Welcome to Cowtown!
We are so excited for so many of our friends and family to be coming to Calgary - many for the first time! We know some of you are disappointed that we aren't getting married during the Calgary Stampede, but we promise to show you a good time. Plus it gives you an excuse to come back and visit again soon!
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We also know many of you are going to venture out to Banff and Lake Louise before or after the wedding weekend.
Please see below for some of our favourite things to do (and eat!) in both places.
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Calgary neighborhoods to check out:
17th Ave SW - Between 4th and 10th street there are a bunch of great bars and restaurants. You'll also be able to peak into Whitney's high school and spot Whitney and Adrian's townhouse. If you're into dive bars grab a beer at the Ship & Anchor or National. If you're looking to grab a quick bite try the tapas at Ox Bar, french food at Royale, or tacos at Blanco.
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Inglewood - One of Calgary's 'up and coming' neighborhoods Inglewood is home to some great brewerys - play some boardgames while enjoying delicious beer at Cold Garden and check out High Line and Ol Beautiful while you're there. If you're hungry pop into the Nash - it's one of Calgary's best restaurants.
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Stephen Ave - Just one block north of the Palliser, Stephen ave is Calgary's 'happy hour hot spot'. Packed with bars and patios you're sure to find a good spot to settle in.
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Eau Claire & Kensington - Take a walk north of downtown through Eau Claire and across the river into Kensington where you'll find a lot of cute boutiques and eclectic dining options. Grab a whiskey and enjoy some delicious BBQ at Hayden Block.
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Activities around downtown:
Rent bikes! Calgary is home to an amazing pathway system. Bike down to the river and hop on the pathway going either east or west to explore more of the city.
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Shop - The folks coming from the US should definitely take advantage of the exchange rate and do some shopping. Start at Holt Renfrew and make your way through The Core to find some deals.
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Eat and drink - Please see below for some of our favourite bars and restos in and around downtown.
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Steak: Hy's - You must try some Alberta Beef while you're in town. Hy's is a great, traditional, steak house which also has some really good happy hour specials.
Italian: Bonterra - Adrian's love affair with Spaghetti Carbonara lives on at this Calgary institution.
Cocktails: Proof - A short walk from the Palliser, Proof has an incredible cocktail list and claims to have the best mixologists in town. The Wednesday Room - right in the middle of downtown, also a cool spot with great cocktails and snacks.
Upscale: Teatro - A beautiful room and fantastic food - you're sure to have an excellent dining experience.
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Places to eat in Banff & Lake Louise
The Bison - Adrian and Whitney's favourite resto in Banff, the food and ambiance are great. You have to get the bison short rib!
The Grizzly House - A very unique fondue restaurant with some crazy stuff on the menu (rattlesnake!)
The Maple Leaf: Owned by the same people that own the Bison. Also very good, but a little less exciting.
The Juniper Hotel has an amazing view of Banff. There is a nice patio where you can enjoy lunch while enjoying the views.
Banff Springs Hotel - While in Banff you have to spend some time exploring this historic and grand hotel. Grab lunch or a drink on the terrace overlooking Banff and the valley. Great spot for pictures.
Chateau Lake Louise - One of Canada's historic and most infamous hotels the Chateau is right on the Lake. Definitely grab a meal or drink in the lounge overlooking the lake and take some time to explore. The Tea House trail is a great hike that starts right in front of the hotel.
The Post Hotel in Lake Louise - We highly recommend staying and/or eating at the Post in Lake Louise - it's very quaint and cozy and the restaurant is incredible.