Centre Street Bridge 🇨🇦

When you explore Calgary, Alberta, make sure to visit the Centre Street Bridge, a historic structure built in 1916 that serves as the central point of the city's quadrant system. Designed by John F. Greene to cross the Bow River, this landmark features a unique double-deck layout that connects Riverfront Avenue in Chinatown with Memorial Drive and the community of Crescent Heights. As you walk or drive across, you will see four large cast concrete lions perched atop ornamental pavilions flanking both ends.

These famous sculptures were cast by Scottish mason James L. Thomson and modeled after London's Trafalgar Square lions. Take time to examine the pavilions closely to spot detailed cultural symbols including maple leaves, buffalo heads, shamrocks, roses, and thistles. Local Chinatown legend even whispers that the original lions used to come alive at night to roam the streets!

Today, you are viewing replica lions on the bridge itself, while one original stands at City Hall and another resides in Rotary Park. Recognized as a Municipal Historic Resource, this bridge offers cantilevered balconies on its upper deck and even starred in the opening scene of the 2001 film Exit Wounds.

What to see at Centre Street Bridge

• Four large concrete lion statues modeled after Trafalgar Square's famous sculptures
• Double-deck design crossing the Bow River to link Chinatown and Crescent Heights
• Ornamental pavilions decorated with buffalo heads, maple leaves, and national emblems
• Cantilevered balconies situated along the 178-meter upper arch deck
• The central reference point for Calgary's entire quadrant street system

Visiting tips

If you are driving a tall vehicle like an RV or van, avoid the lower deck due to its strict 2.7-meter (8.9 ft) clearance limit.

How long: 30-60 minutes · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

Centre Street Bridge is easy to reach on Calgary’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Calgary Zoo and Glenbow Museum. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Calgary travel guide.