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Stroll along the Bow River Riverfront, where Calgary’s urban soul truly unfolds—this isn’t just a scenic green corridor, it’s the city’s vibrant heartbeat. Whether you’re jogging at sunrise or relaxing on a bench as the sun sets, you’ll feel the rhythm of this prairie metropolis. Don’t miss the nearby boutiques and cozy cafés that turn every step into a moment of connection and comfort.
Everything you need to know about Bow river Riverfront
The Fairmont Calgary is a top choice, offering direct access to the Bow Riverfront with panoramic views of the winding river and surrounding mountains. Its prime location allows guests to easily explore the Riverfront Trail and Bouchard Park on foot or by bike. The hotel features an outdoor lounge where visitors can enjoy evening drinks amid the natural ambiance of the riverbank. With modern amenities and exceptional service, it perfectly blends urban luxury with the serene beauty of Alberta’s natural landscape.
Yes, hotels like The Westin Calgary and Hyatt Regency Calgary are located in downtown Calgary, just a 10-minute walk from CTrain light rail stations. This provides easy access to Calgary International Airport (20 minutes) and major venues like the Telus Convention Centre. Multiple bus routes also serve the Bow Riverfront area, and with integration between C-Train, bike-sharing programs, and pedestrian pathways, travelers enjoy seamless, efficient mobility throughout the city—making it ideal for both business and leisure visits.
Along the Bow Riverfront, visitors can enjoy a range of unique experiences: ride the 30-kilometer Riverfront Trail on a bike or scooter; picnic at Bouchard Park during summer festivals; or try ice skating and snowshoeing in winter. Nearby attractions like the Calgary Zoo and Heritage Park offer family-friendly extensions combining wildlife, history, and nature. For a quiet moment, visit Sundance Bridge to watch the reflection of snow-capped peaks and the city skyline on the river’s surface—a true embodiment of the Rocky Mountain foothills’ tranquil beauty.
Yes, hotels such as Holiday Inn Calgary Downtown and Embassy Suites by Hilton Calgary feature family-friendly amenities including children’s playrooms, interconnected family suites, complimentary kids’ meals, and childcare services. Some even offer guided riverfront nature walks tailored for families, introducing them to local wildlife and ecological trails. In collaboration with Calgary Public Library, these hotels host storytime events, blending education and fun. These thoughtful offerings ensure a safe, comfortable, and enriching experience for families seeking quality time in nature and city life.
Absolutely. The Sundance Bridge at night, illuminated with soft lights reflecting on the water, creates a dreamlike setting perfect for couples. Stroll hand-in-hand along the Riverfront Trail, pause at Rundle Park for panoramic views of the river and distant mountains. Some hotels, like The Fairmont Calgary, offer romantic dinner packages with live jazz music by the riverside. Seasonal events such as the Calgary Flames Ice Show and Riverfront Lights Festival add magical moments, making this area a quintessential destination for couples seeking intimate, memorable experiences amidst natural beauty.
Yes, several hotels near the Bow Riverfront—including The Westin Calgary and Shaw Conference Centre Hotel—offer private tour services such as personalized chauffeur transfers, guided riverfront eco-tours, hiking route planning, and expert cultural history narration. Tour guides are certified local naturalists or historians who tailor experiences to guest preferences, from sunrise photography walks to stargazing sessions. In partnership with Calgary Parks, some hotels also provide exclusive private events like sunset tea ceremonies or outdoor movie nights, delivering a bespoke, premium experience for discerning travelers.
The Calgary Marriott Downtown is ideal for riverfront access, offering stunning views of the Bow River and city skyline from its guest rooms. Located steps from the Bow River Trail, it provides easy access to hiking, biking, and seasonal events like outdoor concerts. Nearby attractions include Glenbow Museum and Calgary Tower, enhancing cultural exploration. The hotel’s central location ensures seamless travel to downtown Calgary and surrounding natural parks like Tuscany Park, blending urban convenience with nature.
Walking from Bow Riverfront to downtown Calgary takes about 15 minutes along the scenic Bow River Trail, lined with trees and wildlife viewing spots. For faster transit, take the CTrain light rail from nearby stations like Rundle Station or Downtown Station, with a short 5-minute ride. Additionally, bus routes such as #207 and #208 pass through the area, connecting directly to government buildings, shopping centers, and business districts. The integrated public transport system ensures efficient, eco-friendly access across the city.
