Hotel Arts Kensington is a boutique hotel in Kensington, the village-like neighbourhood on the north bank of the Bow River, a short walk across the Peace Bridge from downtown. Kensington is known for independent cafes, restaurants, small shops and a relaxed street life, and staying here gives you a very different feel from the downtown towers while keeping the Calgary Tower, Stephen Avenue and Prince's Island Park within a pleasant walk. The hotel's smaller scale and design focus make it popular with couples and independent travellers who want character, and it suits visitors who plan to eat out locally rather than in a hotel restaurant. It is an upper-mid-range option, so compare rates before you book, and remember that prices climb during the July Stampede and big events. Winter stays are cosy, though the walk across the river is exposed to wind and ice.
Location and getting around
Kensington lies just north of the river, and the Peace Bridge is the natural link to downtown, taking you across in minutes on foot. From the bridge, Prince's Island Park and the river pathway are close, and Stephen Avenue and the Tower are a walk of about fifteen to twenty minutes in good weather. In cold or icy conditions a taxi, rideshare or the train may be more comfortable, so allow for that when you plan.
Rooms and the feel
The hotel positions itself as a boutique property, so rooms vary and the design is more individual than at the large brand hotels. Check the current room options for bed types, views, breakfast and any parking arrangements, because these change and are not guaranteed here. A quiet room away from the street is worth requesting if you are a light sleeper, since the neighbourhood has an active evening scene.
Who it suits and what to know: couples, solo travellers and anyone who values a neighbourhood setting over a corporate downtown address will enjoy it. It is less convenient for early departures to the airport or for the CTrain than the downtown hotels, so check transport plans.
Pair a stay with a morning at Prince's Island Park, a walk along the river and dinner in Kensington, and use a taxi or the train for trips to Studio Bell, Inglewood or Stampede Park. Book early for the Stampede and for summer weekends, when the neighbourhood is at its liveliest.
Why stay here
- ✓Boutique hotel in Kensington
- ✓Short walk across the Peace Bridge
- ✓Independent cafes and shops nearby
- ✓Near Princes Island Park
- ✓Walk to downtown in good weather
- ✓Design-led rooms
- ✓Quiet neighbourhood evenings
- ✓Parking arrangements vary
Good questions
Where is Hotel Arts Kensington?+
It is in Kensington, on the north side of the Bow River, a short walk across the Peace Bridge from downtown.
Is it walkable to downtown?+
Yes in good weather, via the Peace Bridge. In icy or very cold conditions a taxi, rideshare or the train may be more comfortable.
Who is it best for?+
Couples and independent travellers who like a neighbourhood setting with cafes and small shops rather than a corporate downtown address.
