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. 

Monthly events happening in Downtown Calgary

Events in the Spotlight

Check out what's happening downtown this week.

  • YYC Hot Chocolate Fest

    February 1 - 28, Various Locations

    Sip 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!

    Learn more

  • Hot Dogs & Hot Takes on History

    February 20, The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland

    Debunk myths. Debate opinions. Eat hot dogs. Join Métis historian Matt Hiltermann to learn some of the historic families of the city we now call Calgary and examine the evolution of the word “settler.”

    Learn more

  • Ethnik Festival of Arts & Culture

    February 21-22, Various locations

    This all-encompassing festival celebrates Black History Month and serves as a key gathering point for the Afro-Canadian and Caribbean communities, celebrating diversity and inclusivity while showcasing their vibrant cultural heritage to audiences across Canada.

    Learn more

  • Locked Library: Legendary

    February 21, Central Library

    Gather a team of detectives and get ready for an evening of exploring, sleuthing, and puzzle-solving in Calgary's iconic Central Library, and see if you can escape the Locked Library!

    Learn more

  • Penguin Walk

    Ongoing, Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo

    A winter visitor favourite at the Calgary Zoo, watch as the king penguins step outside their habitat for a royal stroll through the zoo grounds each morning.

    Learn more

Itineraries

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

  • 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.

  • Ice skating

    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!

  • 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.

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.

    Photo credit: Colin Way

  • Walk, wheel or run

    Downtown is accessible by walking, wheeling, or running.

    Photo credit: Colin Way

  • Calgary Parking

    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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