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Eau Claire Market
Category: Shopping Shopping Centres Shopping Centres [Edit]
200 Barclay Parade SWCalgary, AB T2P 4R5
(403) 264-6450
- Hours:
Mon-Wed, Sat 10 am - 6 pm
Thu-Fri 10 am - 8 pm
Sun 11 am - 5 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Garage, Street, Private Lot
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
19 reviews for Eau Claire Market
19 reviews in English
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Review from Shannon M.
Calgary, AB
2/8/2012 6 Check-ins Here
I find myself at Eau Claire market on a semi-regular basis these days. During the annual Calgary International Film Festival, it's a hub of excitement, whether the CIFF box office is located on the premises or otherwise.
I've loved Eau Claire for years. When it first opened, it was a quirky intercity destination with exotic shops. Today, though roughly half is used for shopping and the other is filled with office space, I still enjoy it. So much so that if I'm at a loss for something to do on a weekend, I'll often find myself at Eau Claire. I adore the atmosphere - the shops are unique and varied, from Tibetan Trom to Wanderlust, and the ample seating space and free wi-fi make it the ideal location to kick back and just enjoy people watching or getting a little work done.
I recently booked the Community Room at Eau Claire - the IMAX lobby in days of old - for a free meeting with my book club. The space was huge, far bigger than I remembered. It was perhaps a bit sterile for our small gathering, but I would welcome using it again, particularly for large, nonprofit events.
Eau Claire is still the ideal location to spend a sunny Sunday in the summer, sipping a Jugo Juice or green tea by the fountains or wander the nearby Prince's Island Park. While it's been a bit neglected by many Calgarians, it still boasts a number of intriguing and well-attended events throughout the year, from Taste of Calgary to BBQ on the Bow; Canada Day celebrations, Afrika Day and Folk Fest; fashion shows, weekend knitting, laughter yoga and so much more.
With a broad selection of food and drink options - I'm a particular fan of The Bean Stop - $2 evening and weekend parking and $10.50 movies, Eau Claire has continued to hold a place in my heart in the landscape of Calgary's shopping destinations. -
Review from Kenny M.
11/27/2011 3 Check-ins Here
Oh clair!!! That's how I really wanna say it! This place has seen better days and it's time for a rehaul! In all seriousness though I still think its a rather cool place. I just want the place to rekindle its former full on glory!!
That being said I really do like coming here on occasion, it has some cool shops and a funky vibe, it's certainly a unique place and is a Calgary landmark.
I remember a few years ago my good pal Eddie and his riding partner John rode their bike all the way from cleavland and he used the bike store to do some major tweaks and fixes for his tandem bicycle. He really appreciated the fact that Calgary had a place to offer bike freaks a very important service and virtually free service. Thats a really cool feature of this place . Another big bonus is all the musicians who come here to busk, not many other places allow busking indoors! So it's always nice to have some culture in a city that somtimes is a little too conservative and snooty with such things.So thats really where this place shines, it's almost a micro cultural hub for Calgary.
Whether its talking with the "coffee wizard" who runs the bean stop or paying two bucks for the massage chairs Eau Claire is an experience everytime I go their! I like it, I like it a lot!!
27/30Listed in: Kenny's 30 day challenge!!!
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Review from Vishnu V.
11/18/2011 1 Check-in Here
Oh yeah!! this is my neighborhood mall. Not a bad place to hang out with a group of friends but not so good as any other malls.But if you are alone and would like to do window shopping, then for sure this is not the right place. The place is not big. But this is very different from other malls. They have a different varieties of shops like cycles shops, raft rental shop( where they rent rafts, cycles, skates etc), some ethnic wear stores, Gold's gym, cinema theaters, travel agents,mobile service, etc.
They have a medium sized food court too. But the pakistani food over here was terrible.They have subway as well.
I have never seen this place crowded. Very silent place. Not a great place for fun.
