Hi--I'm Michael, and I can't wait to meet you and share everything I know and love about Calgary: architecture, history, music, food, culture, film, urbanism, nature in the city, and more. Calgary has undergone a massive transformation, especially in the past decade or so, which I'm super excited about. I'll share hidden gems and secret knowledge too, just between you and me, so you'll feel like a true local by the end of our time together!

I'm also more than happy to work with you to create custom tours, tailored to your specific interests. Just let me know what you're into, and we can design something truly special and absolutely unique to you.

As far as travel goes, I've explored most of Europe. I've criss-crossed both Canada and the USA. I've visited Central America and the Caribbean. One of my favorite trips ever was a month in Brazil for the World Cup of soccer in 2014, followed by a week in Uruguay. It was phenomenal!

Before making Calgary home 20 years ago, I lived in several other Canadian cities; Berkeley, California; Ithaca, New York; Zurich, Switzerland; Graz, Austria, and most of a year living the Jimmy Buffett Margaritaville life in the US Virgin Islands.

Before becoming a guide, I did radio journalism, including hosting my own show on CBC Radio. I've also managed non-profit organizations, designed and built environmentally certified houses, and been an ESL teacher.

But everything else I have ever done in life pales in comparison to my one true claim to fame: I was a contestant on Jeopardy! (in the '90s). I won my first show, but I lost my second by a dollar.

I've been curious about the world my entire life, and I bet you are too! I've studied: biology (premed), business, philosophy, art and architectural history, and got my BA in film studies. Combine that lifelong learning with my radio and teaching experience, and basically I'm just a giant nerd who loves to talk and share his passions and knowledge.

Let's go for a walk together!

Graduate Diploma in Education (University of Calgary, 2016)
TESL Level 2 Certificate (University of Calgary, 2015)
First Aid & CPR (Canadian Red Cross, 2012)
BA (Honours) in Film Studies (Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, 1987)

I am not a commercial driver. I only have a personal driver's license. I can arrange for a vehicle and driver if required.

In 1937, Gertrude Stein wrote "There's no there there" about her hometown of Oakland, California. Calgary has suffered from the same misperception. It's been thought of as a gateway to the natural wonders of Alberta and not much more.

Now, nothing could be further from the truth. Calgary is a modern, bustling, multicultural, vibrant, exciting city. In just the past few years, we've had an eruption of award-winning new buildings by world-famous architects. We've also seen the same thing with public art, including the world's tallest mural! On this tour, we'll focus on the exciting projects since about 2010, but we'll also check out some other cool stuff from the 1960s onward.

I studied art and architectural history at university, so I'll be able to share insights with you that you probably won't get anywhere else. As we visit different areas of the city, I'll share more unique local knowledge and point out some hidden gems. We'll finish our tour with some fantastic options for a drink or a meal!

Mike R. Custom Tour

This Tour takes us through the extensive +15 Bridges. The connector bridges between the office buildings, hotels and malls downtown. With nearly 70 bridges! It is hardly necessarily to even step out side!
Known to be the most extensive Sky bridge system in the world. It is Integrated with Art installations, fountains, roof top gardens & beehives, food halls, shoe shine stations, and often even buskers and entertainers. These pathway bridges bring together all kinds of commuters, including office professionals, shoppers, hotel guests and artists. This adventurous tour is "mostly" indoors and is perfect for the winter months of visiting Calgary. With a couple of touch down stories, history, and local culture. I will even show you the very first bridge and take you to some of my favourite hidden gems, makers and vendors. Let me help you take the guess work out of these maze of bridges in the Down Town core of Calgary, with time to shop, explore and find the most delightful eateries and galleries.

Calgary Sky Walk + 15 Adventure Tour (Monday-Friday Only)

In 1937, Gertrude Stein wrote "There's no there there" about her hometown of Oakland, California. Calgary has suffered from the same misperception. It's been thought of as a gateway to the natural wonders of Alberta and not much more.

Now, nothing could be further from the truth. Calgary is a modern, bustling, multicultural, vibrant, exciting city. In just the past few years, we've had an eruption of award-winning new buildings by world-famous architects. We've also seen the same thing with public art, including the world's tallest mural! On this tour, we'll focus on the exciting projects since about 2010, but we'll also check out some other cool stuff from the 1960s onward.

I studied art and architectural history at university, so I'll be able to share insights with you that you probably won't get anywhere else. As we stroll between projects, I'll share more unique local knowledge and point out some hidden gems. We'll finish our tour with some fantastic options for a drink or a meal!

Tour guide in Calgary Michael I.

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