The Bow River Trail, stretching over 40 km, offers premier cycling and walking paths through scenic areas like Prince's Island Park and Tuscany Park. Summer visitors enjoy kayaking or canoeing on calm waters, surrounded by native wildlife. In winter, the river transforms into a natural ice park for ice walking and skating, with designated safe zones. The annual Riverbend Festival brings together music, art, and local vendors, celebrating Calgary’s vibrant community spirit. These activities highlight the region’s seamless blend of adventure, ecology, and culture.
Yes! Prince's Island Park is perfect for families, featuring playgrounds, interactive water features, and spacious lawns ideal for picnics and kite flying. Adjacent attractions include Calgary Zoo and Telus World of Science, enabling a full-day educational outing. Family-friendly bike rentals are available along the Bow River Trail, allowing children and adults to explore safely together. Weekly weekend events such as kids’ workshops and nature-guided tours add fun and learning. This combination of green space, education, and recreation makes it a top choice for Calgary families.
The night view along Bow Riverfront is magical, especially during the Winter Light Festival, when illuminated art installations line the banks, creating stunning reflections on the water. The Calgary Tower’s nighttime lighting enhances the skyline, while walking the Bow River Trail offers breathtaking views of the city lights shimmering across the river. Restaurants like The Paddlewheel Restaurant provide riverside dining with live music, offering a romantic and vibrant evening experience. This fusion of light, nature, and urban charm defines Calgary’s unique nocturnal allure.
Yes! Holiday Inn Express Calgary Downtown offers excellent value, located just a 5-minute walk from the Bow River Trail. It provides free breakfast, high-speed Wi-Fi, and self-service laundry, with clean, comfortable rooms ideal for budget-conscious travelers. Its proximity to the CTrain station enables quick access to attractions like Heritage Park and Canada Olympic Park. Affordable rates combined with reliable service make it a top choice for families and backpackers seeking comfort without compromise.
See what other travelers say about Bow river Riverfront
Staying at this stylish downtown condo in Calgary was an absolute highlight of my trip. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the city center, with easy access to shopping, dining, and local attractions. What truly stood out was the breathtaking view from the 29th floor—every window offered a panoramic glimpse of the city skyline, especially stunning during sunset. The modern interior design, clean lines, and well-appointed amenities made it feel like a home away from home. Comfortable, spacious, and thoughtfully designed, this place offers excellent value for the quality and location. I’d definitely book again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Calgary.
Honestly, my wife and I were really disappointed with this B&B experience. We arrived in Calgary excited to stay in a charming neighborhood like Kensington, expecting something cozy and unique. Instead, the place fell far short of expectations. The beds were extremely uncomfortable, the property felt outdated and poorly maintained, and the staff came across as unfriendly and dismissive—as if we were inconveniencing them by staying there. It’s clear the place needs serious renovation and better guest service. I wish I’d paid more attention to the negative reviews online—those glowing positive comments now seem suspiciously fake, almost like they were written by someone paid to promote it. If you’re looking for a pleasant stay in Calgary, please consider other options. This one isn’t worth it.
I’ve stayed at several airport hotels before, but this one stands out as my favorite. The location is incredibly convenient—just a short metro ride away from the airport, so no stress about timing your departure. The room was clean, comfortable, and had excellent soundproofing, making for a peaceful night’s sleep. What really sold me? I didn’t need to move my luggage elsewhere—I simply booked another stay right after, saving time and energy. If you’re looking for a relaxed, hassle-free experience without all the chaos, this place delivers. For travelers who value comfort and simplicity, this hotel offers amazing value. I’ll definitely be booking here again on my next trip to Calgary.
The room was spotlessly clean and well-maintained, with excellent hygiene standards throughout. The staff were friendly, helpful, and attentive—definitely a highlight of the stay. While the location is a bit off the beaten path with limited dining and shopping options nearby, it’s worth noting that public transportation isn’t very convenient for first-time visitors. Most guests, like me, ended up relying on rideshare services to get around. That said, the price was incredibly reasonable for what you get—great value for money. If you're just passing through Calgary Airport for a quick overnight stop, this hotel delivers comfort, quiet surroundings, and a solid sleep without breaking the bank. Perfect for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize cleanliness and convenience over proximity to city centers.
Staying at this hotel was a great choice for my layover in Calgary. The location is incredibly convenient—just a short walk from the airport, making early morning flights stress-free. The room was spotlessly clean, with fresh linens and a comfortable bed that made for a restful night's sleep. The staff were warm and welcoming, always ready to help with any request. I especially appreciated how well-maintained the bathroom was—everything looked new and modern. Even the toiletries felt high-quality. For travelers needing a quick, reliable stay near the airport, this place offers excellent value. I’d definitely book again.