I keep visting this place for watching movies on tuesdays and roam around if I find sometime before watching the movie.
Yelp's 30 day challenge - 5/30. -
Review from Brad C.
10/25/2011 4 Check-ins Here
Well, this space doesn't really have much going for it. During the day it is quieter than a performance of John Cage's 4'33", and evenings are not much better. The only time there is really much of anything going on here is when there is a festival going on outside, but even then people mostly come in for a place to sit down.
A small food court attracts the local business lunch crowd, and the Garage provides a decent anchor as a restaurant & bar. Otherwise there is Power in Motion, the Good Life Community Bike Shop, a Good Earth cafe, a movie theatre, and Gold's Gym. Nearly all other businesses serve a specialty niche, be it high-end wine, flowers, British ex-pat goodies, or cigars. I'm really not sure how many of the businesses are able to keep their doors open. Perhaps it is with the help of the tourist population, but if I were a tourist coming across a place like this, I would be sadly disappointed.
The theatre and gym are both located upstairs, and quite frankly are the only reasons to go up there. The upper level really has nothing else going for it. And the theatre is, well, kind of gross.
The truth is, this space has undergone several attempted rejuvinations, none of which have been successful. Once upon a time, it was the city's only IMAX theatre which brought people here. That is now long gone - you can now get your IMAX fix at Scotiabank Chinook Theatre.
Visually, the Market building looks like something time forgot, a remnant of the 1980s. The only thing I can think of in the city with a similarly offensive colour scheme is the new Alberta Childrens' Hospital on the University of Calgary's West Campus, overlooking Shaganappi Trail.
What could be done to "fix" this monstrosity? For starters, there are condos and apartments located immediately adjacent. How about making this into a true Market by building a proper grocery such as Sobeys or Calgary Co-Op. Then local residents would not have to drive several kilometres in downtown traffic just to get their groceries. Encourage local artists to set up kiosks to sell their wares. Buskers already frequent the place, which is wonderful (although not all of them are easy to listen to, but that's beside the point). With a local grocery and appropriate marketing campaigns, the place may just begin to flourish. Oh yeah - a new coat of paint would be nice, too. -
Review from Jenn D.
10/5/2011 1 Check-in Here
It should be more exciting than it is, but to be honest, parking in the area is too expensive, there isn't really that much to do, and it gets old fast.
the scenery around the river and park is amazing, i love going for walks in the area.
The mall itself is dull, stores often turn over really quickly.
The movie theatre here is usually empty, great if you want to avoid "sold-out" line ups! -
Review from Jash S.
Calgary, AB
9/18/2011 50 Check-ins Here
The area is beautiful. The building though is suffering an identity crisis. Also this building & Eau Claire could use a Whole Foods Market.
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Review from Mike M.
Calgary, AB
If you talk to any Calgarian about Eau Claire market, they'll always tell you how disappointing it has been to see this mall suffer from high prices of rent during the boom. Since things became so expensive, many businesses have had to leave, leaving the mall pretty basic and plain!
But that has only meant great things for the people who still go to the mall, but not for the reasons you might think. The food court is pretty respectable with Jugo Juice, Subway, Taco Time and some independent choices too.
I love, love, love using the free wi-fi in the mall. It is a great place to get a lot of work done. They even have high tables, so you look super-chic while you do some blogging.
The movie theatre is really good too. On average, it is about $1 or two cheaper than most other movie theatres. And you didn't hear this from me, but one of the theatres is beyond easy to sneak into!
Definitely a great place to hang out, drink some coffee and do some wonderful people watching! -
Review from Daryl D.
Calgary, AB
3/14/2011
In my day, I have been to many-a-shopping centre, but none exactly like this one. First of all, this is the most open, spacious layout I have ever witnessed. I have been to this mall a handful of times, and not once have I seen it crowded.
