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Reader Rock Garden is a hidden poem in the heart of the city—where boulders meet blooming flowers in dreamlike harmony. Wander the winding paths, read under a tree, or just sit and watch clouds drift by. Each rock holds a whisper, each flower a moment. This garden isn’t just beautiful—it’s a sanctuary for the soul, a quiet love letter from nature to urban life.
Nestled in downtown Calgary, this resort-style hotel is perfect for both families and business travelers! Kids will love the indoor pool and waterslide, while adults can relax in the hot tub. Spacious rooms feature Signature Comfort Beds with Egyptian cotton linens for a restful sleep. Conveniently located just 5 minutes from TELUS Convention Centre and Calgary Tower, with easy access to major attractions. Enjoy local and international cuisine at the on-site restaurant or 24-hour room service. Business travelers will appreciate the 11,840 sq ft of meeting space and full-service business center.
Located in the heart of downtown Calgary, this hotel is just a short walk from the Calgary Tower and TELUS Convention Centre, making it perfect for both business and leisure travelers. Enjoy amenities like a 24-hour fitness center, rooftop terrace, and garden to unwind after a busy day. The spacious rooms feature plush bedding and smart TVs, along with free WiFi for your convenience. Love outdoor activities? Try rock climbing, bowling, or even sailing for some fun! Business travelers will appreciate the meeting rooms and business center, all designed to meet your needs.
Everything you need to know about Reader Rock Garden
Near Reader Rock Garden in Calgary, The Calgary Marriott Hotel is a top choice. Located just a 10-minute drive away, it offers comfortable rooms, free parking, an indoor pool, and a fitness center. The hotel’s proximity to Bowness Park and Fish Creek Provincial Park makes it ideal for nature lovers seeking hiking, biking, and scenic walks. It also lies within easy reach of downtown Calgary’s shopping and dining districts.
We recommend HopeGoo a river-view room to enjoy serene morning light and panoramic sunsets over the surrounding landscape. A short stroll to Reader Rock Garden at dusk reveals breathtaking rock formations illuminated by golden hour light—perfect for photography and quiet reflection.
To reach Reader Rock Garden from downtown Calgary, driving is the most convenient option. Take Crowchild Trail West, then turn onto 16 Avenue SW, followed by a right onto 27 Street SW—the garden entrance is clearly marked. The trip takes about 15 minutes. Alternatively, take TransCalgary Bus Route 401 or 410 to the stop at 27 Street SW & 16 Avenue SW, with a 5-minute walk to the site.
The garden offers ample free parking and well-signed pathways. We recommend visiting early on weekends to avoid crowds. Combine your visit with a stroll through nearby Bowness Park, perfect for families, photographers, and nature enthusiasts. Trails and viewing platforms throughout the garden provide excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting and scenic photography.
Reader Rock Garden offers more than just scenic views—it’s a hub for immersive natural experiences. The park features natural rock trail systems winding through layered sedimentary and sandstone formations, ideal for walking, photography, and geological exploration. In spring, wildflowers like goldenrod and purple needlegrass bloom, adding vibrant color to the landscape.
Interpretive signs throughout the area explain local flora and fauna, making it a great educational destination for families and nature lovers. The garden also hosts regular community guided tours and outdoor sketching workshops, offering deeper insight into the region’s geology and ecology.
Bring binoculars and a camera to capture soaring raptors or the dramatic interplay of light and shadow on the rocks at sunset. This is a rare opportunity to experience both natural beauty and scientific wonder in one peaceful setting.
Absolutely! Reader Rock Garden is perfect for families. The park features gentle, paved trails ideal for strollers, children, and seniors, with multiple benches and scenic overlooks along the way. Parents can introduce kids to native plants and wildlife while participating in the garden’s nature scavenger hunt cards, which make learning fun and interactive.
There’s a dedicated kid-friendly play zone and open picnic lawns with shade structures and restrooms. Visit in the morning for cooler temperatures and increased bird activity—ideal for wildlife observation. After exploring the garden, head to nearby Bowness Park for kayaking, biking, or a relaxing riverside picnic, creating a full-day outdoor adventure for all ages.
