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How to Make the Most of 24 Hours in Calgary

24-Hour Layover in Calgary: Quick Itinerary

  • Arrival & Refresh (Morning)
    • Arrive at YYC and take the hotel’s complimentary shuttle
    • Check in, relax, or use the fitness centre
  • Head Downtown (Late Morning)
    • Take a taxi or rideshare downtown
    • Visit Calgary Tower for skyline and mountain views
  • Lunch Break
    • Try Charbar or Sidewalk Citizen in East Village
    • Or explore Stephen Avenue for casual local eats
  • Explore Outdoors (Early Afternoon)
    • Walk along the Bow River Pathway
    • Relax in Prince’s Island Park
  • Optional Stop
    • Visit the Calgary Zoo or Studio Bell if time allows
  • Dinner Near Hotel (Evening)
    • Dine at The 56 Restaurant & Lounge or @Liberty Lounge
  • Unwind & Prepare for Departure
    • Enjoy the indoor pool, hot tub, or relax in-room
    • Confirm airport shuttle time with the front desk

Even if you only have a day between flights, Calgary offers an exciting one-day escape. With our Calgary layover guide, you can experience the city’s highlights, enjoy local dining, and return to catch your next flight feeling refreshed. Best Western Premier Freeport Inn Calgary Airport makes it easy—our front desk will securely store your luggage, and our complimentary shuttle connects you to YYC’s CTrain station for quick downtown access.

Start Your Day at the Hotel

Luggage Storage

Begin your morning unburdened by heavy bags. Our front‐desk team will safely store your carry-ons and backpacks, allowing you to explore Calgary hands-free. When you return, your luggage will be ready and waiting, so you can head straight to your next flight without the hassle of check-out delays or crowded airport lockers.

Getting Around During Your Layover

Once you arrive at the hotel using our complimentary 24-hour airport shuttle, you’ll find it easy to explore the city with a short taxi or rideshare trip. Whether you’re heading downtown or checking out local attractions nearby, Calgary offers convenient transportation options for a day of exploring before your next flight.

Morning: Explore the East Village

RiverWalk Stroll

Take the CTrain to the East Village stop and walk the RiverWalk along the Bow River. You’ll pass public art pieces and riverside paths shaded by trees. It’s a calm way to start your day.

Calgary Tower Visit

Head over to Calgary Tower next. Ride the glass elevator to the observation deck for city views framed by the Rocky Mountains. The view alone makes it worth the stop.

Local Coffee Break

Before moving on, pop into a nearby café for locally roasted coffee. Pair your drink with a fresh pastry or breakfast sandwich to fuel up for the day.

Midday: Lunch and Landmarks

Gourmet Lunch on Stephen Avenue

Return downtown and dine along Stephen Avenue Walk. Choose from cafés serving gourmet sandwiches, bowls with seasonal produce, or quick bites. Watch street performers as you eat.

Heritage Building Tour

After lunch, stroll Stephen Avenue to admire historic architecture. Look for landmarks like the Hudson’s Bay building and the old Kelly and Woodward’s facades, which tell the story of Calgary’s past.

Afternoon: Culture or Wildlife

Prince’s Island Park Retreat

If you want green space, take a short bus or cab ride to Prince’s Island Park. Relax on the lawns, stroll shaded paths, or sit by the river. It’s a peaceful spot near downtown.

Calgary Zoo Visit

For a wildlife break, catch the CTrain and bus to the Calgary Zoo. With over 1,000 animals and interactive exhibits, you can enjoy habitats like Penguin Plunge or the Canadian Wilds before heading back.

Early Evening: Dining Near the Airport

Liberty Resto-Lounge

Back near the airport, dine at Liberty Resto-Lounge onsite. The menu features pub dishes made with local ingredients, like Alberta beef sliders and loaded nachos. Grab a local beer or cocktail and unwind.

The Keg Steakhouse + Bar

If you want a change of scene, drive or shuttle ten minutes to The Keg Steakhouse + Bar. Known for its prime rib and tenderloin, it delivers classic steakhouse service without the downtown traffic.

Phil’s Restaurants

For a home-style meal, head to Phil’s Restaurants on 17 Avenue SE. This retro diner offers comfort classics—from chicken fried steak to all-day breakfasts—that hit the spot after a long day of travel.

Return and Relax at Your Hotel

After dinner, take our shuttle back to Best Western Premier Freeport Inn Calgary Airport. Soak in the hot tub or swim a few laps in the indoor pool to ease tired muscles. If you need a late-night snack, our 24-hour shop is open. With luggage already stored, check-in for your next flight will be quick and easy.

Start planning your layover in Calgary today. Book your room with us and make the most of your 24 hours in YYC with this guide to things to do near Calgary airport.

BEST WESTERN PREMIER FREEPORT INN
CALGARY AIRPORT
86 Freeport Boulevard NE
Calgary, Alberta T3J 5J9
Canada
Contact us: Phone: 403-264-9650
Toll Free: 1-877-818-0638
Fax: 403-264-9651
Email: [email protected]
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