Our neighbourhood
The abundance of Downtown Calgary
New experiences await. Explore beyond the walls of the CTCC with our insider’s guide to Downtown Calgary’s lively blend of culture, commerce, and cuisine.
Local businesses
As you step into Calgary’s downtown core, you connect to a vibrant city full of life. Explore diverse neighborhoods, each a beautiful backdrop of activity—from unique entertainment and shopping, to iconic landmarks and incredible people. Our city offers its warm embrace while you visit welcoming cafes and cultural gems. Use this guide to fully experience Calgary’s rich and spirited heart.
Restaurants
Here are 10 distinct and memorable dining experiences near the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre to captivate your palate.
Charcut
Near the CTCC, you’ll find Charcut. There, meat takes centre stage in a world of rich flavours with their signature charcuterie, roasted meats and mouth watering duck fat poutine. Guided by the culinary expertise of co-owner and Top Chef Canada star, Connie DeSousa, this dining experience promises the unforgettable and delivers the unimaginable.
899 Centre St. S, charcut.com
Goro and Gun
At Goro and Gun, they honour and offer fresh takes on the classics. Classic ramen and sushi dishes are served with care and respect while old and new worlds collide with dishes like spicy lamb ramen and a gluten-free tonkotsu noodle bowl.
Scotia Centre, 7 Ave. SW, goroandgun.ca
Klein/Harris
Welcome to Klein/Harris, a culinary journey that offers a melange of dishes assembled from Canada’s farms, fields and waterways. Chef James Waters artfully showcases the nation’s ingredients to tell homegrown stories. Complementing that locally-sourced appeal are expertly crafted cocktails by mixologist Christina Mah. Adventure through a menu as diverse as the Canadian landscape.
110 8 Ave. SW, kleinharris.com
Milestones
Serving familiar food with a twist in an atmosphere that feels just right. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, taking advantage of Happy Hour after work or enjoying brunch with friends, Milestones will make sure that you have a simply memorable experience.
107, 8th Ave SE, milestonesrestaurants.com
Modern Steak
A sibling to its original Kensington spot, Modern Steak brings its multi-level space to life with a classic steakhouse experience upstairs, and the more relaxed, yet equally stylish Bar Modern downstairs. Two unique Calgary experiences under one roof? Yes, please.
107 10A St. NW, modernsteak.ca
OEB
When your conference goes late, Calgary’s premier morning hangout, OEB, has exactly what you need to start your day. While their whole menu has deliciously inventive takes on an assortment of breakfast and brunch staples, we only have two words to add: Breakfast Poutine. See you there.
#110 222 5 Ave. SW, eatoeb.com
One18Empire
Forget what you know about hotel bars. One18Empire in the Calgary Marriott Downtown Hotel redefines the experience. Also home to a delectable burger, their sought-after customizable Old Fashioned cocktails will make you weak in the knees—on flavour alone. Rye, whiskey and bourbon lovers, pull up a seat. With over 100 top shelf bottles of our favourites, each spirit is the toast of the town.
820 Centre St. S, one18empire.com
Palomino Smokehouse
BBQ enthusiasts, head on down to Palomino where the meat’s cooked low and slow, and served hot and fast with a side of southern charm. With an on-site massive smoker, the pitmaster serves up juicy ribs, brisket, chicken and sausage alongside must-have sides like smoked cheddar grits, macaroni salad and fresh cornbread.
109 7 Ave. SW, thepalomino.ca
Teatro
Steeped in history, Teatro is a mainstay of Calgary’s downtown dining scene. And for good reason. For a quarter century, they’ve transformed expectations with new takes on Mediterranean cuisine and service that’s nothing short of impeccable. If you love wine, this might seal the deal. Teatro’s location was once a bank, and the old vault is now a wine cellar with an award-winning selection of the finest bottles.
200 8 Ave. SE, teatro.ca
Wednesday Room
On any day of the week, Wednesday Room dishes out comfort food crafted from a mix of international ingredients. With décor that’s a shining homage to the days of 1960’s Madison Avenue, this Stephen Avenue staple pours stiff drinks with an ambiance that promises good times.
100-118 8 Ave. SW, wednesdayroom.com
Entertainment & shopping
Downtown Calgary has just what you’re looking for. Whether you’re seeking gifts, gourmet chocolates, or matching rompers, our local shopping is full of treasures waiting for your discovery.
