Best Bars & Pubs Near the Stampede Grounds in Calgary

So, you’re visiting the Calgary Stampede and are looking for the best restaurants nearby to sit down and enjoy after a long day at the grounds. Or, perhaps you’re on a quest to find the nearest pub to enjoy with co-workers, friends, or family. Whichever the case, the downtown and Beltline areas of Calgary are home to several exceptional food and drink establishments, many of which are open into all hours of the night and are reachable on foot from the Stampede Grounds. Here are the best restaurants near the Calgary Stampede you should try if a night out is up your alley.

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Hitman’s Bar

 

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• Address – 421 12 Avenue SE
• Phone – 403-454-9595
• Website – hitmansbar.com

One of the closest watering holes to the Stampede, Hitman’s Bar is a dedicated haven for Calgary Flames fans, offering a sports-focused atmosphere with a strong team spirit. Visitors can enjoy drinks surrounded by memorabilia celebrating Brett the Hitman Heart’s wrestling legacy, as well as Flames paraphernalia throughout. It’s an exciting spot to visit before or after the Stampede Grounds for food and drinks most of the night.

Sammy’s Sports Bar

 

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• Address – 218 18 Avenue SE
• Phone – 403-289-8880
• Website – elbowrivercasino.com

Sammy’s Sports Bar is part of the vibrant Elbow River Casino, a hotspot for drinks near the Stampede Grounds, offering a hype atmosphere to visit after a long day at the grounds. Known for its friendly service and classic pub fare, it’s a perfect spot for watching sports and entertainment on large screens. The casual yet lively environment makes it a go-to for Stampede visitors, sports fans, and casino enthusiasts alike.

Proof Cocktail Bar

 

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• Address – 1301 1 Street SW
• Phone – 403-246-2414
• Website – proofyyc.com

Located on the First Street Village a few blocks west of the Calgary Stampede, Proof is a sophisticated cocktail lover’s haven renowned for its expertly crafted drinks and innovative tapas-style dishes. Its chic ambiance and exotic decor create a luxurious yet welcoming experience. With an ever-evolving cocktail menu, each visit offers a unique flavour journey. Seating is limited, so make sure to arrive at non-peak hours if possible or be prepared to wait in line.

Shelter Cocktail Bar

 

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• Address – 1210 1 Street SW
• Phone – 403-233-7730
• Website – shelteryyc.com

Shelter Cocktail Bar features a posh venue with an urban-industrial aesthetic and a cozy, dimly lit interior. It is celebrated amongst locals for its creative, handcrafted cocktails that cater to adventurous palates. The bar’s unique ambiance and menu are ideal for intimate gatherings or a casual yet upscale evening out after the Stampede – if there’s room, that is!

Bottlescrew Bill’s Pub

 

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• Address – 140 10th Avenue SW
• Phone – 403-263-7900
• Website – bottlescrewbill.com

Bottlescrew Bill’s shines as a beer lover’s paradise, boasting an impressive global selection of craft brews on tap. The pub’s laid-back atmosphere and hearty menu of comfort food make it an inviting destination for locals and tourists alike. Its seasonal events, like beer tastings and summer patio sessions, add an extra layer of fun for Stampede Grounds’ visitors, especially on those warm summer nights.

Civic Tavern

 

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• Address – 213 12 Avenue SW
• Phone – 403-453-4114
• Website – civictavern.ca

Civic Tavern is a cozy Beltline neighbourhood gem offering a curated mix of craft beers and delicious comfort food. Its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere is perfect for catching up with old friends or making new ones. With its focus on hospitality and community, it’s a hidden gem of a pub near the Stampede Grounds that feels like home.

The Unicorn

 

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• Address – 223 8 Avenue SW
• Phone – 403-265-3665
• Website – superpub.ca

This “superpub” features three levels, each boasting a unique theme, from karaoke nights to classic Irish pub experiences. Located on downtown’s Stephen Avenue, The Unicorn offers something for everyone including great drinks, lively crowds, and themed evenings. Its sheer versatility makes it a staple for entertainment during the Stampede.

