Calgary Tower: A Panoramic View of Calgary’s Skyline and Beyond

A Visitor’s Guide to Calgary Tower: History, Observation Deck, and Dining Experience

The Calgary Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Calgary, offering visitors spectacular 360-degree views of the city’s skyline, the Rocky Mountains, and the sprawling Alberta plains. Standing at 191 meters (626 feet), the tower was originally built in 1968 as a symbol of the city’s growing prosperity. Today, it remains one of Calgary’s most popular tourist attractions, combining breathtaking views with a unique dining experience.

A Tower with Historical Significance

The Calgary Tower was initially named the Husky Tower, as it was built by the Husky Oil company and Canadian Pacific Railway to celebrate Canada’s centennial in 1967. The tower was later renamed the Calgary Tower and has since become a symbol of the city’s progress and development.

At the time of its completion, the Calgary Tower was the tallest structure in Calgary and one of the tallest buildings in Canada. While the city’s skyline has grown considerably since then, the tower remains an important piece of Calgary’s architectural and cultural heritage.

What to See and Do at Calgary Tower

1. Observation Deck:
   • The main attraction of the Calgary Tower is its observation deck, which offers stunning panoramic views of Calgary, the nearby Rocky Mountains, and the surrounding landscape. The observation deck provides visitors with a unique perspective on the city and allows them to spot key landmarks like the Bow River, Stampede Grounds, and Stephen Avenue Walk.
   • One of the highlights of the observation deck is the glass floor, which gives visitors the thrilling experience of looking directly down at the street below. This feature is a favorite among visitors looking for a unique photo opportunity.
2. Multimedia Guides and Interactive Displays:
   • Visitors to the Calgary Tower can enhance their experience by using the multimedia guides, available in several languages. These guides provide insights into the history of the tower, Calgary’s growth, and the geography of the region. Interactive displays on the observation deck allow visitors to learn more about the city’s landmarks and key points of interest.
   • The guides also include information on the Indigenous history of the area, offering a deeper understanding of Calgary’s cultural heritage.
3. Dining at Sky 360:
   • For a unique dining experience, visitors can enjoy a meal at Sky 360, the revolving restaurant located just below the observation deck. The restaurant completes a full rotation every 45 minutes, allowing diners to take in the stunning views of the city and mountains as they enjoy their meal.
   • Sky 360 offers a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients and a range of Canadian-inspired dishes. Whether you’re visiting for lunch, dinner, or cocktails, the restaurant provides a memorable dining experience with unbeatable views.
   • It’s a popular spot for special occasions and romantic dinners, so reservations are recommended.
4. Calgary Tower Lighting:
   • One of the more striking features of the Calgary Tower is its exterior LED lighting, which illuminates the tower with vibrant colors each night. The lights are used to mark special occasions, national holidays, and local events, making the tower a beacon of celebration in Calgary’s skyline.
   • The light show is especially impressive during events like Canada Day, the Calgary Stampede, and New Year’s Eve, when the tower is lit up with a spectacular display of colors and patterns.
5. Stampede City:
   • During the annual Calgary Stampede, the Calgary Tower is an exciting place to be, offering views of the festivities from above. The tower is located close to the Stampede Grounds, and visitors can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the parades, rodeos, and events that take place during the ten-day celebration of Western heritage and culture.

Calgary Tower Events and Special Experiences

• New Year’s Eve Celebrations: The tower’s observation deck is a popular spot to watch the New Year’s Eve fireworks and countdown to midnight, providing a spectacular view of the festivities across the city.
• Private Events: The Calgary Tower can also be booked for private events, including weddings, corporate gatherings, and special celebrations. The combination of stunning views and a unique atmosphere makes it a one-of-a-kind venue.

How to Get There

The Calgary Tower is located in the heart of downtown Calgary, making it easily accessible by foot, public transportation, or car.

• Address: 101 9 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 1J9
• Public Transport: The tower is accessible via Calgary Transit, with several bus routes and CTrain stations nearby.
• Parking: There are several parking lots and underground garages in the area, though many visitors choose to walk or use public transit to reach the tower.

Visiting Hours and Admission

The Calgary Tower is open year-round, with extended hours during the summer months. Admission fees apply, with discounts for children, seniors, and families. Tickets can be purchased online or at the tower.

• Hours: Open daily, though hours may vary depending on the season and special events.
• Admission: Tickets can be purchased online for faster entry.
• Official Website: https://www.calgarytower.com/

Best Time to Visit

While the Calgary Tower is open year-round, the best time to visit is during sunset, when the city is bathed in golden light, and the views of the Rocky Mountains are especially breathtaking. On clear days, visitors can see as far as the foothills of the Rockies and enjoy a panoramic view of Calgary’s diverse landscape.

Winter visits also offer a unique experience, as the city is often blanketed in snow, and the surrounding landscape takes on a serene, wintry beauty. During the Calgary Stampede in July, the tower is an exciting place to be, with festivities happening all around.

A Must-Visit Calgary Landmark

Whether you’re visiting for the incredible views, the unique dining experience, or to learn more about Calgary’s history and growth, the Calgary Tower offers something for everyone. As one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, it provides visitors with an unforgettable experience and a new perspective on Calgary’s vibrant skyline and natural beauty.