Every member of our team has their own favourite places depending on the day. Some of us are chasing the perfect sandwich. Others can’t resist a good bakery, vintage shopping, or a little self-care after work. So we rounded up a few of our personal favourites to help inspire your next visit.
Part cocktail bar, part hidden library, Betty Lou’s is one of our favourite places to slow down and enjoy a unique atmosphere. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just looking for a memorable evening, this spot never disappoints.
A neighbourhood favourite that’s always worth recommending. Great food, welcoming service, and the kind of place that quickly becomes part of your regular rotation.
Sometimes all you need is an incredible sandwich. Fresh ingredients, bold flavours, and one of our favourite grab-and-go lunches on the avenue.
Comfort food at its best. Whether you’re craving a warm bowl of pho or classic Vietnamese dishes, this is one of our favourite spots for a satisfying meal.

Because there’s never a bad time for gelato. Especially during Calgary’s summer months.
A great place to slow down with a coffee and catch up with friends, or simply enjoy a quiet moment in the middle of the day.
Flaky pastries, beautiful baking, and one of those places where it’s almost impossible to leave with just one item.
Whether it’s your morning coffee or an afternoon pick-me-up, MIK is always a solid choice.
A long-standing 17th Ave favourite offering fresh baking, European treats, and plenty of reasons to stop in. Their recent expansion means there’s even more to discover.

A carefully curated vintage shop that’s perfect for finding one-of-a-kind fashion and accessories.
Minimal, modern, and thoughtfully curated. A great stop if you’re looking to refresh your wardrobe.
A haven for music lovers. Browse new and used vinyl, discover local artists, or stop by for one of their listening parties.
Whether you’re looking for crystals, unique gifts, or simply enjoy exploring beautiful collections, Earth Gems is always an interesting stop.

When it’s time for a fresh set, this is one of our favourite places to unwind and leave feeling polished.
Beautiful flowers have a way of brightening any day. Whether you’re celebrating someone else or yourself, Peaseblossoms is always a lovely stop.
Handcrafted chocolates that feel like a little luxury. Perfect as a gift or simply because you deserve one.
These are just a handful of the places our team loves, and one of the best parts about 17th Ave is that everyone has a different list.
Next time you’re on the avenue, try one of our staff picks… or better yet, discover one of your own.
]]>Whether you spent your week line dancing until midnight, hopping between breakfasts, or simply soaking up the energy around the city, there’s no shame in admitting you could use a little reset. Luckily, 17th Ave is full of places to help you recharge.

After a week of mini donuts, midway snacks, and late-night eats, your body might be craving something a little fresher.
And don’t forget the simplest recovery tip of all: drink plenty of water.

You don’t have to jump straight back into an intense workout.
Sometimes the best recovery is simply getting outside and moving at your own pace.

Recovery isn’t just physical. It’s mental, too.
Think of it as giving yourself permission to slow down after a very busy couple of weeks.

Recovery food looks different for everyone.
There’s no wrong answer if it helps you feel like yourself again.

Stampede is loud. Recovery doesn’t have to be.
Pick up a book, wander through a few local boutiques, sit in Tomkins Park, or spend an afternoon with no plans at all. Sometimes the best detox isn’t about what you’re taking away, but about slowing down enough to enjoy where you are.
Remember summer isn’t over so take a deep breath, recharge, and enjoy everything the rest of the season has to offer on 17th Ave.
]]>With more than 10 tattoo shops spread throughout the corridor, the avenue has become home to a wide mix of artists, styles, and studio aesthetics, making it one of Calgary’s go-to destinations for tattoos. Whether you’re booking your first appointment, adding to a growing collection, or just love the culture surrounding tattooing, here are some of the shops that help shape the tattoo scene on 17th Ave.

