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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.
This hotel is the perfect blend of business and leisure! Unwind in the indoor pool and sauna, or stay active at the 24-hour fitness center. Golf lovers will adore the stunning views from the DISTRICT48 Kitchen + Bar, where you can savor local cuisine and drinks. Enjoy free WiFi and express check-in/out, plus a complimentary airport shuttle. Whether for family trips or business meetings, the wedding services and meeting facilities here cater to all your needs.
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 hotel has consistently exceeded my expectations on every visit. Located just a short walk from the airport, it's incredibly convenient for early flights or late arrivals—no stress at all. The rooms are spotless, spacious, and well-equipped with modern amenities; the bed was so comfortable I actually slept through my alarm! Breakfast is one of the highlights—fresh, diverse, and delicious, with hot options that taste homemade. Best part? It’s completely free. The staff go above and beyond: friendly, professional, and always willing to help. The lobby area feels open and inviting, perfect for relaxing before or after a long day. Whether you're traveling for business or with family, this place delivers excellent value and comfort. I’ve stayed here multiple times and will absolutely return next time I’m in Calgary—highly recommend!
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.
The staff were incredibly welcoming from the moment we arrived. The room was cozy and quiet, making it feel like we were in a peaceful bubble away from the busy city life—perfect for unwinding after a long day. Breakfast was simple but satisfying, with enough variety to start the morning right. The underground parking was a big plus, especially for those traveling by car—it’s secure and easy to access. Overall, this hotel offers great value and a relaxing stay in a central yet serene location. Highly recommend for travelers looking for comfort and convenience in Calgary.
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 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.
This is my go-to spot for every high-quality visit to Calgary. The location is unbeatable—quiet, walkable neighborhood with easy access to everything. The rooms are beautifully clean, with plush, comfortable beds that make for a restful night's sleep. What really stands out is the warm, genuine hospitality from the hosts—they go above and beyond to make you feel welcome. It’s not just a place to stay; it’s an experience. I’ll definitely be back on my next trip to Calgary.
Staying at this Hilton Garden Inn near Calgary International Airport was a great choice for my quick layover. The room was spacious—way bigger than I expected—and the quality of the furnishings was consistent with what I’ve come to expect from Hilton. The free breakfast was a real highlight; it’s rare to find such a generous and well-rounded complimentary meal at hotels abroad, especially in airport locations. I appreciated the hot options, fresh fruit, and coffee bar. The location is super convenient—just a short ride to the terminal, making early flights stress-free. Pricing felt fair for the comfort and amenities offered. If you're looking for a comfortable, no-fuss stay close to the airport, I’d definitely recommend this hotel. It’s a smart pick for short stays or last-minute arrivals.
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 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 Comfort Inn & Suites Airport South in Calgary was a great experience, especially for travelers needing quick access to the airport. The free shuttle service made getting to and from the terminal super convenient—no need to worry about taxis or rental cars. Free parking is a big plus too, perfect for those driving themselves. The hotel itself is quiet and well-insulated, so you won’t be disturbed by airport noise. Breakfast is simple but satisfying: scrambled eggs, sausage, bread, yogurt, plus coffee, tea, and juice—basic but fills you up. It’s not fancy, but it gets the job done. Overall, this place offers excellent value for money, particularly if you’re flying early or just need a comfortable, no-fuss stopover. I’d definitely stay here again on future trips 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.
The overall experience was fantastic! The location is convenient, the staff are friendly and helpful, and the breakfast spread was delicious with plenty of options. While the rooms could use a little upgrade, they were still clean and comfortable for our short stay. No pool? Not a problem—since we were there for business purposes, we didn’t need any recreational facilities. Great value for money and definitely worth recommending if you're looking for a reliable, no-frills stay in Calgary.
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