We explored Studio Bell in Calgary and now we can’t stop singing. Here’s why.
One of my friends’ kids is musically inclined. Even at a young age, he was already a fan of The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, David Bowie, The Rolling Stones, and more.
To further encourage him, his mom thought it would be good to bring him to Studio Bell. I was extended an invite as the designated Calgary attraction expert; and since I’ve never been, I went with them.
By the end of our time there, I was fully convinced that I could pick up a guitar and work my way to being the next Joni Mitchell.
It was truly so inspiring to hear about the stories of local and international music legends. It was even more interesting to see all the different things that go into making a song.
In case you’re curious, I’ve written this guide about all the various things you’ll find during a visit to Studio Bell, Calgary’s number-one attraction for music lovers.
Where is Studio Bell?
Studio Bell is located at 850 4 St. SE. It is just around the popular Central Library. Both can be found within Calgary’s East Village, which is known for its modern architecture and chic restaurants.
How to Get to Studio Bell
Via Light Rail: The City Hall Light Rail Station is only a five-minute walk away from Studio Bell. You can get there by taking the Red or the Blue C-Train lines.
Via Bus: There is a bus stop at the corner of 4 Street SE and 9 avenues that is a short walking distance from the entrance of Studio Bell. Riding transport lines 1 and 305 can take you to this bus stop.
Via Private Car: You can get directions on how to reach Studio Bell by checking a navigation app like Waze or your car’s GPS system. There are two paid public lots on the northern and southern sides of the street where Studio Bell is located.
What to Do in Studio Bell
Join a tour
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With over 5 floors, plenty of exhibitions, and several studios and concert halls, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start in exploring Studio Bell. Fortunately, visitors can now depend on the tour guides to find out where each hallway leads.
Studio Bell offers several tours that essentially grant a backstage pass to the world of music. You can learn industry secrets, see world-class recording facilities, and get up close and personal with instruments that were once owned by music icons.
One of the things we think were worth seeing on the tour is a jaw-dropping synthesizer that looks like it belongs on the Millennium Falcon rather than a music studio.
Just take note that most of the tours they have are around an hour long and cost additional fees.
Watch a concert
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A trip to Calgary’s music hub wouldn’t be complete without seeing a live performance. Studio Bell has several performance halls that have amazing acoustics worth hearing.
Don’t worry, you don’t have to be a fan of classical music to fully appreciate the music they play here. Yes, they often have tributes to composers like Vivaldi and Bach. However, they also hold concerts to celebrate more modern artists such as Adele.
All you have to do is check their lineup of concerts ahead of time on the official Studio Bell website and then plan your visit accordingly.
See the Halls of Fame
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Apart from maple syrup and hockey, one of the best things Canada is known for is its rich music scene. Our country produced icons like Bryan Adams, Oscar Peterson, Alanis Morisette, Shania Twain, and many more.
With Studio Bell’s Halls of Fame, you can learn so much more about our contributions to music. Find out which musicians have been inducted and what their impact has been on the industry. You’ll even get to see some of the musical artifacts they owned.
For the music lovers out there, we challenge you to name a song for every songwriter you recognize. Extra points go to those who can sing a few lines.
Try your hand at making music
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One of the best things about Studio Bell’s permanent exhibitions is that they’re not just there to be looked at and absorbed. Visitors are also invited to engage with what they learn.
As you explore each floor, you’ll learn more and more about the different elements of making music. You’ll also get to know about the various pioneers who have made a difference in the industry.
By the time you reach the third and fourth floors, you’ll be given the chance to make your own tunes. Some choose to strum guitars, while others play the piano. For us, we prefer feeling like superstars in their vocal booths.
Regardless, it just goes to show that music is for everyone, no matter the skill level. And you never know, you might just discover a hidden talent with one of the instruments here.
Where to Eat near Studio Bell
ONE18 Empire
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Address: 820 Centre St S
Phone: +1 403 269 0299
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 6:30 AM to 10:00 PM
- Thursday – 6:30 AM to 11:00 PM
- Friday – 6:30 AM to 12:00 AM
- Saturday – 7:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Sunday – 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
ONE18 Empire is best enjoyed with some company. This rustic restaurant has the perfect ambiance and delicious food to elevate a great night into being memorable.
They’re best known for their outstanding bar selection. Our jaw always drops when we see their selection of over 300 whiskeys, cocktails, craft beers, and more. At this point, we’ve abandoned the thought of having a favorite and just try a new one each visit.
Most diners tend to gravitate to their snacks because they go well with drinks. Their signature ONE18 Empire Popcorn and the House Cut Truffle Fries are certified bestsellers among locals.
What many don’t know though is that their breakfast dishes are worth waking up for. We know for sure that both locals and tourists are going to fall in love with their All Canadian Breakfast.
Saltlik Calgary
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Address: 101 8 Ave SW
Phone: +1 403 537 1160
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM
People should be warned that their standards for steaks will never be the same once they’ve dined at Saltik Calgary. This restaurant only serves the best of the best when it comes to cuts and flavors.
But the chefs here understand that not all people are fond of steaks. That’s why they’ve made sure that the rest of the menu is up to par.
Personally, I think they also serve some of the best homemade pasta in the city. Their Rigatoni All’amatriciana is what converted me into being a regular.
Whatever you order, just make sure to leave some room for dessert. You’ll be missing out on a core memory if you don’t get their decadent sticky toffee pudding.
Where to Stay near Studio Bell
Fairmont Palliser
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Address: 133 9 Ave SW
Phone: +1 403 262 1234
Pricing: $$$
Operating Hours:
- 24-hour front desk
The Fairmont Palliser is practically an institution by now since it’s been around for more than a hundred years. In that time, it has never lost its reputation as one of the most luxurious places to stay in Calgary.
There really is no question as to why this was the chosen home for Queen Elizabeth during her visit to the city. The marvelous and opulent lobby alone is a sight to behold.
Staying at this hotel isn’t just about having all the modern comforts you could want, it’s also about being spoiled with experiences. You can have the time of your life at their state-of-the-art spa, soothing hot tub, impressive fitness center, and world-class pool.
On top of it all, the service is top-notch. The staff here always goes out of their way to make every guest feel like their comfort and satisfaction are the only things that matter.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Calgary Downtown
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Address: 711 4 St SE Suite B
Phone: +1 587 352 5500
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- 24-hour front desk
The Homewood Suites by Hilton Calgary Downtown can tailor its service depending on the kind of guest you are.
Extroverts love this hotel for its unique weekly evening social activity. Guests are invited to enjoy some good food at the reception and socialize with other hotel patrons from all over the world.
On the other hand, introverts praise the hotel’s efficient valet service and staff. They have a grocery service where they’ll stock up your ensuite kitchen for you, eliminating the need to go out and run errands.
What everyone seems to be in agreement about is the amazing complimentary breakfast. The hotel serves something new daily, so all guests are excited to see what new delicious dish the kitchen has in store for them.