In the rush of everyday life, it’s easy to forget what’s special about the place where you live. But Joshua Murdoch (PWPO ’12) — co-founder of Toonie Tours along with his brother, Nathan (PET ’10) — has a passion for uncovering local gems and highlighting what’s cool about Calgary through a range of guided tours. So does Jacob Squirrell (BHTM ’22, HMGT ’20), who works with Tourism Calgary to elevate the visitor experience and make sure guests create lasting memories in the city.

Joshua and Jacob both see their hometown through the eyes of a local and from the perspective of a tourist. Here are their top six tips for enjoying Calgary like a visitor this summer.

 

1
E-bike riverside adventures
Swap four wheels for two and make a day of riding the city’s pathway system through gorgeous riverside greenspaces. “I recommend picking up an e-bike at Toonie Tours’ downtown location and riding south along the Bow River down to Fish Creek Provincial Park,” Joshua says. Or, follow a meandering path beside the Elbow River from downtown to the Glenmore Reservoir and Weaselhead Flats.
2
Family fun on St. Patrick's Island
“St. Patrick’s Island Park is great for kids. There’s an awesome playground and a hill they can play on,” Joshua says. If the river’s high enough, Trout Beach in the heart of the island is a great place to cool off in the shallows.
3
Escape to the centre of the city
Get away from the bustle of city life in Reader Rock Garden Historic Park. “What I love about this place is, even though it’s in the heart of the city, it really transports you somewhere else,” Jacob says. The garden’s lush landscape and unique variety of plants are sure to soothe. After a relaxing stroll through the greenery, visit the historic Reader house and café, where William Roland Reader lived and cultivated his garden between 1913 and 1943.
4
Stampede all summer
Steps away from the Stampede grounds, the Sam Centre gives visitors a whole new perspective on the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth. “The Sam Centre is really where you can experience the magic of Stampede year-round,” Jacob says. Interactive exhibits and immersive multimedia shows give a glimpse into the history of this iconic part of our city’s past and present. Perfect for families with kids of all ages.
5
Connect with Calgary’s Chinese cultural heritage
When you walk into the Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre, your first impulse might be to look up at the gorgeous ceiling — but there are treasures to be found below your feet. “Lots of Calgarians know about the cultural centre, but they don’t know there is a museum downstairs,” says Jacob. “Entry is free, but I highly recommend booking a guided tour.” In addition to exhibitions showcasing the history of the Chinese community, the museum boasts a collection of Chinese artifacts plus work by local artists.
6
Get outta town
High River, south of Calgary, is one of Joshua's favourite day trips. The town has a vibrant downtown with local eateries, great consignment stores and some truly adorable baby shops. Check out the Museum of the Highwood and enjoy the town’s well-preserved historical prairie architecture.

 

Feature image for Wanderlust story

 

 

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SAIT is located on the traditional territories of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) and the people of Treaty 7 which includes the Siksika, the Piikani, the Kainai, the Tsuut’ina and the Îyârhe Nakoda of Bearspaw, Chiniki and Goodstoney.

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