Step into Buffalo Park, and you’re instantly transported to the vast North American plains—herds of wild bison stroll under golden sunlight, their deep grunts echoing through the trees. This isn’t just a park; it’s a soulful conversation with nature. Kids chase deer through meadows, adults sip coffee by the lake lost in thought, and even the air feels freer. Don’t miss a sunset stroll along the trail—watch the sky blaze crimson and gold as the prairie breathes its last light.

This hotel is the perfect blend of family-friendly and business-ready! Recently renovated, it combines timeless elegance with modern amenities like a fitness center, pool, and sauna for ultimate relaxation. Traveling with kids? Enjoy childcare services and kids' meals to make your stay effortless. Its prime location steps from top shopping and entertainment, plus the Fairmont Gold personalized service, ensures an unforgettable experience—whether for leisure or work!
Everything you need to know about Buffalo Park
Holiday Inn Calgary Airport is a top choice, just a 10-minute drive from Buffalo Park. It features an indoor pool, kids' playroom, and free shuttle service to the airport—perfect for families. The hotel’s modern rooms offer premium bedding and soundproof windows for restful sleep. Nearby attractions include the Calgary Zoo and Prairie Trail, ideal for outdoor adventures. Enjoy local flavors like smoked beef sandwiches at the on-site restaurant.
Buffalo Park is one of Calgary’s rare urban conservation areas, home to wild American bison and native prairie flora. Early morning visits are recommended to avoid crowds and enjoy peaceful walks, birdwatching, or photography among the natural landscape. Perfect for nature lovers seeking a quiet escape within the city.
Take the CTrain light rail from Hillhurst Station, just a short walk from many hotels near Buffalo Park—downtown Calgary is only 15 minutes away. Some hotels, like Holiday Inn Calgary Airport, offer free shuttles to major destinations including downtown. For drivers, head west on Beltline Highway (approx. 20 minutes), passing through Nose Hill Park with scenic views of the city’s green belt. Once in downtown, stroll along Sundance Square or Stephen Avenue to experience Calgary’s vibrant urban culture. Use the TransLink App for real-time transit updates and efficient planning. The city’s integrated transport system ensures smooth access for both business and leisure travelers.
Buffalo Park offers the rare chance to observe wild American bison herds up close, with designated viewing platforms and interpretive signage explaining their ecology and historical significance. Join guided nature trail tours led by certified naturalists to explore native prairie plants and grassland ecosystems. In spring, the park hosts the Bison Reintroduction Day, showcasing conservation success stories. The on-site Nature Education Centre features interactive exhibits and hands-on workshops perfect for families. Wear comfortable walking shoes, apply sunscreen, and bring a camera—early mornings and late afternoons provide stunning lighting for photography. This is a rare urban sanctuary where education, recreation, and nature immersion meet seamlessly.
Yes—Buffalo Park boasts several stunning photo locations. The bison viewing platform at sunrise offers dramatic golden light against moving herds, creating poetic compositions. The prairie trails, lined with swaying golden grasses, resemble ocean waves under the breeze—ideal for portrait and landscape shots. Don’t miss the historic monument and stone art wall, blending natural beauty with cultural storytelling. Use a wide-angle lens and tripod for long-exposure effects. Weekends often draw photographers, offering networking opportunities. The wooden welcome sign at the entrance, framed by trees and distant railway lines, makes a quintessential northern landscape shot—perfect for capturing the spirit of Alberta’s wild heart.
Holiday Inn Calgary Airport is a top choice, just a 10-minute drive from Buffalo Park, offering indoor pools and kids' play areas. Free shuttles to the airport enhance convenience. The park features wildlife exhibits and nature trails, perfect for family outings. Nearby attractions include the Calgary Zoo and Calgary Stampede events, ideal for a full-day adventure. With modern rooms and welcoming staff, this hotel provides a comfortable base for exploring the Canadian prairie landscape.
Yes, Buffalo Park is about 15 km from downtown Calgary, accessible via the Route 22 bus or TTC transit system. Ride-hailing services like Uber/Lyft take around 20 minutes. Ample parking is available for self-drive visitors. Additionally, the CTrain’s Northwest Station is just 3 km away, with connecting buses to the park. Whether visiting for wildlife viewing or attending Indigenous cultural events, multiple transport options ensure easy access.
The highlight is the Bison Safari Tour, guided by experts through native prairie habitats to learn about American bison behavior and conservation. The park features an Indigenous Cultural Centre hosting traditional ceremonies and craft workshops, offering deep insight into First Nations heritage. Spring brings wildflower walks, while fall offers migration observation programs. At night, book a stargazing experience—the park lies within a dark sky preserve, making it one of Calgary’s rare spots for clear, unpolluted night skies.
Try Prairie Smoke Restaurant, located near the park entrance, specializing in Canadian prairie cuisine. Must-try dishes include smoked bison burger and wild ginger cream soup made with locally sourced ingredients. The outdoor patio offers views of the bison enclosures. Alternatively, visit the Calgary Farmers Market (open Saturdays) for Indigenous-style roasted meats and maple syrup desserts. For a true Alberta taste, sample bison sausage with sauerkraut, paired with locally brewed dark beer—a classic regional meal.
Yes, Buffalo Park offers a dedicated outdoor wedding lawn accommodating up to 150 guests, with scenic backdrops of open prairie and distant bison herds. On-site services include setup assistance, photography support, and a minimalist ceremony stage. Guests may bring their own catering, but must comply with ecological regulations, such as no fireworks or large lighting setups. It’s best booked during spring or fall for pleasant weather and fewer visitors. The venue is also popular for nature education events and community celebrations.
Buffalo Park is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (until 4:00 PM in winter). Admission is $15 for adults, $8 for children (3–12), and $35 for a family pass (2 adults + 1 child). Holders of the Calgary Attractions Pass enter free. Free Wi-Fi and multilingual guidebooks are available throughout. Interactive touchscreens and VR experiences enhance select exhibits. Tickets are recommended to be purchased online in advance to avoid lines, and check the seasonal event calendar for special programs like the Bison Festival and Indigenous Art Exhibition.
See what other travelers say about Buffalo Park

