Calgary is the gateway to some of the greats: the Canadian Rocky Mountains, Banff National Park, Canmore, etc… and so it often gets overlooked. But it is a true gem in its own right! From modern architectural marvels to serene natural escapes, this city packs a punch in the Instagram game.
Whether you’re in Calgary for a while, or just passing by on your way to the mountains (it’s ok, I get it… I’ve done it many times!) there are a few spots that are absolutely worth checking out. Hang around and I’ll walk you through the best places in Calgary to grab a pic. And at the end, I’ll share a few of my favourite photography locations from Canmore, Banff, and some of the famous nearby lakes too as a fun little bonus 🙂
Overview:
Scotsman’s Hill
This absolute gem is perched on the southeast side of the city, offering panoramic views of Calgary’s skyline – including the iconic stadium. You can either walk up the central staircase from the backside of the stadium parking lot down below, or drive up through the neighbourhood that’s perched on the hill. We grabbed dinner to go and sat on one of the benches to enjoy our meal at golden hour! It was IDEAL, as we got some fantastic photos, got to watch the sun set, and see a bunch of adorable pups (there’s a dog park at the top of the hill!).
It would be beautiful any time of day, but if you can get there for golden hour I’d highly recommend it. The warm, soft light against the cityscape creates an unreal backdrop that’s just perfect for capturing those Instagram-worthy moments. You can take advantage of the lighting if you’re a model like Ty, or hide yourself away as a tiny blip against the beautiful background if you’re less talented like me!
Crescent Heights Hill
Now, to the north side. Crescent Heights Hill overlooks both the downtown skyline and the Bow River. I have not personally had the chance to stop by, but I’ve heard that it’s not just a spot for the views—the hilltop park itself is a perfect spot for hanging out or having a picnic.
Calgary Central Library
The Central Library in Calgary is not just your typical library—it’s a modern architectural wonder that’s a magnet for book lovers and photography enthusiasts. It’s a sleek, futuristic building made of glass and steel with beautiful natural wood features. Inside, there’s a ton of cozy reading nooks, gorgeous natural light flooding in, and amazing geometric patterns that make for some very cool photo backdrops.
Western Wear Shops
There are soooo many cute shoppies with cowboy hats and cowboy boots galore! Take a browse and enjoy the vibe 🙂 But please remember that the number one rule of taking pics in stores is BE RESPECTFUL. Don’t come in here for a full photoshoot, and don’t take pics wearing any items you don’t plan to buy. An aesthetic photo of the shop is one thing, but a pic of yourself in a get-up that you’re not going to pay for is bad taste.
Calgary Tower
This iconic tower is part of Calgary’s skyline, and thanks to the large number of sunny days the city has, it’s almost always set against a vibrant blue backdrop. You can grab a pic from nearly anywhere in the city centre! And if you’re looking for a bird’s eye view of the city, you can go IN the tower to the observation deck for a 360-degree panorama and a glass floor.
Calgary Municipal Building (New City Hall)
Did I go inside this building? Nope! But it looks pretty neat from the outside. Located right downtown, you’re likely to stumble upon the Calgary Municipal Building if you’re having a wander, but I wouldn’t say it’s worth going out of your way to visit.
Peace Bridge
The Peace Bridge is a funky little piece of modern art in the form of a pedestrian bridge that spans the Bow River. For an extra cool shot, try coming at night time when the city lights transform the view into something magical.
Bonus: Canmore’s Best Photo Spots!
Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk & Trail
This trail runs through Canmore and has sweeping views of the mountains and town. Every time I visit, I walk and/or run this trail multiple times. It’s my fav!!
Higashikawa Friendship Trail to the Engine Bridge
This trail follows the Bow River at the edge of town and it’s such a treat! You can make it a loop using the Spur Line or Larch Island trails, or just enjoy an out-and-back.
I personally recommend going at least as far as the old Engine Bridge! It’s a pretty sweet view, and it’s grown in popularity since it was a filming location for the show “The Last of Us”.
Basecamp Resorts/Suites Hot Tubs
I am a fangirl of the Basecamp brand, and love staying in their suites. The fact that they have multiple hot tubs with unique and gorgeous views of the mountains is a massive plus!!
Ha Ling Peak
Ok this is NOT an easy one to get to for a quick photo opp, but definitely an amazing hike with fantastic views. If you’re ready for a steep grind up a steady incline, you will get rewarded with a bird’s eye view of Canmore!
Quarry Lake Park
Another spot that’s also a dog park, which makes me like it even more. It makes me daydream of moving to Canmore. I mean, imagine every dog walk you go on has a mountainous backdrop like this?? LIVING!
Bonus #2: Banff’s Best Photo Spots!
Sulphur Mountain
An AWESOME hike with a series of boardwalks and look-outs at the top. It also has a gondola you can take up to the peak if you don’t feel like tackling 25+ switchbacks.
Downtown Banff
Pretty much every street has stunning mountain views and cute little shops. You’ll want to take a pic everywhere you look, summer or winter! Pro tip: get out and bike or walk along the nearby trails if you can. For more info on where to bike, check out my post here: 3 Epic Cycling Routes From Banff.
Tunnel Mountain Summit Trail
Tunnel Mountain is a short hike right from downtown with excellent bang for your buck! You’ll get to summit the park’s shortest official mountain, for views of Mount Rundle and the golf course on one side, and the town of Banff on the other side.
Bonus #3: Nearby Lakes
Upper Kananaskis Lake
The Upper Kananaskis Lake Day Use area is the trailhead for the Rawson Lake and Sarrail Ridge hike, but is itself a beautiful place to visit. And if you’re feelin frisky, you can swim in the lake! It WILL be cold (especially if you do so in October like I did).
Moraine Lake
One of the most photographed lakes in Canada (maybe even in the world??), Moraine Lake is of course on my list. Just note: it is tricky to get to! You have to plan ahead, as it’s closed to public access. You’ll need to take a shuttle, a bus, or an organized tour. I’d personally recommend also continuing from the lake to hike to Larch Valley, since you’re already there!
Lake Louise
Best for last?? I wouldn’t even say Lake Louise is THE BEST, just probably the most famous. But I mean, it’s famous for a reason! It’s absolutely stunnnnnin.
That’s it folks! Are there more amazing photo spots in Calgary and surrounding areas? ABSOLUTELY. This is just my list based on my personal experience and recommendations from friends! I hope it serves as inspiration for your next trip.
