Summer in Calgary is one of the best times of the year, with more fun activities and events around the city than in the colder months. As a born-and-raised Calgarian, I’d recommend checking out these five spots again and again.

St. Patrick’s Island

St. Patrick’s Island is one of the best places in Calgary for an easy summer outing close to downtown. The park has walking and biking paths, a children’s playground and river pool, wetlands and open green space, and beautiful river views, so it works well for families, couples, and anyone wanting a calm break from the typical urban pace.

The island connects to East Village on the west side and the Calgary Zoo/Inglewood on the east side, making it an ideal in-between stop during the summer heat. Enjoy a quick nature walk before heading to the zoo and back again, or stop by and relax by the river as you hear

Harvie Passage

Harvie Passage is one of Calgary’s top summer spots for people who enjoy outdoor water sports. Located along the Bow River in Inglewood, it is a go-to destination for paddling, rafting, kayaking, and whitewater recreation, making it a favourite for adventure seekers and active locals.

Even if you are not getting in the water yourself, it is a fun place to watch and enjoy the riverside setting. Pearce Estate Park, which leads up to Harvie Passage, is expansive with many pathways, playgrounds, and open green space, ideal for summer barbecues and hangouts with loved ones.

Prince’s Island Park

Prince’s Island Park is a Calgary classic and remains one of the city’s most popular summer destinations. Set right on the Bow River just north of downtown, it offers pathways, picnic areas, open space, and hosts major events through the warmer months.

It is ideal for office workers on lunch break, families on weekends, and visitors wanting a simple introduction to the city. The newly renovated Eau Claire Park offers weekly activities and events, while nearby restaurants provide some of the best patio experiences our city has to offer.

RiverWalk

RiverWalk is one of the easiest ways to enjoy the heart of Calgary in summer. Running through Eau Claire and East Village along the river, it has dedicated walking and cycling space, public gathering areas, and direct access to some of the city’s best inner-city views – including to the acclaimed Prince’s Island Park.

Its pathways are perfect for walkers, runners, cyclists, and anyone who just wants to grab a coffee or food and head out for a stroll. RiverWalk has long been a go-to summer spot for Calgarians because of the wide variety of activities and events it offers, as well as the easy access it provides to many other walkable summer destinations in the downtown area.

Sikome Lake

Sikome Lake is Calgary’s go-to city beach when the weather really heats up. Located in Fish Creek Provincial Park, this publicly accessible man-made lake is supplied by freshwater wells and offers a sandy beach setting that is especially popular with families and kids.

It is one of the few places in the city where you can get that true summer-lake feeling without leaving Calgary. For a relaxed afternoon in the sun, it is hard to beat. Recent renovations have upgraded Sikome Lake’s locker rooms, cafeteria, and other facilities, making them even better than before!