The Calgary Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Western Canada and a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring Calgary. With its panoramic 360° observation deck, glass floor experience, and stunning skyline views of the Rocky Mountains, the Calgary Tower remains a top destination for tourists, newcomers, and locals alike.
This guide covers everything you need to know in 2025: history, ticket prices, hours, dining, best time to visit, and insider tips.
1. About Calgary Tower
The Calgary Tower is a 191-metre (626 ft) observation tower located in downtown Calgary.
Completed in 1968, it was originally built to celebrate Canada’s centennial and to showcase the city’s growing economic strength.
Today, it serves as:
- A major tourist attraction
- A symbol of Calgary’s skyline
- Home to one of the city’s highest restaurants
- A venue for annual events (e.g., Tower lighting ceremonies, fundraising climbs)
The tower lights up at night with LED displays celebrating holidays, local sports teams, and special city events.
2. Observation Deck & 360° Views
The highlight of the Calgary Tower is its 360-degree observation deck, offering:
- Full panoramic views of Calgary
- The Rocky Mountains stretching across the western horizon
- The Bow River valley
- Downtown skyscrapers
- Stampede Park and the Saddledome
The most thrilling feature is the glass floor section, letting visitors stand above live city traffic and look straight down from 191 metres.
3. Sky 360 Restaurant
Located inside the tower, Sky 360 is Calgary’s rotating restaurant, completing a full rotation every 45 minutes during dinner.
Popular for:
- Romantic dinners
- Special occasions
- Panoramic brunch/lunch
- Sunset views
Dining at Sky360 includes complimentary tower admission, making it one of the best-value ways to experience the attraction.
4. Calgary Tower Ticket Prices (2025)
General Admission:
- Adults: $23
- Seniors: $21
- Children (4–12): $10
- Kids under 3: Free
Special discounts:
- Online ticket purchases
- Family bundles
- Seasonal promos (holidays, Stampede week)
5. Calgary Tower Hours (2025)
Typical operating hours:
- Monday–Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Holiday hours may vary
The best time to visit is 1–2 hours before sunset, allowing you to see both daytime views and nighttime city lights.
6. Events & Activities
The tower hosts seasonal and annual events such as:
- Tower Lighting Shows
- Charity stair climbs
- New Year celebrations
- Sports team lighting (Flames / Stampeders)
- Photography workshops
During the Calgary Stampede, the tower often features special themed light displays.
7. Calgary Tower History: Quick Facts
- Opened: June 30, 1968
- Original cost: $3.5 million
- Height: 191 metres
- Built by: Husky Oil & Marathon Realty
- Purpose: Centennial celebration & city symbol
It was once the tallest structure in Calgary until modern skyscrapers surpassed it.
8. How to Get There
Address:
📍 101 9 Ave SW, Calgary, Alberta
Transportation options:
- CTrain stations nearby: Centre Street, 1 Street SW
- Local bus routes
- Ride-share (Uber, Lyft, Uride)
- Plenty of paid parking lots around the tower
- Walkable from downtown hotels
Official Website
For the latest ticket prices, hours of operation, special events, and dining reservations, visit the official Calgary Tower website:
🌐 https://www.calgarytower.com
9. Tips for Visiting (2025)
✔ Buy tickets online to skip lines
✔ Visit at sunset for best photos
✔ Choose a clear day for mountain visibility
✔ Make a dinner reservation at Sky360
✔ Avoid Stampede mornings (high traffic)
✔ Bring a good camera — the tower is extremely photogenic
10. Is Calgary Tower Worth Visiting?
Absolutely — especially if you’re:
- New to Calgary
- Traveling with family
- Interested in skyline & mountain photography
- Looking for a romantic dinner spot
- Visiting during Stampede or holidays
The Calgary Tower remains one of the most memorable and accessible attractions in the city.
