10 Best Nightclubs In Calgary

Written by Joeri Van Overloop

Night owls and party animals, lend me your ears! If you're looking for a guide to the glitz, glamour and throbbing music of the best nightclubs in Calgary, look no further. I've had my share of midnight escapades in this vibrant city known for its legendary nightlife and let me tell you: these venues are nothing short of spectacular. So strap on your dancing shoes as we dive deep into Calgary's bustling nighttime scene.

1. Commonwealth Bar & Stage

Commonwealth Bar & Stage is one of the most popular night clubs in Calgary and definitely worth a visit. Located in the heart of downtown Calgary, Commonwealth has become a go-to spot for locals and tourists, and one of the best places to party. The club is housed in an old warehouse that has been converted into a two-floor venue with a vintage fashion-forward aesthetic. The venue is designed to deliver a fun time with good music in Calgary.

The club features two distinct floors of sound, each with its own dancefloor and bar. The first floor is dedicated to great live music, while the second floor is a dance club that plays house, EDM, hip-hop, and other electronic music. Commonwealth is known for hosting some of the best DJ and live performances in the city, as well as themed nights and drag shows.

Commonwealth's cocktail bar is well-stocked with a wide variety of beverages, including craft beer, gin, and cocktails. The club also features a cafeteria-style food menu that offers fusion-style snacks and other dishes.

The club is also a popular venue for music festivals and events, such as the Calgary International Blues Festival. And transportation to Commonwealth is easy, with several bus and train stops nearby.

Contact:

Address: 731 10 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0B3, Canada

2. The Ace Nightclub

I have visited The Ace Nightclub in Calgary and it is definitely one of the best nightclubs in the city. One of the major attractions of this club is the ACe Skydeck, which offers spectacular views of Calgary Tower while sipping on signature cocktails served here. The club also features a large dance floor where guests can dance the night away to the best bangers from all eras, whether it be from 90's or current hits.

The Ace is also known for its great events, DJs, and themed evenings. Whether you are into karaoke, burlesque nights or just want to dance, you will definitely find something to enjoy.

The club also offers guest lists, table bookings, and tickets for special events. The entry prices and drink prices are reasonable, and the staff are super friendly and attentive.

Contact:

Address: 111 7 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 0W5, Canada

Phone: +1 403-536-4035

3. Twisted Element

Twisted Element is a popular night club in Calgary, known for its vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. It is a mixed-LGBTQ+ bar that provides a safe and welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies.

Twisted offers a variety of entertainment options, including karaoke, drag shows, burlesque, and dancing. The club has a loungey atmosphere with comfortable seating and a spacious dance floor.

One of the unique features of Twisted Element is its commitment to promoting equality and celebrating diversity. The club aims to create an environment where everyone enjoys the same universal rights, regardless of their gender identity, sexual orientation, race, or ethnicity.

Twisted Element is open from 9:00 PM to 3:00 AM every day, except Mondays and Tuesdays. The club has a cover charge, which varies depending on the night and the event. The dress code is casual, but guests are encouraged to dress up for special events.

Contact:

Address: 1006 11 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0G3, Canada

Phone: +1 403-802-0230

4. The Back Alley

I have been to many night clubs in Calgary, but The Back Alley is one of my favorites. It is a spacious venue that spans over 12,000 square feet and features four themed bars, including Bacardi, Jack, Red Bull, and Jameson. The Jameson-themed bar serves custom-made draft beer, Back Alley Red and White, from Wild Rose Brewery.

The Back Alley is known for its massive dance floor and incredible sound system, which can blow the socks off any event, concert or show. The production team can custom tailor the sound and lighting to your needs, making it a great venue for any occasion.

One of the things I love about The Back Alley club is its ambiance. The venue has a unique vibe that is hard to find anywhere else in Calgary. The themed bars add to the overall atmosphere, and the staff is always friendly and accommodating.

The Back Alley has been closed for over a year, but it recently announced that it will be reopening its doors soon. I can't wait to go back and dance to the music all night at one of the best Calgary nightclubs.

Contact:

Address: 4630 Macleod Trail, Calgary, AB T2G 5E8, Canada

Phone: +1 403-287-2500

5. Rooftop YYC

I have to say, Rooftop YYC is one of my favorite spots in Calgary. This rooftop bar is located in the heart of the city, offering stunning views of the skyline. Whether you're looking for a spot to grab a drink with friends or a venue for a special event, Rooftop YYC has it all.

One thing that sets Rooftop YYC apart from other Calgary bars in the city is its impressive menu. The drinks and food here are top-notch, with a variety of dishes that are perfect for sharing. I highly recommend trying the charcuterie board, which includes a selection of meats, cheeses, and accompaniments. The cocktails are also excellent, with a range of classic and creative options to choose from.

