Calgarians are crazy about hockey. On game day, visitors to the city will notice a sea of red – shirts, hockey jerseys and even flags fluttering from cars. You too can catch the spirit. Use this guide as a starting point for some of the best places to stay, eat and explore while you're in Calgary.
Things to Do When You Travel to Calgary for a Hockey Game
Reading time: 3 minutes
Hockey fans have the time of their lives in Calgary. After watching the Calgary Flames play live, it’s easy to keep the energy high at these beloved city spots.
- Several top-notch Calgary hotels are within easy access to the arena.
- Pre-game dining options range from steak joints to Mexican to happy hours.
- Explore can’t miss attractions like the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.
Where to stay
The Westley Hotel, one of the latest additions to Calgary's downtown core, is nestled between the West End and Financial District. The hotel reflects Calgary's work hard, play hard mentality and love of the unconventional. It's also three blocks from light rail rapid transit, offering an easy route to the action at the Scotiabank Saddledome.
For a slice of local history, check in at the grand Fairmont Palliser or lounge by one of the city's best indoor pools at Hotel Arts.
Where to eat
You're spoiled for choice when it comes to pre-game dining – just don't forget to make a reservation. If you're staying at the Westley, try Fonda Fora for contemporary Mexican. Or, head over to Stephen Avenue, which gets extra lively before a game, to check out The Wednesday Room, Modern Steak or the James Joyce Irish Pub. Closer to the Saddledome, tuck into homemade pasta at Cardinale, catch Hockey Happy Hour at the King Eddy or play some arcade games at Home and Away.
Where to explore
While you're in Calgary for a game, get to know the city. Calgary Walks & Bus Tours can show you all the most popular spots and hidden gems. The downtown tour shares stories of the city's beginnings as a frontier town and its transformation into the lively urban centre it is today. If you want to cover more ground, hop on a bus tour to pack in the sights. Whichever option you choose, you'll need to book your spot in advance.
For the best views around, take a ride to the top of the Calgary Tower. You'll even spot the Canadian Rockies on a clear day. Then take your pick of some of the city's can't-miss attractions. Music lovers will get lost (in the best way) in the exhibits at Studio Bell - National Music Centre. Don't miss the Canadian Music Hall of Fame or rare pieces like Elton John's songwriting piano. Or venture across the river to visit the animals at the famous Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo. Steps away, you'll have fun with the interactive exhibits at TELUS Spark Science Centre.
