From BMO to the Rockies
The 26th Congress and General Assembly of the International Union of Crystallography (IUCr2026) will take place in the vibrant city of Calgary, Alberta, a dynamic hub where urban energy meets stunning natural beauty. The Congress venue, the state-of-the-art BMO Centre, is located right in the heart of Calgary, offering easy access to hotels, dining, and cultural attractions.
Calgary is more than just a conference destination—it’s a launching point for unforgettable adventures. Within a short drive, you can explore Banff National Park, the breathtaking Canadian Rockies, and world-renowned natural landmarks like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Whether you’re discovering the city’s lively arts and culinary scene or planning a mountain escape, Calgary sets the perfect stage for an inspiring Congress experience.
The newly expanded BMO Centre is Calgary’s premier convention venue, offering state-of-the-art facilities in the heart of the city. Located at Stampede Park, the Centre combines cutting-edge design with flexible meeting spaces, creating an ideal setting for an international gathering like IUCr2026. Its central location ensures easy access to hotels, restaurants, and cultural attractions, with Calgary’s downtown just steps away. Whether arriving by plane, rail, or transit, attendees will find the BMO Centre conveniently connected to everything the city has to offer.
Calgary is a vibrant and welcoming city, known for its stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, thriving cultural scene, and warm prairie hospitality. As Canada’s energy capital, it blends modern urban amenities with a dynamic spirit rooted in its western heritage. Visitors can enjoy world-class restaurants, lively festivals, diverse neighborhoods, and abundant green spaces, all within a city that consistently ranks among the most livable in the world. Its location at the foothills of the Rockies makes it an ideal base for exploring both the natural beauty of Alberta and the excitement of a cosmopolitan city.
Calgary is the perfect starting point for exploring some of Canada’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Just over an hour’s drive from downtown, you can find yourself in Banff National Park, surrounded by towering peaks, turquoise lakes, and endless hiking, skiing, and sightseeing opportunities. The city’s well-connected roadways and proximity to the Rockies make it easy to plan a quick day trip or a longer adventure. Whether you’re interested in wildlife viewing, soaking in hot springs, or simply enjoying the stunning mountain scenery, Calgary’s convenient location means the beauty of Banff and the Canadian Rockies is always within easy reach.
A road trip from Calgary to the Alberta Badlands is a journey into one of Canada’s most dramatic landscapes. Just a few hours’ drive east of the city, the scenery transforms from rolling prairie to striking canyons, hoodoos, and layered rock formations that reveal millions of years of history. Along the way, travelers can stop in Drumheller, home to the world-famous Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology, where towering dinosaur skeletons showcase the region’s prehistoric past. Scenic drives wind through Horseshoe Canyon and the rugged Red Deer River Valley, while outdoor adventures like hiking, fossil hunting, and exploring ghost towns add to the experience. With its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions, the Badlands road trip offers an unforgettable escape that feels worlds away, yet begins right in Calgary’s backyard.
Calgary offers rich opportunities to connect with Indigenous culture and history, providing visitors with meaningful experiences that honor the traditions of the First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples. From guided tours that share stories of the land and its original caretakers to immersive art exhibits, powwows, and performances, travelers can learn about the deep roots and ongoing contributions of Indigenous communities. Places like the Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park, Glenbow Museum, and local cultural centers highlight everything from traditional crafts and regalia to contemporary Indigenous art and storytelling. These experiences not only celebrate heritage but also foster understanding and respect, making Indigenous culture an essential part of exploring Calgary.