Sometimes I wake up and just don’t feel like doing a thing all day. Then, out of nowhere, when night rolls around, my energy spikes.
One time, I was blowing up my friends’ phones, hoping someone wanted to join me for a spontaneous night out around Calgary. Good thing, they were always down.
You might think it’s tough to find fun stuff after dark here, but nope. Calgary’s nightlife has plenty going on.
And if you’re stuck on ideas, no worries. I’m about to share our favourite nighttime adventures. Just keep on reading!
Table of Contents
City Views and Scenic Spots in Calgary
1. Enjoy the city views at the Calgary Tower
– Media credits: calgarytower
Address: 101 9 Ave SW
Contact details: +1 403-266-7171
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 10 AM – 9 PM
Price: $$
At 191 metres high, the Calgary Tower’s 360-degree panorama offers a sweeping view of downtown Calgary, the Bow River, and the Rockies on a clear day. The glass floor section is also a serious thrill for those who are not afraid of heights.
We liked the web-based multimedia tour on the side of the tower. It gives a deeper look into Calgary’s past and future, and the displays scattered around the deck help bring the city’s story to life.
To be honest, the ticket prices felt a bit high for the amount of time we spent up there. But if you enjoy skyline views and want a snapshot of Calgary from above, it still feels like a worthwhile stop.
Pro tip:
Pair your visit with a meal at Sky 360. You can access the observation deck for free if you dine here, as long as you order a main course. It’s a smart way to get the experience of both the restaurant and the deck without paying separate admission.
2. Take some photos at the Peace Bridge
– Media credits: yycnow
Address: Peace Bridge
Contact details: +1 403-268-2489
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
Price: Free
The Peace Bridge is like something straight out of a sci-fi film with its double helix structure and bold red-and-white colours. It’s just as beautiful in person as it is in photos.
We reached it easily from downtown via Eau Claire Park. It’s an easy walk, and there’s a nice flow of foot traffic without it feeling crowded. We also like that the structure is smooth, wide, and wheelchair accessible.
Standing in the middle, you get a clear view of the Bow River and Calgary’s skyline, which looks especially stunning during golden hour. Plus, it’s close to great spots like Prince’s Island Park and the nearby market, so there’s plenty to do after your visit.
Pro tip:
If you’re into photography, your visit here is the perfect time to play with shadows. The steel ribs cast sharp shadows depending on the time of day, so it’s a good way to train your creative compositions.
3. Have a quiet sightseeing trip at the Crescent Heights Lookout Point
– Media credits: clickbyreemon
Address: 240 Crescent Rd NW
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
Price: Free
We arrived at Crescent Heights Lookout Point around sunset and were blown away by the amazing views of Calgary’s skyline in golden light. We could also see the Bow River winding through the city and the Rocky Mountains standing tall in the distance.
Parking was the game changer for our visit. Some of our team parked at the CPA Lot 59 at the bottom and took the stairs up, which was a bit of a workout. Others chose to drive up to the parking lot at the top to skip the climb and get right to the lookout.
The lookout itself has plenty of open space, so it was easy to find a quiet corner to just relax or snap a few photos without feeling crowded. We also noticed lots of people brought their dogs along, so it’s definitely a pet-friendly place.
Pro tip:
If you think you’ll need to use the restroom, plan to start from the bottom parking lot since facilities aren’t available at the top lookout.
4. Catch some shooting stars at Nose Hill Park
– Media credits: barsova.deal
Address: 6465 14 St NW
Contact Details: +1 403-268-2489
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 5 AM – 11 PM
Price: Free
We think it’s really cool that Nose Hill Park is just right inside the city, so you can get this awesome mix of nature and city views all in one place.
We usually enter through the Winter Club parking Lot because it has bathrooms and a porta-potty, which is super handy. There aren’t many trash bins around, though, so bring a bag to take your rubbish with you.
The best part for us was the view from the top of the hill. You can see the whole city, the airport, the river, and even the Rocky Mountains on a clear day.
We also appreciated how natural the park feels. It’s one of the last places with this special kind of prairie grass that’s pretty rare. Plus, there are wildflowers, trees, and lots of wildlife. We even saw some deer and hawks while we were walking.
