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Downtown Calgary pulsates with a vibrant tapestry of arts and culture, weaving together a rich narrative of creativity, expression, and community.
Downtown Calgary’s streets reveal a mosaic of architectural influences, from the historic sandstone buildings to the sleek, glass facades. The interplay of old and new shapes the city’s skyline and tells a compelling story of resilience and transformation.
Explore rotating exhibits showcasing works by local and international artists.
Walk or cycle along the Crescent Heights Stairs and enjoy public art installations with stunning city views.
*Glenbow is currently closed for renovations as we transform the museum through Glenbow Reimagined. We look forward to welcoming you back in 2026!
Venture into the artsy Inglewood district, explore galleries, vintage shops, and boutiques, and enjoy the local artistic community.
Visit a historic mansion serving as a museum and cultural center, offering guided tours and exhibitions.
A gateway to Chinese history with life-sized terra-cotta soldiers, royal chariots, and vibrant arts. Admission is free, but you can also add a guided tour for $5!
Known for its stunning architecture, this library offers more than just books. It's an iconic space that often hosts local events, live performances, and workshops.
Discover this urban oasis in the heart of Calgary that offers one hectare of botanical gardens including over 500 trees, 50 varieties of plants, a 900 sq. ft. living wall, fountains, fish ponds and a playground to climb and explore.
Explore Calgary’s creative side with a self-guided public art tour showcasing sculptures, murals, and installations throughout the city. It’s a free, fun, and cultural way to learn about the city’s artistic spirit, perfect for a summer evening stroll.
Throughout Downtown Calgary
This vibrant street is lined with heritage buildings, cafes, shops, and galleries. It's a great spot to enjoy a leisurely walk while exploring Calgary’s downtown.
Explore five floors of interactive exhibits, musical instruments, and memorabilia celebrating Canadian music history.
Learn about Calgary’s founding and Indigenous history at this cultural and historical site located at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow Rivers.
Discover the innovative world of contemporary art at Contemporary Calgary, where global art installations and rotating exhibitions bring new ideas to life. Explore their open-studio residency and speaker series for a deeper dive into the creative process.
Explore some of the best dining experiences downtown has to offer. These spots showcase the delicious culinary arts with a signature Calgary flair.
Located in the historic Simmons Building, Charbar delights patrons with Argentine-inspired cuisine, featuring expertly grilled meats and a vibrant atmosphere.
Take a step back in time when you walk through the hidden door and have a seat in a vintage velvet chair. Sip, savor and socialize in this unique space.
Worth the Hype
Beemster Gouda Medley
At Model Milk you can experience food that is both classic and original, both innovative and comforting. It's an award-winning Calgary favourite that sources great quality local and regional products!
Worth the Hype
Harissa Glazed Octopus
Dine on eclectic shareables, imbibe an ever-changing drink list, and groove to a diverse vinyl collection, in a buzzing service driven space.
Worth the Hype
Ricotta Cavatelli
The Living Room features Contemporary Interactive Cuisine – ‘food to be shared’ defined as comfort food with a modern twist!
Worth the Hype
Lasagna Napoli
At the confluence of then and now. An inspired restaurant and bar in a spectacular setting on the banks of two rivers in the heart of Calgary.
Worth the Hype
Sudo Farms Grilled Cabbage Dumplings
KLEIN / HARRIS is an independent restaurant concept, inspired from the diverse bounty that Canada has to offer. It highlights the stories of passionate Canadian producers.
Worth the Hype
Butter Leaf Wraps
This upscale restaurant and whiskey bar in the Calgary Marriott Downtown Hotel offers a refined atmosphere and an extensive selection of rare spirits.
River Cafe believes an extraordinary dining experience is to embark upon a journey. It has created a beautiful place in a spectacular setting, sourcing quality local ingredients to give you a "taste of place".
Teatro sources the best ingredients from local and organic producers. Find them in a beautiful circa-1911 bank building - the perfect pairing of food and atmosphere.
Worth the Hype
Pappardelle Bolognese
Known for its extensive gin selection and craft cocktails, The Derrick offers a laid-back atmosphere in the heart of downtown.
Award winner! Named as one of Canada’s 100 Top Bars, Proof has an arresting ceiling-height backbar (complete with library-style ladder) and an extensive, inventive cocktail menu organized by spirit.
Shelter carries an extensive selection of sought-after spirits and unique imports as well as a boutique collection of sharing plates for customers to explore.
Ten Foot Henry is an all-day-restaurant that offers a fresh vegetable-anchored menu and fun, family style dining. We bridge the gap between what you should be eating and what you really want to eat.
Worth the Hype
Seared Scallops
Downtown Calgary is a dynamic hub for performing arts and theatre. The many venues contribute to the city’s vibrant theatrical scene, offering innovative and compelling productions that engage and inspire audiences.
Check the schedule for cultural events, concerts, and performances at this iconic venue in Downtown West Calgary.
Enjoy mystery and thriller productions at a theatre located in the Calgary Tower complex.
Check the schedule for performances offering a blend of classical and contemporary dance productions.
Attend concerts featuring classical and modern pieces at the Jack Singer Concert Hall.
Enjoy one-act plays and entertaining productions at Lunchbox Theatre.
Attend performances at a contemporary arts space showcasing innovative and multidisciplinary productions.
Immerse yourself in the cultural heart of Calgary with performances from local theatre companies like Alberta Theatre Projects and One Yellow Rabbit. Werklund Centre offers a dynamic theatre experience that captures the essence of Calgary's creative spirit.
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.
From chill hangouts to adrenaline-pumping activities, there’s something for every vibe in Downtown Calgary. Let your next great experience find you.