East Village
East Village is home to undeniable charm. Part of its magic stems from delightful general stores and gift shops like Liz and Lottie and Crystal Bar Soap Company. On any day, you’re bound to find pop-up shops and markets with a variety of treasures from local artisans.
Kanata Trading Post
Amidst the hustle and bustle foot traffic of Stephen Avenue, Kanata Trading Post is a must-stop shop. Selling Canadian souvenirs like maple syrup, postcards, soapstone carvings, Indigenous crafts and seasonal wear. Whether you’re from down under, or down the street, there’s something for everyone.
116 8 Ave. SE, kanatatradingpost.com
Fluevog Shoes
Need a little pep in your step? Look no further than Fluevog Shoes. Select from Canadian-designed footwear that takes you from the everyday to once-in-a-lifetime sculptural fantasies.
207 8 Ave. SW, fleuvog.com
Patagonia
Alberta weather is an adventure, and Patagonia can suit you up for every sweltering twist and shivering turn. This is your source for functional sporting gear that looks as good as it’s sustainably made.
135 8 Ave. SW, patagoniaelements.com
Hudson’s Bay
The Calgary flagship of Canada’s oldest department store is located in one of the most historic buildings in the downtown core. Here, you’ll find brands like Ralph Lauren and Topshop, housewares and gifts, including an entire department dedicated to iconic Hudson’s Bay stripes.
200 8 Ave. SW, thebay.com
Chinatown
Calgary’s Chinatown is a top destination for discovering distinctive gifts and souvenirs. Explore the Dragon City Mall that’s brimming with specialty shops full of manga and anime treasures. And while you’re at it, venture out to the Chinese Cultural Centre’s various pop-up markets brimming with unique items and cultural experiences.
Glenbow Museum Shop (Temporarily Closed – Under Renovation)
Looking for a unique keepsake that you’ll treasure for years? You’ve come to the right place. Shelves and displays at the Glenbow Museum Gift Shop feature stunning works by local artists and Indigenous crafts as you explore catalogues of recent exhibitions. Your jewelry collection might also feature some new items thanks to the artfully crafted items of delicate silver, gold and statement-making wearable art. Something will most definitely catch your eye.
130 9 Av. SE, glenbow.org
Arts & culture
If a thriving arts and cultural scene is a sign of a healthy city, Calgary is in the best shape of its life. Plan a day to immerse yourself and ignite your creativity.
The Calgary Tower
A striking beacon in the city’s already stunning skyline, the Calgary Tower offers breathtaking views from its Sky 360 Restaurant. For those afraid of heights, the famed Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse down below offers mouthwatering Alberta beef. For many, including us, there’s no Calgary without the Calgary Tower.
101 9 Ave. SW, calgarytower.com
Arts Commons
Theatre goers, lovers of song and dance and more flock to Calgary’s Arts Commons as it hosts nearly 2,000 performances a year. Featuring talent from internationally celebrated acts to emerging local groups, Arts Commons reflects the dynamic spirit of Calgary’s cultural scene.
205 8 Ave. SE, artscommons.ca
Studio Bell
Studio Bell, aka the National Music Centre, is a museum and concert venue hybrid—a first of its kind in Canada. Take a stroll through a symphony of the past and future of Canadian music while you explore 30,000 square feet of interactive exhibits and a lineup of unforgettable performances. With so much to explore, you might work up a thirst. When you do, don’t forget to stop by the fan favourite, King Eddy Bar.
850 4 St. SE, studiobell.ca
Central Library
A local treasure and a world-famous architectural marvel, the Calgary Central Library is a must see. Meticulously designed for visitors to flow through the space, the library is a modern testament to form and function. But please, do contain your excitement, people are trying to read.
800 3 St. SE; book tours at calgarylibrary.ca
The Glenbow Museum
It’s not just a museum, it’s the story of culture, art and history in Alberta as told by over one million precious objects. But of course, it’s also a museum. And one of the largest ones in Western Canada. The Glenbow features internationally adored Indigenous art and sculptures, valuable archives and more. Stop by and stay awhile, or longer. There’s so much to explore.
The Glenbow Museum is currently pausing for renovations to reimagine its space. We’re counting down the days until its doors open again—welcoming all to explore, free of charge.
130 9 Av. SE, glenbow.org