Contemporary Calgary
Explore cutting-edge contemporary art in a stunning, architecturally unique former planetarium building.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Free admission, vibrant atmosphere
Contemporary Calgary
Best Time
Free admission, vibrant atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore cutting-edge contemporary art in a stunning, architecturally unique former planetarium building.
"A unique building with great exhibit spaces and a really accessible and friendly staff."
🎯 Membership Value
A year membership is just double the single admission fee – great value for art lovers!
✨ Free Admission Days
Enjoy free entry on the first Thursday of every month.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Dome
Central Rotunda
The former planetarium dome is a stunning architectural feature, now a unique space for installations and reflection.
Hummingbird Perspective Exhibit
Exhibit Hall
Lie back and experience life from a hummingbird's viewpoint in this immersive and unique installation.
Rotating Contemporary Exhibitions
Various Galleries
Discover cutting-edge art from local and international artists, often topical and provocative.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Architecture
Affordable Art Immersion
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Membership Value
A year membership is just double the single admission fee – great value for art lovers!
✨ Free Admission Days
Enjoy free entry on the first Thursday of every month.
🚶♀️ Easy Transit Access
Located at the last stop of the free electric train zone.
💬 Engage with Staff
Staff are knowledgeable and passionate, offering great insights into the art.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Membership Value
A year membership is just double the single admission fee – great value for art lovers!
✨ Free Admission Days
Enjoy free entry on the first Thursday of every month.
🚶♀️ Easy Transit Access
Located at the last stop of the free electric train zone.
💬 Engage with Staff
Staff are knowledgeable and passionate, offering great insights into the art.
📸 Architectural Photos
The building's unique design offers fantastic photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Contemporary Calgary for its unique architectural space, which was formerly the planetarium, and its engaging, topical exhibitions. The staff is frequently highlighted for their passion and knowledge, enhancing the visitor experience. While some exhibits may not resonate with everyone, the affordable admission and accessible location make it a highly recommended cultural destination.
"A unique building with great exhibit spaces and a really accessible and friendly staff.
The building is a work of art in itself. There are unique curved lines and textures throughout. The exhibit areas are very well suited to installations of various kinds.
The exhibits are topical and provocative. The staff enhances your time with the pieces and gives the right amount of check ins.
Both visits recently to the museum I found the staff to be extremely helpful and really engaging.
I had the pleasure of talking with staff member Jade who was so passionate and knowledgeable. I observed her on two different occasions in the exhibit space and saw how she greeted guests and offered openers for conversation if desired. I spoke with her about the art pieces and their relationship to our current cultural climate. She was genuine and insightful. She is a true asset to the museum.
The year membership is only double the single admission fee and well worth it. I plan to return again and again."
S K
"This museum is at the last stop of the free zone of the electric train making it easy to get to. The building is, as you would imagine contemporary with open rounded walkways, a dome, and several enclosed areas for exhibits. Don't miss the hummingbird exhibit where you can lie on bean bags and take in Life from the perspective of a hummingbird. The gift shop while small has interesting offerings."
Chrisoula Kiriazis, MD
"5 stars because I love spaces like this. I went to see an Iranian film and I appreciated it even more after reading some analysis at home. One of the staff also made a thoughtful comment about the current situation in Iran, which really meant a lot.
On the flip side, June Clark’s Witness didn’t do much for me—felt pretty unoriginal."
Saba Arsalan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Contemporary Calgary is conveniently located at the last stop of Calgary's free electric train zone, making it easily accessible via public transit. It's situated at the corner of 11th Street SW and 6th Avenue SW.
While specific parking details can vary, the downtown location means there are often paid parking lots and street parking available nearby. It's recommended to check local parking apps or websites for real-time availability and rates.
Yes, Contemporary Calgary is accessible by car. Its downtown location means you can navigate to it via major city streets.
Contemporary Calgary is located at the final stop of the free fare zone on the CTrain, making it very easy to reach via public transport.
