Head down to Eau Claire and the sunlight glinting off of The Barley Mill’s iconic water wheel will likely catch your attention. The Bow River Barley Mill’s two story building and water wheel pays tribute to Calgary’s Eau Claire area, the site of a water-driven lumber mill in 1886. The place where you can enjoy classic North American upscale pub fare and a drink today was once the final destination of timbers harvested from the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.

It’s fitting that the wood used to build the Barely Mills’ second story was salvaged from Alberta’s first distillery. The Barley Mill’s rustic log-home charm and sunny summer patios are great spots to try an extensive list of local and imported draught beers, plus premium scotches and spirits.