Known for its bold branding and experienced artists, Highwire Tattoo has become a recognizable staple along the avenue.
A creative studio space offering a more boutique tattoo experience with a strong focus on artistry and custom work.
Tucked inside the historic Devenish Building, The Brindle Room combines tattoo culture with a unique and intimate studio atmosphere.
Another studio located within the Devenish Building, Ambassador Tattoo has helped contribute to the creative energy found throughout this historic space.
Known for darker aesthetics and striking artwork, Dark Dimension Tattoo brings a distinct visual identity to the avenue.
A longtime name in Calgary’s tattoo community, Irreversible Tattoo has built a strong reputation for custom work and experienced artists.
Sharing a home with Irreversible Tattoo, Lucky Cat Tattoo Studio brings its own unique personality and artistic style to the corridor.
A newer addition to the avenue’s tattoo community, Living Prayer Tattoo adds another creative voice and aesthetic to the west end of the corridor.
Known for its playful branding and strong visual identity, Sorry Mom Tattoo Shoppe has quickly become a recognizable part of the avenue.
The private tattoo studio is a burst of pink, glitter, and fun. 13 Cats Tattoo Studio is home to 4 local artists who are always ready to create something you’ll fall in love with.
Recognized as Calgary’s oldest tattoo shop, Smilin’ Buddha Tattoo was originally founded by tattoo pioneer Paul Jeffries and is now home to a diverse group of artists specializing in styles ranging from traditional and geometric work to fine line and custom designs.


Tattoo shops have helped shape the creative identity of 17th Ave for years, adding to the individuality, artistry, and culture that make the corridor feel unlike anywhere else in the city. And honestly, there’s probably no better place in Calgary to wander around and suddenly decide you need another tattoo
The grounds aren’t the only place celebrating Stampede. From pancake breakfasts and brunches to live music, shopping events, recovery classes, and late-night parties, there’s something happening on 17th Ave every day.
We’ll continue updating this calendar as more businesses announce their Stampede plans!

Beautiful Brows Boutique
Get ready with these two stampede specials: Brow Lamination + Lash Lift — $150 & Waxing Package (Full Legs, Brazilian, Full Arms & Underarms) — $150
PRML x Drinkwell
Recovery Roundup! $30 drop-in classes from July 3–12. Every booking includes a complimentary Well Juice recovery drink. Use code WELLxPRML at checkout.
Ollia Macarons & Tea
Try their limited-edition Stampede Macaron Collection.
Get your burger fix earlier during Stampede with their specialty hours: 12pm -1am throughout the whole 10 days!

Whiskey Rose Saloon
Live music with Dawson Gray.
The Coup
Stampede Brunch begins! Available daily from 9 AM–1 PM through July 12. Reservations are now open.
Fire N Ice
Kick off Stampede with their official Stampede Kick-Off Party. Doors open at 9 PM, with DJs all night long.
Whiskey Rose Saloon
Live music with Connor Wicklum.
Whiskey Rose Saloon
Live performance by Daring Greatly.
Prohibition Lounge
Dean Martin Tribute Show beginning at 5 PM.
Whiskey Rose Saloon
Live music with Dirt Road Kings.
Ship & Anchor Pub
Their legendary annual Stampede Whoop-Up returns! Starting at 8 PM, enjoy live music all evening before a free midnight pancake breakfast. Featuring performances by Agriculture Club, Peter and the Wolves, The Haybelles, Buzz Elroy and His Hayseed Rockets, Sean Hamilton and the Amber Hour, and The Sadlier-Brown Band.
Whiskey Rose Saloon
Live music with N. Compton.
Whiskey Rose Saloon
Live music with Leo Martinez Project.
Kick off stampede with this specialty saloon show! 8:30 pm start and no cover.
Whiskey Rose Saloon
Special Guest (to be announced!)
Deng’s Dumplings
Free Stampede Lunch from 12–2 PM.
Play 17 Lounge
Something special is in the works… stay tuned!
Whiskey Rose Saloon
Live music with New Law Brothers.
Texas Lounge
End of Stampede Hangover Bingo starring Malibu Stacey and Daisy Devine beginning at 3 PM.

Know of another Stampede special, event, or promotion happening on 17th Ave?
Let us know! We’d love to add it to the calendar.
]]>In honour of Multiculturalism Day, we wanted to highlight just a few of the family-owned and multigenerational businesses that continue to shape the character of 17th Ave.

A longtime staple on the avenue, Golden Bell has been serving the community for decades and continues to be a go-to spot for comfort food and familiar faces.

