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.
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.
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.
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.
One18Empire
This upscale restaurant and whiskey bar in the Calgary Marriott Downtown Hotel offers a refined atmosphere and an extensive selection of rare spirits.
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.
Heliopolis Social Cafe
A relaxed and welcoming space in Calgary offering handcrafted cocktails, specialty coffee and flavourful small plates, with puzzles, chess and colouring to enjoy.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Bankers Hall
A sophisticated mix of fashion, local boutiques, cafés, and wellness stops, with chances to discover indulgent treats and one-of-a-kind handmade pieces from pop-up vendors.
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.
Esker Foundation
Esker Foundation offers free, thought‑provoking contemporary art exhibitions and programs, making it a must‑visit cultural hub in Calgary.
The Bow River Pathway
The Bow River pathway is one of the longest pathway systems in the world and connects many parks. Updates to the Eau Claire Promenade mean Calgarians have even more to explore! We have widened pathways and added vegetation, adding more vibrancy in the area. You can walk, bike, and roll through our river valley!
Alcove’s
Need an outlet to express your creative side? Step into Alcove’s recreational space where you are free to express your artistic side. Alcove Centre for the Arts is conveniently located along the LRT line. It hosts multiple events each month to connect the creative community.
Theatre Junction GRAND
Attend performances at a contemporary arts space showcasing innovative and multidisciplinary productions.
Vertigo Theatre
Embrace the arts at Vertigo Theatre. Enjoy mystery and thriller productions at a theatre located in the Calgary Tower complex.
Lunchbox Theatre
Enjoy one-act plays and entertaining productions at Lunchbox Theatre.
Alberta Ballet
Check the schedule for performances offering a blend of classical and contemporary dance productions.
Calgary Philarmonic Orchestra
Attend concerts featuring classical and modern pieces at the Jack Singer Concert Hall.
Peace Park
Peace Park is located at the west end of the Eau Claire Promenade in downtown Calgary and is named for Canada’s peacekeepers.
Upcoming events in the Downtown Core
Check out what’s happening in the Downtown Core.
View event calendar
Getting Around
Whether you hit up one spot or all of them, there are many ways to get around and enjoy everything downtown Calgary has to offer!
Check out these resources to help make visiting downtown convenient.
