If you are in Calgary for work and you only have a few hours to enjoy the city after your meetings, here is what we suggest you do to make the most of your visit.
To see
Take off your business shoes, put on your sneakers (or boots!), and discover some of the city's unmissable attractions.
In the heart of the city, just a few minutes’ walk from the Alt Hotel Calgary East Village and the Le Germain Hotel Calgary, look for the Calgary Central Library, a jewel of architecture and knowledge. Have a look inside, it's free!
Next door (it's almost impossible to miss it!) is the National centre of Canadian music, the Studio Bell. If you are on a tight schedule, its facade alone is worth seeing.
Nearby, the Wonderland Sculpture, a 12-meter head of women enthroned in front of the Bow Building, continues to fascinate locals and tourists alike. Observe it from all angles!
And just under a 15-minute walk from the city center, visit the famous Peace Bridge, a tube-shaped bridge for pedestrians and cyclists that connects the Eau Claire and Sunnyside districts.
To eat
If you know in advance when you will be in Calgary, try to book a table at the fabulous Shokunin restaurant, by Chef Darren Maclean, named one of Canada's 50 Best Restaurants. On the menu: Japanese skewers, sushi, amazing ramen soups and, of course, lots of sake. If you have the chance, ask for a seat at the counter near the chef. You can watch him cooking her impressive dishes all night long.
Located in the Le Germain Hotel Calgary, the excellent Charcut is always a good option. Fresh, hand cut pasta, quality meat cuts and fresh fish: there is something to please all palates.
For a good glass of wine in a warm and trendy atmosphere, head to Bar Von Der Fels, a favorite of our concierge Ben Phillips.
To bring back
To find the perfect souvenir, head over to the CORE Shopping Centre, located in the heart of the city on the bustling Stephen Avenue.
We love Rocky Mountain Soap Company's natural products made in Canmore, such as their face serums, bath bombs and moisturizing masks. They make a great gift for someone you love, or for yourself!
More of the graphic sweater type? Find funny t-shirts, cool socks and fashionable accessories with Alberta designs at Plainsbreaker.
Not much time to shop? The gift shops of the Calgary Tower and Studio Bell offer various items such as books, local snacks and more.