A Guide to the First-Ever Cat Cafe in Calgary That’ll Convert Anyone Into a Feline Fan
Even though I’ve always adored cats, I never had one growing up due to my family’s allergies. And then, when I was finally old enough to get my own apartment, it just so happened that the place I was living in didn’t allow pets.
When I told my friends about this predicament, they were so excited to let me know all about Regal Cat Cafe. This is the first cafe of its kind in Calgary, and it felt like it was specifically made for cat lovers like me. I wasted no time and booked a reservation.
If you’re interested in visiting and have no idea what to expect, I’ve got you covered. This guide has everything you need to know about Regal Cat Cafe, the most meow-velous paradise for kitty lovers in Calgary.
Where is Regal Cat Cafe?
Regal Cat Cafe can be found at 303 10 Street NW. It’s located within Kensington, which is a neighborhood situated south of the Bow River and north of Downtown.
How to Get to Regal Cat Cafe
Via Light Rail: The closest light rail station to Regal Cat Cafe is at Sunnyside Station. It’s only a 5-minute walk away from the cafe’s entrance.
Via Taxi or Ride-Sharing Service: Find a taxi or locate one using a ride-sharing app (like Uber or Lyft). Select Regal Cat Cafe as your drop-off point.
Via Private Car: You can use your car’s GPS or a navigation app (like Waze) to get directions. Although the cafe itself doesn’t have any designated parking, there’s plenty of street parking nearby.
What to Do in Regal Cat Cafe
Have a paw-some time with the cats
– Media credit: theregalcatcafe
For cat lovers like me, the ‘Kitty Kingdom’ is pretty much heaven on Earth. This is what the cafe calls the space where customers can interact with multiple kitties at a time.
There are usually around 6 to 12 cats in the room, ranging from kittens to older cats. But regardless of their age, most of them tend to be snuggly and playful. I usually have to stop myself from giving them hugs and smooches whenever they approach me.
Just remember not to pick up the kitties, though, even when they’re being super affectionate. It’s for your own safety and the cats’ as well.
Visitors will be given 30 minutes to stay inside the Kitty Kingdom. A visit costs $10 on weekdays and $12 on weekends and holidays.
Enjoy some (human) treats
– Media credit: theregalcatcafe
Most people don’t know that the actual cafe is a separate area from the Kitty Kingdom. They also have different ventilation systems, so even people allergic to cats are safe to eat here.
The two spaces are divided by glass windows, which allow customers to enjoy their food as they watch the cats.
You can choose from an extensive selection of beverages, including coffees, teas, and juices. The cafe also frequently features seasonal drinks that you shouldn’t miss.
They offer some savory pastries and sweet desserts that’ll pair nicely with your refreshments as well. Personally, I always order their cat-shaped cookies, and as a game, I try to match them with the kitties that they resemble the most.
Join a yoga session (with cat classmates)
– Media credit: theregalcatcafe
Several times a month, Regal Cat Cafe offers one of the most unique ways to exercise in the city. Their Cats & Yoga activity is perhaps the cutest way to get the body moving.
This is a beginner-friendly session where kitties run around and play with the attendees. Believe me, it’s pretty much impossible not to be in a good mood after you experience just how cutely chaotic the cats are during class.
To join, all you have to do is sign up in advance online. Make sure to wear yoga attire and bring a yoga mat as well. Participants will be given a free drink of their choice after the class.
Adopt your very own kitty
– Media credit: theregalcatcafe
If you end up falling in love with one of the kitties, then you’re in luck. All of the cats you see in the cafe are available for adoption.
This is actually one of the primary goals of the cafe — to find the purr-fect home for all the cats. It’s a great way for people to interact with and find the kitty that matches their personality. So far, the cafe has found loving homes for more than 1,300 felines.
Just do your best to act fast once your heart is set on a furry friend. The adoptions happen on a first-come, first-served basis, and it’s pretty common for several people to be interested in the same cat.