Top 5 local Board game cafes in Calgary
Published by lesongtoanz on
Top 5 board game cafes in Calgary.
Board games have always been a fun and engaging way to spend time with friends, family, or even strangers. But what if there was a way to enhance this experience while enjoying delicious food and drinks? Calgary’s board game interactive cafes offer the perfect space for fun, socializing, and making lasting connections.
Location: 4339 Macleod Trail SW, Calgary, AB
(2 minutes away from Stampede ground and 6 minutes away from Downtown Calgary)
Social Media:
- Instagram: @ynottoday
- Website: Ynottoday.ca
Operation hours:
- 12pm – 10pm from Sunday to Thursday
- 12pm – 00am on Friday and Saturday
Phone: 403.345.7108
Why Y Not Today is the #1 Spot:
Nestled in the heart of Calgary, Y Not Today Boardgame Cafe & Bingsu isn’t just a cafe—it’s an experience. For board game enthusiasts and casual players alike, it’s a place where you can kick back, explore new games, and enjoy high-quality beverages and desserts. But what truly sets this cafe apart is its dedication to building community connections. With over 60 board games (and counting!), there’s a little something for everyone, whether you’re a strategy buff, a party game lover, or someone who just enjoys a fun game to play with friends.
The cozy atmosphere, combined with free-to-play puzzles and regular events, makes Y Not Today a vibrant hub for gamers and those looking to meet new people. The best part? The cafe is open to all ages, and everyone is encouraged to come, play, and mingle. Whether you’re new to board games or a seasoned player, this cafe creates a welcoming space for everyone to relax and bond over a shared love of games.
What Makes Y Not Today Special:
- Diverse Game Collection: With over 60 games, there’s something for every type of gamer, from traditional classics to modern hits. Plus, they regularly add new games to keep things fresh!
- Puzzle Lovers Paradise: Free-to-play puzzles, including Hanayama, Burr, wooden puzzles, and more, make this the perfect spot for puzzle enthusiasts to get lost in a challenge.
- Weekly Events: Y Not Today hosts a variety of weekly events that are open to everyone:
- Board Game Night every Wednesday from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM.
- Chess Night on Fridays from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, a great opportunity to show off your skills.
- Wednesday and Saturday Board Game Event happen from 5:30pm-8:30pm and 1:30pm-4:30pm respectively, a perfect opportunity for families, friends, and solo adventurers to join in on some gaming fun.
- Paid Events: Their Neon Paint Night (at $38.99 with 20% off drinks) is a popular choice for those looking for a creative, fun night out. Check out their website for more information on upcoming paid events.
If you’re feeling hungry, try our in-store croffles—they’re fresh, delicious, and sure to satisfy your cravings. With a variety of mouthwatering flavors to choose from, you’re guaranteed to enjoy this tasty snack.
Price Point:
- Free Events: Board games, puzzles, and weekly events are free to play.
- Paid Events: Prices for paid events, such as Neon Paint Night, start at $38.99, which includes a 20% discount on beverages.
- Beverages and Snacks: Prices range from $4 to $13 for drinks, with a variety of beverages from hot Milk Tea, Tea, to iced treats, and, of course, their specialty bingsu (a Korean shaved ice dessert) is a must-try!
- There is no charge for Board games and Puzzles as long as you are an in-store customer
Whether you’re coming in for a quick game or planning to spend a few hours with friends, Y Not Today is the ultimate spot for community, creativity, and lots of fun. The mix of free puzzles, weekly events, and paid interactive activities keeps this cafe a favorite among regulars and newcomers alike.
2. Sentry box
Address: 1835B 10 Ave SW, Calgary, AB
Instagram: @sentrybox
Website: Sentry Box
Sentry Box is more of a retail store with a play space, whereas cafés like Y Not Today offer a warm, casual setting for social gaming.
Board game cafés emphasize food and drinks, while Sentry Box is all about the games themselves.
What Makes Sentry Box Different?
Sheer Size: Over 13,000 square feet of gaming goodness.
Game Selection: Thousands of board games, card games, and miniatures.
Dedicated Gaming Space: Tables for open play and tournaments.
Expert Staff: Knowledgeable employees who can guide both beginners and veterans.
At Sentry box, you can rent a game from $5 to $10 per person, and if you decide to purchase them, the price is range from $50-$200. Gaming events at Sentry box usually cost you $5-$10, but free for regular customers, and the price of food&drinks is usually from $5-$15 per item.
