Rife with public parks and green spaces, Bowness is a neighbourhood beloved by families and nature enthusiasts alike. But alongside the natural beauty and outdoor activities, there’s plenty of local businesses, restaurants, and shops to discover. Here’s your complete guide to Calgary’s historic Bowness.
Shopping
Variety is the spice of life, and this is especially true when shopping at the wide range of businesses in the Bowness neighbourhood.
With several locations across Calgary, Bow Cycle’s first store opened in Bowness in 1957. All these years later, the flagship location continues to sell bikes, gear, accessories, rentals, and more in a bike-lover’s paradise.
If your interests skew on the nerdier side, Bowness Arts is the place to be. This store has something for everyone, including vinyl, books, games, and trading cards. They also have a small cafe for gamers who’d like to stay awhile.
And for a place that has a little bit of everything, be sure to check out Valley Boutique and Home. This store sells charming home decor, clothing, accessories, self-care products, and more.
Other recommendations:
Coffee
Bowness may not have as many coffee shops as downtown neighbourhoods, but the ones they do have are some of the best in the city, boasting delicious drinks, unique menu items, and a fantastic in-house vibe.
Cadence Coffee is a 21st-century diner located in the heart of Bowness, complete with checkered floors, red stools, and a menu of delectable coffee. You can also order breakfast and lunch options like eggs, pastries, and wraps.
Fringe Coffee is a spacious cafe, perfect for families to stop and hang out. With community at its core, Fringe encourages visitors to enjoy a book from their shelves, play one of the supplied board games, or enjoy a drink on their swing-seats. Fun!
And one of Bowness’s newest coffee shops is already making a name for itself in the Calgary cafe scene. Fenyk Coffee & Social opened its first location in Bowness just last year and has already expanded to a second shop near Canada Olympic Park.
Other recommendations:
Restaurants
Bowness is home to some pretty iconic restaurants, so don’t be afraid to bring your appetite.
Angel’s Drive In is a Calgary classic. You’ll recognize it by the vintage red Cadillac perched atop the roof. The 1950s-style restaurant is a blast from the past, serving up favourite treats like milkshakes, burgers, curly fries, and onion rings.
Or hit up Salt & Pepper, an authentic Mexican spot serving up traditional meals and unmatched flavours. It was even featured on an episode of Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives last year.
Feeling fancy? Seasons of Bowness Park is the way to go. The casual fine-dining spot has seasonal menus featuring the freshest ingredients, plus a gorgeous view of the Bow River.
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Drinks
Want to enjoy a brew or two? Bowness is full of fantastic breweries and other wonderful places to kick back and enjoy a beverage.
Rising Tides Taproom rotates its beers often, prioritizing the best local brews and a “giving tap” that supports rotating local charities. It also has a margarita and taco menu, because why not?
Brewsmith Brewing pours $8.75 20-ounce pints every day, and features creative rotating taps like the Bownesian Rhapsody Sour Series, Soda Jerk Root Beer Float Sour, and Sugarbush Maple Chocolate Porter.
And if you prefer a cocktail, The Artist Lounge can cater to your tastes. Located within an art gallery, the cocktail bar offers a selection of globally inspired tapas and curated cocktails to suit every palate.
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Activities
On top of all the great places to eat, shop, and hang out in Bowness, there’s also so much to see and do.
The neighbourhood’s main claim to fame is Bowness Park, a 20-hectare urban park on the Bow River, perfect for picnics and boating in the summer, and ice skating in the winter.
You can also explore Calgary Farmers Market West, which features over 141 incredible local vendors that craft, bake, and grow their products in Alberta.
And did you know Calgary has a juke joint? Mikey’s Juke Joint and Eatery is one of Calgary’s best live music experiences, hosting a regular lineup of live performances in blues, jazz, comedy, and more.
Other recommendations:
- Bowmont Park — A natural environment park great for local hikes
- WinSport — The go-to location for all things adventurous
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