40 Calgary Things You Should Treat Yourself To For Under $40
Ballin' on a budget!
The holiday season is a time to give gifts to all the amazing people in your life; your friends, family, significant other, coworkers, neighbours, the list goes on and on. How often do you remember to treat yourself, though? You can't be expected to give to everyone else in your life if you're not giving to yourself first.
Treating yourself doesn't always mean spending hundreds of dollars at the spa, or going on a luxurious getaway to the tropics; we know that that's not affordable, or realistic for most people with small budgets or busy schedules. Treating yourself can be something as simple as going out for a nice dinner, getting a manicure at the salon, getting some fresh air outdoors, or trying something completely new and out of your comfort zone.
With all the snow outside, it's easy to stay bundled up under the covers of your bed, re-watching your favourite Netflix series. Don't let that become your permanent winter routine. Schedule one day a week, or even a month, to treat yourself to something new. We've come up with some super great ideas for you, all you need to do is make time, sit back, and let yourself relax.
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Pizza from UNA Pizza + Wine
@unacalgaryPrice: $17 - $25 per pizza
Why you should treat yourself: UNA is easily one of the best pizza spots in the city. You can sit down in restaurant to enjoy their chewy, thin crust pizzas, or grab a slice or two to go from the shop next door.
Pad Thai from Tuk Tuk Thai
@eattuktukthaiPrice: $10
Why you should treat yourself: Another Downtown Calgary staple, Tuk Tuk Thai serves up some of the best, authentic Thai food you'll find in the city. For just $10, you can get a delicious plate of Pad Thai to enjoy.
The Barnyard from Holy Smoke BBQ
@j.dubstylePrice: $17.49
Why you should treat yourself: A little taste of summer to get you through the winter months. Enjoy this massive sandwich, loaded with pulled pork, beef brisket, and smoked chicken.
Banana Nutella Waffles from Buttermilk Fine Waffles
@buttermilkyycPrice: $10
Why you should treat yourself: Is there ever a bad time for waffles? Buttermilk ensures that every waffle they serve is top quality, and delicious. There's plenty of flavours to try, so you can always go back for more.
Ramen Burger from Paper Street
@nishajohnyPrice: $18
Why you should treat yourself: Paper Street has a super cute, fun atmosphere. They've got a ton of unique dishes, including this Ramen Burger, served with ramen noodles instead of a bun.
Rolled Ice Cream from Sweet Tooth Ice Cream
@_robyngraham_Price: $8
Why you should treat yourself: Admit it, it's never too cold for some ice cream. This creation is even more delicious than it looks, and is super Instagram worthy.
Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast from OEB Breakfast Co
@missmajaulakovicPrice: $16.80
Why you should treat yourself: If you're anything like me, you can eat breakfast anytime of the day. This incredible creation from OEB will leave you begging for seconds.
Fried Chicken Poutine from Waffles & Chix
@ghostdeskerPrice: $12
Why you should treat yourself: It's not hard to find poutine in Calgary, but if incredible poutine is what you're after, look no further than Waffles & Chix.
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Club Maté from High Line Brewing
@highlinebrewingPrice: $13 for a 64oz Growler
Why you should treat yourself: Caffeine and alcohol come together to create this tasty treat. Not only does it have a delicious sweet and citrusy taste, it is also gluten-free.
Hot Chocolate from RE:GRUB
@regrub_lovePrice: $9
Why you should treat yourself: You've probably tried your fair share of hot chocolates, but none like what they offer at RE:GRUB. Try everything from creme brûlée to churros.
Gelato Shake from Burger 320
@burger320Price: $9+
Why you should treat yourself: A shake is a good choice, no matter what day of the year. Nobody does them quite like Burger 320, though. These shakes are made with quality ingredients, and topped with the most creative things.
Boozy Slurpee from National
@ntnl10Price: $15
Why you should treat yourself: These boozy slurpees are my usual go to when I'm at National. They may be a little pricey, but the buzz is worth every penny.
Peach Bellini from Browns Socialhouse
@bellinimagazinePrice: $7
Why you should treat yourself: Another of my personal favourites, this is easily one of the best bellinis in the city. It's even topped with a fuzzy peach to boot, how cute?!
Bulldogs from Julio's Barrio
@eli_eats247Price: $14
Why you should treat yourself: Tequila may make you crazy, but it also almost always means a good time. Julio's offers a great selection for you to choose from; you can try something new every time.
Milkshake from Peter's Drive In
@gillchahdaPrice: $4.95
Why you should treat yourself: If you live in Calgary and have yet to try Peter's, now's your chance. These milkshakes are not only ridiculously cheap, there's also endless flavours for you to try. My personal favourite is Chocolate Oreo.
Smoothie from Wise & Wright Inc
@wiseandwrightPrice: $7.95
Why you should treat yourself: Maybe your resolution was to be a bit healthier in the New Year. That doesn't mean you can't treat yourself, though. Grab one of these delicious smoothies from Wise & Wright, you won't regret it.
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Brow Tint from Riverside Spa
@riverside_spaPrice: $20
Why you should treat yourself: Brow tinting is simply amazing. You'll save yourself a ton of time on your morning routine when you can wake up with already flawless brows. This treatment is perfect for anyone who doesn't want to commit to microblading, but hates filling in their eyebrows every day.
Lash Tint from The Spa Ritual
@the_spa_ritualPrice: $40
Why you should treat yourself: Lash tinting is another amazing time saver. It's much cheaper than lash extensions, and gives your eyes a natural, beautiful pop.
