At 1 million sq ft, the BMO Centre is big enough that you shouldn’t have much reason to leave. A 40,000 sq. ft. year-round outdoor plaza, more than 85 pieces of public art, and Canada’s largest indoor fireplace make it easy to stay put during break time. But its prime location in the heart of Calgary’s emerging Culture + Entertainment District does give you access to some incredible spots nearby. 

Here are 7 can’t-miss experiences that delegates can easily walk to from the BMO Centre at Stampede Park (listed from closest to furthest). 

Have A Night Out on 17th Ave

If you’re looking for a fun night out after a long day of meetings, 17th Ave is the spot. The stretch from 1st St to 14th St is packed with more than 75 restaurants, including some of Calgary’s most-loved spots:

• Model Milk (12 min walk)
• Lulu Bar (15 min walk)
• The Ship & Anchor (16 min walk)
• Lonely Mouth Bar (16 min walk)
• Trolley 5 (21 min walk) 
• The Coup (25 min walk)

Address: 17 Ave SW
Walking Time: 0 min – 10 min 
Walking Route: Exit out the west doors and you’ll immediately connect to 17th Ave. The main stretch of restaurants runs west for 14 blocks.

Catch a Calgary Flames Game

Calgarians are obsessed with their NHL team and if your event overlaps with a Flames game make sure to join in the ‘C of Red’. The Scotiabank Saddledome is conveniently right next door to the BMO Centre. If the Flames aren’t playing, check to see if the WHL’s Calgary Hitmen or the NLL’s Calgary Roughnecks are in action. 

Address: 555 Saddledome Rise SE
Walking Time: 4 min
Walking Route: Exit out of the east doors and cross the plaza to the Scotiabank Saddledome.

Snap the Perfect Pic at the Calgary Selfie Museum

If you want some unique photos to remember your time in Calgary, grab a few colleagues and visit the Calgary Selfie Museum. The space has dozens of interactive photo stations providing all sorts of weird and wonderful backdrops. 

Address: 140 17 Ave SE
Walking Time: 5 min
Walking Route: Exit out the west doors and head one block west on 17th Ave.

Treat Yourself at Village Ice Cream

Village Ice Cream offers delegates the perfect quick escape from a day of meetings. The Victoria Park location is where Village started its local ice cream empire. Try one of the seasonal flavours or one of their classics like: Guide’s Mint, Two Hills Earl Grey, or Maple Pecan. 

Address: 431 10 Ave SE
Walking Time: 7 min
Walking Route: Exit out the north doors and take 3rd St SE or Stampede Trail north for two blocks to 10th Ave.

Saddle Up at Sam Centre

Experience all that makes up The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth at Sam Centre. Take a trip through time and learn Stampede’s greatest stories through interactive exhibits and immersive multimedia shows. While you’re there, indulge in a culinary adventure with delightful desserts and exquisite coffee at Maisie Eatery. 

Address: 632 13 Ave SE
Walking Time: 9 min
Walking Route: Exit out the east doors and head three blocks east through Stampede Park.

Take in Skyline Views at Scotsman’s Hill

Scotsman’s Hill offers arguably the best view of Calgary’s skyline. The view is particularly stunning at sunset. You just might want to leave your blazer behind because you’ll need to walk up 159 stairs to get the full pay-off.

Address: Scotsman’s Hill
Walking Time: 11 min
Walking Route: Exit out the south doors and take Corral Trail through Stampede Park and across the Elbow River before taking the stairs up Scotsman’s Hill.

Relax Riverside at Lindsay Park

Sometimes a breath of fresh air is exactly what you need during a long event. The perfect place to do that is Lindsay Park. It’s a treed oasis tucked into a bend of the Elbow River. If you’ve got an hour and want to really stretch your legs, take the scenic Elbow River Pathway, which runs directly into the park.

Address: 800 3 St. SE
Walking Time: 15 min
Walking Route: Exit out the west doors and head west on 17th Ave for three blocks to Rouleauville Square. Go south past St. Mary’s Cathedral and across the bridge to Lindsay Park.