Planning a summer vacay? Expect to pay $500 for a roundtrip flight to Vancouver and at least double that for a trip to the T.O. Save your hard earned cash and holiday closer to home instead. Our five picks for summer staycations let you be a tourist in your own city.
Fly Fish the Bow River
Calgary’s peak fly fishing season is in July and August and extends into the first few weeks of September. The days are hot and long and the fish are biting. Treat yourself to an overnight fishing trip down the Bow River with Bow River Fly Fishing Adventures. $1,300 gets you and a pal one night in a premium tent and two days floating down the Bow. The boat, all fishing and camping gear, as well as meals, snacks and beverages are provided. A guide will be on hand to offer tips.
GlobalFest at Hotel Blackfoot
Stay out all night during GlobalFest this year! During the festival – August 14 to 23 at Elliston Park – Hotel Blackfoot’s GlobalFest package includes one night accommodation for two, general admission to the fireworks competition, shuttle bus transportation to and from the event and a $40 food and beverage credit for each night you stay. Have kids? Add as many as you like for $15 a day. The whole thing starts at $159 per night.
5940 Blackfoot Tr. S.E., 403-252-2253, hotelblackfoot.com
Shop and Stay
The next time you’re headed to CrossIron Mills for a little shopping, pack an overnight bag. Country Inn & Suites at the Calgary Airport offers one night accomodation, $50 gift card for CrossIron Mills, a shopping tote bag packed with goodies and buffet breakfast, from $179. Shop and then relax in Country Inn’s hot tub.
2481 39 Ave. N.E., 403-250-1800, countryinns.com
Spruce Meadows
Take in the Spruce Meadows Masters international show jumping tournament like a VIP this year. September 11 to 14, Maritime Travel’s Spruce Meadows Package includes three nights at the Delta Calgary South, one patio suite ticket, 2-day general admission, full VIP treatment, including a behind-the-scenes tour and 4-day car rental for $599/person. Fascinators optional.
Taste of Everything
When’s the last time you went to Heritage Park or took in the views from the Calgary Tower? Reacquaint yourself with Calgary and the surrounding area with Anderson Vacations’ Calgary Hub and Spoke package. For $349 per person enjoy three nights hotel in Calgary, entrance to the Royal Tyrrell Museum, a 2-hour trail ride at Boundary Ranch, admission to Heritage Park, the Calgary Tower, the Calgary Zoo and dinner at Buzzards Restaurant.