Calgary’s got plenty of cool spots to check out, but if you’re looking for that bustling nightlife and amazing drinks, 17th Avenue is where it’s at. If bar-hopping were a sport, this street would be the championship arena.
So, when the group is popping, and everyone’s down for a night out, why not hit up one of 17th Avenue’s top spots?
We’ve checked out some of the best ones. Now, all you need to do is grab your crew and get ready for a great time!
Table of Contents
1. Prohibition Bar & Lounge
Media credits: prohibitionbaryyc
Website
Address: 720 17 Ave SW #30
Contact details: +1 825-734-1920
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 5 PM – 1 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 5 PM – 2 AM
- Sunday: 5 PM – 1 AM
- Monday: Closed
Price: $$$
Prohibition Bar & Lounge has a nice 1920s vibe to it. We loved the secret entrance, dim lighting, and vintage decor that sets the mood. When we visited, there was even a live jazz playing in the background.
We had a few cocktails, and they really put an effort into how they were presented. Each drink has a fun backstory, which you can also read on their website. From our experience, our server already gave us the rundown while serving them.
I tried the Lavender Gimlet, and it was amazing. It had this pretty purple hue and a perfect mix of botanical and citrusy flavors. The lavender added a subtle note without being too strong.
Pro tip:
While there’s no strict dress code, we recommend leaning into the 1920s theme with vintage or classy attire. You surely don’t want to miss taking advantage of the decor and taking some pics!
2. Truth Bar
Media credits: thetruthyyc
Website
Address: 608 17 Ave SW
Contact details: +1 368-999-7339
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday: 5 PM – 2 AM
- Monday: Closed
Price: $$$
Truth Bar has a stunning space-themed ambiance that is both futuristic and inviting. It’s cosmic ceiling and glowing blue lighting gave the place a galactic feel.
Every drink is also a work of art, visually and in flavor. We tried this drink called the Philosophical but Detached cocktail, and it’s an intriguing blend of flavors. It starts bold, but as it lingers, there’s a faint touch of sweetness that’s perhaps from a floral syrup.
We also ordered their Solar Fennel Sausage Pizza. The first bite had a satisfying crunch from the thin crust, and we loved how it gave way to the taste of the sauces.
If you want a night out with your friends, it’s a good spot since the energy here is electric.
Pro tip:
Don’t be shy to engage with the staff. They’re friendly and always happy to recommend if you’re not sure what to order.
3. One Night Stan’s Bar Room & Divery
Media credits: curiocitycalgary
Website
Address: 520 17 Ave SW
Contact details: +1 403-452-4407
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 2 PM – 2 AM
Price: $$
One Night Stan’s Bar has the perfect mix of classic dive bar and quirky hangout. The music was lively here but not overbearing. The retro decors were also a nice touch.
We were lucky to visit during their happy hour (2 PM to 6 PM) because we got some good deals on beers for an affordable price. One of us tried their highball vodka and Sprite, and it was crisp and refreshing.
Food-wise, there were carnitas street tacos, mac and cheese, and wings. The tacos were definitely the standout since they were packed with flavor and had the right amount of spices.
Pro tip:
Their patio is pet-friendly, and the staff goes the extra mile by bringing out water bowls and even chew toys. If the weather’s nice, bring your dog with you!
4. Betty Lou’s Library
Media credits: bettylouslibrary
Website
Address: 908 17 Ave SW
Contact details: +1 403-454-4774
Operating hours:
- Wednesday: 5 PM – 11 PM
- Thursday: 5 PM – 11:30 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 5 PM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 5 PM – 11 PM
- Monday to Tuesday: Closed
Price: $$$
There’s something fun about needing a password to get inside Betty Lou’s Library. Sure, you can just show up and get one at the door, but booking ahead makes the whole speakeasy concept even more immersive.
Inside, it’s also like stepping into a 1920s movie. There’s dim lighting, antique bookshelves, and even plush velvet chairs.
The drinks pay homage to literary greats. I loved their Agnes Grey Colada for its creamy coconut and sweet pineapple flavor tones.
Live entertainment also elevates the experience here. There was a jazz performance during our visit. We also heard that there are burlesque shows on some nights, so if that’s something you want to see, check the website for show schedules.
Pro tip:
Texting is permitted inside the library, but if you need to make a call, step outside. They’ll be happy to let you back in once you’re finished.
5. Prickett Richard
Media credits: prickettrichardyyc
Website
Address: 638 17 Ave SW #1
Contact details: +1 403-453-7636
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 6 PM – 1 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 5 PM – 2 AM
- Sunday: 6 PM – 1 AM
- Monday: Closed
Price: $$$
Pricket Richard’s entrance alone is exciting. We slipped through a steel door in a back alley off 17th Avenue.
Inside, the lounge welcomes us as if we were straight out of New York. We loved the exposed brick, wooden details, and the candle lights.
The vibe is intimate but not cramped, with standing tables available. They played some great music too, but don’t expect a club-like scene. This is a place for conversation over cocktails.
We tried some of their cocktails and we recommend the Lime-in the Coconut for those who don’t like the taste of alcohol but still want to drink. If you want something stronger and fragrant, try the Channel Orange.
