The Fairmont Palliser is the hotel that defines old-school luxury in Calgary. It opened in 1914 as a Canadian Pacific Railway hotel and was named for the explorer John Palliser, and it sits on 9 Avenue SW right beside the Calgary Tower, with the railway line and downtown's shopping and dining all within a short walk. Its location puts you in the middle of the pedestrian core: Stephen Avenue, the Peace Bridge and Prince's Island Park, and the Tower itself are all close, and the CTrain downtown free-fare zone is nearby. The hotel is a classic rather than a boutique, so expect a grand lobby, formal service and a traditional approach, with a premium Gold floor for those who want extra privileges. It is the right choice for a special occasion, a first trip to Calgary or a stay where the building is part of the experience.
Location and getting around: you are in the centre of downtown, so almost everything in this guide is walkable or a short ride. The Calgary Tower is next door, Stephen Avenue is a few blocks away and the Bow River pathway and the Peace Bridge are a ten- to fifteen-minute walk north. Downtown's heated walkways, known as the +15, link many buildings and are a blessing in winter. The CTrain's free-fare zone along 7 Avenue is a short walk away, and the airport is reachable by taxi, rideshare or the airport bus.
The rooms and the feel: this is a heritage building, so rooms differ in size and layout, and the older structure gives a character that newer towers lack. Fairmont Gold levels add a private lounge and extra service for travellers who want it. Because the property has been renovated over the years, check the current listing for room types, bed options and accessibility. If the building's history matters to you, ask for a room in the original wing and request a quiet floor away from the railway side.
Who it suits and what to know: couples, anniversary trips and business travellers on a larger budget will enjoy it most, as will anyone who likes traditional hotel service. Families are welcome, but check the listing for family room options. Parking is available downtown for a daily fee, as in most central hotels, and rates rise during the July Stampede, when the city fills up, so book very early if you are travelling then. In November and winter you often find calmer pricing and the Tower and Christmas lights nearby.
Why stay here
- ✓Heritage railway hotel since 1914
- ✓Next door to the Calgary Tower
- ✓Short walk to Stephen Avenue
- ✓Fairmont Gold level available
- ✓Connected to the downtown +15 walkways nearby
- ✓Concierge and traditional service
- ✓Dining on site
- ✓Downtown parking available for a fee
Good questions
Where is the Fairmont Palliser?+
It is on 9 Avenue SW in the middle of downtown Calgary, right beside the Calgary Tower. Stephen Avenue and the Bow River pathway are a short walk away.
Is it good for a first visit to Calgary?+
Yes, the location puts the Tower, Stephen Avenue and the river within a short walk, and the hotel itself is part of Calgary's history. It suits couples and travellers who want a classic, service-focused stay.
Should I worry about noise?+
As with many downtown hotels near a railway line, the room location matters. Ask for a quiet floor away from the tracks when you book.