It also has such an eccelectic collection of locally-owned stores, one of which being "the Son of the Pharoah", which is one of my personal favorites, since I enjoy bellydancing & incense sticks. There are also a multitude of other cultural stores. One of my other favorites is that "Great Taste of Britain" shoppe. I have UK Heritage so it tickles me to walk into a place that sells Walker's 'crisps', as well as many UK treats, hilarious birthday cards, etc.
I also appreciate that just behind this Market, on the outside, is a big area great for summertime events and even has a small wading pool for families with kids.
If I had one complaint, it would be that, the part of downtown this is in, does not have any bus routes to go by it and I don't drive. I admit I have to walk several blocks to get there, but it's worth it.
Note: for those of you who may not have been aware, there's a really awesome theatre upstairs! My hubby & I saw Shrek 4ever After there :) -
Review from Kerri O.
Calgary, AB
This is a great place to just hang out. Go to the cinema, grab a coffee, visit some stores and take a walk along the river. It's one of the hidden treasures in Calgary. I think because it's downtown people assume it's expensive to park here...wrong it's $2 all day on Saturday and Sunday and after 6pm during the week. It really is the heart of Calgary as it was in days of yore a time sadly missed by some. Come check it out :)
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Review from Katie C.
Calgary, AB
11/28/2009 1 photo
I can still remember when my parents first took me to Eau Claire Market. It was hustling and bustling, packed full of interesting stalls and a food court that went above and beyond fast food franchises. Fancy wines, different candies, many different food, fruit and vegetable markets, chocolates: there was a little bit of everything. Throw in some very talented buskers, and it was a little kids dream come true.
The Eau Claire market that exists now is a far cry from the one in my memories. Time and high rents have decimated or moved all but the most profitable of businesses, and much of the second floor is now office space. Soon it will be gone (projected 2010 is what I've heard, but that's just gossip), and a new development will rise up in its place.
Even though the Eau Claire that exists now is a bit of a skeleton of what it once was, it's good. The stores that have remained, like Amos and Andes and Wanderlust, the Egyptian store and the Tibetan one, along with the Latin Quarter Dance studio all add some diversity and character to the place. The movie theatre has big-time movies for a much smaller price. There are a number of smaller non-for-profits tucked in, and the New Gallery adds a little spice.
I'm docking a star not because of the stores it has, but the ones it has lost that made it more of a destination. The other is for the outrageous parking fees that were part of what stopped people from coming in the first place. -
Review from dinah g.
Calgary, AB
11/4/2009 1 photo
When I first moved to Calgary back from Mexico, I was aware of the amazing changes this city has had in 8 years, the towering scrapers, their architecture and design.
I especially noticed how the city was wrapped warmly by its many tributaries and rivers and how the design of city integrated this nature.
So I was doubly impressed by the Eau Claire Market, a very spacious open concept in mall design. High ceilings, tons of light and again enormous glass views of the rivers.
Shops here seem more quaint and personable, and the food court is a very welcoming place to relax, Subway, Jugo Juice, and a nice upper scale grocery store.
The lobby area of the Eau Claire has a wonderful seating area, nice leather chairs with modern design, in clusters so you can visit with workmates, friends and family. I often see young parents bring their babies in strollers here.
It is a very modern place to enjoy modern conveniences of free Wi-Fi or simply to take in a movie upstairs.
Eau Claire has options of rental spaces, especially geared to non-profit organizations; If you need a space for your group to meet, Eau Claire is very open to supporting you.
My only criticism of Eau Claire is the outrageous parking fees; 5 dollars an hour, I remember when parking downtown was free. I would like to go to Eau Claire more often but I have to pay a small fortune just to park there. -
Review from Jack G.
Edmonton, AB
2/16/2010
Checked this mall out on a recent trip to Calgary and it was pretty good. It is located downtown near many hotels and restaurants so it was close by to where I stayed which was convenient.
To be honest I really liked this place because it helped me pass some time one day that I had nothing scheduled. I wasn't looking for anything just browsing around and it got the job done. The stores are decent but it felt like it didn't have many. It also contains a movie theater so if you are also looking to pass time this is a good place to start. -
Review from Moez T.