Ethos Bridal has been serving Calgary since 1970, and you will find exquisite couture designer wedding gowns, a wide selection of bridesmaid dresses and gowns for the entire wedding party – from mother-of-the-bride to the smallest flower girl. They carry many elegant evening gowns for all occasions, like graduations or prom as well as unique bridal accessories.

Since opening on 17th Avenue in 2001, Son of the Pharaoh has remained a family-run business connecting Calgary to Egyptian culture and craftsmanship. Many of the shop’s authentic jewelry, papyrus art, and handcrafted treasures are still made by family members in Egypt, making every piece a reflection of generations of tradition and heritage.

Family owned and operated since 2006, European Bakery & Deli has become known for its baked goods, deli offerings, and welcoming atmosphere that keeps people coming back. Last month, the business celebrated the expansion of its space on 17th Ave, a milestone that reflects both its continued growth and the strong community support it has built over the years.

A longtime fixture on 17th Ave since 1988, Indo Designer Rugs specializes in premium hand-knotted rugs, custom sizing, and timeless pieces that bring warmth and character into a space. Family-owned and operated by the Mehrotra family, the shop blends decades of design expertise with handcrafted rugs sourced from South Asia, helping customers find pieces that feel both personal and lasting. Alongside their showroom, they also offer custom rug design, repair, and specialized cleaning services.

Since opening in 2011, Sloth Records has become a go-to spot on the avenue for music lovers, collectors, and anyone who still appreciates flipping through records in person. The shop carries new and used vinyl, CDs, cassettes, books, apparel, and plenty of local Calgary music. The space has also become known for hosting live performances, listening parties, and community events that keep Calgary’s music culture thriving.

Originally founded in 1993 by a local artist, Steeling Home has remained a unique creative fixture on the avenue, blending art, furniture, and design into a space unlike anywhere else.

Since 1984, John and Moira Reid have built Reid’s Stationers into a beloved stop for stationery lovers, artists, students, and anyone who still appreciates putting pen to paper.

Operating since 1973 and now in its third generation of ownership and operation, Rubaiyat continues to bring textiles, fashion, and handcrafted goods from around the world to the avenue.

Founded in 1970 and carried through generations, Walls Alive has remained part of Calgary’s creative and design community for decades.

Founded in 1974 by Bernard Drouin, 17th Ave Framing has spent decades helping Calgarians preserve artwork, memories, and meaningful pieces through custom framing.

Since 1978, Kalamata Grocery Store has brought Greek products, flavours, and traditions to 17th Ave, becoming a staple for both longtime customers and new visitors alike.
These businesses represent more than just storefronts. They reflect the families, cultures, histories, and communities that continue to shape 17th Ave into one of Calgary’s most vibrant and diverse corridors. And while the avenue continues to evolve, it’s places like these that help keep its character alive.
]]>
Girls’ night doesn’t always need to involve a bar. Book nails, facials, wellness treatments, massages, or a relaxing reset before heading out for the evening:

You can’t go wrong with cocktails, wine, happy hour specials, or a sunny patio. Whether you’re after low-key conversation or somewhere louder and more energetic, there’s no shortage of spots to start the night:

Sometimes the best nights involve an actual activity.
Pottery painting at Colour Me Mine
Matching tattoos at Dark Dimension Tattoo or Smilin’ Buddha Tattoos
Take a Macaron 101 class at Ollia Macarons & Tea
Take Q.lab’s Barista Training Course together
Late-night shopping Unique Bunny, Lululemon or Arc’teryx
Play Pinball at PinBar or Retro game shopping at Vaulted
Try an escape room at E-Exit

Not ready to head home yet? End the night with:
Dessert from D Spot Dessert Cafe or BeaverTails
Karaoke at Watchman’s Pub (7 nights a week)
Thursday Trivia Nights at Jameson’s Pub
Play some pool at Pour Decisions
Catch some live music at The Ship and Anchor Pub
Enjoy a magic show at Prohibition Bar on Tuesdays
Late-night snacks Kim Anh Vietnamese or Rosie’s Burgers or maybe Mug’s Pub

Because some of the best nights on 17th Ave are the ones that weren’t really planned in the first place.
]]>Luckily, 17th Ave has plenty of brunch spots worth sleeping in for. Whether you’re recovering from the night before, meeting friends for mimosas, or slowly wandering the avenue with coffee in hand, there’s no shortage of places to start your day a little later.