Pro tip:
If you want to spot wildlife or get great city and mountain shots from the top, bring binoculars or a camera with a zoom.
Food and Drink Experiences in Calgary
5. Enjoy cocktails at Major Tom Bar
– Media credits: themajortombar
Address: 700 2 St SW #4000
Contact details:
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 11 AM – 11 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 3 PM – 11 PM
Price: $$$
We dropped by Major Tom Bar during golden hour, which was 3 PM to 5 PM, and it turned out to be the perfect time. Not only did we get 25% off wine bottles, but we also had a great view of the bar in action, like watching cocktails being made.
The Major Tom Collins had a twist from the salted lemon and a hint of vanilla. Ziggy Stardust was a risky-sounding combo of dill, cantaloupe, and pear that somehow worked. If you’re into adventurous drinks, it’s something that you have to try.
We also loved that their martinis here are served ice-cold and almost thick in texture. It’s honestly one of the best martini experiences we’ve had. Just ask the bartender for their recommendation if you’re unsure which variation to go with.
Pro tip:
If you’re thinking about dining, order one or two starters first to gauge whether you want to commit to a full steakhouse meal. The food here is beautifully prepared, but portions on small plates can be modest.
6. Try craft beer tasting at Cold Garden Beverage Company
– Media credits: cold_garden
Address: 1100 11 St SE
Contact details: +1 403-764-2653
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11 AM – 12 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 11 AM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 12 AM
Price: $$
Cold Garden Beverage Company turned out to be one of the most laid-back and welcoming spots we visited. It feels like your eccentric friend’s backyard party if your friend also happens to brew some excellent beer.
Some people on our team booked the guided tasting tour. It lasted about an hour and came with a generous flight of beers. We kept hearing how much they loved the Cakeface and the All-Nighter Vanilla Cappuccino Porter.
They don’t serve food here, but you’re encouraged to bring your own or order in. We grabbed some fried chicken and poutine from Kups nearby and paired it with their sour beer.
Pro tip:
Since the place is dog-friendly, you can bring your dog in. They offer beds, water, and treats.
7. Have a hearty dinner at the Porch
– Media credits: porchyyc
Address: 730 17 Ave SW
Contact details: +1 587-391-8500
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 11 AM – 11 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM – 12 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 11 AM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 11 PM
Price: $$
We really loved Porch’s interior. It has an airy layout with retractable ceilings, soft natural lighting, and porch swings on the patio.
It’s loud, though, and clearly designed for energy and fun. It’s a great spot for groups or celebratory nights out. But if you’re hoping for a relaxed catch-up over dinner, you might leave with a hoarse voice.
As for the food, it’s solid, especially if you like to share. The Moroccan Chicken Stuck had juicy chicken with a tangy harissa flavor and a fresh tomato-cilantro that kept it light. For vegetarians, the Butternut Squash Stick was a pleasant surprise.
Pro tip:
Porch gets busy fast, particularly during weekends and in the evenings. If you’re heading there with friends, make a reservation to avoid long waits. Try to ask for patio seating if the weather’s nice, too.
8. Grab some late-night coffees at Higher Ground Cafe
– Media credits: highergroundcafeyyc
Address: 1126 Kensington Rd NW
Contact details: +1 403-270-3780
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 8 AM – 10 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 8 AM – 11 PM
- Sunday: 8 AM – 10 PM
Price: $$
Higher Ground Cafe has a cosy, old English inn vibe with a modern edge. We loved how the walls were decorated with art from local artists. It feels like a small cultural hub where you can soak up local creativity while sipping your drink.
We loved the coffee quality and the generous sizes, especially the lattes with oat and soy milk options. My personal favourite was the Snow Dragon, which is a peppermint and vanilla tea latte. It tastes comforting on a chilly evening.
The space has about 80 sets, including an all-season covered patio. It’s great for groups or solo visitors wanting to chill. The free Wi-Fi is also a plus, so you can also do some work here.
Pro tip:
The menu can be limited on weekends or late in the day, especially for popular dishes like mac and cheese or chicken items. If you’re eyeing something specific, consider calling ahead or arriving earlier.
