For a first-hand view of ranching and its significance in Calgary's history, this complex is exemplary. Set on 360 acres at the base of the Rockies are 35 buildings that have been gathered to showcase the workings and heritage of an authentic ranch. You'll find barns, stables, outbuildings, horse-drawn wagons, and all the other accoutrements that went into the running of a productive ranch. Costumed guides point out interesting facts and details about the era and lead groups around the facility. Depending on the season, you can also watch demonstrations on branding, roping, making hay and more. On the premises is also a visitor center, restaurant and a gift shop with locally-made items. About 1-1/2 hours southwest of Calgary.

The first Anglican church to be built in Calgary, this structure was constructed of local sandstone in 1905. Named a Registered Heritage Site in 1974, the cathedral has lovely architecture that might be considered Victorian or neo-Gothic. Its stained glass windows are some of the city's oldest and follow the medieval belief that sacred artwork should educate and instruct believers with its symbolism. Other notable features of the sanctuary include its brass lectern in the shape of an eagle and the plaques in the nave that remember early soldiers and citizens.

This historic attraction is located on the site of Calgary's original settlement. The town was founded in the late 1800s, when the North West Mounted Police (later to become the RCMP) arrived to stop settlers from selling liquor to Native Americans. That first fort gave rise to the metropolis that is Calgary today. The site that it occupied is now a 40-acre park along the river and features a visitor center, a host of exhibits, videos, trails and the reconstructed fort itself. Displays track the city's history with artifacts, memorabilia and interiors. The nearby Deane House, also an historic building, offers weekday lunches, Sunday brunch and occasional evening dinner theater.

For more than 10,000 years, Plains Indians drove herds of buffalo off the cliffs to their deaths at this historical site. In a highly organized and choreographed effort, the tribe collaborated to obtain meat and other animal goods for their subsistence. Visitors can learn all about the Native American culture at the incredible interpretive center that's built into the cliff. A variety of exhibits provides details about the Indians, the geography of the plains, and the presence of Europeans in later days. Along with the realistic displays, visitors may walk outside to the jump and catch a glimpse of this centuries-old site. Ongoing archeological digs continue to add information to the center. Also on the premises are a cafeteria and gift shop. Located about 2 hours drive from Calgary.