How to Spend a Weekend in Calgary, Canada

Founded by professional climbers who wanted to bring the fun of outdoors into town, Calgary Climbing Centre’s flagship sits on the West Valley road, just south of the Bow River. This spot packs the thrill of real mountain climbing, sans risk. It’s also a family-friendly spot, with a gym, dedicated children’s play area and an outdoor lead wall. So if you’re not up for the real deal (just yet), these simulations are a great way to test out your bouldering skills. Recommended by local insider Patrick Twomey

Most visitors breeze through downtown Calgary during the week, as it’s the city’s commercial core and gets pretty packed. But all you need is an hour or two to check out Stephen Avenue’s Walk for the Devonian Gardens (great plants), the Olympic Plaza (great fountains), Calgary Tower (great views), Prince Island Park (great events) and the Glenbow Museum (great art). All that walking is bound to work up an appetite, so stop off in Chinatown for bold, spicy noodles (and hands down the best salt and pepper squid in the region). Recommended by local insider Patrick Twomey

Don’t worry if you’ve got limited time on your hands – you can still curb the urge to spend at Chinook Centre. It’s Calgary’s largest mall, replete with high-end boutiques, high-street favourites and a massive food court (Joey Restaurant can whip up a mean steak and lobster ravioli). It’s a popular winter destination for locals shirking the frozen tundra outside, and the modern multiplex cinema hosts viewings on the regular. Recommended by local insider Patrick Twomey