Hotel Alma is the hotel at the University of Calgary, on the campus in the north-west of the city, and it offers a quieter, more residential base than the downtown towers. It suits visitors who have business at the university, travellers who prefer a calmer setting and budget-conscious guests who are willing to use the CTrain or a car to reach the main sights. From the campus you can reach downtown by train, and the north-west of the city has a number of parks and viewpoints, including Nose Hill Park, within a short drive. It is generally a value-focused option rather than a luxury choice, so check the current rates and room types, which vary through the year, and compare them with the downtown hotels, since the saving may be offset by transport time. Rates also change around university events and graduation, so book early for those dates.
Location and getting around
The campus sits north-west of downtown, so you will be using the CTrain, taxis, rideshares or a car to reach most sights. The train link from the university area runs into the downtown core, which makes the Calgary Tower, Stephen Avenue and the river reachable without driving, though the journey takes longer than a walk from a downtown hotel. Nose Hill Park and Bowness Park are within a short drive and are natural outdoor additions to a stay here.
Rooms and the feel
As a campus hotel, the emphasis is on practical, clean and comfortable rooms rather than design flourishes. Check the current room options for bed types, kitchen facilities, breakfast and parking, because these differ and change. The area is quiet at night, which suits light sleepers and families who want to avoid downtown noise.
Who it suits and what to know: it is a good choice for visitors with university business, for families who want a quiet base with parking and for budget-minded travellers who plan day trips to Drumheller or Banff and will spend little time in the room. It is not ideal for travellers who want to walk to restaurants and the river in the evenings, so think about how you will get to dinner. In winter, the campus walks are exposed to wind, so dress warmly, and allow extra time for transit on cold or snowy days.
Why stay here
- ✓Campus hotel at the University of Calgary
- ✓Quiet residential setting
- ✓CTrain access to downtown
- ✓Near Nose Hill Park by car
- ✓Practical value-focused rooms
- ✓Good base for day trips
- ✓Calm evenings
- ✓Parking available
Good questions
Where is Hotel Alma?+
It is on the University of Calgary campus in the north-west of the city, away from the downtown core.
How do I get to downtown?+
By the CTrain, taxi, rideshare or car. Allow more time than you would from a downtown hotel, especially in winter.
Who is it best for?+
Visitors with university business, families who want a quiet base and budget-conscious travellers who will be out on day trips.
