Take a day to explore the East Village on foot. Nestled on the banks of the Bow River, the up-and-coming neighbourhood is home to historic buildings, award-winning restaurants and diverse public art.
This itinerary is great for Canadian music aficionados, foodies, urban history buffs and anyone who wants to hang with the cool kids.
At a glance
- 1 day itinerary
- 7 km (4 mi) total distance
- Your starting point is in Simmons Building
Breakfast at the Simmons Building
This historic mattress factory has been repurposed as a home to three artisanal culinary experiences: Charbar, Sidewalk Citizen Bakery, and Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters. (Yes, that’s a butcher, a baker and a coffee maker.) While you’re here, consider picking up fixings for lunch in the park.
National Music Centre (aka Studio Bell)
Pay homage to your favourite artists in the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, enjoy five floors of interactive exhibits and memorabilia, and discover new vibrations being created by the current artists in residence. You might even catch a glimpse of the historic Rolling Stones Mobile Recording Studio.
St. Patrick’s Island
Take some time mid-day to decompress in the natural beauty of St. Patrick’s Island. The 31-acre (12.5-hectare) park boasts a picnic area, playground, seasonal beach, and fishing cove, all in a wilderness setting just a 15-minute walk from Studio Bell. Make sure you check out the stunning view from the island’s rise.
TIP FROM A LOCAL
Studio Bell is open to the public Wednesday through Sunday between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.
The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland
The convergence of the Bow and Elbow rivers has long been recognized as a significant place by Indigenous peoples. In 1875, the North-West Mounted Police built a fort on the site, establishing the city of Calgary we know today. Visit the interpretive centre or undertake an audio-guided tour of the land.
Esker Foundation Contemporary Art Gallery
Visit the Esker Foundation gallery to experience contemporary art and installations from Calgary and around the world. Check out new works that directly respond to the East Village neighbourhood in the foundation’s Project Space, which is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Admission is free.
Smithbilt Hats
For over 100 years, Smithbilt Hats has been crafting iconic headgear that defines western culture. The longstanding family business is the creator of the official White Cowboy Hat of Calgary, aka the White Smithbilt. Come in, take a tour, shop around—you can even make your own customized hat.
TIP FROM A LOCAL
Smithbilt Hats closes at 5 p.m. Monday to Friday, and 4 p.m. on Saturday. The shop is closed on Sunday.
East Village Food Tour
Book a private tour with Alberta Food Tours and let a local expert introduce you to Calgary’s eclectic eateries and renowned food artisans. Or just follow your nose around the East Village—between the neighbourhood’s casual and fine dining options, you won’t be disappointed.
Stampede Park and Scotiabank Saddledome
Stampede Park hosts concerts, sporting events and the Calgary Stampede—an iconic 10-day festival held every July. Scotiabank Saddledome, located in the park, is a multi-use indoor arena and home of the NHL’s Calgary Flames. Check out the Saddledome’s website to see what’s happening tonight.
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