Explore Downtown
#ExploreDowntownYYC Explore Downtown Calgary
In the city of possibility, downtown is the face and the place of Calgary’s future.
It’s a mix of bold entrepreneurship, where dreams become reality and where creative curiosity is unleashed; it’s toes tapped to music and dipped in the river, drinks sipped from a rooftop and art and culture appreciated up close and personal.
Downtown is where it all happens – it’s the pulse of our city and no matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it here.
Sip, Shop & Stroll into Spring!
Plan your spring adventure while supporting local businesses.
From cozy cafes and wine shops to pet stores and wellness services, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Every visit helps keep our community vibrant.
Let’s celebrate spring and support our local gems.
Support Local DowntownEvents in the Spotlight
Check out what's happening downtown this week.
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Fairy Tales Queer Art & Film Festival
Contemporary Calgary, June 12-15Fairy Tales is Alberta’s only Queer arts festival held during International Pride Month, celebrating 2SLGBTQIA+ stories through an electrifying blend of film, visual art, and live performance.
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Easy Days Pop Up Event
East Village Riverwalk Plaza, June 14Hosted by All Things GQ, Easy Days markets showcase local designers, artists, creators, clothing curators and more. With a full day of local businesses, live music and food trucks, Easy Days are free to attend and open to all!
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Historic Stephen Avenue Guided Walking Tours
Stephen Ave, Every Thursday & Friday throughout the summerDiscover the architectural gems, historic landmarks, and stories that have shaped this dynamic city on a guided walking tour that explores Stephen Avenue, Calgary’s National Historic District.
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The Stage One Festival
The Devonian Gardens on the Terrace, June 6, 13 & 20The Stage One Festival provides playwrights developmental workshopping with professional actors, directors, and dramaturges. Each workshop concludes with a free public reading and moderated audience feedback.
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Shirley’s Greenhouse Farm Stand
Harley Hotchkiss Gardens – 611 4 St SW, June 6, 13, 20 & 27Shirley’s Greenhouses is running a farm stand in Harley Hotchkiss Gardens every Friday from 2PM – 6PM this summer. Get some fresh local fruit, veggies, eggs and baked goods to kickstart your weekend!
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Local on Stephen
Every Thursday, May - August, Stephen Ave (From 2nd to Centre St SW)Marketspot setting up shop on Stephen Avenue this spring and summer! Check out Local on Stephen every Thursday (11 AM - 6 PM) from May to September, as they turn Stephen Avenue into a lively marketplace celebrating and supporting local talent.
Itineraries
Explore these sample itineraries to help guide your visit. New memories are waiting – start here, in downtown Calgary.
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Downtown offers plenty of opportunities to be a tourist in your own city from boutique hotel experiences, to amazing attractions, local shopping and top restaurants.
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Downtown offers plenty of opportunities to ‘woo’ your loved one, from spa experiences, to fun date ideas and romantic dinners.
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Downtown offers plenty of budget-friendly activities, from exploring the outdoors, to consignment shopping and happy hours!
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Choose your own downtown adventure and decide how you'd like to spend your day. Your itinerary could include a warm cup of coffee, a peaceful bookstore, a hearty meal, a thought-provoking film or a magical cocktail.
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There’s a wide variety of family-friendly activities to keep you and your kids entertained for hours!
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Calgary is home to some of the best chefs and restaurants in Canada, and downtown is where the culinary magic is happening.
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In the mood to go shopping or enjoy a day of window browsing? Look no further than Downtown Calgary, where you’ll find the very best in shops, services and unique handmade goods.
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Calgary is a city that never sleeps, with a vibrant night life scene that has a little something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for live music, dancing, or a cozy pub, you’ll be sure to find your perfect spot.
Neighbourhood guides
There are so many downtown neighbourhoods to explore! Use these guides to help plan your outing.
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Your guide to experiencing the Downtown Core
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Your guide to experiencing Calgary’s premier cultural neighbourhood
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Your guide to experiencing historic, urban Victoria Park
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Your guide to experiencing the eclectic Beltline neighbourhood
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Your guide to experiencing historic and modern 4th Street
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Your guide to experiencing Calgary’s red mile
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Your guide to experiencing the culturally rich Downtown West
Getting here
Get downtown by using one of these modes of transportation.
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Get downtown with Calgary’s Public Transit system. For more information on Calgary city buses or the CTrain, including schedules, maps, passes, and fares, visit Calgary Transit.
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For information about parking spots, promos and move, visit Calgary Parking. Don’t forget to enjoy free parking after 6 p.m. every day and all day on Sundays!
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Walk, wheel or run
Downtown is accessible by walking, wheeling, or running.
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Discover parking information tailored for out-of-town visitors. Explore the best payment methods, value-added services and tips for a stress-free visit.
Stay connected
Read our latest Downtown Strategy Newsletter
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Keep connected on the latest events, projects and all things Downtown Strategy – stay in the know!
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Follow us on social media and share your photos using #ExploreDowntownYYC