In a mid-20th century hangar rests a collection of aviation memorabilia that traces the development of flight in general and its history in Calgary. Restored planes, aircraft engines and a wealth of documentation make up the collection, which is gathered in hopes of teaching and entertaining the public. Many of the planes are in a state of disrepair, waiting for reconditioning, but the fact that they have been preserved at all is a major coup for the museum, which preserves aircraft in danger of being destroyed. In addition to the planes, you'll also find uniforms, photos, a library and gift shop.

A punctuation of exoticism and color in Calgary's downtown, this beautiful structure plays home to a museum, gallery, gift shop, gym, auditorium, restaurant and more. Its central hall rises 70 feet to a dome that's been painstakingly adorned with intricate designs and exuberant color, especially red, the Chinese color for luck. The dome, which was modeled after the Temple of Heaven in Beijing, is supported by four gold-leafed pillars that represent the seasons. Smaller columns correspond to the months of the year. The museum includes displays of porcelain, ceramics, textiles, furniture and replicas of tomb treasures. Terrific restaurants in the area serve delicious, authentic cuisine ­ make sure you stop in for a meal or a quick bite.

Firefighting equipment of all sorts is on display at this fascinating museum, which chronicles the fire-fighting efforts from 1870 to 1973. Although you'll find a selection of memorabilia, including uniforms and photographs of Calgary's most damaging fires, the real bulk of the collection is in the fire trucks. You can see both horse-drawn and motorized examples (in various states of restoration) and even get a ride in one. More than 3000 artifacts have been collected by the museum, which also offers a gift shop and guided tours.

This celebrated museum has received both critical and popular acclaim for its excellent displays. Dedicated to tracking western Canada's history and heritage, the Glenbow fills three stories with information on native peoples, European settlers and cultures from around the world. With realistic displays, life in Canada's early years is detailed, providing a glimpse of hardships, joys and domestic life. In the museum are also a collection of minerals, an extensive archive, an exhibit on Canada's military and art from across the globe. A comprehensive look at the country's growth, this museum is a must-see for kids and adults alike.

Alberta's prairies are a significant source of the country's foods, and a substantial supply of grains is produced there. This museum illustrates the cultivation of grain and the farming industry in this area of the province. Among the attractions at the museum are a video presentation, a working model of a grain elevator, a collection of agricultural artifacts, informative kiosks and an exhibit that details the movement of grain via trains from Alberta to Vancouver's coast. An informative glimpse of local enterprise.