We explored Calgary’s skyline views, and now our camera roll is filled with beautiful shots of the cityscape!
I’d heard the city’s skyline was stunning, but nothing prepared me for the first glimpse from Scotsman’s Hill. My “quick hike” turned into an hour of snapping photos and trying to capture the perfect angle while pretending I wasn’t out of breath.
By the end of the day, I’d covered several spots, each more jaw-dropping than the last—and my camera roll proved it.
If you’re looking for the most epic skyline views without the coffee stains or getting lost, I’ve got you covered. Check out these top spots to see Calgary’s skyline and thank me later!
Admire the Breathtaking Views from Scotsman’s Hill
– Media credit: tourismcalgary
Sights to See: city skyline, the Bow River Valley, and the expansive northern suburbs
Address: Scotsman’s Hill, Salisbury Street SE
Operating hours: Open 24/7
Scotsman’s Hill offers a great spot to relax and soak in the stunning view of downtown Calgary and its skyline. From here, you can catch a glimpse of the Saddledome, and there are a few benches to settle on while you take in the cityscape.
You’ll be treated to a gorgeous view of the entire skyline, with the sun setting behind it and the Rockies as the perfect backdrop. There’s plenty of street parking, though you won’t find any public washrooms nearby.
Our favorite way to reach the top is via a short, tucked-away trail that feels like a secret slice of nature right in the heart of the city.
| Pro tip: You can easily access the area using wooden stairs or by approaching from an alternative side. However, it’s generally more comfortable to descend the stairs after exploring rather than climbing them. |
Capture Stunning Photos of the Skyline at Tom Campbell’s Hill
– Media credit: bruijnderichard
Sights to See: skyline, Bow River, and downtown Calgary
Address: 25 St Georges Dr NE
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 5am to 11pm
Tom Campbell’s Hill is a spacious off-leash dog park offering stunning city views. You can take in the sights of Deerfoot Trail, Memorial Drive, and the downtown skyline.
The park is open and airy, with both paved and natural pathways, plus benches where you can rest and enjoy the scenery. It’s not the largest park, so finding a parking spot can be a bit tricky at times.
There’s a small parking lot, but most people end up parking on the street. A charming greenspace tucked away in the southeast corner of Bridgeland, Tom Campbell’s Hill offers fantastic city views and a perfect spot for your pooch.
| Pro tip: If you’re coming from Bridgeland, you’ll spot the park entrance first. Continue a bit further, and you’ll find the parking lot located on the east side. |
Discover Unparalleled Views at the Calgary Tower
– Media credit: calgarytower
Sights to See: 360-degree vistas of the city, snow-capped peaks of the Rockies, and Bow River
Address: 101 9 Ave SW
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 10am to 9pm
The Calgary Tower might not be the world’s tallest building, but it’s still in the top 10, an iconic landmark and a must-see for any visitor. Well-maintained and managed, the tower offers stunning views of the city and beyond.
You’ll enjoy fantastic panoramas, with plenty of photo ops, plus a short video that walks you through the tower’s construction and updates. The 360-degree views of the city and the snow-capped peaks are breathtaking.
That said, a few taller buildings now slightly block some of the views. But the tower’s central location means it’s close to other cool spots downtown, making it well worth the trip
| Pro tip: Plan your visit on clear, non-hazy days to fully enjoy the stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. Also, to save time, consider purchasing your tickets online to skip the lines at the entrance. |
Enjoy a Peaceful Stroll At Nose Hill Park
– Media credit: tourismcalgary
Sights to See: panoramic cityscapes, the Bow River valley, and the foothills of the Canadian Rockies
Address: 6465 14 St NW
Operating hours: Monday to Friday: 5am to 11pm
Nose Hill Park has seemingly endless walking paths and panoramic views of the city. The park is one of the largest urban parks in North America, offering vast open spaces, rolling hills, and breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
The park is enormous and even at the weekend it never feels busy. There’s some great viewpoints of downtown Calgary and some other great photo opportunities. Highly recommended for anyone looking to enjoy nature without even having to leave the city.
| Pro tip: Be cautious when venturing to the middle of the area, as there is no cell reception in case you need assistance. |
Take In the Sunset at Crescent Heights Lookout Point
– Media credit: bibi_wheelchair_traveller
Sights to See: skyline and Bow River
Address: 240 Crescent Rd NW
Operating hours: Open 24/7
Crescent Heights Lookout Point is a charming spot to soak in stunning views of the city and mountains. There’s a pleasant path perfect for walking or biking, with benches along the way to relax, and free parking scattered nearby.
It offers one of the most affordable parking lots in downtown, and it’s a popular spot for exercise or snapping photos. In the mornings, you can catch a beautiful sunrise. You’ll also enjoy some fresh air and pass by lovely houses along the way.
