A brief history of Stephen Ave, Calgary’s popular tourist spot

Stephen Avenue, formerly known as 8th Avenue, is a historic street located in the heart of downtown Calgary, Alberta, Canada. It was named after George Stephen, the first Baron Mount Stephen, who was a prominent figure in the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway. The avenue was officially renamed in his honor in 1910.

In the early 20th century, Stephen Avenue became a bustling commercial and entertainment district, with theaters, shops, and restaurants lining the street. The Hudson’s Bay Company, one of Canada’s oldest retailers, opened its flagship store on Stephen Avenue in 1913, which became a major landmark of the area. The street also became home to Calgary’s first movie theater, the Bijou Theatre, which opened in 1911.

During World War I, Stephen Avenue became the site of several patriotic rallies and parades, and it continued to be a hub of activity throughout the following decades. In the 1930s and 1940s, the street saw the construction of several Art Deco-style buildings, including the iconic Palace Theatre, which still stands today.

In the 1980s, the city of Calgary embarked on a major downtown redevelopment project, which included the transformation of Stephen Avenue into a pedestrian mall. The street was closed to vehicular traffic and outfitted with public art installations, flower gardens, and outdoor seating areas. The redevelopment also saw the restoration of several historic buildings along the avenue, including the Hudson’s Bay Company building.

Since the completion of the redevelopment project in 1987, Stephen Avenue has become a major cultural hub and tourist destination in Calgary. It is home to numerous shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, including the Glenbow Museum, the Calgary Tower, and the Devonian Gardens. The street also hosts several annual events and festivals, including the Calgary Stampede Parade and the Christmas Lights Festival.

In recognition of its historical significance, Stephen Avenue was designated as a National Historic Site of Canada in 2002. Today, it remains a beloved symbol of Calgary’s rich history and vibrant culture.