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A lively street scene outside Hudson’s Bay in Calgary, with people gathered in a fenced-off outdoor patio under white umbrellas. Colorful banners hang from the lampposts, and red patio umbrellas add vibrancy to the scene. Skyscrapers in the background reflect the mix of historic and modern architecture.
Canada

17 Great Reasons To Visit Calgary Alone

Safe, scenic, and full of cowboy charm, Calgary is one of Canada’s most underrated cities for solo travelers. I’ve visited Calgary multiple times now, and it’s become one of my favorite places in Canada. I may even move there!

It might not be the first place that comes to mind for a solo trip to North America. Still, if you’re looking for a city that combines big-sky adventure, Western culture, and a welcoming vibe, Calgary deserves a spot on your solo travel radar.

Located in the Province of Alberta, about an hour from Banff National Park, Calgary blends a laid-back Western charm with a vibrant urban scene, offering something for everyone. From mountain views and diverse attractions to a thriving food scene, reliable public transportation, and a lively cultural calendar, it’s a surprisingly well-rounded city that feels both welcoming and exciting.

It also delivers on both safety and accessibility, making it a great choice whether you’re on your first solo trip or your fifteenth.

Still not convinced? In this post, I’m sharing the best reasons to visit Calgary, especially if you’re traveling solo and want a destination that’s safe, fun, scenic, and full of surprises.

A lively street scene on Stephens Avenue in Calgary during Calgary Stampede, featuring people walking between shops and outdoor stalls under a cloudy sky. A McDonald’s and various local businesses are visible along the street.

It’s A Perfect Choice For First-Time Solo Travelers

If you’re considering taking your first solo trip to Canada or you just want 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.

The city’s layout is straightforward with lots of maps and signposting, so it’s hard to get lost. I’ve also found that the locals are always happy to help with directions. The streets in the main areas are also well-lit, so evening strolls are pretty comfortable and safe.

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 that there are plenty of solo-friendly activities that allow you to set your own pace.

Two police officers in Calgary on horseback patrol a busy pedestrian street, engaging with the public. A woman in a white t-shirt smiles while petting one of the horses, as another person captures the moment on their phone. The background features modern buildings with colorful ribbon decorations, bicycles, and people walking or riding scooters.

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 in the city 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, especially at places like the Stampede C-Train stations. They take everyone’s safety very seriously.

If, like me, you enjoy going to concerts and bars on your own, security staff in venues like Nashville North at Stampede and Ranchman’s are vigilant. I’ve seen them step in and deal with fights extremely quickly, and they keep an eye on women on their own. On multiple occasions, they have stepped in for me, including removing men from venues when they’ve been inappropriate towards me and refused to leave me alone.

The overall welcoming atmosphere in the city also 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 my physical safety was threatened and I was quickly 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.

Quick Calgary Safety Tip:

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 vibrant indoor Calgary farmers' market with rustic wooden stalls selling fresh produce, meats, and specialty goods. A butcher counter labeled "Spragg's Meat Shop" displays various cuts of pork, with a vendor in a red hoodie behind the glass case. Warm string lights hanging from the ceiling create a cozy atmosphere as shoppers browse the aisles filled with fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies.

The Friendly Locals Will Make You Feel At Home

One of the best things about visiting Calgary 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. The food is really good here, too. There’s also a great pie shop across from the farmers market that does sweet and savory pies that I highly recommend.
  • 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
A blurry action shot of a bull rider gripping onto a bucking bull at the Calgary Stampede. The arena railing and spectators in cowboy hats are visible in the background.

You Can Immerse Yourself In Calgary’s Cowboy Culture

Yahoo! 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.

There are also 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. You can also take horse rides in Banff, which I highly recommend.

Best Places To Experience Cowboy Culture In Calgary:

An entrance arch at the Calgary Stampede that reads "Welcome to the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth," with a crowd of attendees waiting to enter the event.

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 days, 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 event 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.

A close-up of a barbecue meal served on a biodegradable plate, featuring glazed ribs with a deep, caramelized crust, a side of coleslaw in a small cup, and a piece of cornbread. The plate is held outdoors with blurred legs of festival attendees in the background.

Calgary Has A Thriving Food Scene For Solo Travelers

Calgary has a diverse food scene and is extremely solo traveler-friendly. Alberta is known for its high-quality beef, so a steak at a local restaurant is highly recommended. The BBQ food in Calgary is also excellent, as you would expect.

Beyond that, this is a city that offers a surprisingly wide variety of international cuisines. You will find nice brunch spots, gourmet food markets, and cozy cafés that all seem to be very welcoming to solo guests. There are also lots of pubs, bars, and restaurants for all different price points, which I’ve felt comfortable dining at on my own.

One key thing that has separated Calgary dining options from other Canadian cities, like Vancouver, is how I’ve been treated as a woman on her own. On more than one occasion, I have had staff observe and very quickly step in when I’ve had unwanted attention from men, including removing them from my vicinity, chatting with me, and giving me free drinks.

If you enjoy a good happy hour or are on a budget, Calgary doesn’t disappoint with its happy hour options. Stephen’s Avenue is one of the best picks for lively, solo traveler-friendly Happy Hours. Generally, bar staff are very friendly and chatty if you opt to sit at the bar.

For those who enjoy a casual dining experience, you can also check out Calgary’s breweries that offer a great atmosphere for grabbing a drink and chatting with locals.

Or if you are not on a budget and want something special, one of the city’s farm-to-table restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh, locally sourced ingredients, is a good option.

A large crowd gathers in an urban plaza in Calgary for an outdoor event, many wearing red and white, celebrating Canada Day. People sit on colorful chairs or stand under umbrellas, with some waving small Canadian flags. A striking, tilted cube-shaped public art installation stands in the background, along with tall residential buildings and lush green trees.