Just be mindful of parking at night—stick close to the area to avoid a ticket. Otherwise, enjoy the breathtaking view!
| Pro tip: If you’d prefer to avoid the stairs, you can drive directly to the top, as there is parking available at the lookout point. |
Marvel at the Skyline from Prince’s Island Park
– Media credit: honzamikulka
Sights to See: skyline, the Bow River, and the distant mountains
Address: 698 Eau Claire Ave SW
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 5am to 11pm
Prince’s Island Park is a peaceful retreat right in the heart of downtown. With plenty of space, towering trees, benches, and beautiful flower gardens, it’s the perfect spot to unwind.
Surrounded by the river on both sides, it’s a tranquil oasis where everyone is simply enjoying the moment. This sprawling urban park offers scenic views along its pathways and bridges.
Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride and soak in stunning panoramas of the Calgary skyline, the Bow River winding through the city, and the distant mountains.
| Pro tip: If you get tired of walking, you can easily grab an eScooter—there are plenty available near the Peace Bridge. |
Relax and Enjoy the View from Reader Rock Garden
– Media credit: readerrockgarden
Sights to See: city views and a glimpse of the distant mountains
Address: 325 25 Ave SE
Operating hours: Open 24/7
Reader Rock Garden is a serene gem tucked in the heart of the city. With well-maintained rocky paths, it’s a joy to explore. This charming garden, located in Mount Pleasant, offers a peaceful escape with a delightful surprise at every turn.
Climb to the top of the beautifully landscaped rock formations for stunning city views and a peek at the distant mountains.
The space is not only scenic but also historic, situated next to the picturesque and historic Calgary Cemetery. Plus, it’s conveniently close to the Stampede Grounds.
| Pro tip: Just keep in mind that it may not be the quietest spot, as it’s located right next to the highway. |
Appreciate the Vibrant Cityscape from Carburn Park
– Media credit: newblackfoot
Sights to See: Weaselhead Flats, the Bow River valley, and Rocky Mountain backdrop
Address: 67 Riverview Dr S E
Operating hours: Monday to Friday: 5am to 11pm
Carburn Park offers a variety of landscapes and stunning viewpoints. Hike or bike along its trails and take in breathtaking views of Weaselhead Flats, the Bow River valley, and the majestic Rocky Mountains in the distance.
Established 38 years ago, the park features two large ponds created by channeling the Bow River, surrounded by a paved trail. The park also boasts a lush forest with thousands of trees lining the path.
Overall, it’s a well-maintained natural park that’s perfect for residents of southeast Calgary, offering a great spot for birdwatching, wildlife sightings, and a range of outdoor activities.
| Pro tip: There is a washroom near the entrance, and it’s a good idea to use it before you start, as exploring the entire park will involve quite a bit of walking. |
Immerse Yourself in the Beauty of Calgary at Griffith Woods Park
– Media credit: jockadiantraveller
Sights to See: Elbow River valley, the Glenmore Reservoir, and the distant peaks of the Canadian Rockies
Address: 160 Discovery Ridge Blvd SW
Operating hours: Monday to Friday: 5am to 11pm
Griffith Woods Park is a fantastic spot with paved trails perfect for running, biking, or a leisurely stroll. The trails wind alongside the Elbow River, offering clear views of its crystal-clear waters, with small offshoots leading right to the riverbank.
You get to explore the scenic 5.7 km trails and enjoy breathtaking views of the Elbow River valley, the Glenmore Reservoir, and the distant peaks of the Canadian Rockies.
At one end of the trail, you’ll find Discovery Ridge Pond, a tranquil spot where you might spot wildlife like ducks and beavers.
| Pro tip: There’s a seasonal toilet at the entrance, so be sure to use it before starting your walk— it could be a while before you find another one! |
Lounge and Appreciate the View from Sikome Lake
– Media credit: ashly_m_alexander
Sights to See: southwest part of Calgary, forests, the distant mountains, and the city skyline
Address: 10 Sikome Rd SE
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 10am to 7:30pm
Nestled within Fish Creek Provincial Park, Sikome Lake is a charming spot in southwest Calgary, offering a peaceful retreat and picturesque views.
The trails around the lake are perfect for hiking or biking, with stunning vistas of the surrounding forests, distant mountains, and glimpses of the city skyline through the trees.
On hot summer days, the area can get quite busy, and parking might require a bit of patience. Arriving around 10 a.m. is your best bet to secure a spot and enjoy the lake without the crowds.
| Pro tip: If you’re not in the mood for an activity, you can also enjoy a peaceful picnic by the creek banks, conveniently located near the parking area. |