Spoiler: it involves caffeine, acupuncture, and a Thai food happy dance
So, you think you know 17th Ave, right? Brunch spots, cute shops, and maybe a spontaneous patio moment or two. But what if you took it a step further and spent an entire day on the Ave? What would you discover?
Trust us, there’s so much more than you might expect, and you’re going to be surprised.
☀️ 9:00 AM – Coffee, but Make it an Experience
Start your day the right way, with coffee, but not just any coffee. Head over to Q.lab Coffee Experience. This place isn’t just about grabbing a caffeine fix; it’s about crafting a coffee experience. The baristas here turn every cup into a work of art, and you’ll leave with way more than just a regular latte.
Surprise #1: You walk in thinking it’s just a quick stop for coffee, but you leave feeling like you’ve just taken a mini coffee class. You’ll learn about beans, brewing methods, and your latte will taste like pure magic.
🧘♀️ 10:30 AM – The Boutique Workout You Didn’t Know You Needed
With caffeine working its magic, it’s time to stretch those legs. Pop into My Body Couture, where fitness isn’t just about sweat, it’s about alignment, personal coaching, and moving with your body, not against it.
Surprise #2: You’ll leave feeling like you’ve just gotten a full-body reset. This isn’t your usual workout, it’s like a hug for your nervous system.
💻 12:00 PM – A Quick Stop at a Hidden Gem
Next up, make your way to Reach E-Shop. It’s not your average shipping and logistics spot. It’s a boutique, full of minimalist accessories and international brands that you didn’t even know you needed.
Surprise #3: You’ll walk out with something you weren’t planning on. Like a sweatshirt, or maybe a body mist, you’ll be glad you stopped in.
🍜 1:00 PM – Lunch With a Kick
By now, you’re probably hungry. What better way to refuel than with something bold? Enter: Talew Thai Kitchen. If you think you’ve had Thai food before, think again. This is next-level flavour, with that perfect balance of heat, spice, and satisfaction.
Surprise #4: You’ll be tempted to get seconds of the mango sticky rice, but instead, you’ll finish it all on the spot, and you won’t regret a single bite.
🌿 2:30 PM – Calm, Activated
After that flavorful lunch, it’s time for a little zen. Treat yourself to a session at Acupuncture Collective. This isn’t your typical spa day. It’s an affordable, community acupuncture experience that leaves you feeling like you’re floating.
Surprise #5: You’ll leave with your mind clear and your body deeply relaxed. You might even feel like a weight has been lifted from your shoulders.
💅 4:00 PM – Cue the Glow-Up
Now that you’re feeling relaxed, it’s time for a little self-care. Head over to RA Lash for a lash lift. You might think you’re just getting a simple touch-up, but what happens next is pure magic.
Surprise #6: You’ll leave looking like you’ve had 8 hours of sleep and who doesn’t want that? Your eyes will look wide open, your lashes will flutter, and you’ll feel like you can take on anything.
🖤 5:30 PM – The Collector’s Club: A Custom Tattoo Adventure
Ever thought about getting a tattoo? Head to The Collector’s Club, a luxury tattoo studio, and make it happen. This is no typical tattoo shop—it’s a one-on-one experience, where custom designs and timeless ink are the norm.
Surprise #7: You’ll walk in a little nervous (because tattoos are a big deal, right?), but the artist will work with you to bring your vision to life. The experience is smooth, relaxing, and before you know it, you’ll have a unique piece of art that tells your story.
🌙 Final Thoughts: 17th, You Sneaky Little Show-Off
You might start your day thinking you’re just going to grab a coffee and maybe pop into a few shops, but before you know it, you’ll have embarked on a full-on, multi-sensory adventure. From caffeine to acupuncture, Thai food to tattoos, 17th Ave proves that it’s not just a street, it’s an experience.
So here’s the deal: if you haven’t spent an entire day wandering the Ave, now’s your chance. Take it slow, explore, and let 17th Ave surprise you. Let’s go!
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The 17th Avenue Business Improvement Area (BIA) is committed to preserving the diverse and energetic character of the area’s business community. We advocate for public safety, revitalize public spaces, implement placemaking initiatives and collaborate with City of Calgary departments to enhance economic well-being and attract new businesses, fostering a thriving and inclusive environment for all.
Our borders are from 16th Street to 2nd Street SW along 17th Ave SW and several blocks of 14th (up to 12 Ave SW), 8th Street SW (up to 14th Ave SW) and 11th Street (up to 14th Ave SW).
