Discovering Calgary: Our First Stop on the Adventures by Disney Canadian Rockies Tour

Written By L.

Departing JFK to Calgary to begin our Adventures by Disney Tour.

Welcome back to our blog! If you’ve been following along, you’ve already seen our detailed itinerary overview, our ultimate packing guide, and our comprehensive review of our Adventures by Disney (ABD) Canadian Rockies experience.

We chose the Adventures by Disney Canadian Rockies tour, a nine-night adventure that took us through Calgary, Banff, and Lake Louise, for its mix of cultural experiences, stunning outdoor adventures, luxury hotels, great dining, and beautiful scenery to explore and help us relax.

Now, we’re diving into the first post of our series that details our adventures and the various incredible spots we visited. Let's start with our journey in Calgary.

Beautiful downtown Calgary in Alberta, Canada.

Traveling to Calgary

Our Adventures by Disney journey began in the vibrant city of Calgary. While the selection of direct flights from New York isn’t great (surprising since New Yorkers are used to multiple airlines flying everywhere, direct), the Calgary airport itself is easy to navigate and get in and out of.

Flying in a Day Early

With limited flight options, we decided to fly in a day early to ensure we arrived in time for the welcome dinner. We took one of the only direct flights available, which was aboard WestJet, an operating partner of Delta. The flight departs from the same JFK terminal as the rest of the Delta flights, but don’t be fooled – this is not a Delta flight. In many ways, it felt like a time machine, transporting us back to a time before onboard entertainment and slightly roomier seats. We’re nothing but honest here: It was a long, boring flight worth being prepared for if you’re considering when booking your travels to Canada.

WestJet: A Unique Experience

WestJet is one of Canada's major airlines, known for its friendly service and affordable fares. Founded in 1996, WestJet initially operated as a low-cost carrier but has since grown into a major player in the airline industry, offering flights to over 100 destinations in North America, Central America, the Caribbean, and Europe. While the airline offers competitive prices and a reputation for good customer service, the experience can be quite different from what frequent Delta flyers might expect.

For one, WestJet flights often have fewer amenities compared to larger international carriers. Our flight lacked in-seat entertainment systems and had more limited food and beverage options, which was a surprise for those of us accustomed to Delta or other major US carrier offerings. Despite these differences, the WestJet staff were exceptionally friendly and helpful, and the flight itself was smooth and punctual.

Despite the lack of in-flight entertainment, we arrived in Calgary ready for our adventure. Adventures by Disney picked us up at the airport in our private transfer - greeted by a friendly driver holding an ABD sign and ready to whisk us away in a beautiful SUV. He took us to the stunning Fairmont Palliser, located right in the heart of Calgary.

Once in Calgary, the airport and moving through customs was easy and stress free. The magic of Adventures by Disney started right away as we were picked up in a beautiful, luxury private transfer ready to whisk us away to the first hotel stop on our tour: the Fairmont Palliser.

Calgary Hotel: Staying at the Fairmont Palliser

The Fairmont Palliser, with its historic charm and luxurious amenities, made for a comfortable, luxurious and memorable stay. While our initial room at the Fairmont Palliser was a bit small for three people, the staff was incredibly apologetic and quickly moved us to a larger, more beautiful room with ample space for 3 adults.

The Fairmont Palliser: Historic Elegance

The Fairmont Palliser is an iconic hotel that has been a symbol of luxury and hospitality in Calgary since it first opened in 1914. The hotel was named after Captain John Palliser, a famed explorer of the Canadian Rockies, and has played host to royalty, celebrities, and dignitaries over the years. Its grand architecture, with Beaux-Arts style, immediately transports guests back to an era of opulence and grandeur. The hotel is also known for its elegant ballrooms and meeting spaces, which have hosted numerous high-profile events over the years.

Onsite Amenities

The hotel offers a range of amenities designed to provide guests with a luxurious and comfortable stay. The elegant rooms and suites are equipped with modern conveniences while retaining classic charm. The hotel features an indoor pool and a well-equipped fitness center, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. The spa offers a variety of treatments that promise to rejuvenate and relax you.

Dining at the Fairmont Palliser

The dining options at the Fairmont Palliser are a true highlight. The Rimrock Dining Room is known for its delicious cuisine and exquisite service. The menu has recently been updated to include a range of new, exciting dishes. One of the standout experiences was sharing a plate of succulent short ribs. The tender meat was perfectly cooked, falling off the bone and rich with flavor. Accompanied by seasonal vegetables and a rich sauce, it was a meal to remember. The Oak Room Lounge, with its elegant yet cozy atmosphere, is a perfect spot for cocktails and light fare. The selection of craft cocktails and locally inspired dishes ensures that every meal is a delightful experience.

