Today’s blog post will be about cheap things to do in Calgary. Before we look into the topic, let’s quickly talk about Calgary. 

Calgary, Canada, is the largest city in Alberta province. It was incorporated into a town on November 7th, 1884, and a city on January 1st, 1894. With a population of 1,306,784 in 2021 and a metropolitan population of 1,481,806, it is the third-largest city and the fifth-largest metropolitan area in Canada. 

Now let’s take a look at some of the cheap things to do in Calgary. 

1. Walking Tour

In Calgary, this is among the cheapest things to do, and the best way to explore the city. To navigate the city easily, you can download the free heritage walking tour PDF brochures with maps from the official website of Calgary. The brochures will provide you with reams of historical information. When going on this walking tour, remember to wear a pair of comfortable shoes and take your camera along with you to capture some memories from your walk.

2. Glenbow Museum 

The Glenbow Museum is located just opposite the Calgary Tower. This art museum is dedicated to Canadian artists from the 19th century to date. At the Glenbow Museum, you will find over 30,000 pieces of art, including First Nations arts, and landscape paintings, among others. Admission to the museum is free on the 1st Thursday of every month from 5 pm to 9 pm. 

The location is 130 9 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0P3, Canada, for those looking to add this to their list of cheap things to do in Calgary. 

3. Sikome Lake

Sikome Lake is located in Calgary, AB T2X 2Z3, Canada. It’s officially known as the Sikome Aquatic Facility. This is a nice destination for beach lovers in Calgary. It’s a man-made 4-hectare body of water surrounded by a large sandy beach. Access to the lake costs C$5 only.  It’s open to the public daily from 10 am to 7 pm. 

4. Public Transport Tour

I believe the most economical way to get around Calgary is through public transport. The transit system in Calgary operates over 150 bus lines, and over 50 km of CTrain. Prices range from C$3.30 for a single fare to C$10.50 for a 1-day pass. You can purchase your tickets and passes directly on the bus at CTrain Stations, and online. Or for easy access, you can download the Calgary Transit App on all your devices. 

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5. Crossroads Market 

For more than three decades, the Crossroads Market has combined a farmers’ market and antique market with a food court. This lively and eclectic market offers an inside look at Western Canada’s daily life. 

From fresh seasonal fruits and veggies to juicy homemade burgers and vintage toys, there’s something for everyone at this vibrant market located 3 kilometres southeast of downtown Calgary. The food court is especially appealing because it offers a wide selection of local and ethnic food at reasonable prices.

6. Inglewood Bird Sanctuary

Of course, among the cheap things to do in Calgary is to check out Inglewood Bird Sanctuary, which is an urban park and nature reserve. This place is not for birders alone, as the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary is a nice natural area, where you can relax and take a fresh breath. This bird sanctuary lies about 5 kilometres southeast of the city centre. This wildlife resort covers about 36 hectares and is home to over 250 species of birds. 

To spot animals in the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary, you can walk through wooden areas, grassland, and along the Bow River on trials. The park is located at 2425 9 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 4T4, Canada, and is open daily to people. 

7. Stephen Avenue Walk

Stephen Avenue Walk, located at 340 8 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 1C1, Canada, is a pedestrian mall in the centre of Calgary. It is open to the public from 6 am to 6 pm daily. Stephen Avenue Walk is home to several 19th-century buildings and is one of the city’s main dining and shopping destinations. It is also a National Historic Site of Canada.

From boutique shops that sell urban cowboy clothes and accessories to high-end retail outlets, you will find it all here. For the hungry, there are a variety of fine dining restaurants and inexpensive diners to choose from. People-watching is also a popular activity on Stephen Avenue Walk. You can add this to the list of cheap things to do in Calgary when you visit. 

8. Nose Hill Park

When it comes to cheap things to do in Calgary, and Nose Hill Park isn’t on that list, then it’s okay to say the list isn’t complete yet. Nose Hill Park is a large natural park that covers 11 square kilometres. It is just a short drive northwest of the city. 

The park is known also as a nice place to catch the sunset in Calgary. From the top of the hill, you can enjoy clear views of the city, and during winter, there’s a chance to see the northern lights. Nose Hill Park is located at 5620 14 St NW, Calgary, AB T3K 2P6, Canada. 

9. Calgary Chinatown

 Stretching along the Bow River just a short walk northeast of the city centre, Calgary Chinatown is a compact area where you can relax and explore local Chinese and Asian culture. The Chinese Cultural Center itself is built in an architectural style similar to Beijing’s Temple of Heaven. 

There are a variety of restaurants in most price ranges where you can taste a wide range of Asian cuisine. There is also a small market here where you can sample delicious street food while having a picnic in Shilok Park.

10. Kensington Village

Located at Kensington Rd. NW, Calgary, AB, Canada. Although Kensington is not officially a village, the area’s strong community feel gives it the feel of an urban village within the city. Located northwest of downtown Calgary, it’s a lively neighbourhood filled with small shops and restaurants. 

It has many pedestrian streets and combines true Canadian architecture with a bohemian-chic feel and an unpretentious atmosphere. Not all venues here are budget-friendly, but many are very affordable.

Conclusion: Cheap things to do in Calgary

As you explore Calgary on a budget, you will find that this vibrant city offers countless affordable activities and experiences. From scenic parks to cultural attractions, there is something for everyone without breaking the bank. Whether you are strolling along the river pathways, admiring public art installations, or discovering hidden gems in eclectic neighbourhoods, Calgary embraces frugal adventurers with open arms. The city’s diverse culinary scene also beckons with budget-friendly options, from food trucks serving up delicious street food to cozy cafes offering hearty meals at wallet-friendly prices.

Don’t miss out on the many free events happening year-round, from festivals celebrating local art and music to outdoor markets showcasing handmade goods and fresh produce. Calgary’s museums and galleries often have discounted admission days, allowing you to delve into the city’s rich history and artistic heritage without straining your budget. Happy Holiday!