Imagine entering an indoor tropical paradise filled with lush undergrowth, koi ponds and fountains, living walls, abundant bistro seating positioned throughout the tiled walkways, all beneath sun-drenched skies. Imagine this year-round, whether the outdoor temperature is +25C or -25C. That’s what you get to enjoy at Calgary’s free public indoor Devonian Gardens!

Created in 1977 the Devonian Gardens offer a unique and extensive indoor park and botanical garden located on the 4^th floor of The Core Shopping Centre in the heart of Calgary’s downtown.  Fully enclosed and covered by a glass roof, these year-round gardens provide a welcome escape and meeting place away of the confines of corporate demands.  Equipped with koi-filled ponds, a living wall, fountains, lush tropical vegetation, bistro tables and chairs, a children’s play area, a public grand piano for the musically inclined, and easy access to the nearby food court, the wheelchair-friendly Gardens are a worthwhile detour and rest stop for any visitor to the downtown core. Meet up with friends, explore with family, rest while you’re discovering downtown, or just enjoy lingering alone in the soothing ambience with a book.

Discover more opportunities to include the Devonian Garden in your downtown visit with these additional suggestions from I AM CALGARY:

• Discover shopping at downtown’s CORE shopping centre
• Inexpensive winter hot date destinations
• Things you must see in Calgary if you only have a half-day to explore downtown

Getting there

The Gardens can be accessed by escalator, elevator or by stairway from the lower levels of the CORE Shopping Centre. The best way to access the CORE is via C-Train or on foot. If you’re on a west-bound C-Train, disembark at the 4th Street SW station. If you’re on an east-bound train, disembark at the 3rd Street SW station. Accessing the CORE as a pedestrian from Stephen Avenue is probably your most likely approach route. Downtown parking is challenging and might be pricey, so we would recommend avoiding using your own vehicle to get here.

More information about the Devonian Gardens can be found on the City of Calgary’s Official website.

IAC’s Moral-of-the-Moment: “If you happen upon a garden try not to judge and wonder; instead, appreciate and wander.”

I AM CALGARY