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.
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.
Quesada Burritos & Tacos
Tex-Mex & Mexican street-food favorites are served over the counter at this casual chain outpost.
Subway
Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches and salads, with health-conscious options.
Chennai Spices
A place where every dish tells a story, and each bite brings you closer to the rich heritage of Chennai’s culinary culture.
Pâte Sucrée
Fluffy brioche donuts, handcrafted in small batches and made fresh.
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.
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.
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!
Modern Steak
Calgary’s upscale steakhouse restaurant for Prime Grade Alberta Beef, Kobe beef, fresh seafood and award winning wines.
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.
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.
Cinder & Sage Loft
Bright loft studio offering handmade art, plants, jewelry, and curated home décor.
Downtown Drugmart
Local pharmacy offering prescriptions, health essentials, and friendly service.
Real Canadian Superstore
A large, affordable one‑stop shop for groceries and household items.
Calgary Co‑Op Midtown
Fresh produce, pantry staples, and a full‑service market experience.
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.
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.
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.
JnJ Drip
An exclusive sneaker shop featuring accessories, apparel and more! Find JnJ Drip in downtown Calgary on Level 3 of the CORE.
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.
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.
Helipad Hoops
What was once a landing pad is now Helipad Hoops, a colourful, energetic gathering place that blends sport, public art, and community connection in the heart of downtown.
Calgary Culture Days
Every September, Calgary Culture Days invites people across the city to experience arts and culture in new ways. From attending events to hosting your own, it’s a city‑wide opportunity to celebrate creativity, connection and community.
Multiple downtown locations
Bow River
Enjoy a beautiful summer day on the Bow River!
Various locations
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.
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.
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.
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.
SURGE CITY 3×3 Basketball Tournament
Wrap up the SURGE CITY Hoops Summer Series with a 3-on-3 community basketball tournament September 12, 2026.
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.
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.
