From transportation links to office space, and from hotels, shops and restaurants to theatres and museums, typically, city centres are where the action is. And, Calgary has it all.
In fact, Calgary’s city core is buzzing with life; its young, vibrant and entrepreneurial population is taking business to new heights, its cultural scene is lively and eclectic, and its retail and restaurant space is varied and plentiful. It’s no wonder that Calgary was ranked top in North America and as the 4th most livable city in the World by The Economist last year.
So, why does this matter to events? Well, at the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre (CTCC), we know that connection is key in the events market, and located in Calgary’s downtown, we couldn’t be better placed. Calgary boasts a skywalk system called, ‘Plus 15 network’, consisting of some 59 glass and steel climate-controlled pedestrian bridges, standing 15 feet above street level, crisscrossing the city’s core. Incorporated within the Plus 15 network, CTCC event delegates can move freely from hotel, to meeting space, and from restaurant to retail centre or parking lot.
And, there’s no shortage of accommodations. Three 4 star partner hotels—the Hyatt Regency Calgary, the Fairmont Palliser Calgary and the Calgary Marriott Downtown Hotel—are conveniently connected, as well as some of the city’s top restaurants and retail outlets.
Not only do the ‘Plus 15’ walkways prevent Calgarians from having to brave the city’s prairie winters but we believe that the skywalk connectivity has in some ways moulded the business culture. Visitors and event delegates are instantly immersed in the dynamic and innovative spirit of the much loved city.
Not just in the winter months but in summer too, downtown Calgary is made accessible by numerous paths and trails. Visitors can readily and easily take a break from seminars or meetings and experience the city’s core with pathways extending alongside the Bow River and to Princes Island Park, which is a haven for joggers and cyclists and lays host to several arts festivals and live shows.
We believe that efficient operation of any event relies upon comprehensive transport links. One of Canada’s largest and best-served airports, YYC Calgary International Airport provides flights to 80 non-stop destinations worldwide and has undergone a $2 billion airport development program. YYC now boasts a fourth runway and a new international terminal, which features innovative systems for international business passengers. And, with travel time of just 20 minutes from YYC, access to downtown Calgary couldn’t be quicker.
Visitors to Calgary can benefit from all that a sophisticated city has to offer, and event delegates will find that Calgarians engage and interact with their city-centre convention centre on a daily basis, making it a vibrant hub. CTCC boasts 122,000 sq feet of dedicated convention space, some 47,000 sq feet of exhibition space, five pre-function areas and 36 meeting rooms. Calgary’s downtown workforce come and go from the large (433-stall) underground parkade and meeting spaces, and frequent coffee shops close to the main entry points, whilst shoppers can access CTCC directly from Stephen Avenue, Calgary’s only pedestrian mall. We think that our characteristically lively and integrated venue helps to enhance the energy and enthusiasm around any event.
We also believe that good planning and meticulous organization will be fundamental skills for any event planner, and with a city centre location, the agencies and resources to ensure the execution and smooth running of a trade show, a conference, or perhaps a gala dinner, are on the doorstep, hence saving time and money.
An urban professional city with all the amenities, entertainment and excitement of a big city and the close proximity to the breathtaking Rocky Mountains, Calgary provides the perfect setting for your next event.
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