited so far in Canada.
Whether you enjoy meeting new people while traveling or you are shy and reserved, you will find it quite easy to talk to people while you explore. The city’s laid-back atmosphere makes it a great place to connect with others while still enjoying the independence of solo travel.
Best Places In Calgary To Meet Locals and Fellow Travelers:
- Farmer’s Markets – Calgary Farmers’ Market is a great place to meet friendly vendors and food lovers.
- Community Events – Check out Meetup.com for local events that match your interests.
- Cafés and Pubs – Sitting at a communal table or the bar is an easy way to meet new people, especially during Happy Hours
You Can Immerse Yourself in Calgary’s Cowboy Culture
Calgary is known as “Cowtown” for a reason. The city’s Western heritage is woven into its identity, from its love of country music to its historic rodeo roots. From visiting the Heritage Park Historical Village, a living history museum that brings the past to life with historic buildings, costumed interpreters, and vintage train rides, to checking out Western stores, and partying in Western bars, it’s easy to embrace the Cowboy Culture.
For a more hands-on experience, there are several ranches just outside of the city that offer guided tours and horseback riding to channel your inner cowgirl while taking in Alberta’s scenic landscapes.
Best Places to Experience Cowboy Culture In Calgary:
- Ranchman’s Cookhouse and Dancehall – A beloved country bar with live music and dance lessons.
- Whiskey Rose Saloon – A Western-style two-level bar with Nashville vibes.
- Heritage Park Historical Village – Step back in time to the Wild West.
- Smithbilt Hats – Pick up an authentic Calgary cowboy hat.
- Boundary Ranch – Go horseback riding in Alberta’s stunning foothills.
The Calgary Stampede: A Bucket-List Experience
The Calgary Stampede is one of the biggest draws for visitors, and it’s an incredible event to experience solo. Every July for ten day’s the whole city comes alive to celebrate Western culture with daily rodeos, concerts, parades, exhibits, and a midway filled with carnival rides and unique foods.
Although it may feel very overwhelming to attend such a huge alone, the Stampede’s lively and friendly atmosphere makes it a great option for solo travelers. You can fully embrace the whole experience and ensure you don’t miss out on anything you want to do with some planning.
Buying tickets for concerts in advance, arriving early to events, checking out free events and attractions, and checking out the rodeo are all great ways to make the most of the greatest show on earth. Whether you’re watching cowboys bull riding, indulging in deep-fried treats, or dancing at a live country music show, the energy of the event is contagious.
The City’s Thriving Food Scene
Calgary’s food scene is diverse and perfect for solo diners and foodies. Alberta is known for its high-quality beef, and trying a steak at a local restaurant is a must. But beyond that, the city offers a wide variety of international cuisines, with trendy brunch spots, gourmet food markets, and cozy cafés that welcome solo guests. There are also pubs, bars, and restaurants for all different price points, and great happy hour options if you’re on a budget. Stephen’s Avenue is one of the best picks for lively Happy Hours.
For those who enjoy a casual dining experience, you can also check out Calgary’s many breweries that offer a great atmosphere for grabbing a drink and striking up a conversation with locals. If you’re looking for something special, one of the city’s farm-to-table restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a welcoming setting is a good option.
The City Has A Year-Round Calendar of Festivals & Events
No matter what time of year you visit, you’ll find that Calgary has at least one event or festival to enjoy. During the Spring, the Calgary Comic Expo brings actors from TV and Movies, attracting pop culture fans from around the world. The Summer offers many events including the Calgary Stampede, the Folk Music Festival, and Canada Day celebrations. The fall brings Beakerhead to town, a festival that merges art and science, and WordFest, a literary event featuring writers from all over. Finally, during the Winter you can check out the Chinook Blast Festival, a celebration of art, music, and winter sports.
If you love live music, popular artists often come to town when they do North American tours at venues including the Scotiabank Saddledome and Ranchman’s.
A Mix of Urban and Cultural Experiences
Calgary offers more than just its cowboy culture. The city is also home to several impressive museums, including the Glenbow Museum and the Studio Bell National Music Centre. If you are an art lover there are also galleries in the downtown area to explore, and for theater enthusiasts, there are shows at Arts Commons to enjoy.
