The Bow

The Bow skyscraper is an architectural landmark that graces the skyline of Calgary. This impressive 58-story building, standing at 236 meters, is the second tallest in the city and one of the most recognizable in Canada. Its unique crescent shape is more than just a design choice; it echoes the elegant curve of the nearby Bow River.

Serving as the headquarters for major energy companies, the building has become a true symbol of sustainable construction. Thanks to its concave shape and southern orientation, it maximizes the use of solar energy and natural light. Inside the skyscraper lie unique "sky gardens" that create a comfortable atmosphere for employees and improve the microclimate.

The Bow catches the eye not only with its height but also with its exquisite blend of glass and steel structures. It is a place where modern technology meets natural aesthetics, making it a must-visit for all lovers of contemporary architecture.

For those planning a visit to this architectural masterpiece, the following contact information will be useful:

The main draw for visitors is the space in front of the building's entrance, home to the stunning 12-meter sculpture "Wonderland." This is a giant girl's head made of white wire mesh. The unique feature of this art piece is that you can walk inside it—from the interior, a surreal view of the surrounding skyscrapers opens up, as if you are looking at the world through someone else's eyes.

Architecture buffs should check out the concave glass atrium. This zone serves as a climate buffer and allows you to enjoy the play of light on the facade. From certain vantage points through the transparent panels, you can catch a glimpse of the majestic Rocky Mountains on the horizon.

The building's second floor is open to the public. Here you'll find cozy cafes and shops where you can take a break and enjoy a coffee while watching the rhythm of Calgary's business life. Additionally, this is a great place to start your journey through the famous +15 Skywalk system—a network of enclosed bridges connecting downtown buildings, allowing you to walk through the city in any weather.

The Bow skyscraper is located at 500 Centre St S, in the heart of the business district. Thanks to its central location, it is easy to reach from anywhere in the city.

The most convenient way to get there is by using the CTrain light rail. The building is in close proximity to the City Hall and Centre Street stations. Additionally, the site is integrated into the famous +15 Skywalk system, which allows you to comfortably walk there from other key downtown points without having to go outside in cold weather.

If you prefer to drive, taxis and rideshare services are available to quickly drop you off at the main entrance. For those who enjoy walking, the route from the riverfront takes only a few minutes.

The history of this grand structure began in 2007. Construction lasted five years, and upon its completion in 2012, The Bow officially became the tallest building in Calgary. The project, which cost nearly 1.5 billion dollars, marked a new stage in the development of the city's architectural landscape.

The world-renowned firm Foster + Partners worked on the design. The architects used a technology innovative for North America—the diagrid (diagonal grid). This triangular steel structure allowed the building to be lighter and more stable while maintaining the elegance of its curved forms.

The building was designed with the harsh climate of Alberta in mind. Its shape and southern orientation maximize solar heat gain, significantly reducing energy consumption. In 2012, the prestigious Azure Magazine included the site on its list of the ten most significant architectural projects in the world.

To view The Bow from the outside, appreciate its scale, and take memorable photos by the famous "Wonderland" sculpture, it usually takes 1 to 2 hours. This is plenty of time to head inside to the public floors and experience the atmosphere of a modern metropolis.

If you plan to have a snack at one of the local cafes or walk through the skywalk system toward other attractions, budget a bit more time for your visit. A trip to the skyscraper is easily combined with a stroll along the riverfront or a visit to downtown shopping centers.

The Bow building operates on a convenient schedule, allowing tourists to view it both in the early morning and in the evening, when the facade's striking lighting is turned on:

• Monday — Friday: 06:00 to 21:00
• Saturday: 08:00 to 16:30
• Sunday: 05:00 to 20:00

A walk around The Bow skyscraper is an excellent start for exploring the city center. The surrounding area offers many interesting locations, from park zones to entertainment centers, which will help make your day eventful.

Exploring nearby sites will allow you to better feel the atmosphere of Calgary and find great spots for family vacations or active leisure.