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Peace Bridge (Calgary)
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Landmark
The Peace Bridge in Calgary is a striking pedestrian and cyclist bridge crossing the Bow River, connecting the downtown core to the neighborhood of Sunnyside. Designed by world-renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, the bridge was officially opened in 2012. Its distinctive double-helix steel design is painted in animated red and white, reflecting the colors of both the Canadian flag and the flag of Calgary. The bridge spans 126 meters without the use of any piers or supports in the riverbed, an engineering choice made to minimize the environmental impact on the Bow River's ecosystem. A glass canopy protects users from Alberta's varied weather while allowing natural light to illuminate the path. Despite initial political debate over its cost, the Peace Bridge has become a beloved icon of the city and one of Calgary's most photographed landmarks. It serves as a vital commuter link, carrying thousands of people every day between the city center and popular parklands.
- Location: Canada
- Top sights: Downhill Karting · Zipline · Eckhardt-Gramatté Hall
- Nearby: Airdrie (13 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -7 | -7 | -2 | 4 | 10 | 14 | 18 | 17 | 12 | 4 | -2 | -7 |
| Rain mm | 18 | 19 | 25 | 41 | 67 | 109 | 57 | 59 | 47 | 29 | 23 | 20 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Peace Bridge is a pedestrian and cycle bridge that is freely accessible at all times. You can cross it and admire the architecture up close without any entrance fee.
Typical hours
As a public bridge, it has no opening hours - it is open 24/7. Visiting at sunset is especially beautiful when lighting accentuates the red color.
Photography
Photographing the bridge is easy from both banks and the walkway. Drone shots require a permit from the city of Calgary.
Time needed
A walk across the bridge and back takes about 10 to 15 minutes. If combined with the Bow River pathway, you can spend 30 to 60 minutes.
Combine with
Combine the visit with nearby Prince's Island Park for a picnic break. The Eau Claire Market with its shops and cafés is also just a few minutes walk away.
Getting there
Peace Bridge is located in downtown Calgary, easily accessible on foot, by bike, or by public transit. The nearest bus stop is 5 minutes away, and parking in the area is paid.
Insider tip
Visit the bridge early morning to avoid crowds and capture moody photos in the morning light. The bridge is painted red, so blue or green clothing gives nice contrast in pictures.
Geography
Facts
- Officially opened to the public on March 24, 2012.
- The bridge has a total length of 126 meters.
- Designed by acclaimed architect Santiago Calatrava.
- Built using a single span with no piers in the water.
- The steel structure weighs approximately 700 tonnes.
- Accommodates both pedestrian and dedicated bicycle lanes.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Peace Bridge (Calgary) (17)
Quickdraw Animation Society🎭 culture
Quickdraw Animation Society is an animation society near Peace Bridge.
🌐 quickdrawanimation.ca🕒 Tu-Fr 11:00-18:00; Sa 12:00-17:00; Su-Mo off
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Who designed the Peace Bridge?
The bridge was designed by the renowned architect Santiago Calatrava.
Can cars drive across the bridge?
No, it is exclusively for pedestrians and cyclists.
Which river does the bridge cross?
The Peace Bridge spans the Bow River in Calgary.
Why is it red and white?
The colors are a nod to the flags of Canada and Calgary.
Is the bridge lit at night?
Yes, it is brightly lit at night and is a popular spot for photography.
Peace Bridge (Calgary): where is it located?
Peace Bridge (Calgary) is located in Canada.
Peace Bridge (Calgary): what is there to see?
Highlights include Downhill Karting, Zipline, Eckhardt-Gramatté Hall.
Peace Bridge (Calgary): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Peace Bridge (Calgary): why is it worth visiting?
The Peace Bridge in Calgary is a striking pedestrian and cyclist bridge crossing the Bow River, connecting the downtown core to the neighborhood of Sunnyside.
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