Calgary is an exciting city filled with endless possibilities of things to do on any given summer's day. Despite this, sometimes it simply just gets old and you need a change of scenery. When this happens, all signs point to one thing - road trip time!
One of the best parts about this city is that it is so close to so many amazing places. From natural wonders to manmade adventures, we've gathered up a list of 13 day trips that will restore your zest for life while still getting you home in time for your cozy date with Netflix.
1. Explore The Bowden SunMaze
@laurengoostreyDistance From Calgary: 1h 5m
This stunning field of yellow will quite literally brighten up your day, while also brightening up your Instagram! Plus it's only an hour away from Calgary, so it's a super easy trip!
2. Go On A Cave Tour In Canmore
@sydneyconwayDistance From Calgary: 1h 7m
Ever wondered what going deep down into a cave would be like? Canmore Cave Tours allows you to do just that. Make sure you're not claustrophobic first though!
3. Take In The Beauty Of Waterton Lakes National Park
@deeesinterludeDistance From Calgary: 2h 34m
Waterton Lakes National Park is one of the most stunning places in all of Alberta, and is often overshadowed by Banff and Jasper. You owe it to yourself to road trip it out here and experience it!
4. Spend A Day At The West Edmonton Mall
@fangfangsophiaDistance From Calgary: 2h 49m
Everyone needs a little retail therapy now and then, and what better place to do it than the largest shopping mall in all of North America? Plus you can hit up the waterpark or ride a roller coaster when you need a break!
5. Canoe On Lake Louise
@kaleighbruijnsDistance From Calgary: 2h
If you live in Calgary and haven't been to Lake Louise, you need to reevaluate your life. Even if you have been there, have you ever canoed on it? It completely changes your perspective and gives you a first-hand experience with it's natural beauty!
6. Visit The Iconic Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump
@andreweverttDistance From Calgary: 1h 48m
This buffalo jump was used for 5,500 years by the indigenous peoples of the plains to kill buffalo by driving them off the 11 metre high cliff. This is definitely an iconic Canadian spot you should see at least once in your life!
7. Go On A Helicopter Tour In The Rockies
@nataliewannamakerembedded via
Distance From Calgary: 1h 6m
Have you always dreamed about riding front seat in a helicopter gliding overtop of some of the highest mountains? Then why not just do it? Treat yourself with an experience you will remember for the rest of your life with Banff Adventures.
8. Explore The Alberta Badlands
@jessicafinkphotographyembedded via
Distance From Calgary: 1h 30m
The Albertan badlands in Drumheller is one of the most unique landscapes in the world. Take a day trip here and climb on top of the hoodoos and visit the famous Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology.
9. Soak Up The Sun At Ma Me O Beach
@samrandell97Distance From Calgary: 2h 20m
Everyone needs a beach day from time to time to just soak up the sun, eat tasty snacks, and cool off in the water. Since this can't really be done in Calgary, why not road trip to this sandy beach?
10. Escape Reality At Radium Hot Springs In BC
@zoyalynchDistance From Calgary: 3h
Do you have too much stress in your life? Perhaps a day at the hot springs is just what the doctor ordered. Plus you can explore the beautiful mountain scenery of British Columbia, while still only being a 3h drive from home!
11. Bring Out Your Inner Tarzan At Snow Valley Aerial Park In Edmonton
@snowvalleyskiDistance From Calgary: 2h 45m
Sometimes you just need a little dose of fun in your life to help you feel like a kid again and to energize you. This insane aerial park in Edmonton is the perfect place to let off steam and test your Tarzan-like abilities!
12. Take In The Stunning Views Of Peyto Lake
@worldwonderrssDistance From Calgary: 2h 26m
Move over Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, Peyto Lake's turquoise waters are so mesmerizing that you won't want to look away! This stunning view is just a short walk away from your car, but everyone will definitely think you hiked it.
13. Go For A Horseback Riding Adventure In Bragg Creek
@thelittleblondewandererembedded via
Distance From Calgary: 50m
If you love animals and love the outdoors, then a horseback riding adventure is just the activity for you. Take in the gorgeous views of the mountains and foothills while cruising along on a horse!
Luciano Frattolin is taken away in custody from the Essex County Court in Elizabethtown, New York on Friday, July 24, 2026. Luciano Frattolin charged with 2nd-degree murder and concealment of a human corpse.
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The Rockyview General Hospital is pictured in Calgary, Thursday, March 20, 2025.
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This composite image shows, left to right, B.C. NDP Leader David Eby in Vancouver, on April 13, 2026; B.C. Conservative interim Leader Lorne Doerkson, in Vancouver, on Sept. 22, 2026; B.C. Green Party Leader Emily Lowan in Victoria, on Sept. 23, 2026.
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