Under $100: Calgary

A cosmopolitan city in Alberta, Canada, Calgary was heavily influenced by western culture and boasts the nickname “Cowtown.” It’s also consistently recognized for its high quality of life, evident in its clean, safe streets, modern infrastructure and friendly, welcoming people.

In keeping with its nickname, the city hosts the Calgary Stampede, a massive rodeo and festival showcasing the region’s history of farming exhibitions. The festival is worth a visit in July.

Situated on the Bow River and Elbow River in an area of foothills and prairies, not far from the Canadian Rockies. Calgary is an ideal location from which to enjoy biking, hiking, mountain climbing and other outdoor adventure activities. It’s also not far from popular mountain resorts including Banff, Lake Louise and Canmore.

From a culture standpoint, the city doesn’t disappoint. From its diverse Forest Lawn neighborhoods with its many affordable, ethnic restaurants to the Mission District’s lively nightlife and cultural centers, there’s always something to do. Visit the Glenbow Museum, one of the largest museums in Western Canada with 20 galleries on western and indigenous cultures, for only $16; or catch a show at The Plaza Theatre, an indie film, art and music house, for only $10. Though a little pricier at $26, the Heritage Park Historical Village features more than 180 attractions and exhibits, re-creating Western Canadian history from the 1860s to the 1950s with museums, boutiques, restaurants, a brewery and more.

Visit the Olympic Oval, built for the 1988 Winter Olympics, offering equipment rentals and artwork aimed at connecting art and sports. Admission is $7.

Another affordable must-see is the Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, an archaeological UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s oldest and largest buffalo jumps in the world. It’s located only a short drive from Calgary and costs $15.

For cheap, delicious bites, grab a burger at Boogie’s Burgers or Peter’s Drive-In; great Vietnamese fare at Watercress Express; Italian sandwiches and pizza at Pizzeria Gaga; vegetarian options at Veg-In YYC; or Middle Eastern delights at Jerusalem Shawarma. Great coffee shops include Caffe Beano, Gravity Espresso & Wine Bar, Fratello Coffee and Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters.

Getting around is as easy as picking up a $10 day pass for Calgary’s C-Train, available at drug, grocery and convenience stores. The downtown area is also walkable and there are plenty of bike rentals and dedicated pathways.