Planning on visiting Calgary this summer? We’ve got a full day guide on how to spend your day so you can soak up the most YYC has to offer. Read on to find out more.

Bridgeland

Start your day in Calgary’s northeast quadrant. Bridgeland is a trendy, inner-city neighbourhood filled with tasty restaurants, chic shops and neighbourhood markets. Close to downtown, the Zoo and Telus Spark, this community is a popular YYC favourite.

9am Breakfast at Blue Star Diner

Fuel up for your day with breakfast at Blue Star Diner. The busy establishment offers a variety of dishes like breakfast sandwiches, breakfast bowls and buttermilk pancakes. Mimosas are also on special from 10am-4pm daily.

11am Shop at Bridgeland Market

This neighbourhood grocery store stocks a diverse selection of everyday food items. They work to offer fresh and local items in-store and even bake some of their own products. Committed to sourcing from local providers whenever possible, this is a favourite local Bridgeland stop.

1135am Head over to The Calgary Zoo

The Calgary Zoo is a top tourist attraction in the city and it’s easy to see why. Bring the whole family for a fun-filled afternoon of entertainment. Meet majestic penguins in an Antarctic environment, see some graceful hippos and giraffes, and don’t forget to stop by and admire the giant pandas too.

2pm Wander around TELUS Spark

Whether you’re training your brain at their outdoor adventure space, learning more about the science behind being human or attending one of the open studio workshops, there is always plenty to discover at TELUS Spark.

East Village

Head over to Calgary’s bustling neighbourhood of East Village. Packed with cute eateries, unique shops, urban parks and heritage buildings, this trendy neighbourhood is only about a 5 minute drive from downtown Calgary.

Photo: @trevor_lalonde

4pm Grab a pick-me-up at Simmons Building

Opened in 2015, Simmons Building features many local favourites to dine at. Pick up a coffee at Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters and then wander over to the other side of the building to indulge to your heart’s delight in tasty treats at Sidewalk Citizen Bakery.

5pm Shop at Liz & Lottie

For those who want to browse for one-of-a-kind gifts and accessories, Liz & Lottie is the perfect stop. The store carries everything from paper goods and home accents to sunglasses, jewelry and handbags.

Kensington

Kensington is a centrally-located neighbourhood in Calgary. Boasting over 250 shops, restaurants and services, this trendy neighbourhood will keep you entertained for hours.

6pm Play board games at The Hex Cafe

Challenge your date to a friendly competition over some board games or come meet some new faces at The Hex Cafe. With over 550 board games in their collection, you’re sure to find something to bond over. Plus, with a gaming fee of $2.50/hr per person, this is an activity that’s sure to please you and your wallet.

730pm Dine at Hayden Block Smoke & Whiskey

Dinner time in Kensington calls for your fix of some of the city’s best house-smoked, true texas BBQ. Their meat is smoked daily for up to 14 hours so you know it’s both divine and flavourful. They’ve also got some tantalizing whiskey cocktails to pair with your meals – order from over 100 different selects on the menu or ask their staff to make it a surprise.

9pm Catch a flick at The Plaza Theatre

For over 80 years, The Plaza Theatre has been screening film titles to a Calgary audience. Straying from the newest hits, this theatre usually sticks to films more of the independent nature. Cap off your night by enjoying a screening at Calgary’s longest running theatre.