Hotel Arts Kensington
1126 Memorial Dr NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 3E3 Canada
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Avg. $178 /night, 12/8 - 12/9
$192
per night
$167
per night
$142
per night
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Cheaper
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Higher
About
4.5
#12 of 109 hotels in CalgaryLocation
4.7
Rooms
4.6
Value
4.2
Cleanliness
4.7
Service
4.6
Sleep Quality
4.5
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Hotel Arts Kensington (previously Kensington Riverside Inn) is a welcoming boutique Hotel located steps from Downtown Calgary along the banks of the picturesque Bow River in Kensington Village. This 19-room hotel features inviting accommodations for the discerning traveler, as well as our newest addition, Oxbow, serving unique and seasonal cuisine, letting you appreciate dining as it was meant to be, honestly uncomplicated. Your experience will include complimentary continental breakfast as well as complimentary bottled water & high-speed wireless internet in the guest room.
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Property amenities
Parking garage
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Bar / lounge
Bicycles available
Highchairs available
Taxi service
Meeting rooms
Massage
Wifi
Restaurant
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Complimentary tea
Outdoor dining area
Special diet menus
Wine / champagne
Baggage storage
Concierge
Newspaper
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor furniture
Umbrella
24-hour front desk
Dry cleaning
Laundry service
Ironing service
Room features
Blackout curtains
Soundproof rooms
Air conditioning
Desk
Fireplace
Coffee / tea maker
Cable / satellite TV
Bath / shower
Bathrobes
Housekeeping
Interconnected rooms available
Private balcony
Safe
Seating area
Telephone
Wardrobe / closet
Bottled water
Iron
Tile / marble floor
Wake-up service / alarm clock
Electric kettle
Flatscreen TV
Radio
iPod docking station
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
Room types
City view
Landmark view
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
HOTEL STYLE
Romantic
Boutique
Languages Spoken
English, French, Spanish, Dutch
Location
1126 Memorial Dr NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 3E3 Canada
Getting there
Good for walkers
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travelers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
Grade: 84 out of 100
84
Calgary Intl Airport
6 mi•
See all flights
Rental Cars
86 Restaurants
within 0.3 miles
Reviews
4.5
707 reviews
Reviews summary
This summary was created by AI, based on recent reviews.
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Hotel Arts Kensington has garnered acclaim for offering guests a good value with perks like appealing happy hour specials and commendable amenities, despite occasional letdowns in the restaurant. Nestled in the heart of Kensington, its location is a standout, praised for easy access to local hotspots, downtown, and scenic river trails. Guests are welcomed into a modern, cozy atmosphere, with spotless and spacious rooms that boast fireplaces, contributing to the comfort and upscale feel.
While the rooms and amenities, including luxurious bathrooms and a quality continental breakfast, receive high marks, some guests suggest there's room for improvement in maintenance and dining experiences. The service at Hotel Arts Kensington is generally lauded for its warmth and attentiveness.
Location
Convenient
Atmosphere
Inviting
Rooms
Cozy
Value
Superb
Cleanliness
Meticulous
Service
Attentive
Amenities
Well-appointed
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Detailed Reviews
We were recommended by Canadian Surgical Solutions - Clearpoint to stay at Hotel Arts Kensington during my husband’s knee replacement surgery. They met our every request to make our stay comfortable with efficiency and kindness- providing a ground floor room, bath stool, fridge, kettle, frequent ice, specific timed room cleaning, installing a raised toilet seat and luggage handling arriving and departing. I can’t say enough good things about them all. The room was spacious with a lovely outdoor patio off it.
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Date of stay: September 2021Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I had such an incredible stay at this hotel. The staff and service is impeccable. They are very pleasant and tend to your needs right away. The rooms are large and have lovely decor and I loved the fireplace! The bathroom was big and the soaked tub was nice but the shower didn’t have that great of pressure. The large lotion container available was a nice touch. The unlimited still and sparkling water was also greatly appreciated but it is brought at room temperature and it would have been nice if it was cold. I also really missed having a mini fridge in my room to keep snacks and water. Due to where the hotel is you can definitely hear road traffic but it wasn’t too bad. There was a lack of plug ins in the room. Most hotels usually have them on the lamps by the bed or on the desk and this one did not. I also really liked the underground parking, although having a truck down there made me a little nervous.
The location is also amazing. There were so many cute stores and restaurants to walk to. There was so much to do on a solo trip. I would definitely stay here again!