For a fun solo evening, I highly recommend checking out Calgary’s live music scene. The city has an array of venues that showcase everything from Country to indie rock to jazz, so it’s pretty easy to find music that suits your taste.
It Offers A Surprisingly Fun & Friendly Solo Nightlife Scene
Solo travelers who enjoy a night out will find plenty of options in Calgary. The city’s craft beer scene is booming, with breweries offering relaxed spaces to enjoy a drink and meet fellow travelers. If you prefer something a bit livelier, dance halls like Ranchman’s and the Whiskey Rose Saloon offer an authentic Western experience with live country music and line dancing.
There are also nice speakeasies and cocktail bars that are a great way to experience Calgary’s nightlife in a more low-key setting if checking out a lively dance hall is a bit daunting. Many of these spots have communal seating, making it easy to strike up conversations and enjoy the city’s social scene.
There’s A Good Shopping Scene That Has It All
Calgary offers a diverse shopping experience, from high-end retail to charming local boutiques and some great thrift stores. If you love discovering unique finds, Inglewood and Kensington are the best neighborhoods to explore. Inglewood is Calgary’s oldest neighborhood and it’s known for great vintage stores, local artisan shops, and specialty bookstores, making it a perfect place for a leisurely afternoon of browsing. In contrast, Kensington is your best bet for trendy clothing stores, cozy coffee shops, and independent gift shops.
If you prefer well-known brands, the largest mall is the Chinook Centre which features everything from designer brands to familiar high-street stores. For Calgary’s Western heritage, check out the Western wear stores, where you will be able to find authentic cowboy boots, hats, leather goods, and Western clothes. Even if you’re not planning to take home a full cowboy outfit, browsing these stores is a fun way to get into the Cowboy spirit of the city.
Enjoy Calgary’s Must-See Attractions & Experiences
Calgary offers a range of attractions, and experiences that cater to all interests, making it easy to find plenty to do. The Calgary Tower is one of the most popular attractions in the city offering a panoramic view of the city and surrounding mountains. It’s centrally located so it’s a great starting point for any visit.
If you love history and culture, the Glenbow Museum, Heritage Museu, and Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre, provide fascinating insights into Canada’s artistic, historical, and musical heritage.
Animal lovers will appreciate the Calgary Zoo, which is one of Canada’s best wildlife conservation facilities. Whether you’re interested in exploring local history, enjoying nature, or simply wandering through vibrant neighborhoods, Calgary has something to offer every kind of solo traveler.
If you want to find Instagram-worthy spots, the Peace Bridge, an architectural landmark, is a must-see. There are also a lot of cool sculptures and statues around the city.
For some peace away from the bustle of the city, Prince’s Island Park, located in the Bow River offers a peaceful retreat where you can enjoy a quiet walk or have a picnic while watching the city skyline.
Convenient and Affordable Public Transportation
Calgary’s transportation system is well-designed for solo travelers. The CTrain, the city’s light rail system, is reliable and affordable, with free rides within the downtown core. If you’re planning to venture beyond downtown, purchasing a day pass makes it easy to hop on and off as needed. Buses also run frequently, and taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available.
For those who prefer to explore on foot, downtown Calgary is incredibly walkable. Neighborhoods like Kensington, Inglewood, and East Village offer plenty of charm within easy walking distance of hotels and attractions.
Calgary Transportation Tips:
- Download the Calgary Transit app for real-time schedules and route planning.
- Purchase a day pass if you plan on using public transit multiple times.
- Rent a bike or e-scooter for a fun and eco-friendly way to explore.
- Uber and Lyft are widely available for quick and convenient trips around the city.
Enjoy Natural Escapes Right in the City
You don’t have to leave the city to enjoy nature in Calgary. Firstly, there is Prince’s Island Park which is an urban oasis that feels like a getaway despite being located downtown. The park is ideal for a quiet morning walk or an afternoon spent reading by the water.
If you love wildlife, the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary is a hidden gem where you can spot over 270 species of birds while wandering peaceful trails.
For some peace and quiet while you do a spot of shopping, or just want a spot to unwind in the city for a bit, check out the Devonian Gardens. It’s an indoor tropical garden inside the CORE Shopping Centre, that provides a unique and relaxing break from the urban environment.
