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.
Events in the Spotlight
Check out what's happening downtown this week.
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Chinook Blast, Calgary’s Winter Festival!
January 31 – February 17, Various Downtown LocationsChinook Blast warms up our city with a celebration of community, culture, and civic pride, where the best of Calgary’s art, music, theatre, sport and recreation will be on display. The iconic winter festival will bring fresh energy and new adventures for you and your family to explore.
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YYC Hot Chocolate Fest
February 1 - 28, Various LocationsSip a variety of hot cocoas during YYC Hot Chocolate Fest all throughout February to warm up your winter and determine the blend that roasts them all! With over 70 participating locations, there's no shortage of hot chocolate to enjoy.
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Mecha Mayhem
February 7-9, BMO Centre - 1912 Flores Ladue Parade SEWatch over 260 teams from across the globe battle for the Mecha Mayhem Tournament Championship title and a spot at the VEX Robotics World Championships in Dallas, TX later this year.
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+15 Walking Tour & 25th Anniversary Screening of Waydowntown
February 9, Brookfield Place to Globe CinemaJoin d.talks and the Downtown Core Neighbourhood Association on a special +15 walking tour lead by the City of Calgary's Chief Urban Designer, David Down. The tour will start at Brookfield Place at 1:00pm, end at the Globe Cinema for a film screening of Waydowntown (2000) by Gary Burns on the film’s 25th anniversary. Please note: registration is required for both events
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Horse-drawn Wagon Rides
February 1, 2, 8 & 9, The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland - 750 9 Ave SEHop aboard a horse-drawn wagon and take a ride around the lands at The Confluence for winter views of the beautiful urban parkland.
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Princes Island Lagoon Skating Party
February 9, Princes Island Park Lagoon Rink - 501 Eau Claire Ave SWGrab your skates and head to the Princes Island Park for outdoor skating on the lagoon. The Annual Eau Claire Community Association Skating party is free to the public, with free skating lessons and free skate rentals available. Enjoy complimentary treats and hot chocolate as you warm up by the fire.
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 ‘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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Whether you’re looking for a festive skate under twinkling lights or just want to enjoy a classic winter activity, downtown offers several ice skating options!
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Downtown Calgary has miles of scenic pathways and beautiful parks. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll, a picnic in the park, or adrenaline-filled activity, we have you covered!
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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.
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.
Photo credit: Colin Way
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Walk, wheel or run
Downtown is accessible by walking, wheeling, or running.
Photo credit: Colin Way
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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!
Photo credit: Calgary Parking
Stay connected
Don't miss a beat! Stay up-to-date on the latest downtown news.
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Keep connected about the latest downtown news! Expect an update every 4 months
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Follow us on social media and share your photos using #ExploreDowntownYYC