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. 

Downtown summer festivals and events

A special welcome to the 15,000 delegates from 120 countries who are visiting Calgary for the International Rotary Conference – we’re thrilled to host you! To help make navigating downtown fun and easy, we’ve placed creative wayfinding in seven key intersections to better connect the BMO Centre to the rest of downtown. Keep an eye out for bright coloured decals adorning the sidewalks. Enjoy your stay in the heart of our city! Visit calgary.ca/rotary2025 for more information. 

  • Survey

    We’d love to hear about your experience in downtown Calgary. Please take 5 minutes to complete our survey to help us become even more vibrant and welcoming.

Downtown Summer Festivals and Events

With over 200 festivals and events happening downtown this summer, the heart of our city will be bursting with energy, entertainment and community pride as we kickoff a summer packed with fun, local talent and memory-making events.

Check out this summer's events downtown

Events in the Spotlight

Check out what's happening downtown this week.

  • Historic Stephen Avenue Guided Walking Tours

    Stephen Ave, Every Thursday & Friday throughout the summer

    Discover 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.

    Learn more

  • Sled Island Music and Arts Festival

    Various locations, June 18-22

    This five-day music and arts festival brings together a community of music, comedy, film and art as well as over 30,000 attendees across multiple venues, earning rave reviews from attendees.

    Learn more

  • Block Party

    Contemporary Calgary’s Plaza - 701 11st SW, June 21

    Join Contemporary Calgary for a summer Block Party as they celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day and Neighbour Day with an afternoon of live music, exhibition tours and creative activations.

    Learn more

Itineraries

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

  • Support Local Downtown

    Plan your adventure while supporting local businesses. From cozy cafes and wine shops to pet stores and wellness services, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

  • Downtown Staycation

    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.

  • Romance in the Core

    Downtown offers plenty of opportunities to ‘woo’ your loved one, from spa experiences, to fun date ideas and romantic dinners.

  • Downtown on a Dime

    Downtown offers plenty of budget-friendly activities, from exploring the outdoors, to consignment shopping and happy hours!

  • Cozy adventures

    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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

Neighbourhood guides

There are so many downtown neighbourhoods to explore! Use these guides to help plan your outing.

Getting here

Get downtown by using one of these modes of transportation.

  • Calgary Transit

    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.

  • Parking deals and promotions

    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!

  • Walk, wheel or run

    Downtown is accessible by walking, wheeling, or running.

  • Visiting Calgary

    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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