Put Cochrane on your list of budget-friendly towns close to Calgary

Looking for a quick and affordable escape from the city? Head west to the foothills for some laid-back adventure in Cochrane—one of the best small towns close to Calgary. Here, you can have the perfect budget-friendly getaway just a 40-minute drive from downtown Calgary or Airdrie.

Whether you’re spending the day solo, planning a couples’ trip, or visiting with friends, you can experience Cochrane’s western charm without breaking the bank. These ideas will help you spend your money where it matters most.

Free and low-cost adventures in Cochrane

Trade the crowds and noise of 17th Ave. for a slower, calmer pace with walks and hikes close to Calgary. Natural beauty is one of Cochrane’s biggest draws, and the best part? Our mountain views don’t cost a dime.

1. Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park (free)

Hike or bike along scenic trails at this 3,200-acre park just east of Cochrane on Highway 1A. Some trails have breathtaking river valley views, while others wind through the forest. Choose your own adventure and experience some of the best easy hikes close to Calgary.

2. Mitford Park (free)

Close to downtown Cochrane and the Bow River, this park is a great spot for a picnic by the pond or a walk with your favourite people and pets.

3. Riverfront Park (free)

Start here for a leisurely walk along the Bow River with options to go east or west. Or for something different, bring your own discs and enjoy a game of disc golf near the park’s main entrance.

4. Historic Cochrane Ranche Site (free)

Explore the paved and wooded trails for walking and mountain biking at this 136-acre park, located right in town. Stroll the interpretive trail to learn the natural and human history of the area, visit the famous “Men of Vision” statue, and enjoy mountain views for miles.

5. Stockmen’s Memorial Foundation (low cost)

Get your cowboy culture fix as you explore Alberta’s western heritage through fascinating ranching exhibits. Fun fact: Stockmen’s library is also filled with branding irons. The staff can heat one up for you to imprint your brand on a piece of wood to take home.

6. Boundary Ranch (low cost)

Located in nearby Kananaskis Country—one of the most beautiful places to visit close to Calgary, Boundary Ranch offers affordable horseback riding experiences. Their pony rides for kids aged 5 and under are only $25 (subject to availability).

Budget-friendly food and drinks

Among the towns close to Calgary, Cochrane is known for its warm western hospitality. So, after you’ve worked up an appetite exploring outdoors, take a load off and get some grub at one of our affordable coffee shops or restaurants.

Fuel up on caffeine

Head to historic downtown Cochrane and visit Vine Coffee Co., a cafe focused on small batch roasts that ensure maximum control and freshness. Or, head down the street and around the corner to Cochrane Coffee Traders. This local hotspot with an alpine-style vibe has an on-site roastery and delicious giant muffins.

Unwind at a local pub

Look for the big hotel with a western style facade and red trim on main street. Inside, you’ll find the Texas Gate Bar & Grill, where you can enjoy pub fare and a historic saloon vibe without a hefty price tag. Or, check out happy hour at Half Hitch Brewery and Rocky View Brewery Taproom for discounted drinks and snacks.

Treat yourself to ice cream

If you’ve been in Calgary long enough, you’ve probably heard of MacKay’s Ice Cream. This family-owned sweet shop is a Cochrane institution that’s been serving locally made ice cream since 1948—not to mention drawing crowds every weekend, even in winter. It’s a must-visit spot on any trip to Cochrane.

Comfy and affordable accommodations

There’s no need to pay mountain town prices for a place to rest after a day of adventure. Try the Super 8 Cochrane for budget-friendly and pet-friendly comfort. The hotel has a gym and free continental breakfast, plus fridges and microwaves in the rooms—perfect for your leftovers from dinner in town.

Spend some time in Cochrane, and you’ll see why our small town is one of the best places to visit close to Calgary. Download the Explore Cochrane app today to plan your budget-friendly getaway.