Arriving in Calgary: What to Expect on Day 1 of Your Adventures by Disney Canadian Rockies Tour
🚨 This post is part of our detailed Adventures by Disney Canadian Rockies series! If you're just joining us, make sure to start with our full trip review.
Exploring Stephen Avenue in downtown Calgary before our Adventures by Disney tour officially kicked off.
Where the Journey Begins
The Adventures by Disney Canadian Rockies itinerary begins in Calgary and winds through Banff, Lake Louise, and Alberta’s most breathtaking landscapes. Each stop blends nature, culture, food, and immersive storytelling—crafted with Disney’s signature attention to detail.
This post is all about the very beginning of that journey—our arrival in Calgary and what it’s like to settle in before the official tour kicks off.
Why We Flew in Early (and Why You Should Too)
Our Adventures by Disney Canadian Rockies tour began in Calgary, but with limited direct flight options from New York, we made the call to fly in a day early—and we’re so glad we did. It gave us time to settle in, explore Calgary, and fully enjoy the official start of the trip without stress.
If you’re planning this tour, we highly recommend arriving early. Not only does it give you a cushion for travel delays, but it also lets you experience more of Calgary’s culture, dining, and history before the group activities begin.
Booking Flights to Calgary: What You Need to Know
Flying WestJet from JFK to Calgary—no frills, but smooth and on time
While New Yorkers are used to having endless direct flight options, Calgary isn’t the easiest destination to get to nonstop. We flew WestJet, a Canadian airline that partners with Delta. Though it departed from JFK’s Delta terminal, the experience was very different than a typical Delta flight.
There was no in-seat entertainment and limited food and beverage options—so be prepared. Bring downloaded shows, snacks, and something to keep you comfortable. The flight was smooth and on time, and the WestJet crew was friendly and helpful. Just know what you’re getting into.
Arrival in Calgary: Adventures by Disney Takes Over
A warm welcome from Adventures by Disney at the Calgary Airport
Once we landed, Adventures by Disney magic kicked in. We were greeted by a friendly driver holding an ABD sign and whisked away in a private luxury SUV. No waiting, no stress—just a warm welcome and smooth start to the adventure.
Our destination: the Fairmont Palliser, a historic downtown hotel that perfectly balances old-world elegance with modern comfort.
Staying at the Fairmont Palliser: Classic Luxury in the Heart of Calgary
Checking in at the grand Fairmont Palliser, our first hotel of the tour.
The Fairmont Palliser has been welcoming travelers since 1914. Its grand architecture and Beaux-Arts charm make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time—but the service and amenities are thoroughly modern.
Our initial room was a bit tight for three adults, but the staff was quick to accommodate us in a larger room that felt spacious and luxurious. The service here was exceptional—gracious, helpful, and so warm.
Hotel Highlights:
Elegant rooms with classic decor and updated features
A beautiful indoor pool and fitness center
Full-service spa
The Oak Room Lounge for cocktails and light bites
On-site fine dining at the Rimrock Restaurant
If you arrive early, we recommend enjoying a leisurely breakfast or lunch at the hotel before setting off to explore the city.
What to Do With a Free Day in Calgary
With nearly a full day before our ABD itinerary officially began, we ventured out to explore Calgary on our own. Here’s how we spent the time—and what we’d recommend for others arriving early.
1. Olympic Park & Downhill Karting
We grabbed an Uber to Canada Olympic Park, home of the 1988 Winter Olympics. Located about 20 minutes from the Fairmont Palliser by car, it’s an easy ride and well worth the trip if you have a free half day. In the summer, the site transforms into a thrill-seeker’s playground—with activities like mountain biking, zip-lining, and downhill karting.
Downhill karting had caught our eye when we were looking into Calgary activities, and it ended up being even more fun than it looked online. The track was smooth, fast, and surprisingly scenic, winding its way down the mountain with gorgeous views all around. It’s easy to learn, accessible for all ages, and a perfect mix of fun and friendly competition. We saw parents riding with young kids, teenagers zooming confidently down the track, and grandparents laughing through the curves.
