Studio Bell National Music Centre
Explore Canada's rich musical heritage through interactive exhibits, iconic artifacts, and stunning architecture at Studio Bell.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Senior discounts available
Studio Bell National Music Centre
Best Time
Senior discounts available
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Canada's rich musical heritage through interactive exhibits, iconic artifacts, and stunning architecture at Studio Bell.
"Blown away by the architecture, especially the fifth-floor view and 300-seat Performance Hall."
🎯 Check for Free Admission Days
Look out for special days with free admission, great for families with toddlers.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring five floors, so comfortable footwear is a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Architectural Marvel
Stunning design inspired by musical instruments and the Western Canadian landscape. A true feast for the eyes.
+1
Interactive Exhibits
Get hands-on with various instruments like guitars, drums, and pianos. Fun for all ages!
Canadian Music Hall of Fame
Discover the legends and stories of Canadian music icons. A journey through the nation's rich musical heritage.
+1
Rolling Stones Mobile Recording Studio
See the legendary studio that hosted iconic bands. A unique piece of music history.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Allocate Enough Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check for Free Admission Days
Look out for special days with free admission, great for families with toddlers.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring five floors, so comfortable footwear is a must!
📸 Capture the Architecture
Don't forget your phone or camera to snap photos of the stunning building design.
⏳ Pace Yourself
Take your time to read, watch, and interact with the exhibits.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check for Free Admission Days
Look out for special days with free admission, great for families with toddlers.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring five floors, so comfortable footwear is a must!
📸 Capture the Architecture
Don't forget your phone or camera to snap photos of the stunning building design.
⏳ Pace Yourself
Take your time to read, watch, and interact with the exhibits.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Studio Bell for its impressive architecture and engaging interactive exhibits, offering a deep dive into Canadian music history. While some find it less suited for very young children, most appreciate the hands-on instrument experiences and the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. Occasional issues with non-working exhibits and staff enthusiasm have been noted.
"Full of Canadian and American music, musician information, history, clothing, instrumental artifacts, interactive exhibits, and visuals, all set in an incredibly cleverly designed architectural experience. Check out senior prices on Wednesdays. Parking is nearby in a parkade. You can quickly purchase tickets at the front desk and move through the exhibit at your pace. We found two hours was plenty."
Anne P
"Glad to have tried this place on free admission day with toddlers. Cool space with multiple floors. You can try out various instruments. I would say if you’ve got toddlers you might as well just go to Long & McQuade until they are older as there isn’t much else for them here so you could save the entrance fee. Cool designs, general space, art, etc."
Marta Borowska
"was blown away by the architecture, especially the fifth-floor view and 300-seat Performance Hall. It was one of the most amazing architectural experiences of my life! I was lucky to capture this beautiful artwork with my humble iPhone."
Amine Boulaajaj
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Studio Bell is located in Calgary's East Village. Parking is available nearby in a parkade. It's easily accessible by public transport as well, with several bus routes stopping nearby.
Yes, there is convenient parking available right beside the Studio Bell building in a dedicated parkade.
Absolutely! Calgary's public transit system serves the East Village area, making it easy to reach Studio Bell via bus.
Studio Bell is designed to be accessible, with elevators and ramps to help visitors navigate all five floors.
From downtown Calgary, you can walk across the Peace Bridge or take a short bus ride to reach Studio Bell in the East Village.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary, but check the official website for current admission fees. Seniors can often find discounted rates on Wednesdays.
Yes, you can purchase tickets at the front desk upon arrival. However, booking online in advance is recommended to save time.
Yes, senior discounts are available on Wednesdays. Keep an eye out for potential special admission days or promotions.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Studio Bell website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
While Studio Bell has some interactive elements, it's generally more geared towards older children and adults. Toddlers might find it less engaging compared to dedicated children's museums.
🎫 🎶 Onsite Experience
Explore five floors of exhibits on Canadian music history, interact with musical instruments, and visit the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. +1
Most visitors spend around 2-3 hours exploring the exhibits at their own pace.
Yes, Studio Bell features numerous interactive exhibits where you can try playing various instruments like guitars, pianos, and drums. +1
The fifth floor offers a spectacular view, and it's considered one of the most amazing architectural experiences by visitors.
Yes, Studio Bell houses a 300-seat Performance Hall, which is part of its impressive architectural design.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Studio Bell has a cafe where you can grab a bite to eat or a coffee.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum. It's best to check their specific policy.
Yes, Calgary's East Village offers a variety of restaurants and cafes within walking distance of Studio Bell.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas.
The unique architecture, especially the fifth-floor view and the exterior design, are highly photogenic.
Yes, you can take photos of the Rolling Stones Mobile Recording Studio as part of your visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid larger crowds and allow children more space to explore the interactive displays.
Pack snacks and drinks, or utilize the on-site cafe for convenient refuels during your visit. +1🎶 Music Enthusiasts
+1Don't miss the chance to get hands-on with a wide array of instruments, from classic guitars to modern synthesizers.
+1 The architectural design itself is also a draw, with many finding it to be an inspiring and visually stunning space. 🏛️ Architecture Aficionados
+1 Visitors frequently express awe at the building's unique aesthetic, with many describing it as one of the most architecturally significant experiences they've had. The fifth-floor viewpoint offers a particularly stunning perspective, and the 300-seat Performance Hall is another architectural gem.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architecture of Studio Bell
+1 Visitors are consistently impressed by its unique design, with many calling it one of the most amazing architectural experiences they've encountered. The five floors of Studio Bell house a wealth of musical history and interactive exhibits.
+1Key architectural highlights include the breathtaking fifth-floor view and the 300-seat Performance Hall.
Interactive Music Exploration
These interactive exhibits are a major draw, offering a playful way to understand musical concepts and the evolution of instruments.
While some reviews suggest it might not be ideal for very young toddlers, the general consensus is that the interactive elements provide a unique and enjoyable experience for most visitors. Beyond just playing instruments, the interactive displays often delve into how music is created and the technology behind it.
This multi-faceted approach ensures that visitors leave with a deeper understanding and a renewed passion for music, making Studio Bell a dynamic and memorable destination. Celebrating Canadian Music Icons
+1 Visitors can immerse themselves in the stories and achievements of Canada's most influential musicians, exploring exhibits that showcase their contributions to music history. The center celebrates artists from various genres and eras, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of Canadian music.
From legendary pioneers to contemporary stars, the Hall of Fame provides a platform to honor their legacies and inspire future generations. It's a journey through the heart of Canadian culture, highlighting the artists who have shaped the nation's soundscape. In addition to the Hall of Fame, Studio Bell also features the legendary Rolling Stones Mobile Recording Studio, a piece of rock and roll history that adds another layer of excitement to the visitor experience.
+1 This iconic studio has witnessed the creation of countless hits, offering a tangible connection to the golden age of music recording. 
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