The Perfect 48 hours in U/D

There is so much to do in and around University District! Whether you are visiting from out of town or a local looking to explore the area, here are the best ways to spend 48 hours in U/D: 

Staying at the Alt Hotel

For out-of-town U/D visitors or anyone looking for a luxurious stay-cation, the Alt Hotel in University District is the perfect place to settle in. Make yourself at home in one of their 155 rooms with incredible mountain views, easy access to downtown and more. Stay tuned for exciting details on the opening of their restuarant and coffee shop!

For booking details, visit this link. 

Day 1: 

Start your day with Breakfast at OEB Breakfast Co. 

Featuring farm-fresh ingredients and inventive combinations, OEB Breakfast Co. offers an inclusive menu that caters to every palate. From their signature “Soul in a Bowl” with poached eggs and truffle-infused potatoes to the delectable French toast made with artisanal bread, this breakfast joint has something to offer for everyone. 

Soul in a Bowl is a harmonious combination of Saint Cyrille curds, slow cooked bacon lardons and brown butter hollandaise.

Check out the art installations at the Discovery Centre and Nickle Galleries

There is plenty of artwork to be enjoyed in University District and the surrounding Northwest community. Multiple murals are displayed around U/D, including a SeaCan mural recently completed by Tiffany Lynn Cuffley just outside the University District Discovery Centre. Watch for the addition of flag murals by Tyler Lemermeyer coming soon. 

For an evening experience, check out the playful and lively animated art installation between AdaptAbility and Market Wines. The concept for this installation is based on “passion for people to feel connected by animating nature and its beauty; giving the land a voice.” This installation from Studio Luma takes people on a journey from the parkade, into the elevators and then spills out into Central Commons Park with an immersive experience. 

The nearby Nickel Galleries at UCalgary offers rotating exhibitions, promoting and celebrating art and culture with more than 30,000 artifacts. This is the perfect stop for a mid-afternoon activity near U/D.

Have Dinner and Cocktails at The Banquet 

Signature cocktails anybody? The Banquet offers fabulous appetizers, food and drinks, making this a great stop for dinner at U/D. From Trash Can Nachos to Mega Moscow Mules, the menu at The Banquet will help complete a perfect day. Even better, The Banquet is home to a bowling alley and often has live music playing for those who aren’t ready to stop the fun.  

Stop for Dessert at Village Ice Cream

Village Ice Cream is a must stop for anyone in and around the University District. With a beloved ice cream menu and monthly rotating flavours, there is something for everyone. The owner of Village Ice Cream, Billy Friley, was inspired to start the business after diving into a pint of homemade ice cream at his grandmother’s house with “Huckleberry” handwritten on the lid. He decided right then and there that he wanted to create the best gathering place in Calgary, and he has done just that.

End the Day with an Evening Walk in Central Commons Park 

Central Commons Park is a three-acre green space, perfect for a leisurely stroll with loved ones while visiting University District. The park has many amenities like public washrooms, fire features, BBQs, tables and a seasonal ice rink. For more information and an interactive map, visit this link. 

Day 2: 

Have Breakfast at Fuwa Fuwa Japanese Pancakes 

Have you ever had soufflé pancakes? Fuwa Fuwa Japanese Pancakes is a must stop for anyone stopping by University District. From classic tiramisu to crème brûlée flavours, these decadent pancakes are sure to impress. 

Fuwa Fuwa’s Tiramisu Pancakes topped with fresh fruit. 

Coffee at Monogram

For the team at Monogram, the craft of making specialty coffees is an art. Monogram coffee is a beloved staple in Calgary and is a must-try for anyone visiting from out of town. Whether you’re an americano lover or prefer a specialty tea, this shop has something for you. 

Climbing/Bouldering at the UCalgary Outdoor Centre

Burn off those souffle pancakes with a trip to the bouldering wall at UCalgary! This fun activity is available to anyone in the city and offers all the equipment you need for rent. A day pass to the bouldering wall is $10.50 and shoes can be rented for $9. 

For more information and hours, visit this link. 

Visit Bowness Park for All-Season Fun

Bowness is a 30-hectare urban park for anyone who loves the outdoors. In the summer season, Calgarians enjoy picnicking, biking and walking through the park, or rafting down the nearby Bow River. For rafting rentals, check out Lazy Day Raft Rentals or Sports Rent Calgary.

In the winter months, people flock to this park to take part in the ice skating on a frozen canal off the bow river. Skates can be rented on-site for $12/hour at the UCalgary Skate Shop. 

Dinner and a Game at The Canadian Brewhouse

The Canadian Brewhouse is undoubtedly the best place in the city to catch a game and enjoy some drinks with friends. From giant nachos or daily drink specials, this place is the perfect stop for any sports lover. Take advantage of their heated outdoor patio with spectacular views of Central Commons Park below.

To view the menu or book a table, visit this link. 

Catch a movie at Cineplex VIP Cinemas

Did you know that University District is home to Alberta’s only standalone Cineplex VIP Cinemas? This 18+ theatre has five auditoriums with recliner seats and in-seat service. A relaxing theatre experience is the perfect way to end your vacation (or staycation) at University District. 

This theatre doesn’t have a traditional movie concession, but patrons can order their snacks in the on-site lounge and have them delivered right to their seats.  

To see showtimes or purchase tickets, visit the Cineplex website.