Calgary, Alberta is not short on impressive facts and accolades. “Cowtown” is the cleanest city in the world, according to Forbes, and one of the most diverse cities in Canada, with more than 120 languages spoken in the city. If you plan on visiting Banff National Park, or are curious about what makes Calgary so impressive, make room in your itinerary for this distinct city.
In 2019, the Calgary Central Library was ranked by Time magazine as the “World’s 100 Greatest Places”. The stunning architecture of the Calgary Central Library can be attributed to the Norwegian architectural firm, Snøhetta. With locally sourced wood and natural light flooding everywhere, the design is made for community gathering and is reminiscent of historical times. In an article by The Daily Beast, Craig Dykers, the principal architect of Snøhetta, states that “The interior is somewhat like a great lodge, like the indigenous longhouse structures found in the region and toward the West Coast. The form lifts upward and leads your eye towards the light.” The playfulness of curves and light at the Calgary Central Library is enough to inspire the imagination.
Wandering the streets of Downtown Calgary and spotting murals and street art, is one of the most fun activities to do in Calgary, Alberta. The Wonderland Sculpture is a must-visit. It is ranked by Azure magazine as “Top 10 Architectural Projects in the World”. The 12-meter statue is a translucent, wire sculpture made to represent younger generation’s dreams. You can even view the artwork from the inside, which gives a new perspective on the piece.
Nearby, is High Park, a rooftop urban park that is an oasis from the city. The 2-acre rooftop park is located on top of a parking structure, and once you open the elevators, be ready for a day of play with your friends. The colorful park includes views of the Calgary tower, a seesaw, swings, picnic tables, murals, and more.
Photo by Noble Pie.
Noble Pie Pizza is located in an alley with their name displayed in white paint across an unassuming black background. The no-frills pizzeria’s motto is, “Simple pies. Meticulously made. There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self.” The most popular pies include the Saucy Mama or the Extra Fancy – so popular that the eatery offers half and half pies for those who cannot decide on which one to order. Nosh on Noble Pie Pizza for a true slice of earthly heaven.
Photo by Calcutta Cricket Club.
Consistently listed as “Top 100 Restaurants in Canada” and awarded for “Best Designed Restaurant in Canada”, Calcutta Cricket Club impresses in both ambience and taste. With pink chair seating and a golden cheetah greeting you at the bar, the black and white tiled floor leads you to an exquisite Indian dining experience. The name “Calcutta Cricket Club” is inspired by the excitement and community that the old sport resonates, and adda, “free flowing, often intellectual, conversation that is a cultural pillar of life in Calcutta.” Calcutta Cricket Club’s signature dish is the Kati Rolls – the street food is tandoor grilled meats wrapped in fresh paratha, and the onion, chaat masala, and green chilies, are a medley of flavors. Another star dish is the Butter Chicken Masala, an interpretation of the 1950s recipe from Moti Mahal in Delhi, and each bite will melt in your mouth. Don’t forget to order Garlic Naan or Onion Naan on the side, both with little specks of garlic or onion embedded in the naan, and paired with a Mango Lassi Gin Fizz cocktail, you can’t go wrong.
The unofficial “Barley Belt” is the nickname for a Calgary neighborhood boasting a roster of impressive breweries that locals like to bar hop, spots include: Annex Ale Project, Banded Peak Brewing, and The Establishment Brewing Company. Live like a local and grab a brew, but don’t forget to add the only cider establishment in the neighborhood, Uncommon Cider Co., to your list. As the first cidery in Alberta, the hot spot has much to live up to, and with pink floors and pink and yellow walls, their quirky and artsy personality lives up to the challenge. Order a Dry Craft or a Sweetwood Mac – their specialty is apples, hosting apple and fruit drives annually to make magic out of local fruit. You can even find an apple try right outside their entrance.
If the Barley Belt is on your bucket list, then staying at Best Western Plus Calgary Centre Inn is a must, because it is right in the neighborhood. Best Western Plus Calgary Centre Inn is only 5 minutes from the heart of Downtown Calgary, making urban exploration easy and convenient. The property also boasts a complimentary breakfast buffet and modern, comfortable room décor to ensure your stay is relaxing and cozy.
From wildlife to city life, there’s plenty of room to roam in Canada. Find more Canadian travel inspiration at Travel Zone | Adventure Across Canada. Explore past the coastline to the turquoise waters of national parks and discover rich, urban centres when you stay with Best Western® Resorts & Hotels Canada.