Lougheed House

Lougheed House Calgary: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Site Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Lougheed House—nestled in Calgary’s historic Beltline district—stands as a premier historical landmark, offering a richly layered narrative of Alberta’s past. Built in 1891 as “Beaulieu” (French for “beautiful place”), the grand sandstone mansion was the residence of Senator Sir James Alexander Lougheed and Lady Isabella Clarke Hardisty Lougheed. Its elegant architecture, storied past, and adaptive community roles provide visitors with a vivid window into the city’s heritage, social evolution, and architectural splendor (Lougheed House Official; Wikipedia; The Clio).

This comprehensive guide details Lougheed House’s origins, cultural significance, visitor information, ticketing, accessibility, tours, special events, and practical tips. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, architecture admirer, or curious traveler, Lougheed House offers a unique and enriching experience in the heart of Calgary (National Trust Canada; Travel Alberta).

Origins and Construction
The Lougheed Family Era (1891–1936)
Adaptive Reuse and Community Roles (1936–1979)
Decline, Preservation, and Restoration (1980–2005)
Contemporary Significance and Ongoing Legacy
Visiting Lougheed House: Hours, Tickets, and Location
Accessibility
Guided Tours and Special Events
Photographic Spots and Visitor Tips
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected
Summary and Recommendations

1. Origins and Construction

Constructed in 1891 and originally named “Beaulieu,” Lougheed House was designed by architect James C. Bowes. The mansion blends High Victorian eclecticism with Queen Anne Revival, Romanesque Revival, and French Chateau influences, utilizing locally quarried sandstone—a material mandated after the devastating Calgary fire of 1886 (Wikipedia). With 48 rooms and modern amenities for its era—including electricity, radiator heat, stained glass, and Italian marble—the home reflected the ambitions and social aspirations of Calgary’s early elite (Lougheed House Official).

The property’s formal Victorian Beaulieu Gardens originally spanned three acres and remain a key feature, echoing the grandeur and horticultural traditions of late 19th-century Calgary (National Trust Canada).

2. The Lougheed Family Era (1891–1936)

Senator Lougheed, a prominent politician and businessman, and Lady Isabella raised six children at Beaulieu. The mansion became a social and political hub, hosting dignitaries such as Governor General Prince Arthur and the Prince of Wales (The Clio). The family expanded the house in 1907, reflecting their growing prominence. However, following James Lougheed’s death in 1925 and subsequent economic hardships, the family eventually lost the home to the city in 1936 due to unpaid taxes (Lougheed House Official).

3. Adaptive Reuse and Community Roles (1936–1979)

After the Lougheed era, the mansion adapted to new community needs. It served as a Home Service Training Centre for young women, a Canadian Women’s Army Corps (CWAC) barracks during World War II, and a Red Cross blood donor clinic (Wikipedia; The Clio). Post-war, it offered residence for ex-servicewomen through the YWCA and continued as a Red Cross clinic until 1979 (Lougheed House Official).

4. Decline, Preservation, and Restoration (1980–2005)

By the 1980s, Lougheed House was in disrepair and largely vacant. Designated an Alberta Provincial Historic Resource in 1977, it was later acquired by the province, but restoration was delayed. Advocacy by local heritage groups led to the foundation of the Lougheed House Conservation Society in 1995. Restoration began in the late 1990s, and the house was designated a National Historic Site in 1992 (Wikipedia). Lougheed House reopened as a museum and cultural center in 2005, its original features and gardens meticulously restored (National Trust Canada).

5. Contemporary Significance and Ongoing Legacy

Today, Lougheed House is a living museum and community hub, reflecting Calgary’s layered histories—including Indigenous, women’s, and LGBTQ+ stories (The Clio). Its exhibitions and restored gardens offer immersive experiences in architecture and heritage. The site’s adaptive reuse demonstrates the importance of heritage preservation and active community engagement (Travel Alberta).

6. Visiting Lougheed House: Hours, Tickets, and Location

Location

Address: 707 13th Avenue SW, Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Visiting Hours (2025)

Thursday to Sunday: 11:30 am – 3:00 pm (House and Gift Shop)
Gardens: Daily, 7:00 am – 11:00 pm
Closed Mondays to Wednesdays and on statutory holidays. Always check the official website for updates.

Ticket Prices

Adults: $8.50
Seniors (65+): $6.50
Youth (7–17): $6.50
Children (6 and under): Free
Family Pass: $25.00

Free admission for members, military (CFOne), air cadets, National Trust, CANOO, and Chinook Historical Society cardholders. Special free days occur periodically (todoCanada).

Tickets available online or at the entrance (Lougheed House Official).

7. Accessibility

Main floor and washrooms are wheelchair accessible.
Ramps and elevators support access; some upper floors may have limited accessibility due to heritage constraints.
Service animals welcome.
Contact visitor services in advance for specific needs (Lougheed House Accessibility).

8. Guided Tours and Special Events

Guided Tours

House Tour: $20/person (minimum 5 people or $100; max 25)
Garden Tour: $20/person (minimum 8 people or $160; max 20)
Private group tours can be tailored to interests such as women’s history, architecture, or Métis culture. Advance booking required (Lougheed House Tours).

Special Events

Annual and seasonal events: Victorian teas, trivia nights, Historic Calgary Week, Beaulieu Flower & Artisan Market.
Rotating exhibits: Foundation to Future, House of Curiosity, As the River Flows and the City Grows, and Restore & Revive (Lougheed House Exhibits).
Workshops and family-friendly programs held throughout the year.

9. Photographic Spots and Visitor Tips

Beaulieu Gardens: Ideal for photography, picnics, and strolls; open daily.
Interior: Capture stained glass, original woodwork, and period furnishings (non-flash, personal use only).
Visitor Tips:
- Check the website for up-to-date hours.
- Arrive early for parking and popular events.
- Dress for Calgary’s changing weather.
- Combine with nearby historical attractions for a full day in the Beltline.

10. Nearby Attractions

Calgary Tower: Panoramic city views.
Glenbow Museum: Art and history exhibitions.
Stephen Avenue Walk: Historic shopping and dining.
Prince’s Island Park: Urban park with trails and festivals.

11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Lougheed House visiting hours?
A: Thursday to Sunday, 11:30 am – 3:00 pm; gardens daily 7:00 am – 11:00 pm.

Q: How much are Lougheed House tickets?
A: Adults $8.50, seniors/youth $6.50, family $25, children under 7 free.

Q: Is Lougheed House wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, accessible main floor and washrooms; limited upper floor access.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, group and private tours are available with advance booking.

Q: Can I bring my pet?
A: Only service animals inside; leashed pets permitted in gardens.

Q: Can I host private events at Lougheed House?
A: Yes, venue rentals for weddings, corporate, and community events are offered.

12. Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected

Address: 707 13 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0K8, Canada
Contact: Official Contact Page

Stay Connected:

Download the Audiala app for interactive audio tours, event updates, and personalized recommendations.

13. Summary and Recommendations

Lougheed House is a beautifully preserved architectural and cultural landmark that chronicles Calgary’s journey from frontier town to modern city. Its dynamic programming, immersive exhibits, accessible facilities, and tranquil gardens make it a must-visit for anyone interested in Alberta’s past and present. Plan ahead using this guide, stay updated via official channels, and make the most of your visit to this cherished Calgary historical site (Lougheed House Official; The Clio; National Trust Canada).