Devonian Gardens Calgary: Your Complete Guide to the City’s Indoor Tropical Paradise

Imagine this: it’s a crisp Calgary day. The wind is whipping down Stephen Avenue, or perhaps a blanket of fresh snow covers the city streets. You’re downtown, and you crave a moment of warmth, tranquility, and colour. Tucked away on the fourth floor of a bustling shopping centre is a place that offers just that—a one-hectare urban oasis that feels a world away from the city below. This is Devonian Gardens, Calgary’s beloved indoor botanical garden.

For decades, this lush sanctuary has served as a year-round escape for office workers, a playground for families, a stunning backdrop for photos, and a quiet refuge for anyone needing a dose of nature. Whether you’re a lifelong Calgarian or a first-time visitor, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to enjoy this unique downtown landmark.

What Exactly is Devonian Gardens? Calgary's Urban Oasis Explained

Devonian Gardens is a large, public indoor park and botanical garden located on the top floor of The CORE Shopping Centre in downtown Calgary. Spanning approximately 2.5 acres, it’s one of the largest indoor gardens of its kind in the world. It operates as a free, publicly accessible space maintained by The City of Calgary.

Under a massive glass skylight, you’ll find:

Over 10,000 plants, including palms, tropical flowers, and ferns.
More than 550 tropical and local trees.
Stunning "living walls" of vertical greenery.
Tranquil koi ponds and water features.
A modern children's playground.
Ample seating for relaxing or enjoying a meal.
An event space available for private bookings.

It’s a climate-controlled paradise that provides a welcome dose of humidity and greenery, especially during Calgary’s long, dry winters.

A Brief History of This Iconic Calgary Landmark

The story of Devonian Gardens is a story of civic generosity. The original gardens opened in 1977 as a gift to the City of Calgary from the Devonian Group of Charitable Foundations and Calford Properties. For over 30 years, it was a cherished, albeit dated, fixture of the old TD Square.

Recognizing the need for a refresh, the gardens closed in 2008 for a complete overhaul as part of the CORE Shopping Centre’s major redevelopment. After a four-year, $37-million renovation, it reopened in 2012 to widespread acclaim. The new design is brighter, more open, and more sustainable, featuring a state-of-the-art skylight, improved accessibility, and a more modern aesthetic that continues to delight visitors today.

What to See and Do Inside Devonian Gardens

A visit to Devonian Gardens can be a quick 15-minute stroll or a leisurely two-hour escape. There is something here for everyone.

The Lush Greenery and Living Walls

The main attraction is, of course, the incredible collection of plants. Winding pathways lead you through groves of towering palms and past vibrant floral displays. One of the most photographed features is the collection of living walls—vertical gardens where thousands of plants create a stunning tapestry of green. It’s a masterclass in biophilic design, seamlessly integrating nature into the built environment.

The Tranquil Koi Ponds and Fountains

The gentle sound of trickling water is a constant, calming presence throughout the gardens. Several ponds are home to dozens of colourful koi fish that glide gracefully through the water. Benches are strategically placed around the ponds, offering a perfect spot for quiet contemplation or simply watching the fish.

The Children's Playground

For families visiting downtown Calgary, the Devonian Gardens playground is a lifesaver. This modern, enclosed play structure features climbing walls, slides, and interactive elements. It’s a safe and engaging space where kids can burn off energy while parents relax on nearby benches. It’s arguably the best free indoor playground in the downtown core.

A Perfect Spot for Photography

With its beautiful natural light and stunning green backdrops, Devonian Gardens is one of Calgary’s most popular spots for photos. On any given weekend, you’re likely to see wedding parties, graduating students, or families posing for portraits. Even for casual photographers, the vibrant colours and unique textures of the plants offer endless creative opportunities.

The Event Space

The gardens also feature a dedicated event space that can be booked for weddings, corporate functions, and private parties. Imagine getting married or hosting a gala surrounded by a tropical forest in the heart of the city—it’s a truly unique Calgary venue.

Planning Your Visit to Devonian Gardens: Practical Info

Getting to and enjoying the gardens is easy, but a little planning goes a long way.

Location and How to Get There

Devonian Gardens is located at 333 7 Ave SW, Calgary, AB, on the 4th floor of The CORE Shopping Centre.

By C-Train: It’s incredibly transit-friendly. Get off at the 3rd Street SW or 4th Street SW station on the free fare zone of the downtown line. From there, it’s a short walk to The CORE entrance.
By Car: Downtown parking can be a challenge. The CORE offers several underground parkades (access off 3rd St SW or 4th St SW). Street parking is also available and is often free after 6 p.m. and on Sundays.
Via the Plus 15 Network: As a true Calgary landmark, Devonian Gardens is fully connected to the Plus 15 skywalk network. This allows you to walk there from dozens of office buildings and parkades downtown without ever stepping outside—a huge bonus in winter.

Hours of Operation

The Devonian Gardens’ hours are tied to The CORE Shopping Centre’s hours. Generally, this is:

Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday & Holidays: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Important: Hours can change. It is always best to check the official CORE Shopping Centre website for the most current hours before you visit.

Accessibility

The renovated gardens were designed with accessibility in mind. Elevators provide access to the 4th floor, and the pathways are wide and paved, making the entire space accessible for wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers.

Making a Day of It: What's Near Devonian Gardens?

One of the best things about Devonian Gardens is its central location, which makes it a perfect anchor for a day spent downtown.

Shopping: You are already in The CORE, one of Calgary’s premier shopping destinations, home to Holt Renfrew, Simons, and dozens of other retailers.
Dining: The CORE has a large food court on the 4th floor, right next to the gardens. It’s a perfect spot to grab a casual lunch to enjoy at one of the garden’s many tables. For a more formal meal, the restaurants of Stephen Avenue are just an elevator ride away.
Exploring: After your visit, take a stroll down the historic Stephen Avenue Walk, catch a show at Arts Commons, or head a few blocks over to see the Calgary Tower or Olympic Plaza.

Devonian Gardens Through the Calgary Seasons

While beautiful year-round, the gardens offer a different kind of magic depending on the season.

In Winter: It is the ultimate escape. Stepping out of the cold, dry air into the warm, humid atmosphere of the gardens feels like a mini-vacation. It’s a vital source of green and life during the city’s coldest months.
In Summer: It provides a cool, air-conditioned respite from the summer heat. During major downtown events like the Calgary Stampede Parade, it’s a great place to relax and escape the crowds for a while.
In Spring and Fall: On those unpredictable Calgary days when it can be sunny one minute and snowing the next, the gardens offer a consistently pleasant environment to meet a friend, read a book, or just enjoy a peaceful walk.

A Free Treasure in the Heart of the City

In a world where experiences often come with a hefty price tag, Devonian Gardens stands out as a truly free, high-quality public space. It’s a testament to Calgary’s community spirit and a place where anyone, regardless of age or background, can find a moment of peace and beauty.

So, the next time you find yourself downtown with time to spare, head to The CORE. Take the elevator to the fourth floor and step into a world of green. Whether you’re seeking a warm refuge from a winter storm, a fun outing for your family, or simply a quiet bench to enjoy your lunch, Devonian Gardens Calgary is waiting to welcome you.