In Calgary, there are really only two seasons: winter and patio. When the snow melts and the city finally thaws, Calgarians emerge from their hibernation with one shared mission – make the absolute most of patio season. The warm months may be brief, but they’re glorious, and there’s no better way to spend them than basking in the sun with a cold drink in hand.
Whether you’re a craft beer lover, a brunch enthusiast or simply someone who likes a meal while sitting in the warm sun, this city has a patio for every vibe. From hidden oases to rooftop revelry, here’s our curated guide to the best places in Calgary to soak up the sun this summer.
Brews and views: The best brewery patios
Calgary’s craft beer scene is second to none, and local breweries know how to do patios right. Cold Garden Beverage Company in the eclectic Ramsay neighbourhood sets the gold standard. It’s colourful, chaotic in the best way, and always buzzing. The patio is dog-friendly, snack-friendly and overflowing with personality – grab a pint of “Red Smashed in Buffalo Jump” and make some new friends.
Equally inviting is Bitter Sisters Brewing Co. in the southwest. This family-run spot feels like home, only better – because your home probably doesn’t have Rosso Coffee Porter on tap or a vibrant, enclosed patio where dogs and kids are both welcome. A little further downtown, Last Best Brewing & Distilling offers a more urban hideaway, complete with a fire pit and high walls that keep the city noise at bay. Pair a Purple Crusher with some sunshine, and you’re golden.
Over in Sunalta, Two House Brewing brings a laid-back charm with its sprawling patio and hearty sandwiches stacked high on house-made bread. Their Juicebox NEIPA is the perfect antidote to a scorching summer afternoon.
Just a few neighbourhoods over, another West Coast favourite has made its mark on Calgary’s craft beer scene.
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Vancouver’s 33 Acres Brewing Company has brought its laid-back, community-first vibe to Calgary with the debut of 33C, a new taproom nestled in the heart of the Beltline. Designed with clean, modern lines and a welcoming atmosphere, the space features seating for 60 indoors and an additional 40 on a cosy patio, complete with a wood-burning fireplace.
Built on a foundation of craftsmanship, creativity and connection, 33C invites Calgarians to come together in a space that feels both fresh and familiar. Enjoy a range of 33 Acres’ well-loved brews, like the Fluffy Cloud IPA, 33 Acres of Sunshine and 33 Acres of Ocean, alongside a rotating lineup of seasonal and small-batch beers made with locally sourced ingredients.
Culinary gems with a side of sun
Patio dining in Calgary isn’t just about the drinks – it’s also about the food. Few places capture the spirit of summer dining like Ten Foot Henry. Tucked away on 1st Street, this vegetable-forward darling serves up some of the city’s best bites in a serene downtown setting that feels worlds away from the hustle.
For those with a soft spot for Italian romance, Bonterra Trattoria offers a vine-covered pergola that transports you straight to Tuscany. Sip on a glass of chilled wine and order the fresh pasta – thank us later.
On the more casual side, The Ship and Anchor Pub is practically a 17th Avenue institution. If you can snag a seat on the patio, settle in for some of the city’s finest people watching. Prefer pizza with your pint? Cold Beer and Pizza is a new late-night gem with Roman square slices, local brews, and a patio that stays lively well past sundown.
Elevated eats: Rooftop retreats
If sky-high patios are more your style, Craft Beer Market on 10th Avenue is your go-to. Its rooftop patio boasts 360-degree city views, a retractable roof, and a VW camper for a quirky touch. With over 100 beers on tap and a shareables menu built for long, lazy afternoons, it’s ideal for groups – or impromptu summer celebrations.
Modern Steak’s rooftop, perched on Stephen Avenue, offers sweeping views of downtown and a truly local take on steak. Bonus: they own their own Black Angus bull, so you know it’s the real deal. Nearby, One18 Empire delivers strong drinks and even stronger sunsets from atop the Marriott.
Laid-back luxuries and local legends
For a more tranquil escape, head to River Café on Prince’s Island Park. Surrounded by nature and serving seasonal Canadian fare, it’s the perfect place to unwind. Or take a trip back in time at Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant, where the wraparound veranda offers a historic (and scenic) retreat in Fish Creek Park.
Wherever you go, one thing’s for certain – Calgary knows how to do summer. So grab your sunglasses, round up your crew, and stake your claim to the best seat in the sun. Patio season won’t last forever, but the memories will.
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