5 of the best Calgary neighbourhoods you should stay in the next time you visit
Planning a trip? 🏙️
Inglewood in Calgary. Right: Calgary neighbourhood.
Calgary has a ton of neighbourhoods, each with its own vibe and list of things to do. One of the hardest parts about making an itinerary for visiting a new city is figuring out where to stay, and Calgary is no different.
Some Calgary neighbourhoods are trendy hubs with vibrant public art and cool storefronts, while others are laid-back and surrounded by nature. There's a little something for everyone in the city if you know where to look.
There's no one better to turn to than locals when it comes to Calgary reccs, so we polled our local Alberta audience to see what they say are the best neighbourhoods for visitors to stay in the city.
If you're planning a trip then here are five of the best neighbourhoods in Calgary to stay, according to locals.
Inglewood
This is the oldest neighbourhood in the city and is a must-visit for any tourist looking to explore. Historic streets here are full of charm and lined with trendy shops, music venues, and breweries. The vibe here is artsy and unique, setting it apart from the nearby downtown area in the best way.
Spend the day wandering in and out of the local shops, getting to know the Calgary artisans and small businesses. Then grab a drink at one of the breweries here, before ending the day with a bang.
The Ironwood Stage & Grill is an iconic music venue right in the neighbourhood, making it the perfect cap on a day well spent in Inglewood.
"Inglewood and Kensington are at the top of my list: touristy without being (completely) obnoxious," one local said.
Marda Loop
If you want to shop all day every day, then stay in Marda Loop. It's the perfect walkable area in Southwest Calgary, so you can explore without having to hop on transit or rent a car.
There are a ton of stores and restaurants and you can get everything from vinyls records to artisanal cheese. If you love to eat out while on a trip then this is also a good base for you, with its thriving food scene. Check out Annabelle’s Kitchen for a tasty Italian dinner, or Our Daily Brett Market & Cafe for some great local eats.
Kensington
Kensington is across the iconic Peace Bridge, which takes you above the Bow River, and it's ideal for a chill trip. Think of a brunch to start the day, photos of beautiful public art, and cute coffee shops galore.
It's full of independent shops with unique vibes and cool decor, set apart from the bigger chain stores in other parts of the city. If you stay here you'll want to go to the Plaza which is an independent cinema where you can enjoy a movie with a cocktail in hand.
Crescent Heights
If you're in it for the views, then staying in Crescent Heights is a go-to. You'll get that classic skyline view of the city, with beautiful parks to enjoy in the warmer months that'll make you feel like you're a bit outside of the hustle and bustle. The high-rise apartment buildings are replaced with residential streets here that give a quaint feel.
Balanced with the beauty of the area though are things to do, like trying out the local cafes here or even walking downtown as it's pretty close. If you want a bit of a quieter trip but still be in the city, this is the spot to go.
Beltline
Right outside of downtown, this is the place for someone who wants to get right in the action of the city, with highrises, shops, and a lively vibe. You won't be bored here with lots of things to see just walking around, activities, shopping and food. It's bustling and you'll be on the move while staying here.
It's also great for big groups who can't decide where to eat because you can go to First Street Market food hall where you can get everything from Italian to Mexican cuisine.
From trendy districts to chill areas, you can take your pick of Calgary neighbourhoods depending on the kind of trip you want. These are some of the locals' top recommendations for people visiting, but just a taste of what the city is about.