Calgary, AB
11/27/2009
I really like Eau Claire Market, but it really confuses me. Based on the name and layout, it certainly feels like they wanted this place to be an open concept market, with kiosks littered throughout. But for whatever reason, it is not like that. As it stands today, it's an open concept mall with only a few stores throughout. I imagine they receive a lot of lunchtime traffic and traffic during nearby festivals, but it still seems like such a waste.
The stores in Eau Claire are good and varied. Certainly, they don't stack up against other large malls around the city, but for a quick walk to see some unique stores, it's worth the trip. With a few restaurant options, a theatre, and an arcade, it's a great place for the family, and the surrounding paths can make for a great afternoon during the summer.
I really think they need to do something to fill up the space though. If they follow their namesake and act more like a market, I really think it will feel better and improve traffic. -
Review from Chad W.
Calgary, AB
12/12/2008 1 photo
Eau Claire Market has a rich history as a part of our city. As far back as 1890, the area was mostly occupied by the Eau Claire sawmill because of its access to the Bow River making retrieval of timber easy. The mill was mostly staffed by Norwegian workers.
Eau Claire now sits on the industrial grounds of the old saw mill. And the place is pretty cool. Though the place doesn't compare in size to Market Mall, Chinook, or even Southcentre, Eau Claire boasts a number of unique shops you'll only find here.
There is also a food market, a movie theatres, lots of restaurants, and more. There used to be this delightful little Cajun restaurant called Cajun Charlie's where you could actually get dishes that had alligator meat. That is cool. I plan to eat one of every man-eater. Thanks to Eau Claire Market, I'm one more man-eater closer to fulfilling this weird, but earnest goal. -
Review from Sapna G.
Calgary, AB
11/3/2009
Okay, so Eau Claire Market itself may not have the hippest, most modern and desirable stores within it, but it's definitely got a lot going for it.
First of all, the location is prime. Located in the heart of downtown Calgary, Eau Claire Market is conveniently located next to the Bow River on one side, and downtown Calgary on the other side. On any given day, you can walk along the river to get to Eau Claire, or you can criss cross through the avenues and streets to make your way there.
Once you are there, you can opt to look around the unique stores within (IE: The Son of the Pharaoh, etc), or you can watch a movie or Imax. You can also sip a coffee, enjoy their complimentary WIFI seating area, watch kids play in the wading pool, enjoy some of the best ice cream in the city, meet friends at one of many restaurants in the area, have some bevvies on a patio, sneak in a workout at the Y, feed the ducks and relax or spend the night playing pool or dancing.
Eau Claire Market itself may not be the most exciting market in town, but if you take into account the location, the number of activities in the vicinity, and all that comes along with a trip to Eau Claire, there is no chance in heck that you will be dissapointed. Take my word for it! -
Review from diane d.
8/8/2008
A great place to walk through when you are downtown. Lots of small, local shoppes, food, flowers, restaurants etc etc. Located in a real charming area , make the trip.
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Review from Eric B.
8/22/2008
This is a fun place to go when you're downtown and the Joey Tomatoes just outside is a nice place to eat. It's also great to walk along the nearby Bow River (including the island). Past that, the property feels a litte worn these days and it's probably time for a makeover. Some of my favourite shops have closed, the food court isn't as interesting, and there are several empty storefronts. This place in this location is capable of so much more.
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Review from Gordon L.
Calgary, AB
3/26/2010
An Oasis in a bewildered city.
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Review from Hinano K.
10/1/2008
I remember this place so well, like yesterday. I still know how to get there on my own even though I haven't been there like for 3 years now. I use to love the IMAX theater and the other theater they have upstair. I like the england goodies store there , I am not sure if it is still there. I love that Amandine Bakery if i even spell that right, I especially love that florentine cookies. I love this place.
