According to forum posts, popular attractions in Calgary include the Calgary Zoo, Heritage Park, and Studio Bell National Music Centre. The Calgary Tower is also a favorite for its panoramic views of the city.

For outdoor enthusiasts, some travelers recommended exploring Calgary's extensive network of bike paths. The paths along the Bow River and through areas like Inglewood and Kensington are particularly highlighted for their scenic beauty and ease of access.

Travelers have called out the Glenbow Museum and the Military Museums as important cultural and historical sites. Despite the Glenbow Museum's main building being under renovation, a satellite location remains open for visitors.

For a more unique experience, users suggested visiting the local breweries in the Barley Belt and enjoying the vibrant neighborhood of Inglewood, known for its eclectic shops and craft breweries.

According to forum posts, travelers can choose between Uber, Lyft, or taxis for a direct ride from Calgary Airport to downtown. The typical fare for these services ranges from $30 to $40, depending on the time of day and any surge pricing that may apply.

Some travelers mentioned that the city bus, specifically the 300 express bus, is a cheaper alternative, costing around $12. The journey on this bus takes approximately 45 minutes to reach downtown Calgary.

For those prioritizing comfort, especially after a long flight or when carrying luggage, taxis and Ubers are preferred despite the higher cost compared to the bus. The direct nature of these services provides a more relaxed travel experience to downtown.

According to forum posts, the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) is a quintessential part of the drive from Calgary to Jasper, highly recommended for its stunning scenery. Travelers have called out this route as one of the most scenic drives in Canada, with well-signed must-see spots along the way.

Some travelers said that key stops along the Icefields Parkway include Lake Louise, Peyto Lake, and the Athabasca Glacier. These spots offer breathtaking views and are conveniently accessible from the highway.

For many users, additional recommended visits include the towns of Banff and Canmore for their charming atmosphere and dining options. The Bow Valley Parkway is also suggested for its scenic views and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Travelers have emphasized the importance of not rushing the journey and considering overnight stays in Banff or Jasper to fully enjoy the experience. Booking accommodations in advance is advised due to the popularity of this route, especially during peak tourist seasons.

According to forum posts, it is highly recommended to book accommodations early as prime locations near the C-train and central areas get booked quickly. Staying near the C-train is advantageous as it provides direct access to Stampede Park, allowing you to avoid traffic and parking issues.

Travelers have noted that there is no need for a car while in Calgary for the Stampede, especially if staying centrally. The C-train offers convenient transit within the city, including direct stops at Stampede Park. For trips outside Calgary, such as to Banff, a car rental may be necessary.

Some travelers said the entire city of Calgary gets involved in the Stampede festivities, with events like the Free Pancake Breakfast and various shows on the Stampede grounds. It's suggested to plan your visit according to specific events you want to attend, like rodeo finals or the grandstand show, which occur towards the end of the Stampede.

Many users recommend applying for necessary travel authorizations like the eTA well ahead of your trip and ensuring all bookings for accommodations and Stampede tickets are done early to avoid last-minute price hikes and sold-out situations.

For travelers with a layover at Calgary Airport, there are multiple hotel options nearby. Some travelers have pointed out that while the Marriott at the airport offers the utmost convenience, it is more expensive compared to other nearby hotels like the Hampton Inn, Wingate, and Best Western, which provide free shuttles and are just minutes away.

According to forum posts, these nearby hotels offer basic amenities, making them suitable for short stays. The Homewood Suites and Hampton Inn are particularly noted for providing evening meals and free breakfast. However, the area around the airport lacks significant attractions and is not ideal for walking to nearby dining options.

Travelers have called out that many hotels around Calgary Airport offer shuttle services, which can be crucial for those with early flights. It is advisable to confirm shuttle service hours, as some may not operate early enough for flights departing at dawn.

For early departures, it is recommended to choose a hotel like the Marriott attached to the airport to minimize travel time to the terminal. This can be particularly beneficial for those with mobility issues or when travelling during late or very early hours.

According to forum posts, travelers must clear customs and immigration at Calgary Airport upon their first point of entry into Canada. This involves a process where travelers are funneled through immigration, required to fill out a questionnaire on a computer, have photos taken, and submit a printed piece of paper along with their passport to an authority figure who checks and allows them to pass through.

Some travelers mentioned that if you are transiting through Calgary and your flight ticket was booked as one transaction, your checked luggage would be tagged to your final destination in Canada, meaning you would not see it until you arrive there. This is convenient as it eliminates the need to recheck luggage after clearing customs in Calgary.

For travelers who exit the secure transit area, for instance to smoke or dine, they must go through security again to access their departure gates. It is advisable to confirm specific protocols with the airline staff at the airport if there are uncertainties.