Explore the Downtown Core

Calgary’s downtown core has it all: restaurants, pubs, arts and culture and great public spaces. This vibrant neighbourhood features over 2,500 businesses scattered throughout 120 blocks of the city centre.

Explore the Downtown Core

Food and drinks

From the simple sophistication at FinePrint to late-night indulgence at Untitled Champagne Lounge, there’s a lot to explore in the downtown core.

Eat & Drink

The Unicorn – Game Day Viewing

Calgary’s first authentic Irish Pub with a sports cantina where you can watch all things sports, from pay-per-view UFC to hockey, football, soccer, etc.

Eat & Drink

The Unicorn

Located on Stephen Avenue in the 19th century Lancaster building, the exposed beams, wood panels, and nooks in the basement give the pub a cozy atmosphere with character and distinction. The Unicorn provides plenty of authentic pub fare and a variety of beverage options to enjoy.

Eat & Drink

Social Beer Haus

With 66 taps as well as a substantial beer, bourbon, and cocktail list Social Beer Haus is Stephen Avenue’s number one destination for corporate events, birthday parties or just a night out on the town!

Eat & Drink

Modern Steak

Calgary’s upscale steakhouse restaurant for Prime Grade Alberta Beef, Kobe beef, fresh seafood and award winning wines.

Eat & Drink

Centini

CENTINI is a warm and luxurious restaurant featuring extraordinary gourmet Italian and continental European cuisine, a distinctive award-winning wine selection and attentive, professional service.

Eat & Drink

One18Empire

This upscale restaurant and whiskey bar in the Calgary Marriott Downtown Hotel offers a refined atmosphere and an extensive selection of rare spirits.

Eat & Drink

The Derrick Gin Mill & Kitchen

Known for its extensive gin selection and craft cocktails, The Derrick offers a laid-back atmosphere in the heart of downtown.

Eat & Drink

FinePrint

FinePrint strikes a balance between sophistication and simplicity. Every customer feels like a VIP. It’s a fine dining experience at reasonable prices. Located in the historic Calgary Herald building on Stephen Avenue.

Eat & Drink

Sub Rosa Lounge and Bar

From drum n’ bass to classy house, weekly DJ events showcase a diverse lineup of musical experiences. Sub Rosa features a stylish design, masterful cocktails and a chef-inspired menu.

Shopping and services

Calgary’s downtown core is home to The CORE Shopping Centre, featuring Simons, Holt Renfrew, and 160 other shops and services. Stephen Avenue Walk is a bustling hive of activity all year round. Whether you’re walking or wheeling through, this historic and unique pedestrian stroll connects visitors to attractions, shops, and restaurants.

Shopping

Skims

Located inside of Calgary’s only Holt Renfrew. Co-founded by Kim Kardashian, Emma Grede, and Jens Grede, Skims emphasizes body positivity and inclusivity, offering a full range of inclusive sizing.

Shopping

Rocky Mountain Soap Co.

Rocky has been crafting products in the Canadian Rockies since 2000—using ingredients from the Earth to nurture your face, body, and hair. Find Rocky Mountain Soap Co. in downtown Calgary on Level 2 of the CORE.

Shopping

Marketspot

Marketspot Canada is proud to be Canada’s only multi-vendor marketplace dedicated to 100% authentically original handmade art and products. Find Marketspot in downtown Calgary on Ground Floor of the CORE.

Shopping

JnJ Drip

An exclusive sneaker shop featuring accessories, apparel and more! Find JnJ Drip in downtown Calgary on Level 3 of the CORE.

Shopping

Foxfire Jewellers

Foxfire Jewellers offers exceptional jewelry with great quality, service and more! Find Foxfire Jewellers in downtown Calgary on Level 3 of the CORE.

Shopping

Banana Republic

Blue Moon in downtown Calgary takes inspiration from the expansive Canadian landscapes to create sculptural furniture pieces. Find Blue Moon Furniture in the heart of downtown Calgary on Level 2 of the CORE.

Shopping

Holt Renfrew

Explore the latest trends in designer fashion. Shop luxury brands for men & women. Find Holt Renfrew in downtown Calgary on Levels 1, 2, and 3 of the CORE.

Shopping

Simons

Located in The Core Shopping Centre, Simons is a curated shopping experience downtown. It is the only one of its kind in the city! This department store boasts the latest in both men’s and women’s fashion and chic home goods, a one-stop shop.

Shopping

The CORE Shopping Centre

Downtown Calgary’s premier retail hub, connecting 160+ fashion, beauty, and lifestyle brands across four vibrant city blocks linked by the +15 network.

Public art and outdoor spaces

Downtown is alive with public art. It brings together history with beautiful public spaces and a diversity of art styles. Find the prestigious River Cafe nestled in among the 20 hectares that makes up Prince’s Island Park or snap a selfie in front of a spectacular BUMP mural.

Parks & Recreation

Bow River

Enjoy a beautiful summer day on the Bow River!

Calgary river access

Various locations

Parks & Recreation

Sole Run Club

Sole Run Club YYC is a run crew bringing people together through community-focused runs, movement and good vibes, no matter your pace. *Saturdays at 9 a.m.

Parks & Recreation

Calgary Front Runners

Calgary Frontrunners is a welcoming LGBTQ2SI+ and ally‑friendly group that meets regularly for social, all‑abilities runs and walks. *Saturdays @ 9 a.m. & Wednesdays @ 5:30 p.m.

Events & Festivals

World Cup Watch Parties – Finals

Watch the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup Finals at a free outdoor watch party. Catch the finals on Stephen Avenue on July 19.

Events & Festivals

World Cup Watch Parties – Tournament Play

We’re joining the global excitement of the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup with free outdoor watch parties. Catch the tournament play action at Eau Claire Plaza on June 12, 18 and 24.

Parks & Recreation

SURGE CITY 3×3 Basketball Tournament

Wrap up the SURGE CITY Hoops Summer Series with a 3-on-3 community basketball tournament September 11-14, 2026.

Parks & Recreation

SOCCER City FC – Presented by Cavalry FC & Calgary Wild FC

One program. Two coaching partners. Same great experience. The soccer clinics below are led by the Calgary Wild FC. Enjoy FREE youth soccer clinics for youth ages 8 -17 from June to September 2026, most Sundays at Peace Park! Check the link below for dates.

Parks & Recreation

SOCCER City FC – Presented by Cavalry FC & Calgary Wild FC

One program. Two coaching partners. Same great experience. The soccer clinics below are led by the Cavalry FC. Enjoy FREE youth soccer clinics for youth ages 8 -17 from June to September 2026, most Sundays at Peace Park! Check the link below for dates.

Parks & Recreation

SURGE CITY Hoops Summer Series

Hit the courts for FREE basketball clinics for youth ages 8-17 from June to September 2026.

Getting Around

Whether you hit up one spot or all of them, every visit makes a difference. Let’s keep supporting our community and enjoying everything downtown Calgary has to offer!

Check out some resources to help make visiting downtown convenient.