Everybody loves a free activity and there are plenty of options in Calgary. There are so many free attractions, tours, parks, and festivals to explore whether you are visiting for the first time or hosting friends and family. It’s a great way to save money and find family friendly fun in the city. Ready to discover the best free things to do in Calgary?

Free Attractions in Calgary

Find free admission and activities at the top attractions and public spaces in Calgary.

Alberta University of the Arts

Details: Discover world-class gallery spaces on campus at Alberta University of the Arts

Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre

Details: Learn the history of the Chinese community in Calgary with a free self-guided tour.

Central Library

Details: Explore four floors of the beautiful Central Library in the East Village.

Devonian Gardens

Details: One hectare of botanical gardens with over 500 trees, 50 varieties of plants, 900 square foot living wall, fountains, fishponds, and a playground.

Esker Foundation

Details: Admission is free to this contemporary art gallery in the neighbourhood of Inglewood.

Inglewood Bird Sanctuary

Details: A birder's paradise in the middle of the city, with winding trails, interpretive signage, and a Nature Centre.

Rocky Mountain Show Jumping

Details: Free admission and parking to international horse-riding events for all ages and skill levels.

YouthLink Calgary Police Interpretive Centre

Details: Admission is free to Calgary’s police museum with interactive displays and photo opportunities for all ages.

Devonian Gardens at The CORE Shopping Centre

Free Tours in Calgary

Book a free tour with local guides and learn more about the history of Calgary.

Calgary Walking Tour

Details: Learn a piece of Calgary's history on a guided walking tour of two central neighborhoods in the city

Central Library Tours

Details: Join free daily general or free architectural tours of the Central Library.

Baitun Nur Mosque Tours

Details: Book a free tour of Western Canada’s largest Ahmadiyya Mosque.

Scotiabank Saddledome Tours

Details: Book a free tour of the Scotiabank Saddledome on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays on non-event days in June, July, and August.

Calgary Central Library (Photo credit: Neil Zeller)

Free Parks & Outdoor Activities in Calgary

Explore the great outdoors with splash pads, skate parks, and trails, for free family fun in Calgary.

St. Patrick’s Island

Details: Explore walking trails and natural play areas in this popular East Village park.

City of Calgary Wading Pools, Spray Parks, and Outdoor Pools

Details: Beat the heat with free wading pools, spray parks, and outdoor pools open from June until fall, open from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Fish Creek Provincial Park

Details: Discover one of the largest urban parks in North America with a Visitor Centre and over 100 kilometres of walking, hiking, and biking trails.

Inglewood Bird Sanctuary

Details: Discover over 270 species of birds, 21 mammals, 347 species of plants, and Nature Centre for free.

Prince’s Island Park

Details: Largest festival park in the heart of downtown Calgary with picnic areas, playgrounds, hiking trails, flower gardens, and outdoor skating.