The Calgary Tower: Soaring Heights, Secret Histories, and Spectacular Views of the City
Calgary’s Iconic Landmark
Every time I look up at the Calgary Tower, I’m reminded of our city’s spirit—bold, ambitious, and always reaching higher. This landmark isn’t just architecture; it’s storytelling in concrete and steel.
Let’s break it down: the backstory, the build, the glow-up, and the unforgettable visitor experience.
A Symbol of Ambition: The Tower's Origins and Vision
Picture this—Calgary in the 1960s. Booming oil economy, a city ready to make its mark. The Calgary Tower was born out of that energy—a project spearheaded by Marathon Realty and Husky Oil to celebrate Canada's Centennial in 1967 and to jumpstart downtown development.
This wasn’t just a tower—it was part of the bigger Palliser Square redevelopment. Office space, a hotel, a transport hub—it was all part of the plan to modernize Calgary.
A Strategic Height Secret
Now here’s the juicy bit: the original height was underplayed. Developers claimed it would be 187 meters tall to dodge competition, but when San Antonio announced their 190m Tower of the Americas, Calgary’s crew revealed the real number: 191 meters. That gave us bragging rights as the tallest of its type in North America at the time. Classic Calgary hustle!
An Engineering Marvel: Building the Impossible
What they pulled off in the '60s is still mind-blowing today.
The Epic Concrete Pour
Construction kicked off in February 1967 and was done in just 15 months. The core column? Built using a continuous concrete pour—a technique brand new to the region. Crews poured concrete 24/7 for 24 straight days, growing the structure 7.6 meters per day on average. One day even hit 28 feet! That’s the kind of construction story that gets me, as someone who has worked in the industry, genuinely impressed.
Built to Last
Designed to handle 161 km/hr winds and withstand earthquakes, it was the first Western Canadian structure built with seismic resilience in mind. It sways slightly (as it's meant to) and sits on a rock-solid foundation, with 60% of its 10,884-ton weight underground. That’s engineering with foresight.
Evolution of an Icon: From Husky to Global Landmark
From Husky Tower to Calgary Tower
Originally named the Husky Tower, it was renamed in 1971 as a tribute to Calgarians. Fun detail: airport staff still refer to it as the Husky Tower to avoid confusion with the control tower.
Renovations & Upgrades
When it lost its tallest-building status to the Petro-Canada Centre in the '80s, it got a facelift. A $2.4 million reno added a gift shop, a rotating restaurant, and a sleek new glass lobby.
Modern Additions That Wow
-
Olympic Flame: Installed in 1987 for the 1988 Winter Olympics, it still lights up on special days like Canada Day.
-
Glass Floor: Added in 2005, this is for thrill-seekers. Yes, it’s moose-proof.
-
LED Lights: Since 2014, 16.5 million color combos light up the skyline.
-
Carillon Bells: Gifted in 1975 by Calgary’s Dutch community, restored and back in action—giving the tower its own musical vibe.
Global Status
The tower is a founding member of the World Federation of Great Towers—rubbing shoulders with the Eiffel Tower. That’s world-class status!
The Visitor Experience: What Awaits You at the Top
Whether you're a local or a visitor, there’s a full-day experience waiting for you.
Incredible Views
-
Observation Deck: At 157.6 meters, enjoy 360-degree views of Calgary and the Rockies.
-
Glass Floor: Test your nerves and snap that iconic shot.
-
Free Multimedia Tour: Use your phone to get guided facts and stories about the skyline.
Dining, Learning, Shopping
-
Sky 360 Restaurant: A full rotation every 45–60 minutes. Dine with ever-changing views—and get 50% off Observation Deck admission if you eat there.
-
Theatre Room & Exhibits: Deep dive into Calgary’s history and the tower’s construction.
-
Gift Shop: Stocked with local goods and tower-themed gear.
Pro Tips for Visitors
-
Save 10% on admission with the FREE Calgary Attractions Pass.
-
Plus 15 Access: Stay warm! Connected to key downtown buildings.
-
Stair Challenge: Not open to the public, but sometimes used for charity races—802 steps to the top!
-
Nearby Bonus: Catch a play at Vertigo Theatre right next door.
An Enduring Legacy: More Than Just a View
The Calgary Tower has seen this city grow, evolve, and power through tough times. It stood tall through the '80s oil bust and the 2008 financial crisis, remaining a symbol of Calgary’s resilience and upward drive.
It turned 50 in 2018, but it’s never looked better. Constant updates keep it relevant, and it continues to play a vital role in the local community and our global reputation.
Look Up, Lean In
So next time you’re walking through downtown, take a minute to look up. Better yet, go inside. Step on that glass floor. Grab lunch with a view. Watch the sunset from 500 feet up.
The Calgary Tower isn’t just something to check off a tourist list—it’s a reminder of what this city is made of: ambition, grit, and an eye to the future.
And hey, if you’re ever nearby and want to talk Calgary history—or real estate (you know I’ve got the inside track)—reach out.
Dusko Sremac – Calgary & Area REALTOR®
Calgary’s skyline isn’t the same without the Calgary Tower—and neither is the story of this city. As a Calgary REALTOR® with deep roots in Calgary and a background in construction, I’m all about helping people see the city from a new perspective—whether it’s from 191 meters up or the front door of their next home. Let’s talk Calgary real estate, history, or just where to get the best tower view.
Cell: 403-988-0033 | Email: dusko@repyyc.com | Instagram: @DuskoSremac_REPYYC
Leave A Comment