Your guide to visiting The Confluence Historic Site

The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland (formerly Fort Calgary) is one of Calgary’s richest educational experiences. The site offers scenic riverside trails, immersive exhibits on the history of the area, and authentic Indigenous programming right downtown.

 Learn what to expect from a visit to this cultural gem.

Confluence simply means a meeting of two rivers – in this case the Bow and Elbow Rivers. In 2024, Fort Calgary changed its name to The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland. This change recognized the diverse histories of the land, beyond just the story of the North-West Mounted Police.

There are two permanent exhibits inside The Confluence Cultural Centre.

• Unfamiliar Perspectives: The NWMP and Canada’s Colonial Project – Discover the lesser-known stories of the North-West Mounted Police and their march west, through artifacts and thought-provoking interpretive materials.

• Kípaitápiiyssinnooni (Our Way of Life) - Immerse yourself in local Indigenous culture as you enter an interactive space inspired by traditional Blackfoot lodge design.

There are always a few other featured exhibits to engage with during your visit.

Guided tours are a great way to dig deeper and participate in meaningful dialogue, both internally and with others.

• Audio tour - Learn about the Indigenous history of the area through songs and stories from elders and historians as you wander the parkland surrounding the Cultural Centre.

• Private tour – Plan ahead and book one of the many private tours on offer such as the “Path to Reconciliation Walking Tour” or the “Bannock & Berries Indigenous Food Experience”.

There is always something happening at The Confluence, from movie nights in the Burnswest Theatre to topical discussions with local experts. Make sure to check upcoming events before your visit.

• Start with the land – Walk the outdoor pathways, making a stop at the confluence of the rivers, before heading inside to the exhibits.

• Dress for the weather – Some programs and tours take place outdoors.

• Check ahead – Special events and guided tours may require pre-booking or have limited capacity.

• Bring a camera – The riverside parkland, mixed with Calgary’s impressive skyline, makes for beautiful photo opportunities.

• Make it part of your day – Pair your visit with nearby attractions like Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre , the stunning Central Library , or the historic neighbourhood of Inglewood.

The Confluence is on the eastern edge of downtown and just steps from the shops in Inglewood and attractions in East Village. Its indoor exhibits, walking trails, and public programming are available year-round.

Getting there

• Walk or bike - The site connects directly to Calgary’s RiverWalk pathway system, which runs along the northern edge of downtown. It’s also easily accessed on foot or by bike via 9 Avenue SE.

• Transit - The closest CTrain station is “City Hall/Bow Valley College”. It’s a straight-forward 15-minute walk from the station to The Confluence.

• Parking: There is plenty of paid parking on-site. Additional paid street parking is available throughout the nearby East Village neighbourhood.

Accessibility

• Most of the site’s indoor and outdoor areas are wheelchair accessible.

• The main doors into the Cultural Centre are accessible and connected to the parking lot by an accessible sidewalk.

• There are accessible washrooms in the Lower Barracks.

• Some guided tours may involve travel on uneven terrain.

Please contact The Confluence team directly for specific accessibility details.

The closest hotels to The Confluence are in the bustling East Village neighbourhood. There are three great options, all about a 10-minute walk from The Confluence.

• Alt Hotel Calgary East Village

• Hilton Garden Inn Calgary Downtown

• Homewood Suites by Hilton Calgary Downtown