Fun Things to Do In Calgary at Night

Let’s be honest, we live in a pretty landlocked city.

It’s not like we can all just head to the beach, like our friends over in Cali, or drive a couple of hours and you’re in the big apple.

But, what Calgary lacks in the sweet ocean breeze and the hustle and bustle of New York, we make up for in amazing Canadian spirit and beautiful scenery.

Calgary has a ton to do at night and that may be the worst part.

It’s hard to figure out what to do when there is so much going on, but fortunately for you, we have you covered in figuring out the perfect YYC night.

Is there anything better than going out with the guys, or ladies and quote on quote “painting the town red”?

You’ve been pulling yourself through the workweek, just waiting for Saturday night to come already, and now you and the crew are ready for a big night out in Calgary!

We’ve got you covered.  

Here is a total run-down of an epic night out.

Drinks

To begin the night, you all are going to need some delicious libations, 17th Ave downtown is always guaranteed to please.

Check out a couple favorites:

Cleaver, 50 seats and a Cow: Located right in the heart of 17th Ave, Cleaver pulls out all the stops to make sure you’re feeling good when you walk out their doors.

This cozy, European restaurant is owned by head chef Barbara and she’s all about creating food and cocktails from scratch.

Make sure to try out one of the “unapologetically bold cocktails,” like the Farewell to Sober (White rum, maraschino, lime, grapefruit) and the Who’s Your Daddy Now (Tequila, tamarind, Cointreau, grapefruit, ginger, lime, and crispy chicken skin).

Try to make a reservation beforehand, because this place gets busy!

Proof: A very trendy spot for all the lovers of cocktails and the finer things in life.

Proof is located on 13 Ave and 1st St SW, the perfect place to stop before heading to a Flames Game.

There are over 300 liquors to choose from the extensive bar at Proof, but don’t forget to try out their small bites to create the perfect cocktail, food pairing.

Activities

Flames Game: Hit up one of the many hockey games and go and support Calgary Flames. Or, if you’re not into sports, go for the ‘dome beers.

Escape Rooms: Is there anything better than being locked in a room with all your favorite people trying to escape, no I didn’t think so.

There are several located all over Calgary and take about 60 minutes to finish. It’s a great way to get the night going and pump everyone up.

Prices start at twenty dollars depending on where you go.

Axe Throwing: This activity is for all those looking to release their inner warrior or lumberjack.

Head to BATL Axe Throwing in the NE if you want to feel like a total bad a** and throw some axes at targets.

The staff are very knowledgeable and very helpful in teaching the basics.

Evenings with Your One and Only

The “Feeling Playful” Date

Ever heard the saying “couples who play together, stay together?”

Well, it couldn’t be more true, and we have some pretty cool places to have fun together!

Speeders: Get the blood rushing in your veins, as you compete against your date.

These karts aren’t for the faint of heart, these babies are ProKarts and they don’t disappoint.

Remember, if you’re not first, you’re last!

Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park (Full Review): Connect with your inner-child at one of the many activities offered at Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park.

Check out the ninja park, slack line, foam pits freestyle trampoline park and many more.

Within a few minutes of stepping into this warehouse filled with seemingly-endless trampolines, it’s easy to forget that you’re an adult with a job and responsibilities, and instead, you lose yourself to the simple, endless joy of bouncing around like a carefree kid again.

Calgary’s Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park is located in the northeast in an industrial park close to the airport.

For those new to the concept, the company labels itself as the world’s largest spring-loaded, urban playground fit for adrenaline junkies, families with kids and everyone in between.

It’s a 44,000 square foot facility with 31 trampolines and 13 attractions.

Let me quickly take you on a virtual tour of the Flying Squirrel.

Before entering the park you must first self-register at one of the kiosks inside the door.

This is somewhat of a cumbersome process, as you must proceed through a series of screens on the computer, entering your personal information, signing a waiver and making payment.

At $20 an hour or $10 an hour for children under 6, this is a quite pricy activity. But spare not, that price includes a pair of traction-sole socks which you can keep!

After picking up your wristband from the service desk, you pass through the canteen and sitting area and into the place where the fun begins.

The hardest part is picking what activity to start with. But just start jumping and you’ll eventually end up at either the freestyle court, dunk hoops, dodgeball court, fidget ladder, slack lines, neon lights or the climbing wall.

For a little competition, try the parkour course and the climbing wall, and make sure to test your arm strength with the swinging rope which will drop you into a large foam pit.

Make sure not to have any cellphones, jewelry or lose items on you as anything lost in this pit is gone forever.

While an hour doesn’t seem like enough time, you’ll be surprised how quickly jumping will wear you out.

Friday and Saturdays are Neon Lights Night. From 9pm to midnight, a DJ spins beats to a glow-in-the-dark backdrop.

Be prepared for a crowd though — especially lots of kids, which comes with a higher risk of injury due to collisions.

But be reminded that in your waiver you signed away any right to blame the trampoline park for that.

On the bright side, the event is a good deal at only $25 for 3 hours. Other events include Dodgeball Tournaments and special pricing on certain holidays, including a 2-for-1 deal for the summer. Follow the company on social media for the specifics.

The Flying Squirrel is great for people of all ages who want to try out a new activity and don’t mind working up a sweat.

The next day you’ll find sore muscles you never knew you had — you can decide whether that’s a pro or a con.

On the downside, as mentioned, the park is located in an industrial area not well-serviced by public transit, which means that it’s not easily accessible for all.

Also, be very weary of twisted ankles!

The Foodie Date

Maybe you two have just started dating and you want to test out the waters, or maybe you’ve been together for years and you want to learn your way around the kitchen together.

Regardless, these dates are messy and creative and always a good time!

Sunterra Market: Who knew this upscale grocery store held cooking classes? Well, we did and it’s a great place to learn how to make Thai food all the way to Indian and Italian. The evening includes a buffet and a bar.

Kinjo Sushi & Grill: Everyone loves sushi, and if you don’t you can appreciate the work that goes into making it when you try it yourself.

This isn’t an easy task, but with the skilled chefs at Kinjo, you’ll be rolling rolls just like a pro!

Family Friendly Night Out

You don’t have to sacrifice a fun night out when you have kids.

There are tons of things to do in Calgary that don’t include taking your kids to the mall and dropping them off in the play place with a bunch of other screaming kids.

Hop, Sit and Jump Play Cafe: Let your kids run wild while you sip on some well-deserved caffeine.

This hidden little gem features a large climbing structure, enclosed toddler area, playroom and interactive dance floor.

The coffee shop HS & J Cafe is located right next to the play area, but don’t let that turn you away, you can order any of the cafe’s beverages and drinks directly from the playground.

Southland Leisure Centre: Southland Centre is an awesome place to go, not for the littles, but also the adults.

The center features a wave pool, water slides galore and a beach entrance.

They also offer babysitting, preschool and after-school programs, for all of lives conveniences.

No matter what kind of night out you’re looking for, Calgary is a place not to be dismissed when planning your next evening out.

Many of these nights out can be combined to get a real taste of what YYC has to offer.

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