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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
Absolutely perfect location and top-notch service! The front desk team was incredibly friendly and welcoming, making check-in a breeze. The room was spacious, spotlessly clean, and incredibly comfortable—great for a relaxing night’s sleep. Right next to Banff Trail C-Train station, it’s super easy to get into downtown Calgary without needing a car. I loved that underground parking is completely free—huge plus for travelers driving in. Plus, the complimentary breakfast included in the rate was a real treat: fresh eggs, warm toast, coffee, and juice—perfect way to start the day. Everything about this hotel just works. From the convenient transit access to the thoughtful amenities, it’s clear they care about guest comfort. Would stay here again in a heartbeat.
Located a bit off the main strip, but it’s super easy to get to by taxi or public transit. The moment I stepped into the room, I was impressed—clean, modern, and well-maintained throughout. The room size is just right—not too small, not too big—perfect for a comfortable stay. The bed was firm yet cozy, ideal for a good night’s sleep, and the quiet atmosphere made it easy to relax after a long day. What really stood out? The price. It’s significantly more affordable than downtown options without sacrificing quality or comfort. If you’re looking for a no-frills but reliable hotel with great value, this one’s definitely worth considering. Great choice for budget-conscious travelers who still want a solid experience.
The hotel was spotless and well-maintained, with a prime location just steps away from downtown Calgary. Everything I needed was within easy reach—great restaurants, shopping spots, and public transit. The staff went above and beyond to help with recommendations and check-in, making the whole experience smooth and welcoming. Clean rooms, comfortable beds, and a friendly atmosphere really made this stay feel special. Definitely a top choice for anyone visiting Calgary.
This hotel truly exceeded my expectations! From the moment I arrived, everything felt seamless and welcoming. The location is fantastic—just a short walk from public transit and close to local restaurants, shops, and attractions. My room was spotless, spacious, and incredibly comfortable, with a cozy bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. Even with kids in tow, we all woke up feeling refreshed. The staff went above and beyond—friendly, helpful, and always smiling. What really stood out was the value: top-notch amenities at a price that feels totally fair. If you're visiting Calgary, this is definitely a go-to choice. I’ll be coming back without hesitation.
Staying at this downtown Calgary hotel was a fantastic experience—clean, well-maintained, and surprisingly affordable. The room was spotless and warmly heated, making it super comfortable during our visit. Being right in the heart of downtown made everything accessible: walking distance to restaurants, shopping areas, and local attractions. What really stood out was the complimentary breakfast—fresh, tasty, and satisfying. I couldn’t believe how good it was for being free! It’s not often you find such great value in a central location. I’ll definitely be booking here again on my next trip to Calgary. Highly recommend for travelers who want comfort, convenience, and a solid deal.
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.
We arrived late at night, but the front desk staff were incredibly courteous and made us feel welcome right away. The room was spotless and well-maintained—cleanliness was obvious from the moment we stepped in. We opted for the breakfast-included package, which offered a decent selection of options. That said, there could be more variety, especially for guests who prefer less sweet or lighter morning meals—some items were quite sugary, which didn’t quite hit the mark for my taste. Still, the hotel’s location is excellent for airport travelers, with easy access to transit and shuttle services. Overall, it’s a reliable, comfortable stay with great value, and I’d definitely recommend it to fellow travelers looking for a stress-free experience.
Staying at the Best Western Plus Suites Downtown in Calgary was an absolute delight. The room was spacious and incredibly comfortable, with a mattress that struck the perfect balance—neither too soft nor too firm. I loved being able to adjust the temperature to my liking, which made for a cozy night's sleep regardless of the weather outside. The quiet environment made it easy to rest without any disturbances. What really stood out was the daily housekeeping service—cleanliness was consistently maintained throughout our stay. The location is fantastic, just steps away from local shops and within easy reach of downtown via public transit. It’s rare to find such a well-located, clean, and thoughtfully designed hotel in this price range. Highly recommend for travelers who value comfort, convenience, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Staying here was a fantastic experience overall! The room was spotless, well-maintained, and very comfortable—perfect for a relaxing getaway. Breakfast was enjoyable with a good variety of options, especially the hot items which tasted fresh and satisfying. The only hiccup was on the first day when it got busy early and eggs ran out, but they were fully stocked for the rest of the stay. I appreciated that they managed to keep up with demand after the initial rush. The underground parking garage is secure and easy to access—great for travelers driving in. What really stood out was the housekeeping staff: friendly, attentive, and always going the extra mile with a warm smile. Their professionalism made a big difference. This hotel offers excellent value for money and is definitely worth recommending to friends or colleagues traveling to Calgary.
Staying at ExecSuite was an absolute delight, and I must give a special shoutout to Edwin from the maintenance team—he’s truly exceptional. Professional, friendly, and always ready to help whenever I had an issue, no matter how small. His dedication made my stay so much more comfortable and stress-free. The location is excellent—close to downtown and public transit makes getting around easy. Plus, the surrounding area has great dining options. Clean, well-maintained rooms with thoughtful touches throughout. This place offers amazing value for the quality of service and comfort. Definitely a top choice if you're visiting Calgary—I’ll be back without hesitation.
The hotel offers a beautifully elegant atmosphere with a welcoming and attentive staff who go the extra mile to make your stay comfortable. The room was immaculately clean, cozy, and well-equipped with all the essentials—including a mini-fridge and coffee maker—perfect for a relaxing getaway. Located just minutes from the university district, it's incredibly convenient for exploring campus or enjoying nearby dining options. There’s no shortage of great restaurants within walking distance, making it easy to grab a bite after a long day. What stood out most was the incredible value for money—this place delivers luxury and comfort at a price that feels like a steal. I’ll definitely be coming back next time I visit Calgary!
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.
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