Get ready to be captivated by the vibrant energy of Downtown Calgary! The bustling heart of the city offers an exciting mix of culinary adventures, cultural experiences, entertainment, and shopping opportunities. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Downtown Calgary is home to some of the best things to do in the city.
Immerse Yourself in Entertainment: Live Music & Shows in Downtown Calgary
Downtown Calgary is a hub for live music and entertainment, ensuring there’s always something exciting happening, no matter the time of year.
Catch Live Music at The Palace Theatre
This historic venue hosts an eclectic lineup, from rock bands to country to DJ sets. The Palace brings in a mix of big names and indie artists, making it perfect for music fans of all types. Check their schedule before your visit—you might discover your new favourite band!
Enjoy the Calgary Folk Music Festival/Block Heater
If you’re visiting in time for summer festivals, don’t miss the Calgary Folk Music Festival. It brings talented indie musicians from around the world to downtown stages.
Winter visitors can check out Block Heater, the winter version of the festival with indoor shows.
Watch International Films at Globe Cinema
Love movies? The Globe Cinema screens everything from foreign films to cult classics. The vintage theatre vibe makes for a prime moviegoing experience. Check their schedule for unique screenings you won’t find at bigger theatres.
Attend the Calgary International Film Festival
Film buffs should plan their visit around the Calgary International Film Festival. This annual event brings diverse films from around the world to downtown venues. The festival features director Q&As, premieres, and special events that create a vibrant atmosphere for movie lovers.
Indulge in Culinary Delights: Downtown Calgary’s Vibrant Food Scene
The best restaurants in Downtown Calgary create a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of flavours and dining experiences that cater to every palate.
Start Your Day at Monogram Coffee Co.
Kick off your downtown adventure with exceptional coffee at Monogram. Their skilled baristas create some of the best brews in the city. Grab a pastry to go with your coffee and watch the morning downtown buzz.
Try Rosso Coffee Roasters
Looking for another great coffee option? Locals swear by Rosso Coffee Roasters for their rich, flavorful espresso. It’s known as one of the best breakfast spots in Calgary for coffee lovers.
Enjoy Brunch at Alforno Bakery & Café
Just steps from the iconic Peace Bridge, Alforno offers one of downtown’s best brunches. Their freshly baked pastries and hearty breakfast dishes give you the energy you need for a day of exploring. The sunny patio is perfect for people-watching.
Have Drinks on Local Public Eatery’s Patio
When the weather’s nice, Local Public Eatery on 8th Ave becomes a hotspot for patio season. It’s the perfect place to soak up sunshine, enjoy tasty food, and watch the world go by. Their casual vibe makes anyone feel welcome.
Experience Happy Hour at The Guild
For a trendier evening option, head to The Guild during happy hour. Their expertly crafted cocktails draw Calgary’s stylish crowd. The upscale yet approachable atmosphere makes it great for a night out.
Taste Italian at Barbarella & Cucina
Craving the best pasta in Calgary? Barbarella brings flavours of the Amalfi Coast to downtown. Their authentic Italian dishes transport you straight to the Mediterranean.
For a different Italian experience, Cucina’s family-style approach creates a warm, social dining atmosphere. Their authentic dishes are meant to be shared, making them perfect for groups.
Have Dinner 40 Floors Up at Major Tom
Want dinner with a view? Major Tom sits 40 floors above Stephen Avenue, offering stunning city vistas with your meal. This contemporary steakhouse offers a menu that will tantalize your taste buds. Book ahead—tables go fast!
Downtown is easily one of the best places to go shopping in Calgary, with a variety of retail destinations that cater to diverse tastes and budgets.
Shop at Over 160 Stores in The CORE
The CORE Shopping Centre sprawls over three city blocks and houses more than 160 shops, services, and food vendors. From big brands to unique boutiques, you’ll find it all here. Plan to spend at least a couple of hours exploring the options.
Visit the Indoor Garden Oasis at Devonian Gardens
Need a break from shopping? The CORE also houses the Devonian Gardens, a stunning indoor park on the top floor. This urban oasis features thousands of plants, fish ponds, and comfortable seating areas. It’s the perfect spot to recharge.
