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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
My friend and I attended the 2025 Rotary International Conference in Calgary, and our stay at Best Western Plus Port OCall Hotel was absolutely delightful. From the moment we arrived, the service stood out—friendly, professional, and attentive. The room was cleaned daily, which made returning to a fresh, tidy space a real pleasure. Daily replenishment of coffee and tea was a thoughtful touch that added comfort to our busy schedule. The hotel’s proximity to the airport was a major plus, and the complimentary shuttle service made travel seamless. I also appreciated the lobby display already set up for the 2025 Calgary Stampede, kicking off July 1st—gave the place a vibrant local vibe. With its convenient location, excellent amenities, and warm atmosphere, I’d highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Calgary. It’s definitely a top choice for both business and leisure travelers.
Staying at Hotel Arts in Calgary was an absolute delight. The hotel was immaculately clean, and the king-size bed was incredibly comfortable—perfect for a good night's rest after a long day of exploring. I appreciated that parking was available, with a spacious outdoor lot making it easy to find a spot. Located just minutes from downtown, getting around the city was convenient, whether by public transit or car. The overall experience was outstanding, and the value for money was excellent. If you're visiting Calgary, this is definitely a top choice for a relaxing and well-located stay.
I’ve stayed at several Staybridge Suites properties before, and this one at Calgary International Airport definitely lives up to the brand’s reputation. The location is excellent—just a short walk from the airport terminal, with easy access to public transit and nearby dining options. The hotel itself is spotless, modern, and well-maintained, with fresh furnishings throughout. I especially appreciate the full kitchenette in the room—it made cooking simple meals during my stay super convenient, which was perfect for saving time and money. The staff are friendly and efficient, making check-in and check-out smooth. It’s a reliable choice for both business and leisure travelers looking for comfort, cleanliness, and value. Definitely going to book here again on my next trip to Calgary.
This hotel completely exceeded my expectations! From the moment I arrived, everything felt top-notch. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of downtown Calgary, just steps from shops, restaurants, and attractions. My room was clean, spacious, and incredibly comfortable, with a cozy bed that made for a restful night's sleep. The staff went above and beyond to make me feel welcome and well taken care of. It’s rare to find such great value and quality in one place. I’ll definitely be staying here again on my next visit to Calgary—truly one of the best hotels I’ve ever experienced.
This hotel has been my top pick among airport hotels I've stayed at. Located just minutes from the airport, it's incredibly convenient—especially if you're catching an early flight or returning late. The lobby tea bar is a game-changer: free coffee and tea 24/7, perfect for a morning boost or late-night relax. Rooms are clean, modern, and well-equipped with everything you'd need. The bed was comfortable, and I slept like a baby. Staff are friendly, professional, and always ready to help—no question too small. Even though it’s busy, the atmosphere stays calm and welcoming. If you’re looking for a reliable, no-frills place near Calgary International Airport with great value and excellent service, this is definitely the one. I’ll be back next time I’m in town.
I absolutely loved my stay at this hotel! The hospitality truly stood out—staff were warm, attentive, and always ready to help. From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed. The room was spotless, cozy, and incredibly quiet, making for a restful night’s sleep. Located just minutes from the airport, it’s perfect for early flights or last-minute check-ins. I especially appreciated how easy it was to get to the terminal via public transit. Clean, comfortable, and well-located—this place offers great value without compromising on quality. Definitely a top choice for both business travelers and tourists visiting Calgary.
Staying at this hotel was a total breeze—especially the complimentary shuttle to the airport in the morning, which made our departure stress-free. We were exhausted after our flight, so we ordered food delivery straight to the hotel and simply picked it up at the lobby—super convenient. The room was spacious enough to unpack four suitcases without feeling cramped, and the ice machine in the hallway was a lifesaver for drinks and cooling down. I also appreciated that the lobby had hot water and tea bags available—perfect for a relaxing evening drink. Everything from service to amenities felt thoughtfully designed. This place is definitely worth returning to.
Stayed at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Airport-Calgary and had a flawless experience from start to finish. The location is perfect—just minutes from the airport and easily accessible by public transit, making it convenient for both business trips and family getaways. The room was clean, spacious, and well-maintained, with a comfortable bed that ensured a restful night’s sleep. Breakfast was a highlight—fresh, hot, and varied, with local touches that added a nice personal touch. Staff were friendly, helpful, and always ready to assist with any request. Everything ran smoothly, and the value for money was outstanding. I’d absolutely stay here again on my next visit to Calgary and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable, comfortable, and well-located hotel.
Staying at the Econo Lodge Inn & Suites University in Calgary was a great experience overall. The location is super convenient—just a short ride to downtown, and there are plenty of restaurants and convenience stores nearby. The heating system works perfectly, so even on chilly nights, the room stayed warm and cozy. The bed was spacious and incredibly comfortable, making for a restful night's sleep. Free parking is a huge plus for travelers driving their own cars—no stress about finding a spot. I especially appreciated having a bathtub in the bathroom; it made for a relaxing evening soak. Breakfast was available but nothing fancy—basic options with average taste, though it’s always nice to have something to start the day. What really stood out was the front desk staff—they were incredibly attentive and patient when helping me resolve an issue with a pre-authorized charge. Their professionalism made all the difference. I’d definitely consider staying here again on my next trip to Calgary. It’s a solid choice with excellent value for money.
The hostel recently moved to a new location, so the photos no longer match the current space—just keep that in mind when booking. The entrance might look a bit intimidating at first, but don’t hesitate to press the white button for entry. The staff were warm and welcoming, and there’s a great lineup of evening activities to join. We stayed in an 8-bed dorm—each bed had a small storage box for personal items, but no lockers for larger backpacks (a bit of a downside). Every bed also had two power outlets, which was handy. A curtain for the lower bunks would be a nice touch, and swapping one of the standard outlets for a USB port would be even more convenient. Towels are provided, and the bathrooms, dorms, and common areas are spotlessly clean. Free laundry is available if you stay over three days. Breakfast is included—lots of options like bread, butter, jam, Nutella, maple syrup, yogurt, fresh fruit, and a variety of juices. The kitchen has two stovetops and two sinks. Adding a compost bin in the kitchen area would be a sustainable upgrade. Wi-Fi is strong and reliable. Location-wise, it’s right in the heart of downtown: Prince's Island Park, Chinatown, Calgary Tower, and 8th Avenue are all within walking distance. Perfect for exploring on foot. Overall, great value, friendly vibe, and a solid choice for travelers looking for a social yet comfortable 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.
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