Live Entertainment and Nightlife in Calgary
9. Catch local and touring acts at Palomino Smokehouse
– Media credits: palominosmokehouse
Address: 109 7 Ave SW
Contact details: +1 403-532-1911
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 11:30 AM – 12 AM
Price: $$
The Palomino Smokehouse blends smoky Southern barbeque with a raw underground music scene. The live music showroom downstairs is not your average bar with a stage, it’s an intimate, gritty space with legit sound and a rotating lineup of bands.
The bands span metal, hip-hop, and good old rock ‘n’ roll. We caught a Friday night show, and the vibe was electric with a close crowd and low lights. It’s a great choice if you’re into live music that feels real, not overproduced.
As for the food, this might be the best barbecue spot in Calgary. Portions are generous, and the housemade sauces are savoury. They’ve got a happy hour from 3 PM to 6 PM on Fridays, but if you stay into the night, the drinks still flow.
Pro tip:
The music venue downstairs only fits about 110 people, so if you want a good spot near the stage, arriving around 7 PM is a smart move. The shows usually start later in the evening, but prime seats go fast.
10. Laugh the evening away at The Laugh Shop
– Media credits: laughshopyyc
Address: 5940 Blackfoot Trl SE
Contact details: +1 403-255-6900
Operating hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Friday: 5 PM – 8 PM
- Saturday: 5 PM – 9:30 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Price: $$
The Laugh Shop, located at Hotel Blackfoot, is definitely worth checking out. It’s a casual and vibrant spot. The venue is intimate enough to feel connected to the performers, but still big enough to draw an energetic crowd.
We appreciate that this is an adults-only space, so you’re in for more mature material without distractions. Just make sure everyone in your group brings valid IDs because they’re strict about the 18+ policy.
As for the extras, there’s a full bar and food available. We tried a couple of items from the cafe-style menu, and while the drink prices were fair, the food could use some improvement. We tried the nachos, and they didn’t match the $26 price tag.
Pro tip:
Occasionally, the venue or Hotel Blackfoor runs promos or discounted ticket nights. It’s a good idea to follow their social media or sign up for alerts to catch some of these.
11. Dance all night at Dreamers Nightclub & Sheesha Lounge
– Media credits: dreamersyyc
Address: 1140 10 Ave SW
Contact details: +1 403-455-1125
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: Closed
- Friday: 9 PM – 2 AM
- Saturday: 10 PM – 2 AM
- Sunday: 10 PM – 1 AM
Price: $$$
Dreamers Nightclub and Sheesha Lounge is just right in the heart of downtown, and it’s a solid choice for late-night fun out. The flashing lights, booming sound system, and spacious dance floor keep the energy flowing all night.
We also liked how there’s a clear viewing area facing the stage. It makes catching performances much more enjoyable. On the night we visited, there was a strong mix of Bollywood, Afro Beats, and hip hop.
The attached Sheesha Lounge is a nice change of pace when you need a break from the dance floor. It’s stylish, and relaxed, and offers solid options if you want something chill without leaving the party.
Pro tip:
If you’re going with a group, VIP bottle service is actually worth considering. It comes with private seating, better views, and faster bar service. Splitting it 4 to 6 ways can be more affordable than you’d think.
12. Enjoy a concert at Arts Common
– Media credits: yycarts
Address: 205 8 Ave SE
Contact details: +1 403-294-7455
Operating hours: Depends on the show
Price: $$
Our team went to Arts Common for a concert, and the acoustics were amazing. We could hear everything crisply and evenly balanced, from the soft piano parts to the full orchestra moments.
We liked being able to grab a wine and a small snack before the show in the main lobby. It made the night feel more relaxed and special. That said, we wished there were more variety in food options.
Arts Common also has smaller theatres for other performances. One of these seats about 200 people. The main floor has wide, comfortable chairs that make it easy to sit through longer shows.
Pro tip:
There’s no strict dress code, but most people dress nicely for concerts and plays, so think dress smart casual. You won’t be out of place in jeans and a blazer or a nice dress.