Pro tip:
While their cocktails are the main attraction here, don’t skip the cheese toast or chicken-fried mushrooms. Both are delicious and can fill you up just right.
6. Whiskey Rose Saloon
Media credits: whiskeyroseyyc
Website
Address: 1012 17 Ave SW
Contact details: +1 403-474-7673
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 4 PM – 12 AM
- Thursday: 4 PM – 1 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 4 PM – 2 AM
- Sunday: 4 PM – 12 AM
Price: $$
If you’re looking for a Nashville-inspired bar in Calgary, Whiskey Rose Saloon is a solid choice. Its neon-lit door, rustic wood, and servers wearing cowboy hats immediately pulled us right in when we checked it out.
You can grab some of their drinks downstairs. They’ve got a solid selection of bourbon, but I went for their classic Old Fashioned cocktail. It was smooth, slightly sweet, and dangerously easy to drink.
The food menu leans into Southern flavors. Their nachos were a highlight, and we loved that it’s loaded with toppings like beans, corn, and fresh jalapeños.
Upstairs is where the live band usually plays. They sing a mix of country and classic rock. After their set, a DJ usually follows to keep the energy high throughout the night.
Pro tip:
If you’re looking to have a great time on a budget, visit here during their happy hour. It’s 4 PM to 6 PM on Tuesdays to Saturdays and all day on Sundays. You might just snag deals like $5 drinks, including highballs and house lager!
7. The Ship & Anchor
Media credits: ship.hop and shipandanchorpub
Website
Address: 534 17 Ave SW
Contact details: +1 403-245-3333
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 11 AM – 2 AM
- Saturday: 10 AM – 2 AM
- Sunday: 9 AM – 2 AM
Price: $$
The Ship & Anchor has a little bit of everything—an energetic crowd, live music, and one of the best beer selections in Calgary.
They have local and crafted beers like Alexander Keiths and Moosehead Lager. They even have gluten-free beers like Whistler Forager and Glutenberg Blonde.
Since they often host punk rock events here, the space was packed with punk lovers when we visited. Even the bar stools and high tables were filled.
A staff member recommended the patio, which was a great place to soak in the atmosphere of 17th Avenue.
Pro tip:
If you’re planning to hit up a midweek event like Punk Rock Bingo, get there early because seating fills up fast.
8. Lulu Bar
Media credits: thelulubar
Website
Address: 510 17 Ave SW
Contact details: +1 403-519-0444
Operating hours:
- Monday to Tuesday: 12 PM – 11 PM
- Wednesday to Thursday: 12 PM – 12 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 12 PM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 11 PM
Price: $$
While Lulu Bar is mostly known for their Pacific-inspired food, we really visited them for their drinks. All of them were creative and packed with flavor. The Venus cocktail was beautifully balanced and I liked how it was served with crystal-clear ice cubes.
The Honolulu happy hour is worth timing your visit around. It’s 9 PM to closing from Sundays to Thursdays, and 2 PM to 5 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. You’ll get great deals and a good excuse to sample more of the menu.
For the atmosphere, it really nails the tropical vibe. The interior is fun and quirky, with a patio that lets you people-watch while enjoying your drink.
Pro tip:
If you’re here for cocktails and small bites, the wasabi edamame and coconut squid can pair well with your drinks. They’re delicious and not too heavy.
9. National on 17th
Media credits: ntncalcagry
Website
Address: 550 17 Ave SW
Contact details: +1 403-229-0226
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 2 PM – 12 AM
- Thursday: 12 PM – 1 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 12 PM – 2 AM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 12 AM
Price: $$
If you’re a craft beer lover, National on 17th delivers. They have a massive beer selection, and you can experiment with different brewers.
However, this place is so popular that some taps run out before they update the menu. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s something to keep in mind.
Happy Hour is the way to go here, with some great deals between 3 PM to 6 PM. Outside of that, prices can be a bit steep—$12 for a Caesar felt a little rough.
For food, their Canadian menu has some standout options like lobster poutine and scotch eggs. I particularly loved the lobster. It had this gravy that complemented the natural sweetness of the lobster.
Pro tip:
Check out their daily specials. They often have rotating food and drink deals, so ask the staff first about it before you order.
10. The Living Room
Media credits: livingroomyyc
Website
Address: 514 17 Ave SW
Contact details: +1 403-228-9830
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 4 PM – 12 AM
Price: $$$
You should visit The Living Room if you’re looking for a relaxed atmosphere while sipping some drinks. Their drink menu has everything, from classic gin martinis to more creative options like the Plum Sour and the Lions & Tigers & pears.
One of us also tried their non-alcoholic drink called Virgin Blackberry Mojito. We appreciate how the bartender really catered our drinks according to our preferences.
While The Living Room does have a full menu, we’d recommend treating it as more of a drinks-and-small-plates kind of place. The charcuterie and fondue-style dishes pair well with the cocktails, but if you’re starving, you might want to grab a meal elsewhere first.
Pro tip:
If you’re planning a formal event or cocktail reception, you can do it here. The Living Room offers two stylish private dining spaces. Just ask their staff about it.
