Perfect pubs
Calgary is awash with welcoming, chilled-out pubs and lounges perfect for a spontaneous night out. Locals take their craft beer seriously, so drinks menus are eclectic and extensive. And you won’t need to risk drinking on an empty stomach, as many bars also boast irresistible food menus.
Conveniently located in the heart of bustling Downtown, The Unicorn is one of Calgary’s best-loved and longest established pubs. It boasts a cozy interior with wood-beamed ceilings, a friendly, laid-back vibe, and an extensive selection of both locally-brewed and international beers on tap. There’s also some seriously tempting food on offer, including meatloaf and mac 'n' cheese.
304 8th Avenue SW, Calgary AB T2P 1C1.
National on 10th
National is a local mini-chain inspired by classic North American tastes, with several Calgary locations. Their 10th Avenue joint boasts a stylish, speakeasy-style Bourbon room, where you can pick from a fantastic array of dark spirits, craft beers, and expertly-mixed cocktails. In the basement you’ll even find a retro-style bowling alley.
341 10th Avenue SW, Calgary AB T2R 0A4 .
Cocktail bars
If you have a special occasion to celebrate, a hot date to impress, or you simply feel like dressing up and splashing some cash, Calgary boasts an ever-growing selection of elegant cocktail lounges and glamorous hotel bars. Kick your night off in style at one of these decadent destinations. Central 899
Located in the lobby of the luxurious Hôtel Le Germain, Central 899 is a stylish lounge bar surrounded by gleaming glass walls, perfect for a romantic evening or refined celebration. Sip Champagne by the glass, or innovative cocktails made with imported spirits and organic ingredients. You can pair up your drinks with sophisticated bar snacks like warm olives with fennel and preserved lemon, or raw milk cheese from Quebec.
899 Centre Street SW, Calgary AB T2G 1B8.
This seductively old school bar is one of Calgary’s premier drinking destinations. Refined yet relaxed, it boasts Calgary’s most extensive selection of Moët & Chandon champagnes, plus a diverse menu of vintage and classic cocktails. It’s also the place in town to enjoy live jazz, with performances by top local artists several nights a week.
133 9th Avenue SW, Calgary T2P 2M3.
Nightclubs
Calgary’s club scene offers everything from rowdy rodeo bars to state-of-the-art superclubs, with vibrant gay venues and intimate hipster joints adding a sophisticated edge to proceedings.
The Roadhouse is a sprawling club with 5 bars which gets packed out every weekend with a young, fun-loving crowd. On Thursdays it’s home to the city’s number 1 student and ladies' nights, with cheap drink deals and saucy on-stage entertainment. Some evenings you can also enjoy live country bands and line dancing lessons before the DJs hit the decks. Soft drinks are free for designated drivers all night long.
840 9 Avenue SW, Calgary AB T2P 0L9.
Comedy clubs
In the mood for laughing rather than dancing? Calgary will keep the chuckles coming at its comedy venues, where rising stars and established comics will take to the microphone to startle, shock and amuse.The Laugh Shop
The Laugh Shop is Calgary’s premier comedy hub, playing host to an ever-rotating roster of local talent, national touring comedians, and international stand-up stars. You can happily spend an entire night here – in addition to world-class entertainment, there’s a delicious menu of sharing platters and junk food favorites.
5940 Blackfoot Trail SE, Calgary AB T2H 2B5.