Exploring Calgary on Our Own

What Makes Calgary Special

Calgary is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends modern urbanity with rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Known for its dynamic arts scene, diverse culinary landscape, and the iconic Calgary Stampede, the city offers a wide range of activities and experiences. The nearby Rocky Mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop and endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Calgary's welcoming spirit, historical landmarks, and engaging museums made it a destination worth exploring before our official Adventures by Disney Tour began.

With nearly a full day before our ABD adventure officially began, we set off on our own. After a great breakfast at the hotel restaurant, we took an Uber to the Olympic Park for a downhill karting experience we thought looked like an incredibly unique and exciting way to kick off our girls trip.

The Olympic Park: A Hub of Activity

Canada Olympic Park, also known as WinSport, is a multi-purpose training and competition venue designed for year-round use. The park was a central site for the 1988 Winter Olympics, famously remembered for events like the Jamaican bobsled team's participation, which inspired the movie "Cool Runnings." Today, the park serves as a legacy site, offering activities such as skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and mountain biking, zip-lining, and downhill karting in the summer. The park also features a museum showcasing memorabilia from the 1988 Winter Olympics, providing visitors with a glimpse into the history and spirit of the Games.

Downhill Karting at the Olympic Park

The Olympic Park is about a 20-minute Uber ride from the center of Calgary. Initially, we were unsure if the trip was worth it, as it’s hard to see the length and fun of the track from the base of the mountain. The staff provided a quick safety and instruction orientation on how to drive, and then we were off. The track is easy enough for all ages, and everyone from parents holding kids in their laps to older relatives racing their grandkids had a blast. We bought a 12-pack of rides, which gave us each four rides and a photo package. It was worth every penny! We had an absolute blast and highly recommend this activity to anyone spending time in Calgary, either as an add-on to an ABD or another trip.

Shopping and Strolling on Stephen Avenue

After our thrilling karting adventure, we had our Uber driver drop us off at Stephen Avenue, known for its great shopping and dining. Stephen Avenue, a historic pedestrian mall in downtown Calgary, is lined with beautiful buildings, bustling shops, and vibrant cafes. We strolled through stores, enjoyed fantastic local coffee, and saw the beginnings of the fanfare being set up for the Calgary Stampede, which was starting the following week. The authentic cowboy culture is palpable here, with plenty of shops selling Western wear and gorgeous Stetson hats.

Stephen Avenue: A Calgary Gem

Stephen Avenue is not just a shopping street; it's a historical and cultural destination. The avenue features several heritage buildings that have been preserved and repurposed, adding a unique charm to the shopping experience. Visitors can find everything from high-end boutiques to local artisanal shops. The avenue is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Starting Our Adventures by Disney Journey

Checking In

The Adventures by Disney experience officially began with a check-in at the Fairmont Palliser. This is where we met our guides and received an overview of the week ahead. The guides went through the plans for the week, including the itinerary, activities, and dining options. We had the opportunity to preselect our dining preferences for various meals throughout the trip, which was a thoughtful touch that added to the seamless experience.

Welcome Dinner

The welcome dinner was held in one of the Fairmont Palliser's elegant ballrooms. We started with a cocktail hour, giving us the chance to mingle and get to know our tour mates better. The dinner was a multi-course affair, featuring local cuisine, allergy friendly options and (of course) Alberta beef. One of the highlights was being joined by a representative from the Calgary tourism board, who shared insights about the city's history and culture.

A Warm Welcome to Calgary

The magic truly began when the tourism board representative engaged the entire group as she explained the significance of the white Stetson hat for Alberta and Calgary culture. The White Hat Ceremony is a proud Calgary tradition that dates back to the 1950s, symbolizing the city's warm hospitality and welcoming spirit. The white Stetson hat has become a symbol of the city’s identity, often given to dignitaries and celebrities visiting Calgary.

The White Hat Ceremony

The White Hat Ceremony is more than just receiving a hat; it’s a ceremonial welcome that embodies the spirit of Calgary. During the ceremony, our guide explained how the white Stetson represents hospitality, integrity, and the cowboy way of life that is so integral to Alberta’s culture. Each tour mate was then given their own white Stetson hat, a moment that felt incredibly special and made us feel a part of the Calgary community. The tradition of the White Hat Ceremony is a gesture of goodwill and hospitality, inviting visitors to share in the city's rich heritage and welcoming nature.