Basic Express Mani from RnR Wellness Spa
@rnrwellnesspalliserembedded via
Price: $29
Why you should treat yourself: Nothing feels better than a fresh coat of polish. For just $29, you can treat yourself to nail shaping, cuticle care, and a professional OPI polish application.
Bikini Wax from Leela Eco Spa
@leelaecospaPrice: $35
Why you should treat yourself: A fresh wax is definitely worth the price you pay. Sit back, relax, and let the crew at Leela Eco Spa leave you feeling smooth and beautiful.
Vital O2 Facial Mask from BABOR Beauty Spa
@jayfbabbyPrice: $30
Why you should treat yourself: This oxygen treatment will work wonders on your skin. It helps to reduce fine lines, hyper-pigmentation, redness, and acne.
Classic Pedicure from Coastal Bliss Day Spa
@coastalblissyycPrice: $35
Why you should treat yourself: A pedicure might do you more good than you think. Spend $35, and you'll get top quality cuticle care, buffing, hydrating oil, and polish.
Full Face Wax from Victoire Day Spa
@victoire.dayspaPrice: $35
Why you should treat yourself: Nobody wants to deal with annoying facial hair. Leave your skin feeling fresh, smooth, and healthy after a full face wax at Victoire Day Spa.
Trial Make-Up from Bamboo Retreat Salon & Spa
@bambooretreatPrice: $40
Why you should treat yourself: Have a special event coming up? Or just looking to feel glamorous for a day? Head to Bamboo Retreat and get your makeup done for just $40. You'll leave looking and feeling amazing.
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Take a trip to Banff National Park
@oliviapencinerPrice: Roughly $35 for gas, depending on your vehicle
Why you should treat yourself: Banff is beautiful, and not too far away from Calgary; it's a perfect day trip. Get some skiing in, check out the hot springs, or simply explore.
Do some shopping on Stephen Ave
@carlene.in.the.cityembedded via
Price: $30+
Why you should treat yourself: Stephen Ave is a notorious Calgary hot spot. Everyone in the city knows that this is a great place to explore. Grab some cash and spend a day checking out all the fun boutiques and restaurants.
Night Skiing at Mount Norquay Ski Resort
@imdeliciaPrice: $30
Why you should treat yourself: Skiing is a great winter pastime, and also a great way to stay in shape during the colder months. A night ski pass at Mount Norquay is just $30.
Snowshoeing in Fish Creek Park
@curiousseagullPrice: $10
Why you should treat yourself: Walking in the snow can be challenging, but snowshoeing makes it that much easier. Get outside and explore our cities beautiful parks. If you don't have snowshoes, you can rent them from UofC.
Relax in the Banff Upper Hot Springs
@kaleidoscopedreamsembedded via
Price: $7.30
Why you should treat yourself: There's nothing more relaxing than a soak in the hot springs, especially with a view this great, and prices this affordable.
Check out the Acura Tube Park
@rozalinazPrice: $32 for four hours
Why you should treat yourself: Tubing isn't just limited to the summer. You can have plenty of fun at the Acura Tube Park for just $32. If four hours is too much for you, pay $22 for two hours of fun.
Outdoor Sleigh Ride in Kananaskis
@amanda.adventuresembedded via
Price: $32 per adult
Why you should treat yourself: What's more romantic than an old-school sleigh ride? Take in the beautiful views of the Rocky Mountains and Bow River while you bundle up under warm blankets.
Check out your favourite animals at the Calgary Zoo
@t_photography_46Price: $23
Why you should treat yourself: There's nothing better to cure your winter blues than some cute animals. Head to the zoo to do some exploring and maybe learn something new.
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Take some cute Instagram pictures
@hayleyhynesPrice: Free
Why you should treat yourself: If you're like me, you always want to keep your Instagram feed looking fresh. I'm that annoying friend who always begs my friends to take pictures of me, but it's worth it. Explore the city with your friends, and snap some super cool pictures!
Take a stroll through Prince's Island Park
@itsjpbabyPrice: Free
Why you should treat yourself: Some fresh air can do you a world of good. Get outside and see what one of the cities' most beautiful parks has to offer. Go solo, bring your dog, or a friend!
Outdoor Skating at Olympic Plaza
@taylorvn_Price: Free
Why you should treat yourself: Skating is a staple during the winter season, and Calgary has no shortage of outdoor rinks for you to enjoy. We recommend Olympic Plaza, because it's beautifully decorated and the picture perfect spot.
Tobogganing in Stanley Park
@yitingalingPrice: Free
Why you should treat yourself: Sledding can always be fun, no matter how old you are. There's plenty of city-maintained hills for you to sled at, but we recommend Stanley Hill.
Cross Country Ski at West Bragg Creek Recreation Area
@misskourtneykmPrice: Free
Why you should treat yourself: Admission is totally free at Bragg Park, meaning you don't have to pay a penny for a day of outdoor fun.
Explore Chinatown during the Chinese New Year
@cooperhunterrPrice: Free
Why you should treat yourself: This year's Chinese New Year falls on February 16th. Make sure you head Downtown to Chinatown to explore and experience some of the culture.
Build a Snowman
@glenmoregoodearthembedded via
Price: Free
Why you should treat yourself: There's no shame in building a snowman, no matter how old you may be. Head outdoors, roll up some snow, and decorate your new buddy.
Window Shop at Eau Claire Market
@hairbycharstarPrice: Free
Why you should treat yourself: A lot of people are feeling the financial struggle after the holiday season, but that doesn't mean you can't do some window shopping. Eau Claire has plenty of cool, local vendors for you to check out.