Going Back to Calgary

Can you go to Calgary without getting a little bit country? Maybe, but it won’t be as much fun as getting your yee-haw on. —Vicki Duong

stay. When it comes to snoozing in Calgary keep it simple by staying at Hotel Arts—a boutique-style hotel in the downtown hub. With Skoah products available for use, a stylish pool with outdoor lounging and two restaurants, you can rest easy knowing that you’re never far from the action with the downtown core being less than a 15-minute walk away.

savour. Just off the lobby at the Hotel Arts is Raw Bar, a Vietnamese modern-dining experience with quirky cocktails. Known for remixing the classics, drinks include the Gin and Timber—a g&t meets a mojito with a splash of honey—and La Bamba, a Moscow mule with a hint of jalapeno.

shop. If you’re going to giddy up, you’re going to have to look the part. Head to Lammle’s to get a full western fit. From authentic cowboy boots to a variety of western hats, Lammle’s has it all. Whether you’re looking for a cheeky graphic tee with cute rodeo catchphrases or a button-up shirt just like the cowboys and cowgirls wear, Lammle’s is where it’s at for all your honky-tonk #ootd.

sip. Hidden in the basement beneath a heritage building, Sub Rosa offers a unique menu of cocktails and bar bites sure to impress. For a floral-infused cocktail try the 2AM Text—a rose-petal-infused gin with lemon, Earl Grey and lavender bitters. For a unique twist on a comfort classic check out the deep-fried mac ‘n’ cheese made with truffle dill aioli.

see. To get the full Alberta experience you’ll have to take in all the farmland views outside of the city. Rent a GMC Sierra AT4 equipped with Wi-Fi and Apple CarPlay so that you can stream your favourite road trip music while driving a little over an hour to the OH Ranch. With the southern portion of the ranch gifted to the Calgary Stampede as part of a donation in 2012, guests can learn about how influential the ranch has been in contributing to agriculture in Alberta.

sup. Head to Pigeonhole in the bustling Victoria Park region to indulge in a wide range of food in a beautiful space. The interior manages to be spacious and cosy at the same time with exposed brick and the original heritage lighting still intact. With an impressive menu meant to be shared among friends, guests will be able to sample a bit of everything. Our faves: the roasted cauliflower with coconut and macadamia and the grilled eggplant paired with a miso plum glaze.