Newcomer's guide to Calgary

aerial view of Calgary

Welcome to Calgary! Nestled in the foothills of the majestic Rocky Mountains, Calgary is a vibrant city that perfectly blends urban sophistication with rugged outdoor charm. If you’re a newcomer, you might be wondering where to start. Fear not! Miracle Movers Canada is the perfect choice for anyone planning to move to this amazing place! This guide will walk you through the essentials, ensuring you feel right at home in no time. Therefore, don’t wait and start reading our newcomer’s guide to Calgary! There will be plenty of great things to learn before you embark on an incredible journey!

Newcomer’s guide to Calgary: Embracing the weather and more!

Calgary’s weather can be unpredictable. One moment you’re basking in the sun, and the next, you’re caught in a snow flurry. It’s not uncommon to experience multiple seasons in a single day! Calgary experiences a wide range of temperatures due to its continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. The average temperature can vary from around -6°C in January to 17°C in July, although sudden temperature changes, known as “chinooks,” can warm up winter days significantly.

People drinking wine outside
Before making your move, consulting the newcomer’s guide to Calgary can provide invaluable insights to ease your transition.

Always keep an umbrella and a light jacket in your car or bag. And remember, the cold months bring the joy of winter sports. Calgary is just a stone’s throw away from world-class ski resorts like Banff and Lake Louise. Therefore, grab a ski suit and hop on a mountain! Hire a moving company that will provide the best packing supplies Toronto offers to finish all the packing and loading for you! This way, you can start planning which fun activity you want to do first when you arrive in Calgary.

Dive into the Stampede!

Dubbed “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,” the Calgary Stampede is a ten-day rodeo, exhibition, and festival held every July. It’s a celebration of Calgary’s Western heritage, complete with pancake breakfasts, chuckwagon races, and cowboy hats. What visitors love about the Stampede is the way the city changes during the festival. They are amazed by the city’s transformation. Skyscrapers adorned with banners, streets buzzing with parades, and everyone – from bankers to baristas – donning denim and boots. Once you settle in, don’t miss the chance to visit this amazing event!

Navigate the +15 Skywalk System

Calgary’s downtown boasts a unique pedestrian walkway system known as the +15. Elevated 15 feet above ground, this network connects buildings, making it easy to navigate the city, especially during winter. Moreover, Calgary Transit operates buses, and a light rail system called the CTrain. While driving is common, the transit system is efficient and covers most parts of the city. Download a +15 map on your phone. It’s a lifesaver when you’re trying to avoid the cold or simply find the quickest route to your destination.

a road next to a lake
Calgary is home to a famous walkway, as well as a convenient public transportation system

Explore the culinary scene

Calgary’s food scene is diverse and ever-evolving. From sumptuous steakhouses to vegan eateries, there’s something for every palate. The city’s cuisine reflects its rich cultural mosaic, offering everything from traditional Alberta beef steaks to global flavors from around the world. The city’s burgeoning food scene is marked by innovative farm-to-table restaurants, bustling food markets, and a growing number of internationally-inspired eateries, making it a gastronomic delight for both residents and visitors. One of the favorite spots for residents is the Calgary Farmers’ Market. It’s a melting pot of cultures, offering everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses and handmade crafts.

Connect with nature

Calgary’s proximity to the Rockies means endless opportunities for hiking, skiing, and wildlife spotting. But you don’t have to leave the city to connect with nature. The Bow River offers picturesque walking trails, and Fish Creek Provincial Park is a haven for birdwatchers. Moreover, Calgary hosts numerous festivals and outdoor events throughout the year. From the International Film Festival to the Calgary Folk Music Festival, there’s always something happening. As a result, it is not surprising that some of the movers Calgary offers relocate plenty of Canadians to this city each year.

Educational options

If you’re moving with a family, Calgary’s educational system is top-notch, with various public, private, and specialty schools. The Calgary Public Library system is also extensive, offering more than just books. They host events and workshops and provide resources for newcomers. Calgary boasts a robust education system, with numerous top-tier public, private, and charter schools catering to diverse learning needs. Additionally, the city is home to renowned post-secondary institutions like the University of Calgary and Mount Royal University, making it a hub for academic excellence and research in Western Canada.

a woman and two more people discussing about the newcomers guide to Calgary
Calgary offers top-notch educational programs and provides plenty of opportunities for getting higher classifications.

Embrace the community spirit

Calgary’s community is characterized by its warm, welcoming spirit and a strong sense of camaraderie among its residents. The city’s numerous neighborhoods, each with its unique charm, host a variety of festivals, events, and community gatherings that foster a sense of belonging and unity. Whether you choose Kensington, Inglewood, or Bridgeland, you will have a memorable time in their ever-evolving atmosphere. This tight-knit community spirit is further exemplified during challenging times, as Calgarians are known to come together, offering support and resilience in the face of adversity.

A few more words about Calgary

Calgary’s history is a captivating tale of indigenous heritage, pioneering spirit, and rapid urban development. Long before European settlers arrived, the region was inhabited by the Blackfoot, Tsuut’ina, and Stoney Nakoda First Nations. The establishment of Fort Calgary by the North-West Mounted Police in 1875 marked the beginning of the city’s urban narrative. The subsequent discovery of oil in the early 20th century transformed Calgary from a small prairie town into a bustling metropolis, earning it the moniker “Heart of the New West.” As you wander through Calgary, the city’s historical landmarks and modern skyscrapers tell tales of its storied past. Here are some famous spots to visit:

  • Heritage Park Historical Village: Canada’s largest living history museum, it offers a glimpse into life in Western Canada from the 1860s to the 1950s.
  • Fort Calgary: The birthplace of the city, this fort provides insights into the lives of early settlers and the role of the North-West Mounted Police.
  • Calgary Tower: Offering panoramic views of the city and the Rockies, this iconic tower is a testament to Calgary’s growth and ambition.
  • Stephen Avenue: A pedestrian-only street is lined with historic buildings and offers a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment.
  • Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre: A modern architectural marvel, it celebrates Canada’s rich musical history.

Embrace your new life!

Calgary is more than just a city near the Rockies. It’s a vibrant community with a rich history, diverse culture, and a heart as big as the mountains that shadow it. When considering a move across the country, relying on expert services like cross province movers can make the transition smoother. Therefore, it’s crucial to follow the newcomer’s guide to Calgary and prepare for a thrilling journey. As a newcomer, dive in, explore, and let Calgary’s allure wrap around you. Welcome to your new home!