The location is also amazing. There were so many cute stores and restaurants to walk to. There was so much to do on a solo trip. I would definitely stay here again!
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Date of stay: October 2020Trip type: Traveled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Colin Middleton, Owner at Hotel Arts Kensington
Responded Oct 27, 2020
Thank you for sharing your experience on TripAdvisor! While we do not have fridges in all of our rooms, we do have some that we can provide upon request. I have noted your preference for a refrigerator for any future stays and will ensure one is placed in your suite upon arrival. For bedside charging needs, our clock radios do provide 2 USB ports to charge your smartphone overnight and there is easy power access on the desktop of all of our guestrooms for any additional outlet requirements. I am so pleased that you enjoyed exploring our little neighborhood; Kensington has so much to discover and I am glad you had the opportunity to experience it. I look forward to hosting you again the next time your travels bring you to Calgary. Yours in hospitality, Colin Middleton Rooms Operations Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Hands down, the best customer service we have ever received at a hotel.
I spilled my coffee while walking back from breakfast, and the gentleman at the front desk took it upon himself to bring a fresh cup right up to our room. So kind!
The beds are amazingly comfy, and the rooms were very clean quite, we didn’t hear any traffic.
Will be staying here again!
I spilled my coffee while walking back from breakfast, and the gentleman at the front desk took it upon himself to bring a fresh cup right up to our room. So kind!
The beds are amazingly comfy, and the rooms were very clean quite, we didn’t hear any traffic.
Will be staying here again!
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Date of stay: February 2021Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Colin Middleton, Owner at Hotel Arts Kensington
Responded Mar 2, 2021
Thank you so much for sharing your experience with others! We understand how important that morning cup of coffee can be and wouldn't want anyone to go without! I look forward to hosting you again in the future. Warmest regards, Colin Middleton Rooms Operations Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
As we live in the Calgary area we were familiar with the Kensington area and all it has to offer. What we didn't realize was there was this little gem to hang our hat for the night. If you like boutique hotels, this checks a lot of boxes. The staff is personable and professional...and very helpful. Although we didn't try the restaurant, it is very well done and combined with the lobby lounge and patio, it makes for an excellent atmosphere.
The rooms are all on the second floor and it is easily accessible via stairwell or an elevator that goes to the parkade as well.
The rooms are divine. The washrooms are modern and the decor is chic. The bedroom area has one of the most comfortable hotel beds we've ever slept on. Overall these are first class rooms.
We will be making this location a regular staycation destination...although one night is not enough.
Well done to the staff.
The rooms are all on the second floor and it is easily accessible via stairwell or an elevator that goes to the parkade as well.
The rooms are divine. The washrooms are modern and the decor is chic. The bedroom area has one of the most comfortable hotel beds we've ever slept on. Overall these are first class rooms.
We will be making this location a regular staycation destination...although one night is not enough.
Well done to the staff.
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Date of stay: August 2020Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Colin Middleton, Other at Hotel Arts Kensington
Responded Aug 31, 2020
Thank you for sharing your experience with other travelers! It is always such a pleasure to receive feedback such as yours and I am so happy that you not only enjoyed your stay, but also discovered a new destination in the neighborhood. I will be certain to share your feedback with the rest of the team. I am so glad to have been given the opportunity to host you at our boutique hotel and hope we can welcome you back again soon! Colin Middleton Rooms Operations Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Beautiful hotel located right in Downtown. The rooms were clean, the shower is excellent. Nice touch is the unlimited bottles of sparkling water provided. Best part of the hotel is the location, so many options for dining and shopping.
The hotel restaurant is great as well, and very reasonably priced. The staff is friendly and helpful. Parking excellent in the underground garage.
The hotel restaurant is great as well, and very reasonably priced. The staff is friendly and helpful. Parking excellent in the underground garage.
