They say that summer is the season of love, but we disagree. From museums to in-city magic, Alberta’s mountains, cities and everything in between come to life in the wintertime – and relationships? They thrive in the cold! After all, is there a better time to cozy up next to someone special than when it’s chilly outside?
This month, take advantage of low temperatures and fuel that warm and fuzzy feeling by checking out one of these 20 romantic things to do this winter in and around Calgary!
SKATE OLYMPIC PLAZA
This winter, with love in the air, Calgarians are encouraged to check out Olympic Plaza, one of the city’s favourite traditions and the most romantic slab of ice in the city.
Where: 228 8 Ave. SE, Calgary
Time: 6 pm – 11 pm
Cost: FREE
SHARE A CUP OF COCOA AT THE YYC HOT CHOCOLATE FEST
What’s sweeter than hot cocoa and good company? The annual YYC Hot Chocolate Festival kicks off this February with a ton of restaurants and cafes around the city participating. You can hit one, hit a couple, or hit them all, the city is your oyster.
When: Wednesday, February 1st – February 28th
RENT A CABIN IN THE MOUNTAINS
From Jasper to Canmore, Alberta has some pretty stunning cabins for rent on Airbnb and Vrbo. This winter, pack your bags and spend a magical weekend away where the views are unparalleled and the activities are wholesome. Not sure where to book? Check out the link above for one of many that we’ve covered at Curiocity.
HAVE AN ENCHANTING EXPERIENCE AT NIGHTRISE
Taking a ride on Banff’s gondola is one of the most magical things you can do while in Alberta’s Rocky Mountains and right now, you can see it all in technicolour! This winter, enjoy Nightrise – an immersive activity that merges multimedia, storytelling, and nature. There’s nothing like it!
When: Until March 13th, 2023
Where: 100 Mountain Ave, Banff, AB
Cost: $44+
GRAB A DRINK AT THE CHATEAU LAKE LOUISE ICE BAR
Drinks and a magical view? This winter head to the mountains for a day of sipping and skating with your special someone! From now until mid-April, check out the Chateau Lake Louise’s magically delicious ice bar and grab a cold one!
When: Until mid-April (weather permitting)
Where: 111 Lake Louise Dr, Lake Louise, AB
Time: 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
HOLD HANDS THROUGH THE NIKKA YUKO JAPANESE GARDEN
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For those who have never been, the Nikka Yuko Japanese Gardens are one of the most beautiful places in not just Alberta, but all of North America. Though it’s best known for its stunning flower garden in the warmer months – this winter, guests can experience the magic of its lantern and light festival will have your jaws on the ground, so check it out!
When: Until February 26th
Where: Corner of 9th Ave S &, Mayor Magrath Dr. S, Lethbridge
Cost: $12.50
SEE AN ABBA-INSPIRED SHOW TOGETHER
My my, how can we resist it? This winter, Calgarians looking for a fun date night can check out Jubilation Dinner Theatre’s ABBA-themed musical based on the band’s beloved music. For more information or to get your tickets now, check out the link above!
When: Until March 25th. 2023
Where: 1002 – 37th Street SW Calgary
Cost: $69.95+
COZY UP AT THE CALGARY ZOO
Does your special someone love animals? Look no further than the Calgary Zoo where you can check out the spectacular Penguin Walk! This event is weather permitting, so make sure you check out their website before heading out!
When: Until mid-March (weather depending)
Where: 210 St. George’s Drive NE, Calgary
Time: 10:30 am
Cost: $29.95+
OR TRY TO CATCH THE NORTHERN LIGHTS
Spontaneous? Keep your eyes on the Aurora Forecast and wait for a magical late-night event to take your special someone on a date they’ll never forget. Get ready and stay ready! They could show up again at any time.
VISIT THE NORDIC SPA
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Before the Christmas craziness, take a day or a weekend to enjoy the Nordic Spa. Disconnect, relax and take some time for yourselves! From facials and massages, this alpine sanctuary has everything you’ll need to revamp before things pick up for the holidays.