In terms of ambiance, Rooftop YYC has a great vibe. The space is modern and stylish, with plenty of seating options both indoors and outdoors. The rooftop patio is especially impressive, with comfortable lounge chairs and heaters to keep you warm on cooler nights.

Contact:

Address: 414 3 St SW, Calgary, AB T2P 0J1, Canada

Phone: +1 403-262-0080

6. Rated Ultra Lounge

As a nightlife enthusiast, I can confidently say that Rated Ultra Lounge is one of the best clubs in Calgary which offers an electrifying experience for anyone looking to dance the night away to pure electronic music bliss.

One of the things that make the Rated Ultra Lounge stand out is its modern facilities. This venue in Calgary boasts state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems that create an immersive experience for party-goers. The lounge also features talented local DJs who curate the music to keep the energy high all night long.

Rated Ultra Lounge has a curated drink and bottle menu that caters to all tastes. Whether you prefer classic cocktails or something more exotic, the lounge has got you covered. Additionally, the intimate lounge has a VIP section that offers exclusive bottle service for those who want to take their night to the next level.

Contact:

Address: 314 3 St SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0S3, Canada

7. Cowboys Dance Hall

The Cowboys Dance Hall, located at the Stampede park in the Cowboys Casino, is a world-famous nightclub known for its country music and top 40 music, weekly events, and live music scene.

The venue is quite spacious, with a massive dance floor and four themed bars that cater to all tastes. The ambiance is always lively and energetic, making it the perfect place to go for a night out with friends.

One of the things I love about the Cowboys Dance Hall is that it attracts a diverse crowd. You'll find people of all ages and backgrounds here, which makes for a fun and inclusive atmosphere. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or just looking to let loose and have some fun, you'll feel right at home at Cowboys.

Contact:

Address: 421 12 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 1A5, Canada

Phone: +1 800-282-1376

8. Please Don’t Tell

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Please Don't Tell (PDT), Calgary's newest bar and nightclub located in the center of downtown, right underneath first street S.W.

The atmosphere at PDT is upscale and unique, with a speakeasy vibe that transports you back in time. The decor is amazing, with dim lighting, exposed brick walls, and plush velvet seating. The attention to detail is impressive, with every element carefully curated to create an immersive experience.

The drink menu at PDT is extensive, with a wide selection of craft cocktails, and a good selection of beers and wine. The bartenders are knowledgeable and skilled, and they take pride in their craft. I highly recommend trying one of their signature cocktails, like the "Bee's Knees" or the "Old Fashioned."

One thing to note is that PDT strongly recommends visitors to dress up and reserve a table to get the ultimate experience.

Contact:

Address: 811 1 St SW, Calgary, AB T2P 7N2, Canada

Phone: +1 587-800-3364

9. Papi

Papi is a unique tequila bar and nightclub located in the city center of Calgary. It offers a one-of-a-kind experience with its two floors of different atmospheres. The main floor features a dance floor and a discotheque where guests can shake it off to the beat of the music. The underground level has a secret taqueria where guests can grab a bite to eat.

The bar serves a wide variety of tequila and margarita drinks. Guests can indulge in their favorite cocktails or try something new.

Papi is a popular spot for nightlife in Calgary. It has a guest list for non-ticketed events, and guests can purchase tickets for special events on their events page. The nightclub is open from Sunday to Thursday from 9:00 PM to 2:00 AM and on Fridays and Saturdays from 8:00 PM to 2:00 AM.

Contact:

Address: 630 8 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 1G5, Canada

Phone: +1 587-560-2008

10. Sub Rosa

Last year I had the opportunity to visit Sub Rosa, a lounge and bar located in the heart of downtown Calgary. Hidden beneath a heritage building at the corner of 8th Avenue and 1st Street, Sub Rosa offers patrons a unique and stylish experience.

Upon entering the lounge, I was immediately struck by the elegant decor and ambiance. The dim lighting and cozy seating arrangements create an intimate atmosphere that is perfect for a ladies night out with friends or a romantic evening.

The cocktail menu at Sub Rosa is extensive, and the bartenders are skilled in their craft. I highly recommend trying one of their signature cocktails, such as the "Sub Rosa Sour" or the "Midnight in Manhattan." The drink prices are on the higher side, but the quality and presentation make it worth the cost.

Sub Rosa also offers private event bookings, accommodating up to 60 guests for a seated event or up to 270 guests for a standing reception. The venue is perfect for special occasions or corporate events.

Contact:

Address: 200 8 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 1B5, Canada