Previously known as McCall Field, Calgary International Airport serves Calgary city in the Canadian province of Alberta, as well as the nine municipalities surrounding the Calgary region. The airport is located northeast of downtown Calgary and it consists of a single terminal housing four concourses.
To get to downtown Calgary, there are a few options available, including shuttle buses, public buses, motor-coaches, and taxis. Calgary’s public transit system is fairly well-developed and efficient; getting to most destinations of interest via public transport, namely bus and rail, is a simple affair. Getting around by bicycle or on foot is also a great way to take advantage of the city’s extensive urban pathway and bikeway network.
If Baitun-Nur Mosque is not on your itinerary while you’re in Calgary, it should be! Baitun-Nur Mosque, known as the House of Light in Arabic, is the biggest mosque in North America and it is the place of worship for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in the area. The vast complex boasts a 30m tall steel-capped minaret tower and a large steel dome¾both structures are the most noticeable and most photographed external features of the mosque. Aside from the intricate exterior of the building, you definitely won't want to miss seeing the grand 400kg chandelier that hangs in the prayer hall either.
Next, move along to Prince's Island Park, Calgary’s largest inner city park built on an island on the Bow River, immediately north of downtown Calgary. Lots of urbanites are drawn to the park’s relaxed atmosphere and often take time out of their busy lives to bike, hike, and fish in the park. There are several walking trails for you to embark on leisurely strolls or energetic brisk walks. Throughout the year, the park also plays hosts to different kinds of events, including Calgary Folk Music Festival, one of the city’s largest annual festivals.
Another activity you should check off your list before leaving the city is to watch the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra. The orchestra typically performs in the concert hall of the EPCOR Centre for the Performing Arts, a multi-venue arts centre in the Olympic Plaza Cultural District.
With its expansive repertoire and world-class performances, it is one of North America’s finest and most versatile live music ensembles. You should stop by to watch them, even if you’re not a fan of orchestras, and that is saying something! The ensemble does a fantastic job of covering everything from classical giants to rock hits, so you’ll be waxing lyrical about them by the time it’s over.