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Date of stay: September 2020
Rooms
Cleanliness
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Colin Middleton, Owner at Hotel Arts Kensington
Responded Sep 9, 2020
Thank you so much for sharing your Hotel Arts experience with other travelers. I am so glad you enjoyed exploring our little neighborhood; there are so many great restaurants, cafes and shopping options surrounding the hotel and it really is a pleasure being part of a community with so many amazing local businesses - we are really happy to be able to share this experience with our guests. Wishing you safe travels and hope we can host you again soon! Kind regards, Colin Middleton Rooms Operations Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
If you want to experience the Community of Kensington while being by the Bow just across from Downtown ...then this charming if not folksy hotel is for you! Great rooms, and great room service but with limited menu.. and during holidays, do not expect the restaurant to be open
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: December 2019Trip type: Traveled on business
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from ColinM3119, Manager at Hotel Arts Kensington
Responded Feb 10, 2020
Hello Steven W, Thank you for reviewing your recent stay with us. I am so glad you enjoyed your stay and our trendy neighborhood - Kensington itself has so much to explore! There are unfortunately select holidays in which our restaurant is closed for dinner service - however we are open for breakfast 365 days a year. We do ensure our guests receive advanced notice of any restaurant closures and our friendly front desk team is always ready to recommend their favourite dining options in the area. I hope to welcome you back again in the near future. Warm regards, Colin Middleton Rooms Operations Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I have stayed at this hotel many times in the past and have always felt very welcome.
This was no different. The only reason that I gave it a 4 star is because in the room description it states that coffee, and a news paper will be provided in the morning. Unfortunately, they are not offering these pleasant amenities and it was not explained to us that it was because of COVID. I was very disappointed. I think the website should be changed to reflect this.
The restaurant was not open but that was completely understandable.
I know is a small thing but we were in the King Suite and I was surprised that the glass table in front of the fireplace had not been dusted upon our arrival nor during our 3 night stay. Also, and I know this is also petty but the sheer curtains remained open after the housekeeping staff left. Small things make big impressions.
This was no different. The only reason that I gave it a 4 star is because in the room description it states that coffee, and a news paper will be provided in the morning. Unfortunately, they are not offering these pleasant amenities and it was not explained to us that it was because of COVID. I was very disappointed. I think the website should be changed to reflect this.
The restaurant was not open but that was completely understandable.
I know is a small thing but we were in the King Suite and I was surprised that the glass table in front of the fireplace had not been dusted upon our arrival nor during our 3 night stay. Also, and I know this is also petty but the sheer curtains remained open after the housekeeping staff left. Small things make big impressions.
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Date of stay: February 2021
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip:Â Corner room very nice size. Lots of natural light from the many windows facing south.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Colin Middleton, Owner at Hotel Arts Kensington
Responded Mar 2, 2021
Thank you so much for your review. Our morning newspaper delivery has been suspended for the time being - I do apologize for the misinformation. Our website has been revised to reflect this. We have placed Keurig coffee machines in all of our guest rooms to facilitate the making of coffee at our guests' convenience. There is certainly no excuse for poor cleanliness and I will be following up with our housekeeping team regarding the dusty tabletop & closing of the sheers. I look forward to welcoming you back to Hotel Arts Kensington again in the future. Yours in hospitality, Colin Middleton Rooms Operations Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Friendly and welcoming staff who were helpful. Parking was complimentary and safe. The room was comfortable and well appointed with a fireplace, a huge soaker tub (bathtub was my favourite part!) and rain shower. The Skoah toiletries were perfect.
At first I was a bit worried about the noise of traffic from nearby memorial drive but it didn’t disturb me once. The location for walking around Kensington and over to Eau Claire was perfect. Lots of places to eat and shop nearby.
My only suggestion would be adding some “soft pillows” to the bed as they were all pretty firm. Enjoyed our stay and would return.
At first I was a bit worried about the noise of traffic from nearby memorial drive but it didn’t disturb me once. The location for walking around Kensington and over to Eau Claire was perfect. Lots of places to eat and shop nearby.
My only suggestion would be adding some “soft pillows” to the bed as they were all pretty firm. Enjoyed our stay and would return.
