Radisson Hotel & Conference Centre Calgary Airport

This upper-middle-range hotel from the Radisson chain draws travelers seeking proximity to the airport. Interiors, though they definitely wear the stamp of the chain, are tasteful, with elegant contemporary decor. The oval lobby feels airy and is illuminated by natural light streaming through large windows. It features an eye-catching lighting fixture adorning the center of the ceiling, suspended right over a chic sitting area in shades of gold and gray. This color scheme is bolstered by warm wooden wall paneling and reception desks. There's more seating by the windows, with plenty of gray velvet armchairs and sofas offering a place to wait or linger. The hotel's restaurant, the XS Lounge and Grill, has a similar look, with warm wooden tones paired with neutral shades. Though chainlike as well, it's an inviting space, with both booth seating and tables and chairs.

Guests are both business travelers and tourists that are either arriving or departing Calgary and looking for something close to the airport; they usually stay just for a night. The hotel does a good job catering to business travelers with amenities like meeting rooms, a business center, and Business Class Rooms with added perks -- but it's an equally solid option for families with kids (the pool has a waterslide).

The hotel is situated about a seven-minute drive from Calary Airport (the hotel offers a free shuttle service). It's also right by Silverwing Links Golf Course, but there's not much else in this residential area. Calgary is about a 20-minute drive away or around 25 minutes by light rail (the nearest station is a 13-minute walk from the hotel). Top attractions include the Calgary Zoo (13-minute drive or 28 minutes by public transportation), Prince's Island Park (16-minute drive or 52 minutes by public transportation), Calgary Tower (20-minute drive or 40 by public transit), Glenbow Museum (20-minute drive or 40 by public transit), and Heritage Park Historical Village (25-minute drive or an hour and 20 minutes by public transportation). 

Rooms reflect the contemporary and elegant decor seen throughout the hotel. They're pleasant spaces, with a neutral color palette of gray patterned carpeting and a gray accent wall paired with clean-lined wooden furnishings. Beds are framed by wooden headboards and flanked by wooden nightstands with white granite tops. Long photos of cherry blossoms hang over the beds, adding visual interest and color to the spaces, as do crimson accent pillows on white bedding and red armchairs. Large windows fill the spaces with natural light. Large work desks paired with ergonomic chairs offer a comfortable space to work.

All rooms have 42-inch flat-screen TVs, iPod charging stations, coffeemakers, and mini-fridges. Business Class Rooms come with added perks like free breakfast and a free evening drink voucher. Suites have separate living rooms and larger, upgraded bathrooms with both soaking tubs and separate large walk-in rainfall double showers. All other rooms have just walk-in rainfall showers. Bathrooms are chic and modern, stylishly pairing white marble with wooden sink vanities. They have heated floors, magnifying mirrors, and hairdryers, plus Rituals toiletries are supplied.

The hotel offers a great selection of features that enhance a stay and add value. The highlights include an indoor pool with a waterslide, a hot tub, and a sauna. Other wellness features encompass a fitness center that offers several modern machines, including treadmills, ellipticals, and a strength-training machine, plus weights. There are a couple of flat-screen TVs, and towels and bottled water are on hand for guests. The hotel also has a tranquil spa that offers a variety of treatments. There's a spa shop selling skincare as well.

The hotel's restaurant, the XS Lounge and Grill, serves a varied menu of fare, including steaks, seafood, and vegetarian options. There's also an elegant wine bar that offers a great selection of varietals. Breakfast is available, but for an added fee (free for Business Class rooms). Room service is also available.

Business travelers are catered to with 10,000 square feet of meeting facilities, a business center, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. Other amenities include a free shuttle to/from the airport as well as free on-site parking.