CalgaryOutdoor Escape Game & Treasure Hunt
Gateway to the Canadian Rockies
If you're wondering what to do in Calgary, this dynamic city, the gateway to the Canadian Rockies, offers a wealth of experiences beyond its breathtaking landscapes. For a fun and unusual activity, why not embark on an outdoor escape game? It's a unique way to discover the city, transforming its streets into a giant playground. Imagine a real-life treasure hunt that takes you through iconic sites. Stroll along Stephen Avenue Walk, admire the modern and historic architecture, or explore the stunning views from the Calgary Tower. Our scavenger hunts invite you to solve puzzles while exploring these locations. Whether for a first discovery or to rediscover Calgary from a new angle, it's an adventure that combines culture, exploration, and fun, off the beaten path.
Unusual things to do in Calgary
For an unusual activity in Calgary, our outdoor escape games are an original outing that plunges you into the heart of the city. Far from traditional guided tours, you become the heroes of your own adventure, solving puzzles while exploring urban secrets. Imagine deciphering codes in front of public artworks or searching for hidden clues in the Victorian architecture of downtown. It's an interactive experience that combines the thrill of an escape game with cultural discovery, offering a fresh look at Calgary and its unique features, a truly unexpected way to spend your time.
Things to do in Calgary with kids
Looking for what to do with family in Calgary? Our outdoor escape games are perfectly suited for children and teenagers from 8 years old. It's a fun activity that stimulates curiosity and teamwork. Imagine your children transformed into young detectives, exploring the city in search of clues, solving puzzles together. It's an excellent opportunity to share a moment of connection and discovery, where everyone, from the youngest to the oldest, contributes to advancing the adventure. A memorable outing guaranteed for the whole family!
Calgary for couples
Discover Calgary as a couple in a unique and intimate way. Our scavenger hunts invite you to get lost (figuratively speaking!) in the charming alleyways of downtown, admire views from unexpected vantage points, and share intimate moments solving puzzles together. It's an original way to stroll, hand in hand, discovering the city's hidden heritage. Imagine a romantic walk punctuated by intellectual challenges, where each solved clue strengthens your connection and reveals a new secret of Calgary. An adventure for two, away from the crowds.
What to do in Calgary when it rains
Even if Calgary is known for its sunshine, don't worry if rain decides to show up! Our outdoor escape games are designed to allow you to enjoy the city even on gloomy days. The route will take you through covered passages and arcades downtown, ensuring that about 80% of your adventure takes place sheltered from the weather. It's an excellent way to discover the city from another angle, without getting wet, all while having fun and solving puzzles. A perfect activity for rainy days!
Where is Calgary, and where do the routes start?
Starting points of our routes and the places they pass through.
Route starting points
Places in Calgary
- Fort Calgary Historic Park — Original fort site
- 9th Avenue SE — NWMP barracks reconstruction
- 1st Street SE — Historical general store location
- Centre Street Bridge — View of Bow River Ranch Trail
- 9th Avenue SW — Former CP Rail station (heritage facade)
- Stephen Avenue Walk — Former Dominion Lands Office
- 8th Avenue SW — Historic oil men's hotel facade
- Prince's Island Park — Bow River lookout
The history of Calgary
From Whiskey Post to "Sandstone City"
Calgary's origins trace back to 1875 when a detachment of the North West Mounted Police (NWMP) established Fort Brisebois at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow Rivers. Their mission was to curb the illicit whiskey trade and enforce federal law in the region. The fort was renamed Fort Calgary in June 1876 by Assistant Commissioner James F. Macleod, honoring Calgary House in Scotland. This outpost served as a base for patrols and police duties during the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR). The arrival of the CPR in 1883 transformed Calgary from a frontier post into a settlement. The town was officially incorporated in 1884.
A fire in 1886 destroyed most of Calgary's wooden downtown buildings. This led to a city council mandate that all new public buildings be constructed from fireproof materials, primarily locally quarried sandstone. This era, lasting into the early 20th century, earned Calgary the nickname "Sandstone City." Many of these structures define Stephen Avenue Walk today.
The Rise of an Energy Hub
While ranching was an early industry, the discovery of oil in Turner Valley in 1914 started Calgary's journey towards becoming an energy capital. Further oil strikes in the 1920s and, more significantly, in Leduc in 1947, established Calgary's role in the petroleum industry. This led to rapid growth in the 1950s, making Calgary one of Canada's fastest-growing cities. The city continued to expand, and in 1988, Calgary hosted the Winter Olympic Games, which solidified its international profile.
