Studio Bell General Admission: Home of the National Music Centre

If you’re a music enthusiast or just curious about Canada’s musical influence, a visit to Studio Bell in Calgary offers a lively, hands-on exploration of the country’s musical landscape. Opened in 2016, this award-winning building isn’t just a traditional museum—it’s a vibrant space where sound, history, and innovation collide. With five floors packed with interactive exhibits, rare instruments, and opportunities to try your hand at making music, it’s a lively, engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

What we love about Studio Bell is its dynamic approach to storytelling—through exhibits that celebrate Canadian icons and a building designed to inspire curiosity. Plus, the views of Calgary’s skyline from its modern architecture are a real bonus. The downside? Visitors should plan for a full day if they want to explore everything thoroughly, as the experience is quite comprehensive. While the ticket price of roughly $18 is fair, keep in mind that guided tours and certain activities are not included, which might be worth considering for deeper insights.

This tour suits anyone interested in music, Canadian culture, or those seeking an active, interactive museum that goes beyond looking at artifacts. Families, students, and casual visitors alike will find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Interactive exhibits make learning about Canadian music fun and engaging for all ages
• Stunning modern architecture offers excellent city views and photo opportunities
• Hands-on activities like playing instruments and sound mixing add a memorable touch
• Canadian Music Icons and memorabilia showcase the country’s diverse musical talents
• Regular demonstrations with rare instruments enrich the experience
• Accessible for most visitors, with plenty of exhibits suited for different abilities and interests

A Closer Look at the Experience

Location and First Impressions

Located conveniently in downtown Calgary, Studio Bell’s striking design immediately draws you in. Its architecture is sleek and modern, with generous glass facades that reflect the city’s lively atmosphere. From the moment you arrive, the view of Calgary’s skyline is a delightful preview of the panoramic city vistas you’ll enjoy from the upper floors.

What’s Inside

The museum spans five floors of exhibits centered on Canadian music—ranging from historical artifacts to contemporary sounds. It’s a space where history and today’s musical innovation meet, offering insights into everything from folk and rock to pop and jazz.

The exhibits are thoughtfully laid out, with many interactive elements that encourage participation. Visitors can try playing different instruments, experiment with sound mixing, or even sing in designated booths. This hands-on approach is especially appealing for families and young visitors, who will find plenty of opportunities to get involved.

The Canadian Music Icons and Memorabilia

The Canadian Halls of Fame feature artifacts from legendary musicians—think guitars, costumes, and rare recordings—that tell stories of Canada’s musical heroes. As Sheila_E shared in her review, learning about both well-known and lesser-known Canadian artists broadened her understanding of the country’s influence on global music. Many visitors find this part particularly inspiring, especially if you have a soft spot for artists like Celine Dion or Gordon Lightfoot.

Rare Instruments and Demonstrations

A highlight for many is the regular demonstrations with rare instruments. We loved the way the guides brought these to life, sharing fascinating stories behind each piece. One reviewer, Monique_S, felt that seeing and trying out vintage instruments, along with the Kimball Theatre Organ, created memorable moments that made the ticket price worthwhile.

The Kimball Theatre Organ

The Kimball Theatre Organ is a show-stopping feature—an impressive piece of musical craftsmanship. When operational, it produces a majestic sound that echoes through the space. Watching a demonstration or hearing it in full concert mode adds a special touch to your visit.

The Architecture and Views

Beyond the exhibits, the building’s design is worth noting. Its modern architecture is both functional and aesthetic, with expansive glass walls that flood the interior with natural light. Visitors can step onto the upper balconies to enjoy panoramic views of Calgary, providing a perfect backdrop for photos or just soaking in the city’s vibe.

Activities and Engagement

For those eager to make music themselves, interactive activities are plentiful. Whether you’re trying out a synthesizer or experimenting with sound mixing, the emphasis is on learning through doing. These engaging elements make the museum a fun experience—not just a passive one.

