Olympic Plaza
A dynamic public space in Calgary, known for its winter ice rink, festive lights, and summer festivals, honoring its Olympic legacy.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical Christmas lights & skating
Olympic Plaza
Best Time
Magical Christmas lights & skating
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dynamic public space in Calgary, known for its winter ice rink, festive lights, and summer festivals, honoring its Olympic legacy.
"Olympic Plaza is gorgeous, no matter which season you're visiting Whistler."
⛸️ Skate Rental Info
Skate rentals are available for $10 (kids) and $15 (adults) for a great ice skating experience.
🎄 Festive Vibes
The plaza is especially enchanting during the holiday season with a Christmas tree and lights.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Winter Ice Rink
Olympic Plaza
Glide across the ice under festive lights, a quintessential winter experience. Skate rentals available!
Summer Festivals
Olympic Plaza
Experience vibrant cultural celebrations and live music during summer events like Fiestaval Latino.
Olympic Rings
Olympic Plaza
A lasting symbol of the 1988 Winter Olympics, perfect for a commemorative photo.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Olympic Plaza's Future
Seasonal Charm
+3 and vibrant festivals in summer. Plan your visit around the activities that appeal most to you.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⛸️ Skate Rental Info
Skate rentals are available for $10 (kids) and $15 (adults) for a great ice skating experience.
🎄 Festive Vibes
The plaza is especially enchanting during the holiday season with a Christmas tree and lights.
☀️ Summer Fun
Enjoy diverse summer festivals and events, bringing a lively atmosphere to downtown.
📸 Photo Ops
Capture memories with the iconic Olympic rings and seasonal decorations.
Tips
from all over the internet
⛸️ Skate Rental Info
Skate rentals are available for $10 (kids) and $15 (adults) for a great ice skating experience.
🎄 Festive Vibes
The plaza is especially enchanting during the holiday season with a Christmas tree and lights.
☀️ Summer Fun
Enjoy diverse summer festivals and events, bringing a lively atmosphere to downtown.
📸 Photo Ops
Capture memories with the iconic Olympic rings and seasonal decorations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Olympic Plaza for its seasonal charm, particularly the winter ice rink and festive lights, and its role as a venue for vibrant summer festivals. While some note its historical significance, others mention ongoing changes and potential demolition, suggesting checking current status before visiting.
"Make sure to buy a gondola from Heesler and go up. It's worth going up without skiing, and it's really beautiful and magnificent. It was in mid-April when we went, but the snow was piled up overhead. It was crazy beautiful and reminded me of Interlaken in Switzerland. I strongly recommend you to visit one."
M Pak
"This olympic village in Whistler is a viewers delight. All branded stores are present along with restaurants offering world cuisine."
Debraj Banerjee
"If you want to avoid the crowds, there are plenty of seats where you can sit and relax with a cup of coffee, and I brought my cat out to sunbathe in the fresh air.
There are excellent views of the mountains."
Yanniandi C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Olympic Plaza is centrally located in downtown Calgary, making it easily accessible by public transit, including buses and the C-Train. Several parking garages are also nearby for those driving.
Yes, there are numerous parking garages and street parking options in the downtown core surrounding Olympic Plaza. Rates can vary, so check signage.
If you are in the downtown Calgary area, Olympic Plaza is very walkable and a pleasant destination to stroll to.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Olympic Plaza is a public space and generally free to enter. Special events or festivals held there may have separate admission fees.
As a public park, Olympic Plaza is typically accessible during daylight hours. Specific attractions like the ice rink or event venues will have their own operating schedules.
The outdoor ice rink at Olympic Plaza is usually free to use, though skate rentals come with a fee.
Entry requirements for events vary. Check the specific event details for information on tickets, age restrictions, or other necessary documentation.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Olympic Plaza offers ice skating in winter,
Yes, families can enjoy the ice rink, play areas, and seasonal events. Canada Day celebrations are particularly family-friendly.
While specific pet policies can vary, public parks generally allow pets on leashes. Always check local bylaws or signage.
Public bathroom facilities are typically available at Olympic Plaza, especially during event seasons.
Olympic Plaza was a central venue for the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics and remains a symbol of the city's Olympic legacy.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Olympic Plaza itself may not have permanent dining facilities, the surrounding downtown area offers a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and food vendors, especially during festivals.
Picnics are generally welcome in public parks like Olympic Plaza. It's a great spot to enjoy a meal outdoors.
📸 📸 Photography
The Olympic rings, the ice rink with skaters in winter,
Drone regulations can be strict in urban areas. It's advisable to check Transport Canada guidelines and local bylaws before flying a drone.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers beautiful light. For vibrant shots, consider visiting during evening events with lights.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kids can also enjoy the snow zone. In the summer, the plaza hosts various family-friendly festivals and events, including lively Canada Day celebrations. It's a great place for children to play and experience the city's atmosphere in a safe and engaging environment.📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2 Summer festivals bring vibrant colors and dynamic scenes, ideal for street photography. Remember to check local regulations if considering drone photography. ⛸️ Ice Skating Aficionados
The rink is often surrounded by festive decorations, enhancing the overall experience.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Olympic Legacy of Olympic Plaza
While the plaza has undergone changes and is slated for further redevelopment, its historical significance endures. It represents a period of civic pride and global recognition for Calgary. Understanding this context adds a layer of appreciation when visiting the space, connecting you to the city's rich sporting heritage. The plaza's evolution reflects Calgary's ongoing growth and adaptation, while still honoring its Olympic roots.
Seasonal Transformations: From Winter Wonderland to Summer Hub
+3 It's a popular spot for families and friends looking for seasonal fun. As the weather warms, Olympic Plaza shifts gears to become a vibrant hub for summer events and festivals. It hosts a variety of cultural celebrations, live music performances, and community gatherings. Events like Fiestaval Latino showcase the diverse cultural tapestry of Calgary, drawing large crowds and creating a lively atmosphere in the heart of downtown.
This seasonal adaptability ensures that Olympic Plaza remains a relevant and engaging destination for Calgarians and tourists year-round, offering something for everyone regardless of the time of year. 
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