The Best Arty Hotels to Book in Calgary

You’re most likely to run into a musician at Hotel Arts during the long-running annual Calgary Folk Festival. Impromptu concerts have also been known to happen in the halls. Fun art pieces dot the lobby – think a life-size horse sculpture – and the ultra-modern guest rooms feature paintings by local artists. The biggest draw, year-round, is the outdoor pool – better wake up early if you want a spot on a sunny day. Come winter, an inflatable roof keeps in the heat while gas fireplaces warm up the pool deck.

This hotel is conveniently located near the University of Calgary campus, the Southern Jubilee Auditorium and the huge Market Mall shopping complex. The decor is ultra-modern while large colourful canvases and photographs of Calgary line the gallery-white walls. Rooms are compact and also feature the latest in high-tech amenities. Welcome additions include a pool, full-service spa and a restaurant that hosts live performances on the weekends.

Set on the Bow River, in the artsy Kensington neighbourhood, this upscale Calgary B&B has a picture-perfect location. Restaurants, record stores, coffee shops and numerous boutiques are only two short blocks away, while Calgary’s extensive pathway system is right on the doorstep. The home was custom-built by the owner and sets itself apart through features such as custom woodwork, hardwood flooring and granite countertops. The paintings, discreetly hung throughout this castle-like home, are the owner’s creations as well.

Located 10 kilometers from downtown Calgary, this pleasant B&B will give you the chance to forget about the busy rush of the city. Surround yourself with the sights and sounds of nature at this riverfront location where birds and beavers abound. The indoor décor is country casual while outside, wooden lawn chairs and swings dot the lawn and gardens. Best of all, you are free to use the outdoor barbecue as well as the shared facilities in the spotless kitchen.

One of Canada’s most prestigious, original, railway hotels, the historic Palliser has recently undergone a multi-million dollar renovation. The dark oak lobby has been replaced with the shining gold and marble Hawthorn Bar, where DJ sets take place on weekends. The 1950s era cowboy mural is still in place, along with original artworks in each refreshed, classic room. A favourite with Canada’s prime minister and other VIPs, the Palliser is the grand dame of Calgary hotels.

A palette of graphite and greige flatters the original contemporary paintings and sculpture arrangements at Hotel Arts Kensington. A sophisticated older sister to the hotel’s downtown location, this 19 room property takes hushed refinement to a new level. Although the in-house dining is noteworthy, local restaurants in the area notably cater to Calgary foodies and are worth exploring. Don’t miss the chance to walk across the nearby Instagram-ready Santiago Calatrava-designed Peace Bridge.

An ecofriendly ethos can be seen in every detail of this downtown 12-story hotel, which is located in the shadow of the iconic Calgary Tower. Le Germain offers customizable comfort with a silent geothermal heating system and windows that open to blue Alberta skies. Inside, wooden shutters, ergonomic chairs and rainfall showers blend with Artemide lamps and original artwork to create a soothing cocoon of luxury.

Sleek, modern, comfortable and an excellent location – Nuvo Hotel provides everything a long- or short-stay traveler needs. Two major groceries stores are within walking distance, but the excellent restaurants along 17th Avenue may be too tempting to resist. If you’ve got some time, explore the art galleries on 11th Avenue or enjoy the dancing fountains at Central Memorial Library park. Close to boutiques, record stores, coffee shops and vintage clothing stores, Nuvo makes it easy to live local.