Browse Luxury Brands at Bankers Hall
For upscale shopping, head to Bankers Hall. This high-end mall features designer boutiques, jewelry stores, perfumeries, and gourmet food shops. Keep an eye out for pop-up events with local vendors and handmade goods.
Gear Up at Alberta Boot Company & Lammle’s Western Wear
Get yourself authentic Calgary style at the Alberta Boot Company. This specialty shop crafts handmade Western boots that last for years. Even if you’re not buying, it’s worth stopping in to see the craftsmanship.
Lammle’s Western Wear offers authentic Western-inspired fashion and accessories. It’s a great place to pick up a souvenir that reflects Calgary’s western heritage.
Shop for Outdoor Gear at Patagonia
Planning a Rocky Mountain road trip after exploring downtown? Stop by Patagonia for quality outdoor apparel and gear. Their durable products are perfect for Alberta’s diverse landscapes and weather conditions.
Explore Indigenous Art at Kanata Trading Post
For unique gifts and souvenirs, visit Kanata Trading Post. This shop specializes in Indigenous art and crafts, offering authentic pieces that represent the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Uncover Arts & Culture: Museums, Galleries, & Performing Arts in Downtown Calgary
Downtown Calgary is a haven for arts and culture enthusiasts, boasting a rich tapestry of museums, galleries, and performing arts venues.
Take in City Views from the Calgary Tower
For the best views in town, head up the Calgary Tower. From 191 meters high, you’ll get 360-degree vistas of the entire downtown, the Rocky Mountains, and beyond. The glass floor section offers extra thrills for the brave. Go near sunset for the most dramatic skyline.
Take advantage of the free multimedia tour. It highlights major landmarks and shares fascinating stories about Calgary’s history and development. The tour adds context to the amazing views.
Looking for Calgary mementos? With the Tower being one of the most famous aspects of Calgary, the Calgary Tower Gift Shop is a great place to find something to commemorate your time in the city.
Explore Calgary’s Chinatown
Just east of the downtown core, Calgary’s Chinatown is filled with authentic restaurants, bakeries, and specialty shops. Spend time exploring this vibrant cultural district, sampling traditional foods, and browsing unique stores.
Don’t forget to stop by the Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre! It hosts multiple festivals, year-round cultural programs and workshops and a free museum, among other things.
Shop and Dine on Historic Stephen Avenue
Stroll down Stephen Avenue, a pedestrian-friendly street lined with historic buildings, shops, restaurants, and patios. The avenue comes alive in summer with street performers, outdoor dining, and special events.
This National Historic Site dates back to the late 1800s and features some of Calgary’s oldest architecture. Watch for the sandstone buildings that survived the Great Fire of 1886—they’re part of what makes this street so special.
Discover Canada’s Music History at Studio Bell
Music lovers shouldn’t miss Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre. This architectural marvel houses five floors of exhibition space dedicated to Canadian music history. Check out interactive displays, over 2,000 rare instruments and artifacts (including the Rolling Stones Mobile Studio and Elton John’s piano!), and the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.
The building itself is worth seeing for its stunning design! Inspired by the curves of musical instruments, it’s one of Calgary’s most photographed structures since opening in 2016.
Watch a Show at Arts Commons
Arts Commons hosts everything from plays to symphony performances. This cultural hub is home to multiple theatre companies and the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra. Check their calendar for shows during your visit.
See a Performance by Alberta Theatre Projects
Alberta Theatre Projects, based at Arts Commons, produces compelling contemporary theatre. Their innovative productions showcase Canadian talent and thought-provoking stories.
Experience Experimental Theatre with Downstage
For edgier, socially conscious performances, check out Downstage. Their thought-provoking shows address contemporary issues through compelling storytelling.
Attend a One Yellow Rabbit Show
One Yellow Rabbit is known for their experimental, avant-garde performances. Their unique theatrical approach has made them a cornerstone of Calgary’s arts scene.
Enjoy a Night with Theatre Calgary
Theatre Calgary presents a mix of classics and contemporary works. Their professional productions feature top-notch acting and production values.
Listen to the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra
The Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra performs at Arts Commons, bringing world-class orchestral music to downtown. From symphonies to pops concerts, their diverse programming appeals to various tastes.
