Esker Foundation
Calgary's best contemporary art space, and it's free, parking included. Exhibitions change often and there's a scavenger hunt for kids. Pair it with an afternoon on 9th Avenue.
1011 9 Ave SE, 4th floor · Map for Esker Foundation
Art Galleries
Two free public galleries to wander, then the galleries where you buy. Most commercial galleries are closed Sundays and Mondays.
Contemporary Calgary
Rotating exhibitions in the old Centennial Planetarium, a building worth the visit on its own. A different show on each floor, and the river paths are steps away.
701 11 St SW · Map for Contemporary Calgary
Wallace Galleries
One of the city's most respected galleries for Canadian art. Tell them what you love and they'll find the piece. They'll even hang it in your home.
724 11 Ave SW · Map for Wallace Galleries
Masters Gallery
Historic and contemporary Canadian art, from Group of Seven era work to living artists. Openings often include artist talks, and their custom framing is excellent.
2115 4 St SW · Map for Masters Gallery
Gibson Fine Art
A stunning space of Canadian artists, sharing the building with Interior Living. Watch for their intimate evening events.
523 Cleveland Cres SE · Map for Gibson Fine Art
Newzones
Contemporary Canadian art for nearly three decades. Go to an opening: new collections, the artists, and a glass of wine.
730 11 Ave SW · Map for Newzones
Herringer Kiss Gallery
Thoughtful contemporary shows, and an owner who loves talking about the work. Catch an artist talk if you can.
1615 10 Ave SW · Map for Herringer Kiss Gallery
Christine Klassen Gallery
A bright, beautifully hung gallery with a framing and restoration studio in-house. Great events, too.
321 50 Ave SE · Map for Christine Klassen Gallery
The Collectors' Gallery
A quiet Inglewood favourite for contemporary Canadian art, with lots of local artists. Welcoming whether you're a serious collector or buying your first piece.
1332 9 Ave SE · Map for The Collectors' Gallery
For the Art Crowd
Two artist-run spaces showing emerging work: The New Gallery in Chinatown (208 Centre St S) and Stride Gallery in the Beltline (625 11 Ave SW). Free, small and quick to see.
Coming soon: Glenbow, the city's big art museum downtown, is closed for renovations and targeting a 2027 reopening, with free general admission.