Calgary has it all

Visitors to downtown can travel about the city unhampered by traffic in the world’s largest skywalk network, shopping and dining in the historic Stephen Avenue area or in one of two malls. Those interested in cultural events have many cinemas, galleries and museums to choose from, and can attend performances of various theatre troupes and the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra.

Sports enthusiasts need not be disappointed either. The Saddledome is home to the National Hockey League Calgary Flames, and in recent years several other hockey teams and a lacrosse team as well.

With all of this going for it, one of my favorite features of the city is that, even though it is one of the densest business districts in North America, residents of the many apartments in downtown Calgary are not locked into a concreted urban existence.



The Core Shopping Centre houses the Devonian Gardens on the upper level. The Devonian Gardens is an amazing 2.5 acre botanical park in the sky. Completely enclosed in glass, it is a tropical oasis even in the midst of Canadian winters, home to thousands of plants native to much warmer climes.

Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the Olympic Plaza in downtown Calgary as well. The Olympic Plaza was the site of the medal ceremonies when Calgary hosted the 1988 Winter Olympics, and has since been the site of festivals, open-air concerts, and other outdoor events. In warmer weather, visitors enjoy the fountains and decorative pools. In winter the park serves as a public ice skating arena.

Indoors or out, culture, shopping or sports, Calgary has something to suit everyone.