The Westin Calgary is a top choice, just a 10-minute drive from Reader Rock Garden. It features a city oasis-style pool, mountain-view terraces, and soundproofed rooms for a peaceful stay. Free shuttle services connect guests to downtown and major attractions. The garden’s hiking trails offer perfect opportunities for morning walks or sunset wildlife viewing, immersing visitors in the serene Rocky Mountain foothills ecosystem.
Take Calgary Transit Route 97 from downtown, stopping at Bowness Road Station and exiting at Reader Rock Garden Stop—a direct 25-minute ride. Alternatively, drive west on Crowchild Trail, merge onto Macleod Trail, then follow signs to the park’s parking lot—just 15 minutes from downtown. The site offers ample free parking and connects seamlessly to walking paths and bike trails, making it ideal for exploring the city’s urban green lung.
Guests can join local ecological guided tours led by certified naturalists, exploring native plant communities and diverse insect habitats. Spring brings blooming wild purple clover, while autumn showcases stunning foliage color changes. The garden features an observation platform where hawks, crows, and songbirds frequently appear. Annually, the site hosts rock art workshops, allowing visitors to craft keepsakes using natural pebbles—blending creativity with the region’s prairie-mountain transition ecosystem.
Try bison ribeye and Rocky Mountain mushroom risotto at The Prairie Grille, a nearby eatery specializing in Western Canadian cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. Their outdoor patio offers views of the garden’s lush landscape, perfect with a glass of Alberta whisky. For plant-based options, visit Sage & Stone Café, known for organic fare like lavender almond cookies and quinoa salad bowls. Both venues feature barrier-free access and pet-friendly areas, ideal for families and eco-conscious travelers.
See what other travelers say about Reader Rock Garden
This stay was absolutely unforgettable — from the moment we arrived, everything felt special. The hotel exudes a calm and elegant atmosphere, with a lobby that’s thoughtfully designed and beautifully furnished. Our room was spacious, well-laid-out, and packed with smart technology that made everything so convenient. The staff went above and beyond — friendly, professional, and always ready to help with anything from local recommendations to special requests. The dining experience was exceptional too: a great mix of local flavours and international dishes, all prepared with care and served with stunning presentation. And location-wise, it’s unbeatable — just steps away from transit hubs and major attractions, making exploring the city effortless. This is one of those rare hotels you genuinely want to come back to. Highly recommended!
My stay at Calgary Marriott Downtown Hotel was absolutely fantastic. Located right in the heart of the city, just steps away from the iconic downtown tower (you can see it in my photo), this hotel offers unbeatable convenience. The room was spacious, modern, and incredibly comfortable—especially the bed, which made for a restful night's sleep. Cleanliness and attention to detail were top-notch, and the staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this is an ideal choice with excellent access to restaurants, shopping, and attractions. I’d highly recommend this hotel and would definitely book again if I ever return to Calgary.
Staying at Marquee on 16th in Calgary was an absolute delight! The apartment is spotless, well-maintained, and the views from the upper floors are breathtaking—cityscapes meet the Canadian Rockies in one stunning panorama. It’s incredibly convenient, just a block or two away from grocery stores, gas stations, and a wide variety of restaurants. Public transit stops right outside the building, and if you're driving, you’re perfectly positioned near Highway 1 for easy access. Caira, the manager, is incredibly responsive and helpful—always ready to assist with anything you need. This place offers comfort, location, and value all in one. I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting Calgary looking for a cozy, hassle-free stay.
Staying at the Holiday Inn Calgary-Airport was a fantastic experience! The location is perfect—just minutes from the airport and super convenient for getting into downtown Calgary. The hotel is spotless, with clean and well-maintained rooms that feel cozy and welcoming. I especially appreciated the free airport shuttle service—it saved me a lot of money on transportation, especially with heavy luggage. While there’s no kettle in the room, everything else is top-notch, and the overall value for money is outstanding. Friendly staff, quiet environment, and great amenities make this a standout choice. I’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to any traveler visiting Calgary.
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.
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 absolutely loved this hotel—such a great value for the price! The check-in process was smooth, and the staff were quick and friendly. There's a small convenience store on the first floor, which is super handy for grabbing snacks, drinks, or even ice in the evening. The heating system is incredible—so warm and cozy, perfect for Calgary’s chilly weather. Plus, the parking lot is huge and easy to navigate, which is a big plus if you're driving. I’d definitely stay here again if I ever come back to Calgary. Highly recommend it!
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.
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.
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