What to see in Calgary
- Fort Calgary Historic Park — This park on the original 1875 site at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow Rivers features a reconstructed North West Mounted Police fort, including barracks and stables. Visitors can see archaeological remnants and learn about the city's founding.
- Stephen Avenue Walk (8th Avenue SW) — This pedestrian mall is a National Historic Site. It displays sandstone and brick buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The area serves as a location for shopping, dining, and public art.
- Centre Street Bridge — This concrete bridge, completed in 1916, has four arched spans and upper and lower traffic decks. It is adorned with lion sculptures and buffalo heads at each end.
- Prince's Island Park — This urban park on an island in the Bow River offers walking paths, a lagoon, a children's playground, and flower gardens. It is used for outdoor festivals and provides views of the downtown skyline.
- Calgary Tower — This 191-meter (626 ft) observation tower, built in 1968, provides views of the city, the surrounding prairies, and the Canadian Rockies. It includes a revolving restaurant and a glass floor.
When to visit Calgary
The best time to visit Calgary is during the summer months, from early July to mid-August. Temperatures average around 17°C (63°F) and highs can reach 23°C (74°F). This period offers clear skies and is suitable for outdoor activities, though afternoon thunderstorms, sometimes with hail, can occur. Calgary is Canada's sunniest major city, with over 332 days of sun annually.
Winters are long and cold, with average January lows around -10°C (13°F) and highs of -0.5°C (31°F). Temperatures can drop significantly, but warm Chinook winds occasionally bring milder conditions. Avoid visiting between November and March if you dislike extreme cold.
Getting around Calgary
Calgary International Airport (YYC) is approximately 17 km (10.5 miles) from downtown. A taxi ride typically takes 20-25 minutes and costs around C$40-C$45. Ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft are also available. Calgary Transit's Route 300 express bus connects the airport to downtown; the fare includes transfers to other buses and CTrains.
Downtown Calgary is walkable, with many attractions concentrated within a few blocks. The CTrain, Calgary's light rail system, offers free rides within the downtown core's "Free Fare Zone." Parking downtown can be challenging and expensive, but free parking is often available on Sundays and in the evenings. Consider using public transit or walking to navigate the city center.
Things you probably do not know about Calgary
Verified details most visitors walk straight past.
- Fort Calgary Historic Park
- What was Fort Calgary initially named, and why was it changed? Fort Calgary was originally named Fort Brisebois after Captain Ephrem-A. Brisebois, the leader of the NWMP detachment. His superiors felt he had misused his authority by naming it after himself, so it was renamed Fort Calgary in June 1876.
- Stephen Avenue Walk
- Beyond its pedestrian-friendly design, what unique characteristic does Stephen Avenue Walk possess after dark during certain months? From October to April, Stephen Avenue Walk transforms into a 'woonerf' by night. This Dutch-inspired design means there's no division between vehicles and pedestrians, creating a shared space with enhanced landscaping and street furniture, even though cars are permitted.
- Centre Street Bridge
- What secret do the lion sculptures on the Centre Street Bridge hold, according to local legends? Local legends from the adjacent Chinatown claim that the four large cast concrete lion sculptures adorning the Centre Street Bridge would come alive after dark and roam the city streets.
- Prince's Island Park
- Before it was an urban park, what industrial purpose did Prince's Island serve, and how did it even become an island? Prince's Island was not always an island. It was created when Peter Anthony Prince's Eau Claire Lumber Company dug a channel in the 1880s to float logs closer to their sawmill, effectively separating a piece of land from the mainland.
- Calgary Tower
- What unconventional construction technique was used for the Calgary Tower's main column, and what record did it set? The Calgary Tower's main column was built using an unprecedented continuous pour of concrete over 24 days, starting May 15, 1967. This slip-forming technique resulted in a record pour of 39 feet in a single 24-hour period.
Questions about visiting Calgary
How long should I plan to stay in Calgary?
To experience Calgary's main attractions, including its downtown core, museums, and parks, a stay of 2-3 days is generally recommended. If you plan to explore the nearby Canadian Rockies or attend events like the Calgary Stampede, you'll want to extend your visit to 5 days or more.
What are the best neighborhoods to explore in Calgary?
Beyond downtown, consider exploring Kensington for its independent shops, Inglewood for its historic charm and music scene, and Bridgeland for its views and proximity to Prince's Island Park. Each offers distinct local experiences and dining options.
