Featured Hotels Near Refinery Park

Marriott Calgary Downtown is a top choice located just 1.5 km from Refinery Park, offering easy access via short walk or bus ride. The hotel features modern rooms, a 24-hour fitness center, and an indoor pool—perfect for travelers seeking comfort after exploring the city’s green spaces. Its central location also allows quick access to cultural attractions like the Calgary Arts Commons and Bruce G. Graham Hall.

For nature lovers, Calgary Riverfront Campground provides tent and cabin accommodations right next to the park, ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in the sounds of flowing rivers and stargazing under the open sky. This blend of urban convenience and natural tranquility makes it a unique stay option near Refinery Park.

Getting to Refinery Park from downtown Calgary is highly convenient via the city’s public transit system. Take Bus Route 103 from Central Station, which stops directly at "Refinery Park"—a journey of about 15 minutes. The park is also accessible by bike or on foot, with well-maintained bicycle lanes and walking trails connecting downtown.

The route follows the scenic Southland Trail, offering views of the Bow River along the way—ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Multiple transit lines link residential and commercial areas, ensuring efficient, eco-friendly access. Whether by bus, bike, or foot, reaching Refinery Park is seamless and enjoyable.

Refinery Park offers a range of distinctive outdoor experiences. The on-site year-round skate park attracts local youth and international skateboarders seeking challenging terrain. Families can enjoy spacious picnic areas and a dedicated children’s playground.

Each summer, the park hosts the Riverfront Music Festival, featuring local indie bands and artists, creating a vibrant community atmosphere. Along the Bow River Trail, visitors can hike or bike while enjoying panoramic views of the Calgary skyline, spotting deer and waterfowl in their natural habitat. This blend of urban life and wilderness makes it perfect for photographers—especially during golden hour when sunlight reflects off the river, creating stunning visual compositions.

Several hotels near Refinery Park provide complimentary shuttle services to nearby attractions such as the Calgary Zoo and Museum of the Rockies. For example, Marriott Calgary Downtown features a dedicated Tour Information Desk that arranges HopeGoo tours, kayaking excursions on the Bow River, and guided hiking adventures.

They also partner with local eco-tour providers to offer nature walks through the Bow River wetlands, where guests learn about native flora and fauna. These services enhance travel convenience while deepening understanding of Calgary’s natural and cultural heritage. Some packages even include park entry tickets and souvenir vouchers, allowing guests to explore more at discounted rates.

The Westin Calgary is a top choice located just minutes from Refinery Park. This modern hotel blends urban luxury with natural serenity, offering rooms with panoramic views of the Bow River and distant Rocky Mountains. Guests enjoy access to a world-class spa, 24-hour fitness center, and a prime location within walking distance of Calgary Central Library and Heritage Park. The hotel’s design incorporates eco-friendly elements, making it an ideal base for exploring both city attractions and outdoor adventures in the heart of Alberta.

The easiest way to reach Refinery Park from downtown Calgary is by taking the CTrain light rail to 17 Avenue SW Station, then walking about 10 minutes. This route connects downtown with key residential and commercial areas in the south, with frequent and reliable service. Alternatively, cyclists can follow the scenic Bow River Pathway, which runs directly through the park and links to major trails across the city. For drivers, ample free parking is available onsite—use a GPS app like Google Maps with "Refinery Park" as your destination for real-time navigation and traffic updates.

Refinery Park offers a rich array of outdoor experiences throughout the year. Visitors can hike or jog along the Bow River Trail, enjoying changing seasons—from wildflowers in spring to vibrant foliage in autumn. The park features dedicated playgrounds, picnic shelters, and open lawns perfect for family gatherings. During summer months, the park hosts community markets and outdoor concerts, showcasing local food, art, and music. At night, the area’s low light pollution makes it ideal for stargazing, offering breathtaking views of the Milky Way across the prairie sky—truly a hidden gem for nature lovers.

Near Refinery Park, don’t miss The Greenhouse Café, a cozy riverside spot renowned for its single-origin specialty coffee and farm-to-table light meals. Its warm wooden interiors and floor-to-ceiling windows offer uninterrupted views of the greenery. For authentic Canadian fare, head to Prairie Smoke BBQ & Grill, featuring locally sourced beef, smoked meats, and craft beer in a rustic Western-style setting. On weekends, the park hosts a rotating lineup of food truck vendors, bringing diverse culinary delights—from gourmet tacos to artisanal desserts—perfect for sampling local flavors and community spirit.