Staying at the Fairmont Palliser in Calgary was an absolute delight. Housed in a beautifully preserved historic building, the hotel exudes old-world charm from the moment you step inside. The lobby is grand and elegant, with intricate details that transport you back in time. My room was spacious, well-appointed, and incredibly comfortable—especially the bed, which made for a restful night’s sleep. What really stood out was the location: just a short walk or quick transit ride away from downtown attractions, shopping areas, and restaurants. The staff were warm, professional, and always ready to help. From check-in to checkout, every interaction felt personalized and genuine. It’s rare to find such a perfect blend of history, luxury, and convenience. I’d highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Calgary—this is more than just a place to stay, it’s an experience.

My stay at Hilton Garden Inn Calgary Downtown was absolutely excellent. The location couldn’t be better—just a short walk from the C-Train station, making it super easy to get around the city without needing a car. There are plenty of grocery stores, restaurants, and cafes nearby, so everything you need is within reach. The room was spotless, well-maintained, and very comfortable, with a cozy bed that made for a great night’s sleep. I especially appreciated the indoor pool and hot tub—perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring. The staff were friendly and efficient throughout my visit. Overall, the value for money is outstanding, and I’d highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Calgary. It’s a top pick for both business and leisure travelers.

Staying at the Residence Inn Calgary Downtown/Beltline District was an absolute delight. The room was spacious and well-designed, offering plenty of comfort and a relaxed atmosphere—perfect for both short stays and extended visits. I especially appreciated having a full kitchenette with a refrigerator, which made preparing meals easy and convenient, especially when traveling with family or staying longer. The location couldn’t be better—just steps away from downtown attractions, shopping areas, and public transit, making getting around the city a breeze. On top of that, the complimentary fitness center and in-house laundry facilities were a huge plus, saving time and money. Breakfast was surprisingly diverse—classic Western options like eggs, pastries, and fresh fruit, but also a welcome touch of Chinese-style savory porridge, which added a nice cultural twist. Everything about this stay felt thoughtfully curated. Excellent value, great service, and a truly comfortable home-away-from-home. I’ll definitely return.

I was thoroughly impressed with my stay at Alt Hotel Calgary East Village—this place truly exceeded my expectations. The location is unbeatable: just a short walk from downtown attractions, shopping spots, and an amazing variety of restaurants. The hotel itself feels brand new, with a modern, sleek design and spotless cleanliness throughout. From check-in to check-out, the staff were friendly, professional, and always ready to help. My room was spacious, well-lit, and incredibly comfortable—perfect for unwinding after a long day exploring the city. The bed was cozy, the bathroom had excellent water pressure, and everything felt high-end. I especially appreciated the thoughtful touches, like the local artwork and quiet, efficient HVAC system. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this hotel offers a fantastic balance of style, comfort, and convenience. I’ll definitely be coming back and recommending it to friends.

