Calgary Weekender: August 12th through 14th, 2011

With blue skies and warm weather in the forecast for this weekend, participating in outdoor pursuits is definitely on the minds of many of Calgary’s young professionals. For those who are fortunate enough to stay in town, the following should keep you busy…

It is said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Well we say going out for breakfast is the perfect way to start your weekend! Calgarians are lucky to have an amazing selection of breakfast hubs serving up quality faves. Edmonton Trail is home to several breakfast spots each within walking distance of one another including Diner Deluxe, AKA Wine Bar, and Overeasy Breakfast.

We suggest saving some room though, because Taste of Calgary is this weekend. An outdoor festival, it plays host to some of Calgary’s best restaurants and food service establishments. Peruse the various food vendors or head into the beer gardens to enjoy live music performed by local musicians.

When finished, saunter over to Calgary’s busy 17th Ave for cocktails on one of the many awesome patios. If a casual but fun night is what you’re thirsting, Ship & Anchor is the perfect spot. It’s consistently busy, and with well-priced drinks and delicious food a great time is almost always guaranteed.

Sundays are all about relaxing, so consider gathering a group of friends and head to one of Calgary’s rivers (Bow or Elbow) for a leisurely float. Just make sure you have a quality raft, life jackets (the rivers are patrolled and tickets given out) and sunscreen! Or step it up a notch and check out one of several outdoor venues catering to Calgary’s young professionals. Lounge poolside at Hotel Arts as you sip cocktails and listen to great music. Or visit West Restaurant and Bar, home to Calgary’s largest rooftop patio, for Rise 45 – a no-nonsense, fun in the sun daytime party. Dance the afternoon away to great tunes or lounge in one of multiple cabanas as you enjoy specialty cocktails.

As the weekend winds down, relish the fact that you took in some of the best Calgary has to offer and you don’t have to deal with weekend traffic returning from the mountains.

Image courtesy Creative Commons.