3. Hexagon Boardgame Cafe
Address: 1140 Kensington Rd NW #200, Calgary
Instagram: @thehexcafe
Website: thehexcafe.com
Why Hexagon is Worth the Visit:
Hexagon Boardgame Cafe brings a unique vibe to Calgary’s gaming scene. Located in the trendy Kensington district, this cafe offers a contemporary, sleek design perfect for both casual hangouts and more serious gaming sessions. The space is filled with cozy seating, making it an ideal spot for friends to spend an afternoon or evening together.
What Makes Hexagon Special:
- Game Library: From strategy games to party games, Hexagon has a collection of over 150 games.
- Top-notch Customer Service: The staff at Hexagon are game experts. If you’re unsure about which game to try, they’ll help you find the perfect one based on your group size and game preferences.
- Modern Atmosphere: With its minimalist and stylish decor, the cafe offers a clean and vibrant environment that makes it perfect for both gamers and non-gamers alike.
Price Point:
- Board Game Rentals: There’s a small cover charge of $3 to $5 per person per hour for board game rentals.
- Beverages and Snacks: Drinks range from $5 to $20, depending on the type of beverage (craft coffee, specialty teas, and more). They also serve light snacks and desserts to keep you fueled while you game.
4. D6 Tabletop Cafe
Address: 2323 32 Ave NE #112, Calgary
Instagram: @d6tabletopcafe
Website: d6tabletopcafe
Why D6 Tabletop Cafe Should Be On Your List:
For those who crave a cafe experience that’s both cozy and immersive, D6 Tabletop Cafe offers a comfortable space with all the right ingredients: great board games, great coffee, and a welcoming environment. Whether you’re into Dungeons & Dragons or prefer a fast-paced card game, D6 is the place to be. It’s a great blend of both a community hub and a fantastic hangout spot for game lovers.
What Makes D6 Special:
- Tabletop Events: D6 hosts weekly events that are perfect for casual and serious gamers alike, including RPG nights, board game tournaments, and themed nights.
- Comfortable Atmosphere: The cafe’s interior is designed for comfort, with plenty of seating and a relaxed vibe, making it perfect for long gaming sessions or a casual afternoon.
- Family Friendly: While D6 caters to the hardcore gamer crowd, it’s also an excellent destination for families looking to introduce kids to board games.
Price Point:
- Game Rentals: The rental fee is $4 to $10, depending on the game.
- Beverages: Their beverage menu includes a variety of specialty coffees, teas, and iced drinks, ranging from $4 to $10.
- Snacks: You can also grab some light bites, from pastries to savory snacks, to keep your energy up while you play.
5. Metal Galaxy Social Games & Bistro
Address: 4660 Macleod Tr SW, Calgary
Facebook: Metal Galaxy Social Games
Website: metal-games
Why Metal Galaxy is a Must-Visit:
If you’re looking for a gaming cafe with a twist, Metal Galaxy Social Games & Bistro combines the love for gaming with a bistro-style dining experience. Located in the south part of Calgary, this unique venue offers a more social, community-focused gaming experience. You can game, grab a bite to eat, and even enjoy a night out with friends, all in one place.
What Makes Metal Galaxy Special:
- Gaming and Dining: Metal Galaxy offers not only a large selection of games to play, but it also serves food and drinks that cater to all tastes, from casual snacks to hearty meals.
- Social Gaming: With an emphasis on bringing people together through games, Metal Galaxy hosts regular social events, board game nights, and tournaments.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: The eclectic, colorful decor and lively ambiance make it a great place for groups or solo players who want to have a fun night out.
Price Point:
- Beverages and Food: Prices range from $5 to $15 for beverages, and meals can range from $12 to $30 depending on what you’re in the mood for.
- Game Rentals: There’s a cover charge for games, usually around $4 to $7 per person.
If you’re looking for a cafe where you can enjoy games, good food, and a fun social scene, Metal Galaxy offers the best of both worlds.
In conclusion, it depends on your need because if you love board games, you’ll feel right at home in any suggestions above. If you are looking for a friendly option with some great dessert, Y Not Today is the best option with afforadable fee. However, if you are looking for gaming hub for competitive atmosphere, Sentry box will suit you right in with the large collection and long history.
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