Catch an Intimate Show at The GRAND
For a different theatre experience, check out The GRAND. This historic venue hosts a variety of performances in a more intimate setting than the larger Arts Commons.
See a Lunchtime Show at Lunchbox Theatre
Lunchbox Theatre offers short, midday performances perfect for a lunch break or afternoon entertainment. Their 45-minute shows are ideal if you’re short on time but still want to experience Calgary’s theatre scene.
Experience Mystery Theatre at Vertigo Theatre
Vertigo Theatre specializes in mystery plays and thrillers. Their suspenseful productions keep audiences on the edge of their seats. It’s one of the most fun theatres in Calgary!
Explore Contemporary Art at Contemporary Calgary
Contemporary Calgary is a must-visit for art lovers. This gallery showcases rotating international art exhibitions and installations. They also host an open-studio residency program and speaker series where you can engage directly with artists.
See Exhibitions at Glenbow at The Edison
While the main Glenbow Museum is under renovation until 2026, visit their free satellite gallery at Glenbow at The Edison. The touring exhibitions showcase both local and international artists.
Admire Public Art: Downtown Calgary’s Outdoor Artwork
As you stroll through downtown Calgary, keep your eyes peeled for the captivating public art installations that dot the cityscape. These artistic creations not only enhance the urban landscape but also tell stories about the city’s history and culture.
Visit the Women are Persons! Sculpture at Olympic Plaza
At Olympic Plaza, find the Women are Persons! sculpture. This important artwork commemorates the Famous Five, Alberta women who fought for women’s rights in the early 20th century. It’s both a beautiful sculpture and a powerful historical monument.
See The Conversation on Stephen Avenue
While walking down Stephen Avenue, look for The Conversation. This charming sculpture depicts two businessmen engaged in conversation, capturing everyday downtown life. It’s a favourite photo spot for visitors.
Snap a Photo with the Wonderland Sculpture
You can’t miss the massive 12-metre-tall wire sculpture of a girl’s head outside the Bow Building. This Instagram-favourite art piece, called Wonderland, lets you walk inside for a unique perspective. It’s especially magical when lit up at night.
Admire Colourful Murals Throughout Downtown
Downtown Calgary has become an outdoor art gallery with dozens of vibrant murals decorating building walls. Take a self-guided walking tour to spot these colourful artworks by local and international artists. Each mural tells a different story about Calgary’s culture and history.
Looking for things to do with kids in Calgary? Turning this into a scavenger hunt is a great way to get some exercise while keeping them entertained.
Enjoy the Outdoors in Downtown Calgary
Olympics History & Entertainment at Olympic Plaza
Spend time at Olympic Plaza, built for the 1988 Winter Olympics medal ceremonies. Today, it hosts events year-round and features a wading pool in summer that transforms into an ice skating rink in winter. The plaza remains a central gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
Experience Ice Skating at Olympic Plaza (Winter)
In winter months, Olympic Plaza transforms into a magical outdoor skating rink. Glide across the ice with the city skyline as your backdrop. It’s free if you bring your own skates, and rentals are available on site.
Splash in the Wading Pool at Olympic Plaza (Summer)
During summer, Olympic Plaza’s shallow wading pool becomes a refreshing spot for families. Kids love splashing in the water while parents relax nearby. It’s a perfect cool-down spot on hot Calgary days.
Walk Across the Iconic Peace Bridge
The striking red Peace Bridge has become one of Calgary’s most recognizable landmarks. Designed by famous architect Santiago Calatrava, this pedestrian bridge spans the Bow River with its unique helix structure. It’s especially beautiful at night when lit up, making it a perfect spot for photos.
Cycle or Walk the Bow River Pathways
The extensive pathway system along the Bow River offers some of the best biking in the city and views of downtown Calgary. Rent a bike or simply walk along these well-maintained paths that stretch for kilometres on both sides of the river. You’ll see locals jogging, cycling, and enjoying the scenery in all seasons.
Relax at Prince’s Island Park
Need a break from urban exploration? Prince’s Island Park offers a peaceful natural setting right in downtown. This island park in the Bow River features walking trails, picnic areas, and open spaces. It’s also home to many festivals and events throughout the year, including Canada Day.
