18 Most Beautiful Locations around Downtown Calgary
I'm always on the lookout for fabulous places to take photoshoots in Calgary. Whether you're planning a photo session with a photographer, friends or just visiting the city, below are some of my favorite Instagrammable spots downtown and nearby.
- George
C. King Bridge or St. Patrick's Bridge
This modern and stylish bridge, also known as St. Patrick's Bridge, connects East Village to St. Patrick's Island. Its sweeping curves are further enhanced by the blue lights underneath it that make it look even cooler at night. It can get really busy in the summer though, especially on weekends, so prepare to make way for cyclists and people on scooters.
2. Memorial Drive NW (near Centre Street Bridge)
This treelined foot/bike path overlooks the Bow River, downtown Calgary and Centre Street Bridge. Enjoy the stunning view all year round, but especially in fall when the leaves change color!
3. Centre Street Bridge
Calgary is home to some stunning bridges, but the Centre Street Bridge is one of my absolute favorites. Whether you're on top of the bridge or walking along River Walk or Memorial Drive NW underneath it, there are plenty of photo opportunities.
4. Louise Bridge
The Louise Bridge is an impressive structure, similar in its architecture to the Centre Street Bridge. Standing atop it one can take in a stunning view of the Downtown West End. Stepping beneath the bridge along the river walk reveals yet another remarkable sight; perfect for taking photos!
5. Poppy Plaza (along Memorial Drive Northwest)
Poppy Plaza iscute little park offering stunning views of Louise Bridge and the Bow River. It features a wooden deck, big iron letters that spell 'memorial', uniquely-designed wooden seats with lights beneath them, illuminated trees in red at night and two stairways leading to the river walk below. There's even a small brick building within the park that can be used as a backdrop for photos.
6. Central Memorial Park
Central Memorial Park may be small, but it's the perfect spot for photoshoots. Take advantage of its two fountains, quaint library, stunning flowers during summertime, eye-catching landscaping and a view of the Calgary Tower.
7. Mount Pleasant View Point/ Rotary Club
Take in Calgary's stunning downtown skyline, Bow River and Centre Street Bridge from this terrific spot. Relax on the park benches or explore the greenery after you climb up the wooden stairs for a spectacular prospect.
8. Mc Hugh Bluff / Crescent Road NW
The views here are quite similar to what you'll see at Mount Pleasant View Point which are the Centre Street Bridge, the Bow River, and the buildings downtown that form Calgary's distinctive skyline. Of the two, this is the more popular one because of the 167-step wooden stairway which is kind of an attraction in itself. Mount Pleasant View Point has a wooden stairway too though not as high.
9. Bow River Pathway Bridge at Memorial Drive
Head to this cool pedestrian bridge in Calgary for the perfect view of tall buildings downtown and the beautiful Bow River below. Connecting you to Prince's Island Park, it's a great spot to take photos.
10. Lougheed House / Beaulieu Gardens
This charming house, with its elegant balustrades and garden area, is a famous setting for wedding photoshoots. It's an iconic national historic site that was originally built in 1891. At the back of the house you'll find an archway which blooms with flowers in the summertime leading to a cute little garden with a bench.
11. East Village
East Village offers a unique blend of artistic spots and photogenic settings—from the vibrant murals, mosaics, colorful container trucks, gazebo to the eye-catching upside down church public art piece. It's perfect for those looking for chic metropolitan vibes in their photoshoots!
12. Scotsman's Hill
Whenever you behold Calgary's skyline in photos, chances are they were taken from Scotsman's Hill. It's an amazing spot for photoshoots or simply taking pictures - if you haven't been there yet, it's a must-see!
13. St. Patrick's Island
The island has beautiful views of the river and downtown Calgary. This unique spot features an elevated metal boardwalk on a wetland, a small old wooden pedestrian bridge, and other cool attractions that make it worth visiting.
14. Peace Bridge
This is the most photographed bridge in Calgary with its striking red design, so it is always busy. There are a lot of cyclists and pedestrians passing by or just people taking pictures of this iconic bridge posing a challenge if you are trying to get the perfect shot without any people in the background. Still, there's no denying its beauty – making it well worth the effort!
15. Prince's Island Park
Prince's Island Park would have been at the top of this list if it weren't already so popular. Below are my favorite spots at the park I choose for photoshoots.
16. Calgary Public Library
I do photo sessions at the library when it's too cold to shoot outdoors. The design of this library is truly impressive that every corner of it is photogenic. Not to mention, its wooden-paneled walls make for a stunning exterior.
17. The Wonderland Sculpture at The Bow
The BowBuilding, emblazoned with a giant metal sculpture of a woman's face, is an iconic feature of Calgary. I love to take fashion pictures here that have an avant-garde feel and capture the unique beauty of this amazing structure.
18. RiverWalk (along Riverfront Avenue SE)
It's not only pleasant to stroll or cycle along the RiverWalk, but it also makes for a great spot for taking photos. With its benches and wide steps leading down to the river, you can easily find just the right backdrop for your snapshots.
19. Devonian Gardens
Located in the heart of Calgary, its lush gardens, tranquil fountains and fish ponds create a picturesque setting perfect for capturing memorable photos all year round - even during those bitterly cold winter months! I'm especially fond of taking pictures here at this time of the year.
About the Author
Elaine Suva is a photographer who specializes in scenic portraits, fashion photography and creative dance photos. Get in touch with her to inquire about rates, schedule a consultation or book your own photo session!
