When it comes to nightlife Calgary has many different options, from concert halls to juke joints, from theatre to comedy clubs and yes there are nightclubs, but probably the most fun places to hang out are the speakeasy spots.

If you are visiting Calgary and looking for an off-the-beaten path nightlife experience, check these hot spots. You may also find you have some time to enjoy some online gambling at sugar rush slot online.

Palace Theatre night club on Stephen Avenue

Betty Lou’s Library

No this is not in Calgary’s funky new Central Library but rather it is just off the Red Mile (aka 17th Ave SW) in the heritage Devenish Building at 908 17th Ave SW. You have to wander to the 16th Ave entrance to the basement where you will find a 1920s telephone. Pick up the phone and the librarian will ask you for the password (which you get when you make a reservation). You will then be escorted past the velvet rope to the hidden room where you can enjoy sultry burlesque and/or funky jazz performances. The signature cocktails are the Zelda Fitzgerald and the Esther Jones.

Paper Lantern

Located in Chinatown at 115 2nd Ave SE, this Vietnamese-inspired bar is tricky to find as there are no signs or directions, you just have to head down the stairs and look around and you will find it.

Cannibale

Located across the Bow River from downtown in the tony Bridgeland community is Cannibale at 813 First St NE. Look for the barbershop facing the street and you are close. This a fun spot for both foodies and cocktail lovers. It has a more robust atmosphere than most speakeasy spots.

SHELTER

The website reads, “It’s time to forget, the tattered madness of the outside world and seek refuge form the storm.” That kinda says it all. SHELTER combines pre-prohibition style cocktails with cutting-edge, modern mixing technology. Warning: Don’t go if the wall of gas masks will disturb you. If you do go, head to 1210 1stSt SW.

UNTITLED

UNTITLED is located on Calgary’s historic downtown main street – Stephen Avenue. This is the place for champagne lovers as they specialize in artisanal champagne-based cocktails. I love the names “Break UP Bubbles,” “I need my rest,” and “Payday.” It will also appeal to those who love Art Deco buildings and décor. You will find this hidden gem at 104, 620 8th Ave SW.

Business and Pleasure

B&P is located off the alley along Calgary’s original main street aka 9th Avenue SE in Inglewood on the east end of the city centre. Not only does it offer fun cocktails but also fun food like crispy tofu salad rolls, wasabi tobiko or a Fat Boy Burger and Beet Ruben. Unlike most speakeasys the atmosphere here is more friendly than sultry. I love their motto “sometime you can have both.”

Live Music

If listening to live music is what you are looking for check out who is playing in Calgary’s historic Palace Theater on Stephen Avenue. Or if you want to hear some local talent, best bests are the Blues Can or Ironwood in Inglewood or Mikey’s Juke Joint in Bowness, both over live music 7 days a week.

Clubbing

If you are into clubbing, you best bets are Back Alley (4630 Macleod Trail) with its Jameson-themed bar that also serves Back Alley’s custom-made draft beer. Or Twisted Element a LGBTQ+ club that offers everything from Karaoke, drag shows, dancing and billiards (1006 – 11th Ave SE).

Cowboy Bars

What would a visit to Calgary be without cowboy or cowgirl experience? Whisky Rose Saloon is known for its selection of Bourbons as well as all kinds of live music. Ranchman’s is Calgary’s iconic two-stepping country nightclub destination, especially at Stampede time. And there is Honky Tonk with its dedicated dance floor and extensive whiskey menu.

Last Word

While Calgary doesn’t have a dedicated nightlife district there are lots of nightlife spots.

Calgary Night Life: Speakeasy Fun!