The Calgary TELUS Convention Centre (CTCC) is the definition of connected. Its location in the heart of downtown provides access to over 1,100 connected hotel rooms, 16km (10 miles) of elevated indoor walkways with Calgary’s +15 system, and dozens of attractions and restaurants.
Here are 7 can’t-miss experiences that delegates can easily walk to from the CTCC (listed from closest to furthest).
Stephen Avenue is a pedestrian mall that runs right in between the North and South buildings of the CTCC. Its charming brick and sandstone storefronts are filled with local shops and restaurants. In the summer, it’s patio heaven. In the winter, it twinkles with lights. Some top restaurants along Stephen Avenue include:
• Barbarella
• Modern Steak
• The Wednesday Room
• FinePrint
• Annabelle’s Kitchen
Address: 8th Avenue SW (from 4 Street SW to Macleod Trail)
Walking Time: 0 min – 10 min
Walking Route: Exit out of either building onto 8th Avenue (Stephen Avenue).
Since being built in 1968, the Calgary Tower has been an iconic symbol of the city. While taller skyscrapers have popped up around it, the tower still offers incredible views of the city and nearby Rocky Mountains. Those looking for a little adrenaline rush can step out onto the glass floor and gaze down at the street activity 160 m (525 feet) below.
Address: 101 9 Avenue SW
Walking Time: 1 min
Walking Route: Exit out of the South Building onto 9th Avenue SE and go half a block west. Can’t miss it.
A morning stroll along Stephen Avenue is the best way to start a day of meetings (Photo Credit: Travel Alberta/Chris Amat)
The Edison building (left), Calgary Tower (centre), and Fairmont Palliser (right) are all just a few minutes from the CTCC (Photo Credit: Colin Way)
Arts Commons is home to six performance companies including the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra and Theatre Calgary. There are always shows going on, giving delegates the perfect opportunity to experience some culture after the day’s meetings are done. A $660 million transformation of Arts Commons is underway and slated to be finished by 2029. It is the largest arts-focused infrastructure project currently happening in Canada.
Address: 205 8 Avenue SE
Walking Time: 1 min
Walking Route: Exit out of either building onto 8th Avenue (Stephen Avenue) and go half a block east.
The Glenbow Museum is amid a very exciting renovation that’s expected to finish in 2026. The 8-story museum is attached to the CTCC’s South Building, providing incredible free access to delegates once it re-opens. During the renovation, delegates can still check out Glenbow at The Edison, a free nearby satellite gallery hosting rotating exhibits.
Address: 150 9 Avenue SW – 2nd Floor
Walking Time: 4 min
Walking Route: Exit out of the South Building onto 9th Avenue SE and go one block west. The gallery is on the 2nd floor of The Edison building.
Calgary’s most unique park can be found on the 4th floor of a downtown mall. Devonian Gardens is an urban oasis with one hectare of botanical gardens which includes over 500 trees, a 900 sq. ft. living wall, fountains, and fishponds. It’s bright, airy, and a great spot for delegates to take a wellness break.
Address: 317 7 Avenue SW - 4th Floor
Walking Time: 10 min
Walking Route: Exit out of either building onto 8th Avenue (Stephen Avenue) and head west for 3 blocks. Take the escalators or elevators up to the 4th floor of the CORE Shopping Centre.
Devonian Gardens is a peaceful retreat for locals and visitors (Photo Credit: ROAM Creative)
Make time to just stand and marvel at the architecture while visiting the Central Library (Photo Credit: Colin Way)
Calgary’s Central Library is likely the most impressive library you’ve ever seen. Its exterior has an expansive mosaic of windows resembling bee hives and a western red wood cedar archway modelled after a chinook arch. The LRT train runs right under the building. The inside has winding staircases, vaulted ceilings, and a gorgeous giant skylight. Any delegates interested in architecture will be happy to know that free one-hour tours are available.
Address: 800 3 Street SE
Walking Time: 10 min
Walking Route: Exit out of the South Building onto 9th Avenue SE and go three blocks east.
Canada’s rich history of music is on display at Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre. The building’s stunning exterior is worth the visit alone; it’s comprised of nine subtly curved interlocking towers clad in glazed terra cotta. Fans of Canadian legends like Bryan Adams, Shania Twain, and Neil Young will love the 5-floor museum and its interactive exhibits.
Address: 850 4 Street SE
Walking Time: 12 min
Walking Route: Exit out of the South Building onto 9th Avenue SE and walk four blocks east.