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. 

Things to do in downtown Calgary

Events in the Spotlight

  • Mother’s Day

    May 12, various downtown locations

    Treat your mom to a special Mother’s Day and explore all the fun and beauty downtown has to offer!

    Learn more

  • Stars on Ice

    May 10, 555 Saddledome Rise S.E. (Scotiabank Saddledome).

    The world-class ice skating extravaganza, Stars on Ice, returns to Calgary featuring some of the most accomplished and renowned figure skaters.

    Get tickets

  • Otafest

    May 10-12, 136 8 Ave. S.E. (Calgary Telus Convention Centre).

    Calgary’s Japanese anime and pop culture community comes to life at Otafest featuring anime screenings, an exhibitor hall, community panels, cosplay contests, voice actors, and concerts.

    Get tickets

  • Eau Claire Farewell Celebration

    May 11, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 200 Barclay Parade S.W. (Eau Claire Market).

    Join Eau Claire Market for a farewell celebration, commemorating three decades of community, culture, and memEAUries. Don't miss out on a day packed with activities, including a visit from Paw Patrol!

    Learn more

  • FLOW: Connecting the Dots

    May 10, 1-6 p.m., 140-4 Ave. S.W. (The Ampersand).

    Join TEDXCalgary for their 15th year celebration. With speakers from diverse sectors, learn how you can tap into FLOW to create a stronger, happier, healthier economy.

    Learn more

Los Trompos

The City is excited to bring a splash of colour and dizzying fun to Lot 6 (311 8 Street S.W.) through a large-scale, interactive installation called “Los Trompos,” creating a place of joy and connection in downtown Calgary.

Los Trompos, which is Spanish for “spinning tops”, was designed by Mexican creators Héctor Esrawe and Ignacio Cadena, and is tour produced by Creos.  

Don’t miss your chance to sit, spin and play on these structures!

When: May 1 – 28

Where: Lot 6 (311 8 Street S.W.)

Getting here: You can 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.

Park at Lot 58 and enjoy evening and weekend rates at $0.50 per ½ hour. If you’d prefer an active mode of transportation, walk, wheel or spin to Lot 6!

Contest: Enter to win one of eight, $200 Downtown Calgary Gift Cards that can be used at over 90 downtown businesses! Learn more about the contest rules at the Calgary Downtown Association.

Survey: Take our quick survey and let us know your thoughts on Los Trompos and provide input on future events and activations downtown.

Itineraries

Explore these sample itineraries to help guide your visit. New memories are waiting – start here, in downtown Calgary.

  • Mother's Day

    Mother’s Day is the perfect time to show your mama just how much you love and appreciate her! Treat your mom to a special day and explore all the fun and beauty downtown has to offer.

  • Outdoor enthusiast

    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!

  • Family

    There’s a wide variety of family-friendly activities to keep you and your kids entertained for hours!

  • Food and restaurants

    Calgary is home to some of the best chefs and restaurants in Canada, and downtown is where the culinary magic is happening.

  • Shopping

    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.

  • Night life

    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.

  • Performing arts and exhibitions

    Downtown Calgary is a dynamic hub for performing arts and theatre. The many theatres and performance arts venues contribute to the city's vibrant theatrical scene, offering innovative and compelling productions that engage and inspire audiences.

  • Arts and culture

    Downtown Calgary pulsates with a vibrant tapestry of arts and culture, weaving together a rich narrative of creativity, expression, and community. Downtown Calgary stands as a hub where tradition and innovation converge, fostering an environment where the arts flourish and culture thrives.

Neighbourhood guides

Stay connected

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