Our First Full Day with Adventures by Disney: Alberta Food, History, and Culture

Our first official day of the Adventures by Disney tour took us through Alberta on a culinary and history tour of the region. Although we initially thought Calgary would be the least exciting part of our itinerary, we were pleasantly surprised by how fantastic our first day was. The day's activities, led by our amazing guide Josie from Alberta Food Tours, gave us a deep appreciation for the region through its food and history.

We had an early breakfast at the hotel and then were gathered onto our luxury tour bus where we met our guide for the day, Nora from Alberta Food Tours.

First Stop: The Confluence (Formerly Fort Calgary)

Our day began at the Confluence, where we met members of the Métis Nation, a community with both European and Aboriginal ancestry. The Confluence is a site of historical significance as it marks the point where the Bow and Elbow rivers meet, a place of gathering and trade for Aboriginal peoples long before European settlers arrived. The site later became Fort Calgary, an important North-West Mounted Police post. The Métis Nation members shared their culture’s history and traditions, which still thrive today. We learned about their unique cultural heritage, which blends Aboriginal and European traditions, and their continued relevance and prominence in Canada. We tasted traditional recipes, including delicious flatbread and Saskatoon berry dishes. The Saskatoon berry, a native fruit to the region, is a must-try for its unique and delicious flavor. It was fascinating to learn about the blend of European and Aboriginal influences that shape the region's history and culture.

Second Stop: Eau Claire Distillery and Speakeasy

Our next stop was the Eau Claire Distillery, speakeasy, and restaurant (Rupert’s Hideaway) deeper into Alberta. The distillery's owner was inspired to start his business after discovering that whisky makers in Scotland were using Alberta wheat. This realization led to the creation of some of the best spirits right in Alberta.

The Eau Claire Distillery itself is a testament to Alberta's rich agricultural heritage, utilizing locally sourced grains to produce high-quality spirits. Established in 2014, it Iis one of Alberta’s first independent craft distilleries, renowned for its farm-to-glass philosophy. The distillery emphasizes using traditional methods combined with locally sourced ingredients to create unique, high-quality spirits. We enjoyed a group lunch outdoors, where we had the chance to get to know our fellow travelers better. The cowboy chili, made with hearty chunks of Alberta beef, and the spicy kick of gluten-free cornbread were standout dishes. The outdoor setting allowed us to soak in the beautiful Alberta landscape while enjoying our meal.

The distillery's owner was inspired to start his business after discovering that whisky makers in Scotland were using Alberta wheat. This realization led to the creation of some of the best spirits right in Alberta. The distillery itself is a testament to Alberta's rich agricultural heritage, utilizing locally sourced grains to produce high-quality spirits. Following lunch, the kids were whisked away to their own adventure while the adult adventurers visited the adjacent speakeasy. The speakeasy was a hidden gem, offering a glimpse into the prohibition era with its vintage decor and secretive entrance. We were given the history of the distillery and tasted flights of their best-selling products including Gins and Vodkas. The craftsmanship and dedication to quality were evident in every sip.

Third Stop: Bar-U Ranch

The highlight of our day was a visit to the Bar-U Ranch, steeped in cowboy culture and history. The Bar-U Ranch is one of the oldest and most historic ranches in Alberta, offering a glimpse into the life and times of early ranchers in the region. Standing on this vast land, we learned about the significance of cowboy culture both then and now from a third-generation cowboy.

We were greeted with a full campfire setup, including fresh coffee, freshly baked cookies, and hot chocolate, which was a delightful treat. After a branding demonstration on wood, we toured the ranch, exploring historic homes, stables, and food cellars. We learned about how people lived, worked, and survived on similar ranches, and the importance of these practices today.

The ranch visit was particularly engaging, with hands-on activities and interactive displays that brought the history of the place to life. We saw how cowboys used to live, the tools they used, and the daily challenges they faced. The kids and teens quickly bonded during their Adventure Jr. activities. From that point on, they wanted to spend every moment of the trip together. Watching them take the polar plunge together in Lake Louise, you could see them share a moment they'd remember forever.

Back to the Palliser

After a day filled with learning and adventure, we returned to the Fairmont Palliser for our last night in Calgary. We enjoyed a hearty meal, sharing short ribs and delicious sides, and turned in early to prepare for the next day's early start. With our bags packed and ready for a 6:30 am bag pull, we were excited to continue our journey to Banff.

Want to hear more about our Adventures by Disney experience?

Check out our additional posts where we dive into each stop on our Adventures by Disney Canadian Rockies journey:

L.
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