Sometimes brunch is less about eggs benny and more about caffeine and a pastry the size of your head.
From flaky croissants and fresh sourdough to iced lattes and matcha, these spots are perfect for slower mornings:
Butter Block Bakery & Cafe, 908 17 Ave SW
Caffe Beano, 1613 9 St SW
MIK Coffee & Shop, 1019 17 Ave SW
Philosafty Coffee, 632 17 Ave SW
Element Cafe, 331 17 Ave SW
The places where brunch turns into a full event. Think patio mimosas, oversized brunch plates, sunny patios, & accidentally staying for three hours:
Maven, 1006 17 Ave SW
The Coup, 924 17 Ave SW
The Sweatered Hen, 819 17 Ave SW
Galaxie Diner, 1413 11 St SW
You know the type of brunch. The kind where someone orders a caesar and suddenly it’s late afternoon. These spots are perfect for turning brunch into an all-day patio hang:
Porch, 730 17 Ave SW
Trolley 5, 728 17 Ave SW
Alumni Sandwiches, 725 17 Ave SW
Browns Socialhouse, 880 16 Ave SW
The Ship & Anchor, 534 17 Ave SW
One of the best parts about brunching on 17th Ave is that the day rarely ends there. Walk the avenue, explore local shops, stop into a market, grab dessert, or just spend the afternoon wandering. There’s always something happening around the corner.

Because honestly, brunch tastes better when you don’t have to rush anywhere afterward.
]]>
Dresses: Obviously Ethos Bridal, 1022 17 Ave SW, for something classic. Want something less formal but stylish for the summer? Check out Leo Boutique, 810 16 Ave SW, or Kate Hewko, 908 17 Ave SW.
Suits: Kit + Ace, 800 16 Ave SW, carries blazers and dress pants so your boyfriend won’t need to wear the same suit for every wedding this summer.
Shoes: gravitypope, 1126 17 Ave SW, has a wide range of options no matter if you’re looking for style or comfort. For the ladies, take a peek at Era Style Loft, 917 17 Ave SW. For the guys, find something unique at Less 17, 930 17 Ave SW.
Alterations: Fishman’s Personal Care Cleaners, 601 17 Ave SW, has your back if you’re in need of an alternation or repair before the big day.

Accessories: Matching sets for all the girls? Check out LYLAS Jewelry, 908 17 Ave SW. In the mood for something unique? Beadles Gemstones, Crystals, Beads & Jewelry, 1606 7 St SW, is the recommendation.
Watches: Visit Calgary Jewellery, 1331 17 Ave SW, and browse their wide range of showstopping watches.
Handbags: Corner Luxe Consignment, 1510 7 St SW, has some of the best luxury bags looking for a new home.
Sunglasses: Have your top gun moment with a new pair of specs from either Spexville, Sight Unseen Optics, Brass Monocle, or Eye Candy Optical.
Fragrances: Find your signature scent of the summer from Shoppers Drug Mart, 815 17 Ave SW. Saje Naturel Wellness, 880 16 Ave SW, has more naturel options if that’s your jam.
Remember 17th Ave has some of the best Consignment & Vintage in Calgary so it’s easy to cover the something old or borrowed.

Floral arrangements: Peaseblossoms Flowers, 1417 11 St SW, has been open since 1995 and is 17th Ave only flower shop!
Wine: Grab a family favourite from Crowfoot Wine & Spirits, 1402 14 St SW, or pick up something to commemorate the moment from Vine Arts Wine and Spirits, 932 17 Ave SW.
Chocolates: Looking for high-quality, master made treats? Epiphanie Chocolate, 1417 11 St SW, should be list on your list!

A 17th Ave gift card is never a bad idea either. Redeemable at 75+ places across the avenue.