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Date of stay: February 2022Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
An excellent boutique hotel experience in the heart of the awesome Kensington neighbourhood. The hotel was clean, the rooms were lovely and spacious and well decorated. The staff were incredibly accommodating and professional. The Oxbow restaurant was our best meal in Calgary. The continental breakfast had nice options and the lobby (where breakfast is served) is warm and inviting and a great place to set up and work if necessary. We will be back again.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: October 2023
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I have stayed here going on 5 years for regular travel to Calgary. In recent visits the service has declined. I most recently stayed for a week and not once during my stay did anyone ask how my stay was. The front desk staff (blonde girl) was stand offish and cold. My room was above the bar area and all I could constantly hear the annoying beat of the music underneath. There was also a billing issue two days into my stay due to an apparent issue with your internal system and credit card billing, I had a pending charge for incidentals on my card day one for $500 and then two days later I suddenly was receiving notification for another $361 and $206. The room was arranged to be charged directly through our corporate travel. When I approached the young lady at the front desk she was indifferent and told me it was a problem on our end as they had no corporate credit card on file. This was odd as two days earlier when I checked I confirmed with the gentleman at the front desk it was being direct billed. Only after I again went to the front desk to explain they should be hearing from our Corporate Travel to sort the issue was I told there was an issue with the hotels system over the weekend and provided a 1/2 hearted apology. I am confused as to why when I checked in I was assured it was being direct billed, then a $500 charge pending for incidentals and two days later it appeared they were charging me stay by the day on top of the $500 deposit. Overall I am extremely disappointed with the declind in service from my last couple of stays and will be looking to stay elsewhere. It appears to be there has been a change in staffing and they are much less customer focused. Unfortunate as the location is great given our office is just around the corner.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: April 2023Trip type: Traveled on business
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Colin Middleton, Owner at Hotel Arts Kensington
Responded May 1, 2023
Thank you for sharing feedback regarding your recent experience. I am so sorry to read that your experience did not meet your expectations based on previous stays. We truly value the guest experience and strive to exceed expectations in every aspect. We did experience a brief issue with our card processor during your stay which resulted in some cards being authorized incorrectly. I assure you this issue was resolved with urgency, billing instructions corrected and reversals promptly processed. I do truly appreciate your feedback - it is feedback like this that pushes us to better ourselves. We will be using your experience as a training opportunity with our team - there is certainly no excuse for poor service and I do hope that you will give us an opportunity to host you again in the future. Warm regards, Colin Middleton Rooms Operations Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Good afternoon and thank you for reaching out. Our underground parkade is located at the back of the Hotel and can be accessed via the alley off 10a Street NW. Exact directions with map can be found on our website at hotelartskensington on our location page. Upon arrival, there is an intercom through which we will provide you access. Parking is an additional $20 per night and does not need to be reserved, however, I will note that you will be driving in on your reservation. Looking forward to welcoming you in August!
Good morning Latim63,
From our location it is very easy to walk downtown. You can access the downtown core via the 10th street Bridge, or the Calatrava Peace Bridge which is accessible from the pedestrian and bike pathway along the Bow River. The Kensington Riverside Inn is also close to the Calgary C-train line, which is a light rail system that you may travel on into the downtown.
Thank you for your question and should you have any further inquiries about the Inn and surrounding area, please do not hesitate to contact us directly at 403-228-4442.
Warm Regards,
Hilary L.
Rooms Operational Manager
Yes. Heated underground and cost C$20.
"Hotel is within easy walking distance to amazing shops and restaurants as well as the beautiful Bow River"Read full review
"You will definitely want to check in while there is still day light … if you arrive at night, look for the Oxbow Restauranr"Read full review
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PRICE RANGE
$171 - $212 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
kensington riverside hotel calgary
LOCATION
CanadaAlbertaCalgaryNorthwest Calgary
NUMBER OF ROOMS
19
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Hotel Arts Kensington
Which popular attractions are close to Hotel Arts Kensington?
Nearby attractions include Trapped (0.05 miles), Kensington (0.04 miles), and Hexagon Board Game Cafe (0.07 miles).
What are some of the property amenities at Hotel Arts Kensington?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge.
Which room amenities are available at Hotel Arts Kensington?
Top room amenities include air conditioning, a flat screen TV, and blackout curtains.
What food & drink options are available at Hotel Arts Kensington?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant, a lounge, and complimentary tea during their stay.
Is parking available at Hotel Arts Kensington?
Yes, a parking garage is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Hotel Arts Kensington?
Conveniently located restaurants include Vero Bistro Moderne, Hayden Block, and Niko's.
Is Hotel Arts Kensington located near the city center?
Yes, it is 0.7 miles away from the center of Calgary.
Are any cleaning services offered at Hotel Arts Kensington?
Yes, dry cleaning and laundry service are offered to guests.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Hotel Arts Kensington?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, and Dutch.
Are there any historical sites close to Hotel Arts Kensington?
Many travelers enjoy visiting Heritage Park Historical Village (4.8 miles), The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland (1.9 miles), and Lougheed House (0.9 miles).
Does Hotel Arts Kensington have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the city view available here.