Audio and Visual Elements

Throughout, the exhibits feature audio-visual displays—videos, sound clips, and images—that tell the stories of Canada’s musicians and their impact. This multimedia approach keeps the experience lively and accessible, especially for visitors who appreciate a mix of sight and sound.

The Value of Your Ticket

At around $18, the general admission offers access to five floors of exhibits, demonstrations, and interactive activities. For the price, you get an immersive look into Canadian music history, with plenty of opportunities to participate. However, guided tours and access to artist recording spaces are not included, which may be worth considering if you’re seeking a more in-depth understanding.

The ticket price is quite reasonable given the scope of what you experience. Sheila_E’s review mentioned that exploring the exhibits and trying out instruments expanded her appreciation for Canadian influence in music. The cost also covers the stunning architecture and spectacular city views, which add to the overall experience.

Planning Your Visit

The museum is open seven days a week, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., which offers flexibility. Since the experience involves walking through multiple floors with interactive exhibits, allocate at least 2-3 hours to get the most out of it. If you’re traveling with children or music buffs, it’s worth planning extra time for hands-on activities.

Accessibility and Practicalities

Most travelers can participate, and service animals are permitted, making it accessible for many visitors. Parking isn’t included, so consider public transportation—nearby transit makes it easy to reach without the hassle of parking fees.

Authentic Visitor Feedback and Highlights

• Sheila_E appreciated how the exhibits “opened her eyes to all the Canadian influence on music” and enjoyed exploring new artists after her visit.
• Colin_M emphasized that “the exhibits were well laid out and very informative,” recommending the museum if you’re in Calgary.
• BALRAJ_T valued the educational material and the building’s design, noting that it offers insight into all genres of Canadian music from its roots to today.
• Dominique_R called it a “beloved discovery,” highlighting the interactive element and the chance to try instruments firsthand.
• Monique_S loved seeing vintage instruments and enjoyed the Kimball organ performance, calling it “super.”

These reviews reinforce that Studio Bell is a well-rounded experience, especially praised for its knowledgeable guides, interactive exhibits, and stunning views.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love Studio Bell?

If you’re someone who loves music culture, appreciates interactive museums, or wants to learn about Canadian musical legends, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for families, educators, or anyone curious about the story of Canadian music. The building’s striking architecture combined with its engaging exhibits makes for a memorable visit that balances education and entertainment.

While it might not suit those seeking a guided tour or in-depth behind-the-scenes access—since those are not included in the basic ticket—it offers great value for a full day of exploration. The accessibility and variety of activities mean most visitors will find something to enjoy.

Overall, Studio Bell is a lively, engaging, and visually stunning tribute to Canada’s music scene—worthy of a dedicated visit when in Calgary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the general admission ticket good for the whole museum?
Yes, the ticket includes access to all five floors of exhibits, along with demonstrations and interactive activities.

Are guided tours available?
Guided tours are not included with the general admission, but the museum offers regular demonstrations that give some guided insight into the exhibits.

Can I try playing instruments?
Absolutely. Many of the exhibits include opportunities to play instruments or experiment with sound, making it a fun hands-on experience.

What are the opening hours?
The museum is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day from January 20, 2025, through December 31, 2025.

Is parking available at Studio Bell?
Parking is not included in the ticket price. The museum is near public transportation, so taking transit is recommended for convenience.

Can I visit with a service animal?
Yes, service animals are allowed, ensuring accessibility for all visitors.

To sum it up, Studio Bell offers a balanced mix of history, interaction, and stunning architecture, making it a top choice for anyone interested in Canada’s musical heritage. Its affordability, combined with engaging activities and impressive views, makes it a worthwhile stop—especially if you enjoy discovering music in a lively, contemporary setting. Whether you’re a dedicated music fan or just looking for a fun, educational outing, this museum delivers a memorable experience in the heart of Calgary.