Things To Do
in Chestermere
Chestermere is a small city located just east of Calgary, Alberta, on the shores of Chestermere Lake. It offers a family-friendly waterfront atmosphere with parks, pathways, and plenty of outdoor space for boating and picnics. The community blends quiet residential neighborhoods with easy access to the amenities and job markets of nearby Calgary.
Visitors can enjoy lakeside recreation, seasonal markets, and a relaxed prairie-Canadian vibe.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Chestermere and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café while taking in views of the serene Chestermere Lake. Spend some time exploring the nearby parks, absorbing the beauty of the natural surroundings.
Take a stroll along the Chestermere Lake pathway, which offers picturesque views and a chance to spot local wildlife. Stop for lunch at a waterfront restaurant where you can indulge in fresh seafood or local dishes. Spend the rest of the afternoon kayaking or paddleboarding on the lake for an invigorating outdoor experience.
As the sun sets, head to a popular local spot for dinner, featuring cuisine that reflects the region's unique flavors. After dinner, enjoy a peaceful evening walk along the lakeshore, where the evening lights create a magical ambiance. End your first night with a cozy bonfire at your accommodation, sharing stories under the stars.
Start your day by visiting the Chestermere Historical Foundation to learn about the town's history and heritage. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local diner, known for its delicious homemade pancakes. Afterward, explore the various art installations around town that celebrate Chestermere’s vibrant culture.
Head to the local farmer’s market to experience the community spirit and shop for fresh produce and artisanal goods. After your market excursion, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the many parks, surrounded by lush greenery. Consider renting a bike for an afternoon ride along the scenic pathways that wind through Chestermere.
Treat yourself to dinner at a family-owned restaurant that reflects the culinary diversity of the area. Post-dinner, catch a local theater performance or live music show to immerse yourself in the community's artistic scene. Conclude the evening with dessert at a charming café, choosing from an array of homemade pastries.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-20 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $3-5 |
| 🏨One-night stay (mid-range hotel) | $100-170 |
| 🚗Gasoline for a full tank | $60-90 |
| 🎟️Movie ticket | $12-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Calgary for big-city attractions
- Lakeside recreation and family-friendly outdoor spaces
- Limited nightlife within Chestermere
- Public transit options are limited; a car is often necessary
Places to Visit in Chestermere
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide open water with stunning reflections at sunrise and sunset, plus silhouettes of sailboats and swans.
Grassy expanses and trees framing water views, ideal for wide-angle landscape shots.
The dock provides lines and silhouettes for golden-hour photography and water texture.
Food in Chestermere
Chestermere Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Alberta beef sandwich served on a soft bun with fresh toppings, reflective of local ranching traditions.
Must-Try!
Crispy battered white fish with fries, often featuring locally sourced fillets when available.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering locally grown produce, baked goods, and prepared foods from nearby farms.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
People typically say please and thank you; queue patiently in lines and waiting for service.
Avoid loud conversations in public spaces; ask before taking photos of individuals or families.
Follow local recycling guidelines and keep parks clean; littering is frowned upon.
Safety
Tipping in Chestermere
Ensure a smooth experience
In Canada, tipping is customary at 15-20% for table service; rounding up fares is common for taxis and rideshares.
Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; mobile wallets are increasingly common; tips are usually added separately or on card receipts.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder days with blossoming trees; carry a light jacket and enjoy early-spring birdlife near the lake.
Warm to hot days with long daylight hours; ideal for boating, picnics, and outdoor festivals.
Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage; great for scenic drives and forest trails.
Cold and snowy with potential ice on the lake; dress in layers and consider winter sports like ice skating nearby.
Chestermere at Night
Hiking in Chestermere
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of easy to moderate trails in south Calgary, popular with locals.
Foothill forest trails with scenic canyons and rivers, about an hour from Chestermere.
Airports
How to reach Chestermere by plane.
The region’s primary international gateway; about 25-40 minutes by car from Chestermere, depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families with children, attracted to lake life and schools.
A significant portion of residents commute to Calgary for work.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple winter sport with local leagues and rink facilities.
Access to slopes in the foothills around Calgary (e.g., Nakiska) within a couple of hours.
Popular summer team sports in community parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chestermere.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries offer salads, veggie burgers, and pasta; ask for meatless preparations and dairy-free options where available.