If you’re looking for a unique, cultural, and interactive experience in Calgary, visiting Studio Bell is a must. This iconic institution is more than just a museum—it’s a celebration of Canada’s musical heartbeat. As the home of the National Music Centre (NMC), Studio Bell blends history, innovation, performance, and education into one unforgettable destination. From music legends to cutting-edge sound technology, it’s where stories of Canada’s music come to life.
What makes Studio Bell truly special is its immersive, hands-on approach. Visitors of all ages can explore Canada’s music history through engaging displays, touch-and-play instruments, live music events, and educational exhibits. It’s the perfect destination for families, tourists, students, and music enthusiasts.
Whether you’re a fan of jazz, rock, hip-hop, classical, or indigenous music, you’ll find something that resonates. With its stunning architecture, central location in Calgary’s East Village, and commitment to preserving and celebrating Canadian sound, Studio Bell offers a one-of-a-kind cultural experience.
Let’s take a deep dive into what makes Studio Bell one of the top attractions in Calgary and why it deserves a spot on your travel list.
The Architecture and Location of Studio Bell
One of the first things you’ll notice when you visit Studio Bell is the incredible architecture. Designed by Allied Works Architecture, the building stands as a modern marvel that beautifully reflects the rhythm and movement of music. Its copper-clad exterior ripples like the body of a string instrument, shimmering in the sunlight and blending harmoniously into the city’s skyline. As the copper naturally ages, the building evolves in color and tone—just like music.
Studio Bell is located in Calgary’s trendy and revitalized East Village, right at the edge of downtown and close to the Bow River. Its address—850 4 Street SE—is easy to reach whether you’re walking, biking, taking the CTrain, or driving. The neighborhood itself is filled with art installations, green spaces, coffee shops, and historical landmarks like Fort Calgary.
Inside Studio Bell, you’ll explore five floors connected by sleek bridges and staircases that wind through over 160,000 square feet of exhibit space. Natural light pours through skylights, and each exhibit area is carefully designed to amplify acoustics and evoke emotional engagement.
From the moment you enter, the building makes it clear: music is not just heard here—it’s felt.
Dive Into the Exhibits: Play, Learn, and Explore
The real magic happens inside. Studio Bell features 22 interactive exhibition spaces, making it one of Canada’s most dynamic and hands-on museums. These exhibits are designed to engage, inspire, and teach visitors of all ages and musical backgrounds.
One of the main attractions is the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, which pays tribute to iconic Canadian musicians including Shania Twain, Oscar Peterson, Neil Young, Alanis Morissette, and The Tragically Hip. You’ll get to see personal artifacts, instruments, costumes, rare photos, and listen to timeless tracks. Each artist is given a story-driven presentation that connects them to Canada’s music legacy.
In the “Soundbox”, visitors can learn how sound is created and manipulated through interactive demos. There’s also a space where you can record your voice, play drums, remix beats, or test your DJ skills. These fun, hands-on zones make it easy for kids and teens to engage with music in a meaningful way.
Another highlight is the Kimball Theatre Organ, a rare and grand instrument from the 1920s that occasionally roars to life in live demonstrations. And if you’ve ever wanted to try a guitar or sit at a real drum set, the Jam Club lets you do just that.
Experience Live Performances and Music Events
Studio Bell isn’t just a museum—it’s a live venue that regularly hosts concerts, showcases, and musical experiences for every genre. The centre’s Performance Hall is acoustically optimized for live music and features a variety of artists ranging from emerging talents to established names.
The Bell Live at Studio Bell concert series is a must-see for music fans, offering live performances by Canadian artists in an intimate and high-quality setting. The venue has also hosted album release parties, music festivals, spoken word nights, and even symphonic collaborations.
If you’re lucky, your visit might coincide with a behind-the-scenes look at an Artist in Residence session—a rare opportunity to watch professional musicians rehearse, record, or engage in creative development. This program invites artists from across Canada to access Studio Bell’s state-of-the-art recording equipment and vast instrument collections.
Check the Studio Bell events calendar before you visit to see what’s on. From classical to hip hop, there’s always something new and exciting on the schedule.
Tips for Planning Your Visit to Studio Bell
To get the most out of your experience, a little preparation goes a long way. Studio Bell is open Wednesday to Sunday, usually from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Keep in mind that hours may vary on holidays or during special events, so always check the official website beforehand.
Admission Prices:
- Adults: $20
- Students/Seniors: $15
- Youth (6–17): $12
- Children under 6: Free
- Family Pass: Available for groups
Studio Bell is fully wheelchair accessible and offers coat check services. It’s recommended to allocate 2–3 hours for a relaxed visit. Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking across five floors.
Photography is allowed in most exhibit areas, so bring your camera or smartphone to capture your experience. If you’re attending a performance, consider arriving 20–30 minutes early for the best seats.
Extend Your Day: Explore the Best of East Village
After you visit Studio Bell, don’t rush home. The surrounding East Village is one of Calgary’s most walkable and exciting neighborhoods. Here are a few must-visit spots:
- Calgary Central Library: A stunning architectural space that’s perfect for reading or relaxing
- Fort Calgary: Explore the city’s early history through immersive exhibits and historic buildings
- RiverWalk Pathway: Take a scenic stroll or bike ride along the Bow River
- Simmons Building: Grab a bite at trendy spots like Sidewalk Citizen, Charbar, or Phil & Sebastian Coffee
East Village is also home to rotating public art installations, street performances, and summer events. If you love creative energy and community vibes, you’ll feel right at home here.
Conclusion: Why Studio Bell Deserves a Spot on Your Itinerary
To visit Studio Bell is to experience the soul of Canadian music in a space that honors both its legacy and future. It’s more than just looking at instruments or reading placards—it’s about connecting with music through your senses, your memories, and your curiosity.
Whether you’re visiting Calgary for the first time or you’re a local resident seeking something inspiring, Studio Bell offers education, entertainment, and inspiration all in one. Its award-winning design, world-class exhibits, and commitment to nurturing Canadian talent make it one of the most important cultural institutions in the country.