Museums, Music, and the Culinary Inventions of YYC
While the city is famous for its western heritage, modern Calgary is a remarkably diverse and cosmopolitan metropolis. With over 120 languages spoken across its neighborhoods, a thriving arts scene, and a fiercely independent culinary landscape, Calgary's culture is constantly evolving. From architectural marvels like the Central Library to world-renowned culinary inventions, discover the creative pulse of the Heart of the New West.
Click a neighborhood pin to discover its unique vibe.
The Vibe: Historic, eclectic, and musical.
Calgary's oldest neighborhood is now its undisputed hub for arts and indie culture. Situated along the Bow River, it boasts a massive concentration of microbreweries, antique shops, live music venues (like the legendary Ironwood Stage & Grill), and the National Music Centre. It's the perfect place to spend a Saturday afternoon crate-digging for vinyl.
The Vibe: Walkable, cozy, and caffeinated.
Located just across the river from downtown via the Peace Bridge, Kensington feels like an urban village. It is famous for its independent bookstores, boutique clothing shops, high-end roasting cafes, and incredible brunch spots. It's highly pedestrian-friendly and deeply beloved by locals.
The Vibe: Energetic, culinary, and nocturnal.
Affectionately known as the "Red Mile," 17th Ave is the beating heart of Calgary's nightlife and dining scene. Lined with the city's top-rated restaurants, bustling patios, and high-end cocktail bars, this avenue comes alive every evening and is the epicenter of city-wide celebrations during a Flames playoff run.
The Vibe: Modern, architectural, and riverfront.
Once a neglected industrial area, the East Village has undergone a spectacular multibillion-dollar revitalization. It is now home to stunning modern architecture, including the spectacular Calgary Central Library, beautiful river walks, and trendy new condo developments right beside the historic Fort Calgary site.
You can't talk about Canadian culture without mentioning the Caesar, and it all started right here. In 1969, bartender Walter Chell was tasked with creating a signature drink for a new Italian restaurant at the Calgary Inn (now the Westin). Inspired by the flavors of Spaghetti Vongole, he combined vodka, clam and tomato juice (now Clamato), Worcestershire sauce, and spices, served in a celery salt-rimmed glass. Today, over 400 million Caesars are consumed in Canada every year.
A staple of westernized Chinese food across North America, Ginger Beef was born in Calgary. In the mid-1970s, Chef George Wong at the Silver Inn Restaurant on Centre Street created the dish to appeal to local western palates. He deep-fried strips of beef until crispy and coated them in a sticky, sweet, and slightly spicy chili-ginger sauce. The dish was an instant sensation and remains a proud Calgary culinary export.
Opened in 2018, this architectural masterpiece was named one of the TIME's 100 Greatest Places in the World. Its stunning, sweeping wooden interior and futuristic geometric exterior make it a must-visit cultural hub.
Home to the National Music Centre, this incredible facility houses the Canadian Music Hall of Fame and over 2,000 rare instruments. Its architecture was designed to resemble the acoustic curves of a musical instrument.
One of the largest museums in Western Canada, the Glenbow's extensive collection focuses heavily on art, Indigenous culture, and the history of Western Canada. It is currently undergoing a massive, multi-year renovation.
Designed by renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, this striking red-and-white tubular pedestrian bridge crosses the Bow River. It has quickly become one of the most photographed landmarks in the city.