Yes, biking is a great option. Calgary has a growing network of bike lanes, and the downtown area is generally bike-friendly. There are likely bike racks available nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is very affordable, typically around $12. A yearly membership is also available for just $24, offering excellent value for frequent visitors.
Yes, Contemporary Calgary offers free admission on the first Thursday of every month, making it a great opportunity to experience the art.
Opening hours can vary depending on exhibitions and events. It's always best to check the official Contemporary Calgary website for the most up-to-date information on hours and exhibition schedules.
While not explicitly stated in all sources, it's generally recommended to check the Contemporary Calgary website for online ticket purchasing options to save time and ensure entry, especially during popular events.
For regular visits, booking in advance might not be strictly necessary, but it's a good idea, especially for special events or if you're visiting on a free admission day to guarantee entry.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Contemporary Calgary features rotating exhibitions of contemporary art, often topical and provocative. Don't miss the unique architectural features like the former planetarium dome and the immersive hummingbird exhibit.
Absolutely! The building's unique, contemporary architecture with curved lines and the iconic dome provides excellent opportunities for striking photographs.
Exhibits are generally thought-provoking and can be engaging for a wide audience. The hummingbird exhibit, in particular, offers a unique, immersive experience.
The hummingbird exhibit allows visitors to lie on bean bags and experience life from the perspective of a hummingbird, offering a unique and immersive artistic experience.
Yes, it's a great spot to visit solo, allowing you to immerse yourself in the art and architecture at your own pace.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Contemporary Calgary has a small gift shop with interesting offerings, it does not appear to have a full-service restaurant. Visitors may need to explore nearby downtown Calgary for dining options.
Typically, art galleries and museums have policies against bringing outside food and drinks into exhibit areas to protect the artwork. It's best to consume these items before entering or utilize designated areas if available.
Being in downtown Calgary, there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars within walking distance, offering a wide range of culinary choices to suit any preference.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed in many areas, but it's always best to check for specific signage regarding flash photography or restrictions in certain exhibitions.
The building's unique architecture, especially the curved lines, the central dome, and the exterior, are fantastic for photography. 
Professional photography or commercial shoots usually require special permission and may incur fees. It's advisable to contact Contemporary Calgary directly to inquire about their policy on professional photography.
Flash photography is often restricted to protect artworks from light damage. Always look for signs or ask staff if you are unsure about photography rules in specific areas.
Visitors often capture the striking architectural elements of the building and the visually interesting contemporary art installations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the contemporary art itself might be abstract for very young children, the interactive nature of some installations and the sheer novelty of the space can hold their attention. The affordable admission and the possibility of free entry on the first Thursday of the month make it an accessible outing for families looking for a cultural experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
Its location at the end of the free fare zone on the CTrain also means you can save on transportation costs if you're utilizing public transit.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Aficionados
The unique architectural space, a former planetarium, offers a distinctive setting for viewing art, with its curved lines, dome, and adaptable exhibit areas.
This blend of cutting-edge art and a historically significant, architecturally interesting building creates a rich and stimulating experience for true art lovers. Keep an eye on their exhibition schedule to catch the latest in contemporary artistic expression.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architecture: A Building with a Past
The architectural design itself is often described as a work of art, providing a dynamic backdrop for the contemporary exhibitions it now houses. Visitors frequently praise the building's ability to accommodate diverse installations, making each visit a visually engaging experience. The planetarium's original dome remains a central feature, now repurposed to host art installations and events, offering a unique blend of history and modern artistic expression. The interior design, with its rounded walkways and varied enclosed areas, is intentionally contemporary and complements the art on display.
Exploring the Exhibitions
While some visitors might find certain exhibitions less impactful than others, the overall quality and diversity of the art presented are generally well-regarded.
The Hummingbird Exhibit: A Unique Perspective
This exhibit stands out for its creativity and its ability to offer a truly different sensory experience. It’s a testament to Contemporary Calgary’s commitment to presenting art in innovative and memorable ways. The exhibit is often mentioned as a must-see, adding an element of wonder and surprise to a visit.
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