The City Has A Year-Round Calendar Of Festivals And 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, there is the Calgary Comic Expo, which brings actors into the city from popular TV shows and Movies, attracting pop culture fans from around the world.

In the Summer, there are lots of events to choose from, including the world-famous Calgary Stampede, the Folk Music Festival, a Country Music festival, and Canada Day celebrations.

The fall brings Beakerhead to town, which is 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 bronze statue of a mounted police officer on a horse, standing on a stone pedestal in front of a historic white building with red trim. The Confluence historic site building has a classic design with multiple chimneys and a shingled roof, likely a heritage site or museum. A few visitors are walking along the curved pathway, reading plaques, and admiring the scene under a dramatic sky with dark storm clouds in the background.

Calgary Offers 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 galleries to explore in the downtown area, and if you like the theater, check out a show at Arts Commons.

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.

The rustic exterior of Ranchman’s Cookhouse and Dance Hall, with wooden barrels, a Canadian flag, and signage indicating “Entrance” and “Private Parking.”

Calgary Offers A Fun And Friendly Solo Nightlife Scene

If you enjoy a good night out, you 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 daunting. Many of these spots have communal seating, making it easy to initiate conversations and enjoy the city’s social scene.

A massive Canadian flag hanging inside the Chinook Centre shopping mall in Calgary, with a curved glass ceiling above. Below, the mall's interior includes multiple levels of shops, a food court, and escalators. The red and white colors of the flag stand out prominently in the space

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, known for great vintage stores, local artisan shops, and specialty bookstores, making it a perfect place for a leisurely afternoon of browsing. Alternatively, 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.

The iconic Calgary Tower, surrounded by modern high-rise buildings. The tower stands tall against a cloudy sky, serving as a recognizable landmark in the city.

Enjoy Calgary’s Must-See Attractions And 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 the 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 Museum, 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.

The Heritage CTrain Station in Calgary, an outdoor transit platform with a covered waiting area. A central sign directs passengers to the southbound and northbound trains, with additional safety warnings instructing people to stand behind the yellow line. The station has a modern, open design with glass-paneled walls, yellow tactile paving, and a trash bin near the entrance.

Convenient And Affordable Public Transportation

Calgary’s transportation system is easy to navigate 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 much as you want. Some buses run frequently, including to and from the airport. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available

If you prefer to explore on foot, one thing I like about downtown Calgary is that it 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:

This image of the Devonian Gardens showcases the indoor botanical garden with lush greenery, wooden benches, and a small pond. A lifelike sculpture of a tortoise is positioned in the water, creating a serene and natural atmosphere. The high ceiling with industrial-style lighting and a hanging banner featuring a purple iris add to the garden’s aesthetic charm.

Enjoy Natural Escapes Right In Downtown Calgary

One of the cool things about Calgary is that you don’t have to leave the city to enjoy nature. There are plenty of options for a relaxing, natural escape without traveling far.

Firstly, there is Prince’s Island Park, 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.

If you are out shopping or visiting busy tourist attractions and want a few minutes of peace, I recommend checking out the Devonian Gardens. This is also a great alternative to a cafe if you want to get some work done. It’s an indoor tropical garden inside the CORE Shopping Centre that provides a unique and relaxing break from the urban environment. Providing there aren’t lots of kids around, it’s generally a really quiet area of the shopping center, so I’ve even been able to do meetings in there.

A live outdoor music performance under a white event tent. A three-member band is on stage, with a tattooed lead singer playing an acoustic guitar, a guitarist with long hair playing an electric guitar, and a partially visible drummer behind them. The audience watches from a grassy area, with some taking photos or enjoying the show in a relaxed, sunny setting in Calgary.

Calgary Is A Great Destination For All Seasons

Calgary is a city that attracts visitors all year round because it offers different experiences depending on the season.

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.

A scenic view of the bow river in Calgary with a large arched bridge crossing over it. Lush green trees and grass line the riverbanks, while buildings and a pedestrian area are visible in the background. The sky is filled with fluffy white clouds against a blue backdrop.

There Are 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 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 Canadian Rockies.

a breathtaking aerial view of a mountain valley in the Canadian Rockies. A towering, rugged mountain dominates the scene, with clouds partially wrapping around its peak. Below, a winding turquoise river snakes through the lush green valley, where a small town or village is nestled among the trees. The foreground features evergreen trees, adding depth to the expansive landscape.

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 easily get to the Rockies without the need for a car. There are shuttle services and transit that will take you between Calgary and Banff, as well as various guided tours.

The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, a grand historic castle-like building nestled among dense evergreen forests in the Canadian Rockies. The hotel's iconic architecture stands out against the lush green mountain backdrop. Sunlight casts shadows on the slopes, adding depth to the breathtaking alpine scenery.

Lots Of Day Trip Options For Solo Travelers

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.

Gemma Lawrence taking a selfie while on the WestJet Skyride at the Calgary Stampede. She is smiling and wearing a straw cowboy hat, sunglasses, and a strapless blue dress, with the green seats of the skyride visible in the background.

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 makes 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 a British expat, solo female travel blogger, and the creator of This Brit’s Life — a travel and lifestyle blog that helps women explore the world confidently, live abroad independently, and stay informed about global issues.
Born and raised in England, Gemma has been living in British Columbia, Canada since 2016 and has been traveling solo for over a decade. With a background in journalism and over ten years of experience in digital marketing and communications — including leadership roles with the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC/BC) — she brings both storytelling and strategy to her writing.
Through her posts, Gemma shares practical solo travel advice, expat insights, and confidence-building resources, while also covering broader topics like women’s rights, democracy, and self-care. Her goal is to inspire independence, awareness, and personal growth — one adventure at a time

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