This and St. Patrick’s Island Park to the east are considered some of the best parks in Calgary.
Celebrate Calgary’s Spirit: Festivals & Events in Downtown Calgary
Downtown Calgary is the epicentre of many of the city’s most anticipated festivals and events, drawing crowds from near and far.
Join the Calgary Stampede in July
If you’re in Calgary during July, the Stampede Parade is a must-see downtown event. This kickoff to the famous Calgary Stampede fills the streets with floats, bands, and western spirit. Stake out your spot early—the parade draws huge crowds.
During Stampede week, head to Olympic Plaza (nicknamed Rope Square) for free pancake breakfasts. This Calgary tradition brings locals and visitors together for food and entertainment during “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.” The lively atmosphere captures the essence of one of Calgary’s top attractions.
Experience Winter Light Displays at Chinook Blast
Visiting in winter? Chinook Blast transforms downtown with colourful light installations and interactive art parks. This mid-winter festival brightens up the cold months and showcases Calgary’s creative side. Bundle up and explore the outdoor exhibits after dark for the full effect.
Chinook Blast features more than art, though. Live music! Performing arts! Culture shows! Night markets! Day markets! Restaurant specials! The whole city gets in on the fun.
Getting Around in Downtown Calgary
The Plus-15 Skywalk Network
When the weather turns cold, explore downtown using the Plus-15 network. This extensive system of enclosed elevated walkways connects buildings throughout downtown, letting you travel 15 feet above street level without going outside.
The Plus-15 is perfect for winter shopping or exploring on rainy days. You can reach most major downtown destinations without ever stepping outdoors. Look for the Plus-15 signs in building lobbies to find your way.
The network itself includes mini art galleries, shops, and food courts along the way, making it an attraction in itself rather than just a way to get around!
Ride the CTrain Free Downtown
Take advantage of Calgary’s CTrain light rail system, which offers free rides within the downtown core’s “Free Fare Zone.” This zone runs along 7th Avenue from 3rd Street East to 11th Street West. It’s a quick way to get across downtown without walking the entire distance.
Rent a Neuron or Bird E-Scooter
For a fun way to cover more ground, grab an e-scooter or e-bike from Neuron or Bird using their mobile apps. These rentable bikes and scooters are scattered throughout downtown and are perfect for zipping between attractions. Just remember to follow traffic rules and park responsibly when finished.
Rest & Recharge: Accommodation Options in Downtown Calgary
After a day of exploring downtown Calgary’s attractions, you’ll find a variety of accommodation options to suit your preferences and budget.
Stay at the Historic Fairmont Palliser
Experience old-world elegance at the Fairmont Palliser. Built in 1914, this iconic hotel blends historic charm with luxury amenities. Its central location puts you steps from many downtown attractions.
Fairmont Palliser is a great place to visit even if you’re not staying. The weekend afternoon tea has been a proud tradition for over a century!
Enjoy Flexible Checkout at Le Germain Hotel
Le Germain Hotel offers stylish accommodations with a unique perk—flexible checkout times. Booking direct with this modern luxury hotel gives you freedom to plan your day without rushing to check out by a specific time.
Book a Room at The Westley Hotel
For a boutique experience, try The Westley Hotel. This newer addition to Calgary’s hotel scene blends vintage aesthetics with modern comforts. The unique design and attention to detail create a memorable stay.
Experience Luxury at The Dorian
The Dorian offers upscale accommodations with contemporary style. This newer hotel provides personalized service and elegant rooms for discerning travellers looking for something special.
Your Downtown Calgary Adventure Awaits!
Downtown Calgary packs tons of fun into a walkable area. Home to some of the most famous buildings in the city and all the best things to do, events, and festivals in Calgary, it’s no wonder that locals and visitors alike flock to this vibrant city centre. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or showing friends around your city, these activities showcase the best of downtown Calgary!
If you’re interested in Calgary real estate, contact Justin Havre Real Estate Team with eXp Realty with Calgary Homes at (403) 217-0003 to get in touch with a local real estate agent who can help you find your Calgary dream home today.