Calgary, a city in Alberta, Canada, lies where the prairies end and the foothills begin. As such, it is the eastern gateway to the Rocky Mountains and an important center of trade and tourism. It is your most likely point of access for Banff, and a worthwhile destination in its own right.
A mix of unique shopping, restaurants, hotels, and urban parkland make Eau Claire and the Festival District among Calgary's liveliest districts. North of Eau Claire is the picturesque, Prince's Island Park. In the summer, you’ll find the Festival District crowded with people enjoying the Eau Claire Festival Market or one of the areas many pubs and restaurants. It is also the perfect starting point for a stroll along one of the many scenic paths along the Bow River. Stephen Avenue forms the heart of downtown Calgary's shopping and retail zone. The region immediately to the east of Stephen Avenue Walk contains a number of theatres, art galleries, and the Glenbow Museum. It is also home to Olympic Plaza, a large public square in front of city hall.
For ten days in July the whole city goes western! The Calgary Stampede has events all around the city, but the highlights are the rodeo and chuckwagon races. Calgary's NHL team is much improved over recent years. Expect a great atmosphere if you attend a game.