Where: 1 Centennial Dr, Kananaskis
Cost: Prices vary
CLIMB ABOARD A JASPER TRAIN TOUR
This winter, see everything that Jasper has to offer from behind the window of a speeding train. From forest views to mountain ranges, this incredible train tour will take you from the Historic Dunster Train Station to Mount Robson, the tallest mountain in the Canadian Rockies. Believe us when we say it’s well worth checking out!
When: See dates above
Where: 414 Connaught Street, Jasper AB
Cost: $119
GO TUBING AT WINSPORT
Are you and your partner adrenaline-seekers? Go tubing at Winsport for less than $20 on Fridays! Just because skiing isn’t your thing, doesn’t mean you should miss out on hitting the hills! you’re going to have a blast
Where: 88 Canada Olympic Road SW, Calgary
Time: See times above
Cost: $17 on Fridays
DINE IN FAIRMONT BANFF’S 360° DOME
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Indulge outdoors in Fairmont’s stunning 360° Dome dining room – an insanely romantic private venue with unreal food and a spectacular view. Located on their Upper Garden Terrace, the dome will feature a gourmet brunch, afternoon charcuterie, and an extravagant 5-course menu.
When: Year-round
Where: 405 Spray Avenue Banff, AB
Time: See times above
SNOWSHOE UNDER THE STARS
On this unique excursion, Calgarians looking for something adventurous can follow a skilled guide on a fresh, starlit tour through forest and snow, then can sip hot cocoa in a secluded meadow. They’ll bring the drinks, the lamps, and the telescope, and all you have to bring is yourself, and a good jacket!
Where: Kananaskis Village Centre- 1 Mt. Sparrowhawk Crescent
Time: 7 pm – 9 pm
Cost: $84.99
GO ROCK CLIMBING
Whether it’s your first date or your 100th, the Calgary Climbing Centre is the perfect spot to get to know each other a little better. From exercising support and encouraging one another – cheer for and challenge your special someone to reach the top, or crush a previous record. This place is a ton of fun.
Where: See locations above
Cost: $22
ENJOY GLENBOW MUSEUM’S TEMPORARY GALLERY
Dinner and a museum? What could be better? This winter, check out Howie Tsui: Retainers of Anarchy at the Edison. Featuring a 25-metre hand-drawn animation strip, this exciting exhibit brings together martial arts characters and techniques with the social and political realities of present-day Hong Kong.
When: Until April 16th, 2023
Where: 150 9th Avenue SW, Calgary
Cost: FREE
LOOK UP AT THE JASPER PLANETARIUM
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One of the most romantic, most magical events on the list! This winter, join astronomy guides on a journey through constellations, space, and time at the Jasper Planetarium. Here you can wander the beautiful grounds of the world’s largest accessible astronomy park, hear stories, and take a guided binocular tour of the milky way.
Where: 1 Old Lodge Road, Jasper
Cost: $40 +
CHEER ON THE FLAMES
Noting can bring two people closer together like cheering for the same team. This winter, grab a hand, a jersey and a beer – then hit the dome for a night of fights, fun and fandom – win or lose!
When: Various dates
Where: 555 Saddledome Rise SE
Cost: Varies
GRAB A DRINK AT A HIDDEN CALGARY BAR
Looking for something low-key and intimate? Calgary is home to a ton of hidden bars and speakeasies, each of which will offer you a seriously fun experience, delightful drinks and maybe a bite or two. Check out the link above for our faves.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
COZY UP AT THE EAST VILLAGE HYGGE HUT
Looking for a cheaper date idea? Located just off River Walk Plaza in the East Village, Calgarians are encouraged to cozy up in the Hygge Hut! This Scandinavian-style spot is fitted with a cozy fireplace, a warm atmosphere and is perfect for enjoying a cup of Joe or hot cocoa.
When: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays
Where: See location here
Time: Fridays (3 pm – 6 pm) Saturdays and Sundays (12 pm – 6 pm)
Cost: FREE
Well, there you have it, folks. 20 romantic things to do this winter in and around Calgary. Now get out there and enjoy!