I stayed here for three nights and couldn’t be happier with the experience. As a budget-friendly property, it delivered exactly what I expected—clean rooms, basic but sufficient amenities, and a simple breakfast that got me going each morning. The location is convenient, just a short walk from public transit, making it easy to explore Calgary without hassle. No frills, no surprises—just straightforward value for money. I’ve stayed at many similar places across North America, and this one stands out for its consistency and reliability. If you’re looking for a no-fuss, comfortable base in Calgary without overspending, this is a solid choice. I’d definitely book again.
Staying at Sait Hotel was a fantastic experience overall. The value for money is outstanding—clean, comfortable rooms with all the essentials you’d want, and the location makes getting around Calgary super easy, just a short subway ride to downtown. The parking lot is a bit of a walk from the hotel, but it’s indoor, which was a huge plus during summer storms when hail could’ve been a concern. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout check-in and beyond. I’d definitely recommend this hotel—great quality, great price, and a truly relaxing stay.
I've stayed at several airport hotels, but this one truly stands out. The location is incredibly convenient—just a quick walk from the terminal and easy access to public transit. What really impressed me was the exceptional service. I had a slight wait during check-in, and instead of just apologizing, the staff upgraded me to a spacious suite for free! The room was modern, clean, and super comfortable—the bed was perfect for a good night's sleep after a long flight. Everything about the property felt fresh and well-maintained. If you're flying into Calgary, this is definitely my top pick. A fantastic experience from start to finish!
I stayed here during a layover in Calgary, and overall it was a solid choice for airport travelers. The hotel is no luxury property—facilities are basic, and the atmosphere is simple—but everything was clean and functional. My room was compact but comfortable, with a good-quality bed that made for a restful sleep despite the short stay. What stood out most was the location: just a 10-minute walk to the airport terminal, which saved me time and stress during check-in rush hours. The front desk offered smooth check-in and check-out, and there's a self-service kiosk for added convenience. While it’s not fancy, this place delivers exactly what you need when you're in transit—affordability, proximity, and reliability. If you're flying through Calgary and just need a quick, no-fuss place to rest, this hotel hits the mark. A practical, no-nonsense option that works well for budget-conscious travelers.
Staying at Aloft Calgary University was a fantastic experience! The hotel is quiet and peaceful, making it perfect for a good night's sleep. The room was spotless and well-maintained—every detail felt clean and fresh. All the amenities were available: a fridge, microwave, and ice machine, which made my stay super convenient, especially for quick meals or snacks. The only small downside was the lack of a water dispenser, but that didn’t really affect my overall satisfaction. The location is great—it’s close to the airport, so getting there by car or public transit was easy and stress-free. With its modern vibe, excellent cleanliness, and smart layout, this place offers incredible value. I’d definitely recommend it to students, business travelers, or anyone looking for a comfortable, no-fuss stay in Calgary.
My stay at Hilton Garden Inn Calgary Downtown was absolutely excellent. The location couldn’t be better—just a short walk from the C-Train station, making it super easy to get around the city without needing a car. There are plenty of grocery stores, restaurants, and cafes nearby, so everything you need is within reach. The room was spotless, well-maintained, and very comfortable, with a cozy bed that made for a great night’s sleep. I especially appreciated the indoor pool and hot tub—perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring. The staff were friendly and efficient throughout my visit. Overall, the value for money is outstanding, and I’d highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Calgary. It’s a top pick for both business and leisure travelers.
Staying at the Residence Inn Calgary Downtown/Beltline District was an absolute delight. The room was spacious and well-designed, offering plenty of comfort and a relaxed atmosphere—perfect for both short stays and extended visits. I especially appreciated having a full kitchenette with a refrigerator, which made preparing meals easy and convenient, especially when traveling with family or staying longer. The location couldn’t be better—just steps away from downtown attractions, shopping areas, and public transit, making getting around the city a breeze. On top of that, the complimentary fitness center and in-house laundry facilities were a huge plus, saving time and money. Breakfast was surprisingly diverse—classic Western options like eggs, pastries, and fresh fruit, but also a welcome touch of Chinese-style savory porridge, which added a nice cultural twist. Everything about this stay felt thoughtfully curated. Excellent value, great service, and a truly comfortable home-away-from-home. I’ll definitely return.
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