Top 5: Winter Activities in Calgary for 2024

Top 5 Winter Activities in Calgary for Winter 2024

Winter in Calgary is a magical time filled with outdoor adventures, festive events, and cozy experiences. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or prefer staying warm indoors, there’s no shortage of activities to make the most of the colder months.

If you’re staying at The Westley Hotel, you’ll be in the perfect spot to enjoy everything the city has to offer. Here are the top 5 winter activities to experience in Calgary this winter.

1. Skating at Bowness Park

Bowness Park offers one of Calgary’s most beautiful outdoor skating experiences. The scenic lagoon freezes over in the winter, providing a peaceful, picturesque setting for skating. You can rent skates and ice bikes, play crokicurl, and warm up by a fire pit along the ice to warm up with friends and family between laps.

Photo credit: City of Calgary

Skating at Bowness is a quintessential winter activity that lets you enjoy Calgary’s natural beauty in a serene, romantic environment.

Location: 8900 48 Ave NW
Distance from The Westley Hotel: 20-minute drive

2. Calgary Zoo’s ZOOLIGHTS

Winter in Calgary isn’t complete without a visit to ZOOLIGHTS at the Calgary Zoo. From late November to early January, the zoo transforms into a winter wonderland with over 2 million lights, interactive displays, and festive activities. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or as a couple, ZOOLIGHTS offers an enchanting evening filled with holiday cheer.

Photo credit: @thecalgaryzoo on Instagram

Sip on hot cocoa as you explore the magical light displays and enjoy fun attractions like photo ops and fire pits.

Location: Calgary Zoo, 210 St. George’s Dr NE
Distance from The Westley Hotel: 15-minute drive

3. Explore WinSport’s Canada Olympic Park

For those who love winter sports, WinSport’s Canada Olympic Park is the ultimate destination. Whether you’re skiing, skating or snowboarding, this venue offers a wide range of activities for all skill levels. If you’re looking for something different, try the Skyline Luge, or rent a tube with your besties and go sledding in style at the epic tube park!

Photo credit: @winsportcanada on Instagram

The park also offers ski and snowboard rentals, so it’s easy to get started even if you don’t have your own gear.

Location: 88 Canada Olympic Rd SW
Distance from The Westley Hotel: 18-minute drive

4. Visit Heritage Park’s Once Upon A Christmas

Step back in time at Heritage Park’s Once Upon A Christmas, where the historical village transforms into a charming winter wonderland. Running on weekends from late November through December, this event features holiday-themed activities, horse-drawn wagon rides, live music, and festive food.

Photo credit: @heritageparkyyc on Instagram

Stroll through the village, visit Santa’s workshop, and experience the magic of a traditional Christmas!

Location: Heritage Park, 1900 Heritage Dr SW
Distance from The Westley Hotel: 25-minute drive

5. Cross-Country Skiing at Confederation Park

For those who prefer a more tranquil winter experience, Confederation Park is one of the best spots for cross-country skiing. The park features groomed trails perfect for beginners and experienced skiers alike.

Photo credit: @foothillsnordic on Instagram

With its scenic beauty and quiet surroundings, it’s the ideal place to enjoy Calgary’s winter landscapes while getting in some outdoor exercise.

Location: 905 30 Ave NW
Distance from The Westley Hotel: 15-minute drive

5. Cozy Up with a Drink and a Hot Meal at Fonda Fora

Once you’ve had your outdoor fun, come home to the Westley for a delicious meal that will warm you up from the inside out! Our in-house restaurant, Fonda Fora, specializes in Latin American cuisine and is sure to have something for everyone.

Photo credit: @fondafora on Instagram

Combine that with a drink from our skilled bartenders during Happy Hour, and you’ve had yourself a perfect winter’s day in Calgary.

Location: Inside the Westley Hotel’s lobby
Distance from The Westley Hotel: Just steps outside your room!

Make the Most of Winter in Calgary

Whether you’re gliding on ice, exploring festive lights, or enjoying winter sports, Calgary offers a variety of activities to make your winter getaway unforgettable.

Stay at The Westley Hotel and experience the city’s winter magic, with easy access to all of these top winter attractions. Book your stay today and make the most of winter 2024 in Calgary!