From modern art at Esker Foundation to discovering historical artefacts at The Military Museums, there is always something to see and learn at these exciting destinations in Calgary, including the top free-entry spots.

Art Galleries in Calgary

Contemporary Calgary 

Contemporary Calgary always keeps the focus on exhibiting the best modern art the world has to offer. That’s what makes it one of the top museums in Calgary. Located in the former Centennial Planetarium, this reimagined space always has something new to explore, highlighting modern and contemporary art. Located steps from the Downtown/West Kerby C-Train station, Contemporary Calgary is easy to access for arts and culture enthusiasts of all ages. 

Location: 701 11 St SW 

cSPACE Marda Loop 

It’s all about creativity and community at cSPACE Marda Loop (previously cSPACE King Edward), a historic building turned arts incubator with an ever-changing mix of artist studios, performance spaces, and workshops. Visit the Alberta Craft Gallery for the perfect souvenir from Alberta-based artists, including everything from ceramics and jewellery to wood, textiles, and glass.  

Location: 1721 29 Ave SW Suite #125 

Esker Foundation 

Esker Foundation is the largest privately funded, non-commercial contemporary art gallery in the city, with 10,000 square feet to explore in the historic neighbourhood of Inglewood. The gallery changes exhibitions three times each year so there is always something new and fresh to discover on your next visit. The best part? Admission to Esker Foundation is free, making it a budget friendly way to get your arts and culture fix. 

Location: 1011 9 Ave SE 4th floor 

Museums in Calgary

The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland (formerly Fort Calgary)

History is around every corner at The Confluence. Discover the diverse histories of traditional Treaty 7 territories along with the origins of Calgary at the home of the first North West Mounted Police fort, built in 1875, at the forks of the Bow and Elbow Rivers. The Confluence is a short walk from the City Hall Calgary Transit station and also offers free parking on site.

Location: 750 9 Ave SE

Gasoline Alley Museum at Heritage Park Historical Village 

Take a drive into the past at Gasoline Alley Museum, home to one of the world's most extensive collections of antique vehicles and oil and gas artefacts from the early 1900s to the 1950s. View interesting temporary exhibits, explore the upper and lower showrooms, and enjoy family-friendly activities in the museum, all included with your Heritage Park admission! This museum is a must-take pit stop on your Heritage Park Historical Village adventure. 

Location: 1900 Heritage Dr SW  

Glenbow 

Glenbow is temporarily closed for major building renovations and upgrades that are expected to be finished in 2026. However, the museum has opened a temporary space for exhibitions at the Edison, which will operate until Glenbow’s renovated building reopens to the public. Learn more about Glenbow’s renovation plan, Glenbow Reimagined, and how they are transforming the iconic space. Admission to Glenbow at the Edison is free but registration is required. 

Location: 130 9 Ave SE 

The Hangar Flight Museum 

The history of Western aviation takes flight with interactive exhibits, uniforms, scale models, and over 20 historic aircraft on display at The Hangar Flight Museum. Deepen your appreciation for the wonder of flight as you learn the stories told about the airplanes and helicopters in the collection on display in a historic Second World War drill hall and outdoor hangar. 

Location: 4629 McCall Way NE 

Kiyooka Ohe Arts Centre and Sculpture Park

Discover a transformative blend of contemporary art and nature at the Kiyooka Ohe Arts Centre and Sculpture Park, a 20-acre sustainable haven on the outskirts of Calgary. Founded by influential artists Katie Ohe and the late Harry Kiyooka, visitors are invited to connect with over 20 sculptures and the vibrant local flora. The park is open Thursday to Sunday with free admission and onsite parking. 

Location: 244034 Horizon View Rd 

The Military Museums 

Step into history at Canada's second largest military museum! Calgary's Military Museums are dedicated to preserving the memories and traditions of the Canadian Armed Forces through art, artifacts, and education. Tour eight separate museums at one location including the Naval, Army, and Air Force Museums of Alberta. 

Location: 4520 Crowchild Trail SW 

Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre 

Listen to the music at Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre. Five floors of interactive exhibits, artifacts, instruments, and music memorabilia tell the story of music in Canada, with public tours available daily that are included with admission. Studio Bell is also home to the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, Canadian Music Hall of Fame, Quebec’s ADISQ Hall of Fame, and the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame. 

Location: 850 4 St. SE 

Tsuut'ina Nation Culture Museum 

Explore the Tsuut'ina Nation Culture Museum to discover rich cultural history, enjoy breathtaking mountain views, and learn about Chief Bullhead's homestead. The museum, situated in a beautiful location just minutes west of Calgary, aims to connect Indigenous youth with their heritage while sharing Tsuut'ina Nation’s history with the public. Additionally, visit the Museum Gift Shop for authentic handmade Indigenous goods and support over 40 local artisans while highlighting the diverse cultures of Tsuut'ina and Turtle Island.  

Location: Tsuut'ina, AB 

Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre 

Learn the history of the Chinese community in Calgary at the Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre Museum and get a firsthand look at rare replicas of Chinese artifacts, sculptures, ceramics and porcelain items, bronze wares, and items of the Qing Dynasty. Located in the lower level of the Cultural Centre is the award-winning exhibit hall: “Our Chosen Land: 100 years of development of the Chinese community in Calgary.” First presented in 1994, the exhibition was a tribute to the Calgary Centennial Celebration, as the Chinese community has contributed to the development of Calgary since its inception more than 100 years ago. Admission is free for self guided tours Monday-Sunday. 

Location: 197 1 St SW 

Sam Centre

Celebrate over a century of Stampede history at the Sam Centre, Calgary Stampede’s first year-round destination. Through hands-on exhibits, multimedia shows, and themed galleries, experience the people, events, and traditions that make the Calgary Stampede legendary. Highlights include interactive photo stations, Stampede fashion displays, and the 270° Stampede Sensations show. Located within Stampede Park, Sam Centre is a 10-minute walk from the Victoria Park/Stampede CTrain station.

Location: North-East Stampede Park