Calgary Tower | Calgary

The Calgary Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Standing tall in the heart of the city, it offers breathtaking views of the cityscape and surrounding areas, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals.

Overview of Calgary Tower

Height: The Calgary Tower stands at 191 meters (627 feet), which was the tallest structure in Calgary when it was completed in 1968. Today, it remains a prominent feature of the Calgary skyline.

Location: The tower is located in downtown Calgary at the intersection of 9th Avenue SW and 9th Street SW, right in the heart of the city's vibrant core. It is easily accessible from many of Calgary’s major attractions, including the Glenbow Museum, Stephen Avenue, and Prince Island Park.

Ownership: It is owned by the H&R REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust), a major property management company.

History and Construction

Opening: The Calgary Tower was completed and officially opened in 1968 under the original name "The Calgary Tower." It was built as part of the city's centennial celebrations and is a symbol of Calgary's growth and ambition during the post-war economic boom.

Purpose: The tower was initially constructed to serve as an observation tower, but it also housed broadcast antennas and served as a communication tower for radio and television signals.

Architectural Design: The Calgary Tower was designed by architect W.G. Milne and structural engineer C.D. Howe. Its design incorporates a modernist style with a distinctive red-and-white color scheme. The circular shape of the tower is meant to symbolize Calgary's spirit and dynamic growth.

Observation Deck and Views

One of the main reasons to visit the Calgary Tower is the observation deck, located 160 meters (525 feet) above the city. This offers spectacular panoramic views of Calgary and the surrounding region. Here are some key features of the observation experience:

Views of Calgary: From the observation deck, visitors can see the city’s downtown skyline, the Bow River, and the nearby Rocky Mountains. On clear days, the views extend all the way to the Canadian Rockies, including Mount Rundle, Mount Lady Macdonald, and Mount Cascade.

Glass-Floor Viewing Area: One of the tower’s most unique features is its glass floor, which gives visitors a chance to look straight down at the city below. Standing on this transparent section of the floor can be quite thrilling, especially for those with a fear of heights.

360-Degree Views: The observation deck offers 360-degree views, allowing visitors to enjoy a full perspective of Calgary and its beautiful natural surroundings. Visitors can spot Canada Olympic Park, Calgary Stampede Grounds, and Prince Island Park, among many other landmarks.

Interactive Displays: To help visitors learn about the city, the observation deck is equipped with interactive touchscreens that provide details about the city's history, landmarks, and surrounding landscape. These displays are great for educational purposes, especially for those new to Calgary.

Restaurants and Dining

The Calgary Tower also features a rotating restaurant, known as Sky 360. Located just below the observation deck, this unique restaurant slowly rotates while guests dine, offering them constantly changing views of Calgary as they enjoy their meal.

Sky 360 Restaurant: This fine dining restaurant offers a variety of dishes that highlight Canadian and international cuisines. It is known for its steak, seafood, and locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s rotating feature gives diners a chance to experience a new perspective with each course, making for a memorable dining experience.

Bar and Lounge: The tower also has a bar where visitors can enjoy drinks and small bites while taking in the views.

Visitor Experience and Attractions

Visitor Services: The Calgary Tower has an on-site gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs, including Calgary-themed merchandise, local art, and jewelry.

Accessibility: The tower is fully accessible to people with disabilities, with elevators that provide easy access to the observation deck. There are also audio guides available to help visitors navigate the area and learn more about the tower’s history and the surrounding landscape.

Special Events: The Calgary Tower hosts various events throughout the year, including special holiday-themed light displays, New Year's Eve celebrations, and educational events. Visitors can check ahead for any special programming or events taking place during their visit.

Interesting Facts About the Calgary Tower

Height Comparison: At 191 meters, the Calgary Tower was the tallest building in Calgary until the completion of the Bow Tower in 2012. It remains the tallest observation tower in the city.

Construction: The tower was built in just 2 years, from 1966 to 1968, and was designed to withstand high winds and seismic activity. It is a sturdy and reliable structure that continues to stand as a symbol of the city's growth.

Fireworks Displays: The tower is often the focal point for New Year's Eve fireworks in Calgary, drawing thousands of spectators each year to celebrate the turning of the year.

Environmental Commitment: The Calgary Tower has made efforts to be environmentally responsible, including energy-efficient lighting and sustainable practices in its operation. It has also been part of Calgary’s green building movement and has undergone upgrades to improve energy efficiency.

Visible from Various Locations: The Calgary Tower can be seen from many parts of the city, making it an unmistakable landmark. It also plays a major role in Calgary’s skyline, often being featured in promotional materials for the city.

Why Visit the Calgary Tower?

Breathtaking Views: The tower offers unparalleled views of Calgary, the Bow River, and the surrounding Canadian Rockies. Whether you're visiting for the first time or the hundredth, the view from the top is always a stunning experience.

Iconic Landmark: The Calgary Tower is one of the most recognizable symbols of Calgary, offering a piece of the city's history and an opportunity to learn about its growth and development.

Memorable Dining Experience: Dining at the Sky 360 Restaurant provides a unique experience. The rotating restaurant offers a dynamic dining atmosphere with constantly changing views of the city.

Photography: The observation deck and surrounding area offer some of the best opportunities for photography in Calgary, with the chance to capture sweeping cityscapes, nature, and historical landmarks.

Educational Value: With its history and interactive displays, the Calgary Tower offers visitors a deeper understanding of the city's development, the Canadian Rockies, and the significance of Calgary in Canada’s history.

Conclusion

The Calgary Tower is a must-visit landmark for anyone traveling to Calgary. Whether you're looking to take in the views, enjoy a meal at Sky 360, or simply learn more about the city, the tower offers a memorable experience that reflects Calgary's growth and vitality. With its rich history, iconic status, and breathtaking panoramas, the Calgary Tower continues to be one of the city’s top attractions.