calgary

Surround Yourself With Water at Prince’s Island Park in Calgary, Canada

Surround Yourself with Water at Prince’s Island Park in Calgary, Canada! It has been dubbed an “Island of Dreams” slightly north of downtown Calgary, Canada. Its namesake is Peter Anthony Prince, founder of the Eau Claire Lumber Mill in 1886. What makes this Park so unusual, you ask? First of all, the island began when a channel was dug to transport logs from the Bow River to the sawmill. As the island naturally developed, it became more of a wetland habitat for Canadian geese, mallard ducks, small wildlife, and flocks of birds. Access is limited to only a few service vehicles making it an urban park for recreational hiking, leisurely picnics, energized pedestrians, festive celebrations, and environmental education. Flower gardens and water fountains enhance the lush greenery. Prince’s Island Park is easily accessible by three bridges making it convenient for adventure seekers. 

Dining Outside the Home: Murrieta’s Bar & Grill in Calgary, Canada 

Dining Outside the Home: Murrieta’s Bar & Grill in Calgary, Canada! Are you searching for adventure? Do you have a passion for life? If so, you may have something in common with this restaurant’s namesake located in downtown Calgary. Joaquin Murrieta, a gold rush Robin Hood-like outlaw, was the subject of western fantasy, raiding gold from the rich and sharing with the poor. Still somewhat of an urban legend, his myth lives on within the walls of the renovated Alberta Hotel. Enter on the side street, ascend a winding staircase, and slide onto a seat outside on the second-story terrace overlooking the street activity that seems nonstop. Whether you take a “Happy Hour” mid-day break, meet friends for an early dinner, or dance to the music of late-night bands, it is impossible not to be consumed by the rustic surroundings of Old World tradition. 

Get Inside the Head of “Wonderland” Sculpture in Calgary, Canada

Just outside the Bow Tower on the plaza in East Village is a gigantic head of a young girl. Could it be Alice with her vibrant dreams and curious mind? This specially designed bent-wire sculpture is one of Calgary’s 56 art pieces located all over the downtown area. Open doorways at the base of the neck make it possible to “get inside her head” for a special vantage point. Check out the architectural curve of the enormous skyscraper. It’s amazing! The Calgary Downtown Association has brochures online showing the location of all 56 art pieces. The self-guided walking tour will keep you mesmerized. Art enthusiasts, locals, tourists, and curiosity seekers won’t want to miss this unmatched opportunity. 

Step Onto the Glass Floor of Calgary Tower in Calgary, Canada

Have you ever stood among the clouds? The Calgary Tower offers a spectacular view 626 feet above the heart of downtown. If you walk around the enclosed observation deck, it is possible to see 360°. In one direction, the Canadian Rockies appear on the horizon. In another, the foothills are in the distance and prairies look like patchwork quilts. And then there are the rooftops and street traffic below that can make a child squeal with laughter and a woman feel as lightheaded as being kissed. Not into heights? No worries. The view with two feet on solid ground offers a night glow that is ever-changing from purple, pink, red, green, or blue. On special nights golden moonlight adds a mystical magical allure to the view. 

Beakerhead Brainstorm Hits Calgary, Canada

Beakerhead Brainstorm Hits Calgary, Canada! Mechanical sea creatures, giant motorized robots, walking on water, and hands-on technology are all eye-popping evidence of cultural encounters at the Beakerhead celebration held along Stephens Avenue in downtown Calgary, Canada. This is one time when seeing is believing. Inventors of all ages, as well as nerd busters and scientists, bring engineering to life by giving the public an up-close-and-personal glimpse of the what the genius mind can create. Every September it’s a “Mad, Mad World” where imagination knows no bounds. Join the street party where live music meets illusion for only the cost of curiosity. 

Dining Outside the Home: Milestones in Calgary, Canada

Dining Outside the Home: Milestones in Calgary, Canada! Try a trendy new dining experience for Date Night with your favorite squeeze or Girls Night Out to unwind. Get started with a vegetarian appetizer or a signature dish. No matter the choice, they’re all shareable. Rustic sandwiches pair aged garlic cheese with freshly grilled meats and honey sriracha slaw for savior-faire. Or perhaps a pasta bowl of sesame ginger beef and shiitake coconut rice is more to your liking. The choices seem unlimited. And the food photos in the menu have you drooling before the sun dips below the horizon. Sit back, settle in, and wile the night away. Leisure is made for Milestones. 

Peace Bridge is Pedestrian Landmark in Calgary, Canada 

Peace Bridge is Pedestrian Landmark in Calgary, Canada! Spanning the Bow River, the Peace Bridge connects commuters on foot or bicycling to downtown Calgary. But that’s not what makes it unusual. Arched steel and tubular girders make this unique footbridge an architectural marvel. The atypical red and white design represents the colors of the Canadian flag as well as the flag of Calgary. The protective glass roof and nighttime illumination offer safety from the elements. In an effort to minimize the ecological footprint, the height is restricted and piers are nonexistent. At first glance, one could easily mistaken the bridge for a commuter train or a giant novelty toy known as the Chinese finger trap. I prefer to describe its sleek design as a glimpse into the future. Without a doubt, it is a “must see” when visiting Calgary, Canada. 

Dining Outside the Home: Native Tongues Taqueria in Calgary, Canada

Dining Outside the Home: Native Tongues Taqueria in Calgary, Canada! If you’re looking for traditional street foods of Mexico mixed with a desire to socialize, you may wish to experience the cantina atmosphere of Native Tongues Taqueria. A quick glance will have you wondering if the soft patina of adobe walls peppered with festive Mexican tiles are for real. They are. Communal wooden tables and solid benches promote casual conversations. Fresh ingredients make up for the pricey miniature tacos, which disappeared in three bites. Other patrons seemed to gravitate to the authentic guacamole and house made chips washed down with a signature Mezcal margarita. Sharing platters is the way to go. The chef-driven labor-intensive attention to detail keeps this restaurant from falling into the category of “Mexican fast food”.

Canadian Central Memorial Park is Calgary’s Oldest Park

Canadian Central Memorial Park is Calgary’s Oldest Park! Geometric pathways cross-cross skillfully manicured gardens surrounding the equestrian statue as the main focal point showcased in downtown Calgary, Canada. “The Horseman of the Plains” is a tribute to all Albertan soldiers who fought in the Second Boer War from 1899-1902. Inscriptions on two granite benches showcase the statue at each end immortalizing their bravery. Artistic fountains illuminate the water with colorful hues, adding to the ambience. Central Memorial Park engulfs one entire block in the heart of the city. Beltline residents as well as visitors, tourists, and downtowners appreciate the numerous benches and café tables available when longing for a brief interlude from daily responsibilities. Pack a lunch, toss a coin into the fountain, make a wish, and breathe easy for awhile.