Bow Valley Ranche
The historic house at Bow Valley Ranche was built by William Roper Hull in 1896 and is fitted with a wraparound veranda that seats up to 50. Sitting at the front or the side of the house not only reveals a picturesque view of Fish Creek Provincial Park but also lets visitors get a temporary escape from the city as they envision how Hull or Senator Patrick Burns (the second owner of the house) would have relaxed back in the day.
15979 Bow Bottom Tr. S.E., 403-476-1310, bvrrestaurant.com
Rooftop Bar @ The Simmons
With a clear view of the Bow River, the hilly communities on its north bank, St. Patrick’s Island and downtown, the Rooftop Bar @ The Simmons is upstairs from Charbar and like no other. Outfitted with umbrellas for sunny days and heaters for cooler nights (plus upstairs washrooms), Charbar’s patio seating is available for both reservations and walk-ins, so make sure to call or get there early.
618 Confluence Way S.E., 403-452-3115, rtbsimmons.ca
River Café
The River Café is one of Calgary’s most sublime settings to dine at any time of year, but there’s something extra-special about the warmer months when guests get to sip wine and eat locally sourced, regionally inspired food while gazing out at the greenery of Prince’s Island Park and the adjacent lagoon.
25 Prince’s Island Park, 403-261-7670, river-cafe.com
