Going out in a major city like Calgary can be hard on your wallet. However, not all hope is lost. We did some digging and found 30 cheap things to do in Calgary for under $30. You can thank us later.
LessWhy You Need To Go: VR is all the rage and you can do it all without having to buy a full system. VRKADE has tons of games to play plus you can always bring your own. Needless to say, you won't be bored.
Why You Need To Go: If you want to get the most iconic views of Calgary, then check out the tower. This landmark makes a full rotation every 45 minutes so you can see the entire city at the perfect birds-eye view.
Why You Need To Go: This is one of Western Canada’s largest museums and has over 20 galleries. There are tons of rotating exhibits so there are always new things to see.
Why You Need To Go: This place isn’t just for kids. Every second Thursday night of every month, there is an adults-only night with an open bar.
Why You Need To Go: See the stars from the comfort of the University of Calgary’s observatory. It’s totally romantic and a great way to spend an evening.
Why You Need To Go: There are several leisure centres in Calgary and they have everything. From wave pools and water slides to fitness centres and skating, you can do it all on budget.
Why You Need To Go: Every day of the week, Canyon Meadows has a $5 movie you can treat yourself to. The theatre tends to get movies after Cineplex does, but $5 is $5.
Why You Need To Go: Coming in just under budget is the Calgary Zoo. Here you can see tons of adorable exotic animals and learn a little bit while doing it.
Why You Need To Go: Prepare for a little friendly competition. Hexagon Board Game Cane has tons of games to pick from and they are all up for grabs for a fee of $3 per person. This is way under budget so you can even get a drink or two while you’re at it.
Why You Need To Go: This pinball bar has daily $5 unlimited play pinball. Whether it’s a date or just a night out with friends, you won't be bored here.
Why You Need To Go: This warehouse has been completely converted into a huge mini-golf course. It’s cheap to play and their delicious tacos are even cheaper.
Why You Need To Go: It's never been such a picturesque time to be a bibliophile. Stroll the bright and modern stairways of one of the largest library systems in North America and borrow a book or two while you're at it.
Why You Need To Go: These gourmet mini doughnuts are so drool-worthy and incredibly cheap. They have tons of flavours so you can try them all for almost nothing.
Why You Need To Go: Calling all adrenaline junkies. You can race down a 1,800-metre track at Skyline Luge with over 50 twists and turns.
Why You Need To Go: These tacos are so yummy and for only $4.75 per softshell, your $30 can go a long way. Be sure to save room for some of their yummy Mexican pastries.
Why You Need To Go: This cat cafe is adorable and has some of the best brunch in town. Their waffles are a must - you can get all kinds off their dessert menu loaded with Nutella and fruit.
Why You Need To Go: With over 2,000 pieces, this museum has some of the best music archives. You can even play instruments while you’re there.
Why You Need To Go: Get your sweat on at YYC Cycle. Spin classes are all the rage right now and they are cheap to attend. Drop-in and prepare for the workout of your life.
Why You Need To Go: Canada’s largest living history museum is right here in Calgary. There are tons of things to see do, like ride the steam train or churn your own ice cream, so you definitely won't be bored.
Why You Need To Go: Watch the Calgary Roughnecks. If you get tickets early enough, you can get some incredible deals. Lacross games are so fun and the perfect Canadian pastime.
Why You Need To Go: This museum always has tons of cool interactive pieces to see for cheap. Plus there's plenty of rotating exhibits, like the massive floating moon on display in 2020.
Why You Need To Go: This dessert cafe will give your dentist nightmares but we think it is totally worth it. Their sundaes are just $11.50 and totally delicious. Just don’t get a stomach ache.
Why You Need To Go: This burger joint is famous for its over-the-top milkshakes. Some of the milkshakes are so big that it would take several people to devour, so bring your friends.
Why You Need To Go: Have you ever wanted a caesar topped with burgers, pulled pork sliders, shrimp and a fried pickle or two? Now is your chance. The very biggest caesars are $35 but, with all the fixings, that's more than enough to split between two people.
Why You Need To Go: Jollibee has finally opened in Calgary and we couldn’t be more excited about it. The menu is diverse and your $30 will go a long way. $17.59 will get you a six-piece chicken bucket with a side of gravy for dipping. Talk about a good deal!
Why You Need To Go: This cafe caters to all things matcha. Everything on the menu is way under $30, so you can try a few things at once. From soft serve to floats, this all-matcha cafe has it all.
Why You Need To Go: If you have a knack for solving puzzles, try Trapped Escape Rooms. These escape rooms are seriously tricky but they are a lot of fun.
Why You Need To Go: If you like to go fast, this activity is for you. Strap in and hold on tight, you’ll feel like you’re in Mario Kart for real.
Why You Need To Go: This self-proclaimed kitty kingdom is purr-fect, pun intended. Cuddle with some cute kitties and get a coffee while doing it.
Why You Need To Go: Here you can discover the origins of Calgary. The fort now stands as a museum and it’s a great and cheap way to learn more about our city.