CRAFT Beer Market

 

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• Address – 345 10 Avenue SW
• Phone – 403-514-2337
• Website – craftbeermarket.ca

No list of best pubs and bars near the Stampede grounds would be complete without CRAFT Beer Market. Its massive open-air rooftop patio with covered seating is a great place to enjoy its selection of draft beer, featuring both local and international brews. The fresh, farm-to-table menu complements its vibrant social atmosphere. With its spacious interior and lively energy, it’s perfect for groups looking for an upbeat dining and drinking experience near the Stampede Grounds.

National on 10th

 

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• Address – 341 10 Avenue SW
• Website – ntnl.ca

National on 10th is another action-packed entertainment venue popular with Stampede goers during July, offering a spacious and lively atmosphere with an impressive craft beer lineup and a locally inspired, gourmet menu. Its rooftop patio provides a scenic backdrop for enjoying drinks with friends, family, and co-workers. With events like live music, trivia, and bowling lanes, it’s an ideal spot for entertainment-seekers.

Greta Bar

 

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• Address – 213 10 Avenue SW
• Phone – 403-984-6405
• Website – gretabar.com

Greta Bar is one of the most unique bars near the Calgary Stampede, with its rcade bar where you can enjoy retro games alongside a wide selection of beers, wines, and cocktails. The addition of on-site food trucks ensures tasty bites, pub-style, are always within arm’s reach. It’s a nostalgic and fun setting for a casual outing or a lively night out with friends.

Spanky’s Saloon

 

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• Address – 219 10 Avenue SW
• Phone – 403-453-4551
• Website – spankyssaloon.ca

Spanky’s Saloon is a charming rustic-style bar that celebrates Calgary’s Western heritage to the max, making it an ideal place to grab a drink before or after visiting the Stampede. It’s a vibrant watering hole beloved for its down-to-earth ambiance and live music. Visitors can enjoy its blend of history, fun, and community vibe.

Freestyle Social Club

 

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• Address – 119 12 Avenue SW
• Phone – 403-206-9565
• Website – freestylesocialclub.ca

Freestyle Social Club merges entertainment, modern dining, and a crafted drink menu into one trendy package. Its stylish interior and lively scene strike a balance between casual sociability and upscale vibes. It’s an excellent choice for mixing high-quality drinks with an energetic social experience.

St. James Corner Restaurant & Irish Pub

 

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• Address – 1219 1 Street SW
• Phone – 403-262-1157
• Website – stjamescorner.ca

One of the best pubs near the Stampede Grounds, St. James Corner is an authentic Irish pub offering hearty food, fresh draft beer, and live music nights in a warm and rustic setting. Its welcoming vibe is perfect for kicking back after a busy day at the Stampede. The pub captures the essence of Irish hospitality, making it a must-visit for visitors craving charm and cheer.

ONE18 EMPIRE

 

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• Address – 820 Centre Street S
• Phone – 403-269-0299
• Website – one18empire.com

ONE18 Empire is a whiskey-focused bar that exudes sophistication with its cozy, yet upscale ambiance. Its menu showcases local ingredients and pairs perfectly with its curated whiskey collection. The bar’s blend of excellent drinks, unique flavours, and welcoming staff makes for an unforgettable experience in the downtown area, close to many hotels frequented by Stampede visitors.

King Eddy

 

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• Address – 438 9 Avenue SE
• Phone – 403-829-6106
• Website – kingeddy.ca

The King Eddy is a Calgary landmark transformed into a vibrant live music venue and bar, showcasing its rich history alongside modern offerings. Located in the revitalized East Village community, it features a mix of excellent drinks, live performances, and an electric ambiance. Whether enjoying the music or soaking up the western heritage, it’s an iconic spot to embrace Calgary’s spirit. The Eddy is open late on Saturdays, but definitely check its hours if you’re planning on heading there any other day of the week.

The Best Places to Drink Near the Stampede

After exploring the diverse range of bars and pubs near the Calgary Stampede Grounds, it’s clear there’s a perfect spot for every taste, from sports bars to sophisticated cocktail lounges and classic Irish pubs. These establishments offer a convenient and lively way to extend your Stampede experience, providing great food, drinks, and atmosphere just a short distance from the action.

Whether you’re seeking live music, unique craft beers, or a place to relax with friends, the downtown and Beltline areas deliver. So, make sure to visit one of these top locations to complement your time at the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.