You might not be going on the honeymoon but you can still treat yourself. Keep in mind, 17th Ave has more opinions for coffee & patios then you’d know what to do with.
Brunch: It’s a staple on the Ave! Maven, 1006 17 Ave SW, Galaxie Diner, 1413 11 St SW, or The Sweatered Hen, 819 17 Ave SW or The Coup, 924 17 Ave SW.
Recovery: Reset that nervous system with Inside Out Collective, 1414 8 St SW, or take a guided flow at PRML, 720 17 Ave SW.
Wellness: Book an appointment with a trained Osteopathy at Honeycomb Osteo, 1230 17 Ave SW, or maybe try something new with Acupuncture Collective, 1039 17 Ave SW.

Whether you’re going full fringe or just adding a pair of boots, 17th Ave is one of the best places in Calgary to get Stampede ready.
]]>Whether your version of self-care is deep relaxation, crystal shopping, or just trying something new, here are a few ways to slow down, recharge, and maybe get your sparkle back along the avenue.
If your body’s been holding onto stress, tension, or “I’ve been sitting weird at my desk for 8 hours” energy, the Myo Signature Session at Myodetox might be exactly what you need.
Part treatment, part reset, it’s one of those experiences that makes you realize how tense your shoulders actually were.
Even if you don’t know what half the crystals do, walking through Earth Gems feels grounding in its own way.
From giant statement pieces to tiny pocket crystals, it’s the kind of place where you go in “just to look” and somehow leave with a new emotional support rock.
A quiet room, calming atmosphere, and an hour where nobody expects anything from you? Honestly, enough said.
Acupuncture Collective offers an approachable way to slow down, relax, and reconnect with yourself for a bit.
Whether you fully believe in tarot or just love the experience, a reading at The Art of Tarot can be a surprisingly reflective way to pause and check in with yourself.
At the very least, it’s a reminder to slow down and think about where you’re headed.
There’s something about lying on the floor listening to calming frequencies that just resets your entire nervous system.
Inside Out Collective’s sound baths offer a chance to fully unplug for an hour and leave feeling a little lighter than when you walked in.
For those looking to slow down mentally, they also have meditation-focused experiences available along the avenue.

Sometimes getting your sparkle back looks less like a big transformation and more like taking an hour for yourself, trying something new, and slowing down for a bit.
And honestly, 17th Ave has plenty of ways to do exactly that.
]]>
After a surprise snowfall on Saturday, no one really knew what to expect heading into the first 17th on 17th of the season. Luckily, by Sunday afternoon, the sun started fighting its way through the clouds and the avenue came alive.

Across five locations on 17th Ave, live music spilled onto sidewalks, patios, and street corners as people wandered between performances, stopped unexpectedly while exploring, and gathered around artists all throughout the afternoon.

Some visitors came down specifically for the event, while others stumbled across it naturally while shopping, grabbing coffee, or spending time on the avenue. That mix of planned moments and unexpected discoveries is exactly what makes events like this feel so special.

From folk and jazz to opera, pop, and soul, each performance brought its own atmosphere and energy to the avenue, creating an afternoon that felt uniquely 17th Ave.

A huge thank you goes out to all of the performers, participating businesses, and everyone who came out to support the first event of the season. Seeing people stop, listen, dance, and explore the avenue together made for an incredible kickoff to summer.

And the best part? We get to do it all again.
17th on 17th returns June 17 from 6–7 PM with another evening of live music across the avenue. So mark your calendars, grab some friends, and come spend the evening exploring 17th Ave.
]]>
Prepare with:
Bonus Community Event! lululemon is hosting a pre-Calgary Marathon community event on May 22 right on 17th Ave.
The evening kicks off with a 5K shakeout run, followed by a guided stretch and yoga session to help you loosen up before race day. To wrap it up, enjoy a private in-store shopping experience featuring local vendors including heal, myodetox, and raw by robin.
It’s a great way to connect with the running community, test your gear, and get into the right mindset ahead of the weekend. Register here!
Looking to carb load the night before?
Morning of: Keep it light and simple
Refuel with:
Treat yo’self with:
Relax & reset with:
Whether you’re prepping to perform or celebrating the finish, 17th Ave is your go-to before and after the race.
]]>