We purchased a 12-ride package for our group (4 rides each) and it was well worth it. If you're looking for something memorable, this is a Calgary highlight we'd absolutely recommend to anyone arriving a little early. Easy to learn, surprisingly fast, and great for all ages. We bought a 12-ride package for our group and had a hilarious, high-energy start to our trip.
2. Shopping & Strolling on Stephen Avenue
Stephen Avenue in downtown Calgary is the perfect place to explore on your own before the Adventures by Disney tour officially begins—full of charm, shops, and western flair.
After karting, we headed to Stephen Avenue, Calgary’s historic pedestrian mall that blends Western charm with modern city energy. The avenue is lined with beautifully preserved buildings, boutique shops, open-air patios, and cafes bustling with locals and visitors alike.
We browsed Western wear boutiques, admired stunning Stetsons, and saw the early setup for the Calgary Stampede—a reminder that this city’s cowboy roots aren’t just history, they’re still alive and thriving. We grabbed coffee from a local café and strolled past art installations and buskers, soaking in the rhythm of downtown Calgary on a summer afternoon.
If you only have a few hours in the city, this is where we’d tell you to go. It’s walkable, scenic, and full of character—and the perfect way to ease into your Adventures by Disney experience with a dose of local culture.
Checking In with Adventures by Disney
Check-in magic begins: Every family had personal time with the guides to preview the itinerary and ask questions.
That afternoon, the official Adventures by Disney tour began. Each travel group was given one-on-one time with the guides to go over the itinerary, ask questions, and pre-select meal preferences for key dining moments throughout the trip. It was also a chance to flag any allergies, mobility concerns, or special requests—something Disney handles with impressive care and discretion. We received our welcome packet, which included a printed itinerary, name tags, and a few ABD surprises to kick things off.
Our group felt excited, a little nervous, and full of energy as we headed into our welcome dinner. This is where we started making friends we’d end up truly bonding with throughout the trip.
Welcome Dinner & White Hat Ceremony
White Hat Ceremony smiles: Calgary’s signature welcome—and a memorable kickoff to our Disney adventure.
Dinner was hosted in one of the Fairmont’s elegant ballrooms. The setup was buffet-style with wine and beer available, and while the meal wasn’t over-the-top, it was satisfying and thoughtfully planned to accommodate a variety of tastes and dietary needs. The real standout was the atmosphere—warm, welcoming, and full of anticipation as everyone eased into the rhythm of the week ahead.
One standout moment: a visit from a representative from Calgary Tourism, who shared the history of the White Hat Ceremony, a tradition that honors Calgary’s Western roots. As each of us received our white Stetson hats, it felt like an official initiation into Alberta’s spirit of hospitality.
This was the perfect start to our Adventures by Disney experience—and a reminder of just how thoughtful and immersive Disney’s guided tours really a
The White Hat Ceremony is Calgary’s signature welcome—and the official start to our Adventures by Disney Canadian Rockies experience. The hats, the history, and the hospitality made this moment unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
Our arrival day in Calgary was the perfect soft launch for what would become an unforgettable journey. From the smooth logistics and luxe hotel to the chance to explore Calgary and connect with fellow travelers, this first day set the tone for the entire trip.
If you’re planning your Adventures by Disney Canadian Rockies tour, consider arriving early. It’ll make your start smoother, more relaxed, and a little more magical.
➡️ Next up: Day 2 of our adventure—an immersive deep dive into Alberta’s food, culture, and cowboy history, featuring Métis traditions, local spirits, and an unforgettable visit to the Bar-U Ranch.
➡️ Continue the Series: Our Day-by-Day ABD Recaps
Day 2: Calgary to Banff + Exploring Canmore
Day 3: Full Day in Banff
Day 4+: Lake Louise, Columbia Icefield & More