The staff were incredibly welcoming from the moment we arrived. The room was cozy and quiet, making it feel like we were in a peaceful bubble away from the busy city life—perfect for unwinding after a long day. Breakfast was simple but satisfying, with enough variety to start the morning right. The underground parking was a big plus, especially for those traveling by car—it’s secure and easy to access. Overall, this hotel offers great value and a relaxing stay in a central yet serene location. Highly recommend for travelers looking for comfort and convenience in Calgary.

This is my go-to spot for every high-quality visit to Calgary. The location is unbeatable—quiet, walkable neighborhood with easy access to everything. The rooms are beautifully clean, with plush, comfortable beds that make for a restful night's sleep. What really stands out is the warm, genuine hospitality from the hosts—they go above and beyond to make you feel welcome. It’s not just a place to stay; it’s an experience. I’ll definitely be back on my next trip to Calgary.

Staying at Hotel Arts in Calgary was an absolute delight. The hotel was immaculately clean, and the king-size bed was incredibly comfortable—perfect for a good night's rest after a long day of exploring. I appreciated that parking was available, with a spacious outdoor lot making it easy to find a spot. Located just minutes from downtown, getting around the city was convenient, whether by public transit or car. The overall experience was outstanding, and the value for money was excellent. If you're visiting Calgary, this is definitely a top choice for a relaxing and well-located stay.

Staying at Grey Eagle Resort felt like a true retreat. Owned by the First Nations, the resort exudes warmth and cultural authenticity from the moment you arrive. The rooms are spacious and thoughtfully designed—plush bedding made for deep, restful sleep. Every detail feels intentional, from the calming decor to the quiet, natural surroundings. It’s conveniently located near downtown Calgary, with easy access to public transit and local attractions. The staff went above and beyond to make our stay memorable, offering genuine hospitality. Whether you're looking for relaxation or an immersive cultural experience, this place delivers. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Calgary—this is more than just a hotel, it’s a meaningful getaway.

Staying at The Westin Calgary was a great choice during my visit to Calgary—mainly because of the trust I have in the Marriott brand. The room was slightly compact, but perfect for solo travelers. What really stood out was the breakfast: both the buffet and à la carte options were delicious and well-prepared. On my last morning, I had an early flight, and the kitchen staff went the extra mile by packing a breakfast meal for me—such a thoughtful touch! The front desk team was also incredibly helpful and patient, taking time to explain each dish with genuine care. One minor note: the bathroom door doubles as the closet door, so when closed, it reveals part of the wardrobe inside—slightly awkward design-wise, but not a dealbreaker. Location-wise, it’s fantastic—walking distance to Chinatown and major shopping areas, just a short stroll from the light rail station, and only about 20 minutes by Uber to the airport (which makes sense given Calgary’s size). Overall, excellent service, convenient location, and top-notch amenities. I’d definitely book here again next time I’m in Calgary.

The room was surprisingly spacious and very comfortable—perfect for both business and leisure travelers. What stood out was how close it was to the University of Montreal, just across the street! That made it incredibly convenient for students or anyone visiting campus. Public transit options were right outside the door, with bus stops nearby, making downtown access a breeze. The area around the hotel is packed with dining choices—everything from casual local spots to international cuisine, so you never run out of options for a meal. The location combines convenience, comfort, and great value, making it an ideal stay in Calgary.

Staying at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Calgary was an absolute delight! The location is perfect—just a short walk from downtown and easily accessible by public transit. There are tons of restaurants and cafes nearby, so dinner options are endless. The hotel itself is clean, modern, and well-maintained. My room was spacious with a comfortable bed, great lighting, and excellent soundproofing—perfect for a good night’s sleep. The bathroom had a smart layout with a separate shower area, and the water pressure was strong and consistent. Free Wi-Fi worked flawlessly throughout my stay, which made working remotely and streaming shows stress-free. Friendly staff made check-in smooth and even upgraded me to a larger room at no extra cost—such a nice surprise! Overall, the value for money is outstanding. I’d definitely stay here again when visiting Calgary and highly recommend it to anyone looking for comfort, convenience, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Staying at ExecSuite was an absolute delight, and I must give a special shoutout to Edwin from the maintenance team—he’s truly exceptional. Professional, friendly, and always ready to help whenever I had an issue, no matter how small. His dedication made my stay so much more comfortable and stress-free. The location is excellent—close to downtown and public transit makes getting around easy. Plus, the surrounding area has great dining options. Clean, well-maintained rooms with thoughtful touches throughout. This place offers amazing value for the quality of service and comfort. Definitely a top choice if you're visiting Calgary—I’ll be back without hesitation.
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