by Turo
posted on March 10, 2025
Life in Calgary doesn’t slow down in winter – it shifts gears! The city comes to life with seasonal festivals, glowing light displays, and outdoor rinks packed with skaters. Just past the skyline, snow-covered slopes and alpine spas are a perfect cold-weather escape.
No matter how you want to spend your time, you’ll find plenty to do in Calgary. Ice skate under skyscrapers, race down Olympic tracks, or see some of the most breathtaking mountains in the world – here are the top five things to do in Calgary during winter.
In this guide, we’ll be covering:
- Ice skating at Olympic Plaza
- ZOOLIGHTS at the Calgary Zoo
- Hit the slopes at Nakiska Ski Area
- Winter fun at WinSport
- Relaxing at Kananaskis Nordic Spa
- FAQs about visiting Calgary, Alberta, in winter
- Hit the road and see the top attractions in Calgary
What to do in Calgary: winter activities you won’t want to miss
If you’re trying to figure out what to do in Calgary this winter, you’ll find five great winter activities to get out and enjoy the season below!
Ice skating at Olympic Plaza
Ice skating at Olympic Plaza has been a winter tradition in Calgary since it was built for the 1988 Winter Olympics. The Calgary Tower stretches overhead, and holiday lights and seasonal events add to the magic.
Why it’s great
Olympic Plaza is Calgary’s only refrigerated outdoor rink, so the ice stays smooth all season. It’s also super close to restaurants and cafés – perfect for warming up after a skate.
Practical tips
Skating is free, and rentals are available on-site. Weekday afternoons are quieter, while evenings bring a livelier crowd. December visits are best after dark so you can skate under the city lights.
How to get there
Olympic Plaza is in downtown Calgary, with parking available in nearby lots. Book your Calgary rental car with Turo and choose a roomy minivan for some fun for the whole family or a stylish classic car to make your skate date with that special someone extra special!
ZOOLIGHTS at the Calgary Zoo
Every winter, ZOOLIGHTS turns the Calgary Zoo into a glowing wonderland. Over a million twinkling lights illuminate themed displays with the Bow River in the background, where fire pits, hot chocolate stands, and ice-carving demonstrations make it an outing for all ages.
Why it’s great
Walk through glowing tunnels, snap photos with giant illuminated animal sculptures, or get toasty by a crackling fire. Kids love the interactive fun and daily penguin walk, while adults can grab a drink at the festive lounge.
Practical tips
Tickets sell out fast, so book online in advance. The best time to go is on weekday evenings when crowds are smaller. Dress warm – it can get a little chilly walking the outdoor displays.
How to get there
The Calgary Zoo is minutes from downtown, with paid parking on-site. A spacious minivan will give you room for the whole family, and when you book with Turo, you can have your vehicle ready and waiting for you when you land at Calgary International Airport!
Hit the slopes at Nakiska Ski Area
Built for the 1988 Winter Olympics, Nakiska is the closest ski resort to Calgary. Nakiska is perfect for a day in the snow, with well-groomed runs, beginner-friendly slopes, and wide-open trails with stunning mountain views.
Why it’s great
Nakiska is so close to Calgary that you can be riding the lifts in just over an hour. It’s also one of the best spots for families and first-time skiers, with lessons and rental equipment available on-site.
Practical tips
Lift tickets are more affordable than other mountain resorts, and weekdays are the best time to avoid crowds. Plan your trip around the peak season – snow conditions are usually best from December to March.
How to get there
Nakiska is about a 75-minute drive from Calgary along well-maintained highways. Winter conditions can change quickly, so rent an SUV or all-wheel drive vehicle for reliable performance. When you rent a car with Turo, your vehicle will come equipped with winter tires that meet local regulations so you can drive confidently.
Winter fun at WinSport
WinSport Calgary, home to Canada Olympic Park, brings the excitement of winter sports right to the city. Visit this year-round facility for skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and even a bobsleigh ride if you want an adrenaline rush.
Why it’s great
WinSport is beginner-friendly, with gentle slopes for new skiers and a tubing park that’s fun for all ages. You can even experience a real Olympic bobsleigh run with a professional pilot!
Practical tips
Lift tickets and tubing passes sell out quickly, so book online in advance. The bobsleigh experience is limited and requires reservations.
How to get there
WinSport is just a 20-minute drive from downtown Calgary, with plenty of on-site parking. If you’re driving an electric vehicle or a Tesla, charging stations are available near the main lodge so you can get a great spot and power up while you’re out enjoying yourself.
Relaxing at Kananaskis Nordic Spa
Kananaskis Nordic Spa offers a hydrotherapy experience with hot and cold plunge pools, saunas, and relaxation areas tucked away in the mountains. Surrounded by snow-covered peaks, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day out in the cold.
Why it’s great
Moving between hot pools, steam rooms, and icy plunge baths boosts circulation and leaves you feeling refreshed. The mountain views make it even better, especially when snowflakes start to fall.
Practical tips
Bookings are required, and weekends fill up fast, so reserve your spot early. Bring sandals, a water bottle (non-glass) and a bathing suit – everything else that you need will be offered on-site.
How to get there
Kananaskis Nordic Spa is about an hour’s drive from Calgary, but the drive is beautiful. Book a luxury vehicle rental with Turo and start pampering yourself right away – heated seats and a panoramic sunroof make the trip even more relaxing.
FAQs about visiting Calgary, Alberta, in winter
Where is Calgary?
Calgary is a vibrant city in southern Alberta. Right on the edge of the Canadian Rockies in Western Canada, it’s your gateway to world-class skiing, scenic drives, and winter festivals. There are plenty of things to do in Calgary in the winter, so get ready to make the most of the season!
Rent a car in Calgary with Turo and have your winter-ready vehicle delivered straight to the Calgary airport or your accommodations for a hassle-free start to your trip.
How cold does Calgary get in winter?
Calgary winters are crisp and dry, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to -15°C (23°F to 5°F). Cold snaps can push temperatures even lower, but chinook winds can warm things up. The dry climate makes the cold more manageable, especially with the right layers.
Do I need a car for a winter visit to Calgary?
Many of the best things to do in Calgary during winter – like visiting Olympic Plaza, WinSport, or the Calgary Zoo – are within city limits and accessible by transit or rideshare.
Getting around in the cold without a vehicle can be much less convenient, especially if you have gear with you. Having a car is the best way to travel comfortably and on your own schedule.
How are road conditions in Calgary during winter?
Calgary’s roads are in great condition, but snow and ice are common in winter. Major highways are plowed regularly, but side streets can stay slippery. If you’re heading into the mountains, be prepared for changing conditions.
What’s the best type of car for a Calgary road trip in the winter?
You’re going to want something that performs well in the snow and has enough room for your luggage and equipment – in general, an SUV would be your best bet. Jeep, Toyota and Ford have models that fit this kind of trip perfectly.
Look for something with heated seats and a remote start to warm up quickly and stay cozy on your way to and from activities.
Hit the road and see the top attractions in Calgary
There’s no shortage of fun and exciting things to do in Calgary during winter. Spend the day skating downtown, skiing fresh snow, or relaxing in the mountains – then do it all again tomorrow. With so many ways to explore, the only question is where to start!
Book your rental car in Calgary with Turo and choose a winter-ready vehicle that perfectly fits the kind of adventure you’re after. With convenient pickup, drop-off, and delivery options, you can skip the hassle and enjoy the city at your own pace!
Feeling inspired? Pitch a Trip and let Turo sponsor your vehicle rental to turn this adventure into a reality! Whether you’re a storyteller, photographer, or just love to travel, this could be your chance to share your experience with the world.