Is Calgary a walkable city?
Downtown Calgary is very walkable, with many key sights within easy reach. The city also has an extensive network of pathways along the Bow River, suitable for walking or cycling. For longer distances or to reach outer neighborhoods, Calgary Transit provides bus and CTrain services.
What is the public transportation like in Calgary?
Calgary Transit operates a system of buses and the CTrain (light rail). The CTrain is free within the downtown core's "Free Fare Zone," making it convenient for exploring the city center. Outside this zone, fares apply, and tickets can be purchased at stations or on buses.
What is the average cost of a trip to Calgary?
The cost of a trip to Calgary can vary. Budget travelers might spend around C$70-C$100 per day on accommodation, food, and activities, while a mid-range trip could range from C$150-C$250+ per day. Factor in flight costs, which fluctuate seasonally.
Is Calgary a good city to visit with children?
Yes, Calgary offers many family-friendly attractions. Prince's Island Park has a large playground, the Calgary Zoo is a popular choice, and Telus Spark Science Centre provides interactive exhibits. Many downtown areas are pedestrian-friendly, and the CTrain offers easy access to various sites.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an outdoor escape game cost in Calgary?
An outdoor escape game in Calgary typically costs €12/team, which offers excellent value for a group activity. The price is fixed per team, regardless of the number of players (within the recommended limit). This means that whether you are 2, 3, or 4 friends, the cost per person is very affordable. It's an economical option for exploring the city in a fun and original way, often cheaper than a movie ticket or other tourist attractions. Think of it as an investment in a memorable experience!
Is it suitable for children / families?
Absolutely! Our outdoor escape games in Calgary are designed to be a fantastic activity for the whole family. The puzzles are crafted to be accessible and fun for children aged 8 and up, but also challenging enough for teenagers and adults. It's a wonderful opportunity to work as a team, stimulating everyone's logic and creativity. Younger participants will love the treasure hunt aspect, while older ones will appreciate exploring and discovering the city's secrets. It's an outing that creates unforgettable family memories.
How long does an escape game in Calgary last?
The duration of an outdoor escape game in Calgary generally ranges between 1 hour 30 minutes and 2 hours 30 minutes. This mainly depends on your team's pace, the number of participants, and your ability to solve the puzzles. Some like to take their time to admire the scenery and architecture, while others prefer to compete and finish as quickly as possible. There's no right or wrong way to play! The important thing is to enjoy the adventure and explore the city at your own pace, without pressure.
Do I need to book in advance?
No, one of the great advantages of our outdoor escape games in Calgary is that you don't need to book in advance. You can purchase your game online whenever you want and start the adventure immediately or at any time that suits you. This offers incredible flexibility, ideal for spontaneous travelers or those who like to decide on their activities at the last minute. No time constraints, no appointments, just the freedom to play whenever the mood strikes, alone, with friends, or with family.
What to visit in Calgary beyond the escape games?
Beyond the excitement of our escape games, Calgary is full of sites to explore. Don't miss the Calgary Tower for panoramic views, the vibrant Stephen Avenue Walk for its shops and restaurants, or the peaceful Prince's Island Park for a breath of fresh air. Heritage Park Historical Village offers a fascinating glimpse into Western Canadian history. For art and culture lovers, the Glenbow Museum and Studio Bell, Home of the National Music Centre, are must-sees. And of course, the majestic Canadian Rockies are just a short drive away!
What is the best season to visit Calgary?
The best season to visit Calgary depends on what you're looking for. Summer (June to August) is ideal for enjoying the outdoors, festivals, and trips to the Rockies, with warm and sunny weather. Spring and autumn offer milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful landscapes with changing colors. Winter, though cold, is perfect for winter sports and holiday cheer, especially with the famous Stampede. Our outdoor escape games are playable for much of the year, but summer and early autumn are the most pleasant for urban exploration.
Other destinations in Alberta
More cities in Canada
Regina
Capital of the Canadian prairies
Vancouver
Pacific metropolis between mountains and ocean
Victoria
British charm on the Pacific coast
Winnipeg
Cultural crossroads in the heart of the Prairies
Dawson City
Capital of the Klondike Gold Rush
Toronto
Cosmopolitan metropolis of endless faces
Ottawa
Canada's capital of many faces
Montreal
Francophone metropolis of a thousand faces
Activities to discover nearby
Guided tours, skip-the-line tickets and local experiences to book in advance.
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