Your guide to accessibility in Calgary

Calgary is committed to being an increasingly accessible destination. That means seamless transportation, inclusive services, and helpful navigation. This guide will go through many of these accessibility features, but it’s really Calgary's welcoming people that set the city apart when it comes to inclusivity.

Built in Calgary by accessibility advocate Nabeel Ramji and co-founder Erin Shilliday, Pedesting is a free mobile app that helps people find their way through the outdoor and indoor spaces of Calgary’s downtown core.

The app highlights accessible routes and amenities such as elevators, ramps, washrooms, and pick-up and drop-off points. It’s designed for everyone including people with mobility challenges or vision loss, parents with strollers, and able-bodied walkers that just want to navigate downtown efficiently.

Pedesting currently features 25 downtown buildings such as the Central Library, Calgary TELUS Convention Centre, and office towers like The Ampersand, making it easier to explore the heart of the city with confidence.

Calgary’s vast Plus 15 network provides barrier-free and road-free access to 135+ buildings downtown. These indoor, elevated walkways are especially valuable in winter when sidewalks can be slippery or bumpy with ice. Here are some popular attractions accessible via the Plus 15 network:

• The CORE Shopping Centre

• Devonian Gardens

• Werklund Centre (formerly Arts Commons)

• Calgary Tower

• Glenbow Museum (opening in 2026 as the JR Centre for Arts & Culture)

The Calgary International Airport offers a range of in-terminal accessibility features such as:

• Barrier-free routes including elevators, ramps, and accessible washrooms

• Designated accessible parking and drop-off zones

• Available assistance services such as wheelchair support and dedicated staff

• Service dogs are permitted in all public areas

• Sensory-friendly and quiet spaces

Calgary Transit ensures convenient mobility across the city with:

• A 100% accessible fleet - Low-floor buses and CTrain vehicles are all equipped with deployable ramps.

• Accessible CTrain stations - Stations are accessible via elevators, ramps, or ground-level entry, with clearly marked accessible entrances.

• Modern Light Rail Vehicles (LRV) - Features include level boarding, double doors, designated mobility aid areas, extended door timers, and assistive T-coil systems for hearing aid users.

• MAX Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) - Features include elevated platforms, heated shelters, real-time information screens, and raised sidewalks for smooth boarding.

• Calgary Transit Access service - Door-to-door service that supports individuals who cannot use standard transit; features include online trip booking, shared rides, and eligibility based on functional ability.

Calgary has plenty of must-see attractions and they’ve taken steps to ensure that everyone can experience them in comfort.

Calgary Central Library

The Central Library has a long list of accessibility features including:

·       Sloped outdoor walkways

·       A staffed east-side elevator

·       Full internal elevator access with braille and auditory indicators

·       Tactile floor and stair markers

·       Accessible washrooms

·       Accessible service points

·       Bluetooth listening-assistance system for events

TELUS Spark Science Centre

The TELUS Spark Science Centre features state-of-the-art fully accessible galleries, theatres, and parking close to entrances. Sensory backpacks, headsets, and wheelchairs are all available on-site. They also offer a financial assistance program and care attendants are admitted for free.

Heritage Park

You can experience the past at Heritage Park more comfortably than ever with improved paths, accessible maps, service dog access, a shuttle service from the parking lot, and the Nightingale Accessible Railcar.

Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo

Explore Canada’s most visited zoo with the peace of mind of wheelchair-accessible paths, ramps, restrooms, and rentals. At the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo care attendants enter free, and sensory supports like quiet rooms, and noise-cancelling headphones are offered upon request.

Studio Bell

Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre features barrier-free entrances, elevators to all floors, and tactile/high-contrast signage. Wheelchairs are available, service dogs are welcome, and one caregiver is admitted free.

Scotiabank Saddledome

Although the iconic Scotiabank Saddledome is soon to be replaced by the new Scotia Place in 2027, the ‘Dome features two barrier free entry points, accessible parking, wheelchair assistance, accessible seating, and sensory accommodations.

Calgary Tower

Built in 1968, the Calgary Tower and SKY 360 Restaurant and Lounge have wheelchair access and are service-dog friendly.

WinSport’s Canada Olympic Park

WinSport offers an adapted multi-sport program designed for participants with physical disabilities, along with friends or family. Specialized sport wheelchairs, barrier-free access, and a focus on reducing physical and financial barriers make the park one of the most accessible outdoor attractions in Calgary.

The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland

Most indoor and outdoor areas at The Confluence are wheelchair accessible, including the Cultural Centre’s main doors and the paved pathways throughout the 40-acre park. Accessible washrooms and elevator access are available in the Barracks buildings. Some tours may include uneven terrain.

Werklund Centre

The Werklund Centre (formerly Arts Commons) is a hub for Calgary’s art community. Its venues have accessible seating, assistive listening devices, accessible washrooms, and ASL interpretation. They also offer accessible underground parking and drop-off areas.

Calaway Park

This classic theme park has wheelchair rentals, accessible washrooms, and is a member of the “Access 2 Program” for line-skipping and ride assistance. Many rides at Calaway Park feature accessible entrances, though some require transfers.

• AccessNow map

• City of Calgary accessibility resources

• City of Calgary accessible programs and services

• A Guide to Accessible Travel in Alberta