It may be cold, but that doesn’t mean you have to stay at home! After all, we’re made tough here in Alberta. Put on your winter clothes, gas up your car, and check out these nearby attractions for a fun day trip from Calgary:
- Canmore: While Banff gets the global acclaim, Canmore also has so much to offer (without requiring a park pass). Check out Rocky Mountain Bagels, Canmore Brewing, BeaverTails, Mountain Equipment Co, and so much more on main street. At the North end you can walk down the boardwalk through the marsh, where wildlife abounds. There are spectacular views and great places to stay overnight should you wish. Canmore has something for everyone and is only 45 minutes out of the city.
- Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump: Skip the busy mountains all together and head south to this historic landmark. Their trails are well-kept during the winter, and the interpretive centre offers a reprieve from the cold after you visit the site. You will learn so much, and walk away with a new appreciation for the history of our prairies. Long before there was central heating, indigenous people thrived and survived in these cold winter months. Their resilience and wisdom is so valued.
- Nanton: Nanton is an hour away from Calgary, and worth the drive. It is best known for its antique stores, which are filled with treasures and make for a fun afternoon of strolling. They have a visitor center in a historic schoolhouse where you can learn more about the town, and basic amenities. Another fun feature is their Candy Shop, which serves up ice cream and has every kind of candy you could ever dream of.
Where is your favourite place to go for a day trip in the winter? Let us know in the comments below!
(Image via Canva)