It’s A Great Destination For All Seasons
Calgary is a city that shines year-round because it offers different experiences depending on the season. The Spring is one of the best times to visit, with fewer crowds, cheaper accommodations, and the city’s parks coming to life with blooming flowers. In the summer, aside from the Stampede, there are outdoor patios, music festivals, and various day trips to enjoy. During the Fall you can enjoy golden foliage and crisp air, making it a perfect time for scenic walks and cultural events. Finally, in the Winter, the city transforms into a wonderland with ice skating at Olympic Plaza, Christmas markets, and opportunities for skiing and snowshoeing nearby.
So no matter when you decide to visit, there’s always something to do, making it easy to plan a solo trip that suits your preferences.
Lots Of Outdoor Adventures for Solo Travelers
If you love the outdoors, Calgary is an obvious choice. The city has an extensive network of walking and biking trails which makes it easy to explore without a car. The Bow River Pathway is a really nice scenic route that stretches along the river, offering beautiful views and a great way to see the city at a relaxed pace.
If you are into hiking, Nose Hill Park provides stunning panoramic views and a chance to experience the natural beauty within city limits. For a more rugged hike, Fish Creek Provincial Park has a mix of paved and dirt trails, perfect for hiking or cycling.
During the winter months, outdoor ice skating at Olympic Plaza or cross-country skiing in the city’s parks provides a fun and active way to enjoy the colder weather.
Then outside of the city limits, there are tons of outdoor adventures to be had starting with the beautiful Rocky Mountains.
The Close Proximity To The Canadian Rockies
One of Calgary’s biggest draws is its location as a gateway to the Canadian Rockies. You have Banff, Canmore, and Kananaskis just a short drive away. So this means easy access to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world without the need for extensive planning. The drive from Calgary to Banff takes just over an hour, offering stunning views along the way.
Alternatively, you can also get to the Rockies without the need for a car. as there are shuttle services and transit that will take you between Calgary and Banff, as well as various guided tours.
Best Day Trips from Calgary for a Solo Traveler
One of the best things about visiting Calgary is how many incredible day trips you can take if you are traveling alone.
Firstly, there’s Banff National Park which can easily be enjoyed in a day or several days. With its world-famous mountain scenery, turquoise lakes, hiking, and horse riding opportunities, it would be my top pick. You could also visit the Banff Upper Hot Springs for a more chilled experience where you can enjoy the spectacular views while soaking in the natural thermal waters.
If you want a less touristy mountain town, Canmore is a great option. Like Banff, it is only an hour from Calgary and offers scenic hiking trails, art galleries, and cozy cafés making it a perfect day trip for solo travelers.
If dinosaurs are your jam or you want something a little different, Drumheller and the Canadian Badlands offer a unique landscape. It is home to the Royal Tyrrell Museum, which houses one of the best collections of dinosaur fossils in the world and provides a fascinating glimpse into Alberta’s prehistoric past.
If you want hiking, wildlife spotting, and scenic drives then Kananaskis Country is a great option. It will have much smaller crowds than Banff while still providing jaw-dropping views and lots of opportunities to have adventures.
Calgary: A City That Has It All
Whether you’re looking for urban adventures, cultural experiences, or a nature-filled retreat, Calgary has plenty to offer especially if Western vibes and Cowboys are your thing. The combination of friendly locals, and an abundance of things to see and do make it an ideal place to explore alone.
From the excitement of the Calgary Stampede to the peaceful beauty of the Bow River Pathway and fun nightlife, this city is a great option for solo travelers. Whether you’re stepping into a lively festival, indulging in the local food scene, or taking a spontaneous day trip to the mountains, I highly recommend that you add this Canadian city to your travel plans.
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Gemma Lawrence is the creator of This Brits Life. Born and raised in England, she has been living in British Columbia, Canada as a permanent resident since 2016. A solo traveler for the past 9 years, she hopes to inspire and help others to enjoy solo adventures too. As someone who has always struggled with her self-confidence and mental health, she also shares tips and inspirational stories relating to self-love, self-care, and mental health.
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