Finding a moderately priced hotel in Calgary during the week with short notice was a challenge... I called at least five downtown hotels and was quoted rates of $300 - $750 a night. I was almost ready to give up when I came across this Marriott Courtyard by the airport. Of course, in my opinion it's still a bit pricey for a Courtyard at approximately $200 a night, but I bit the bullet and booked here and it worked out just fine.
This hotel is clean, modern, spacious and offers reliable free wifi and friendly service. It's only about ten minutes from the airport and they have a free shuttle that goes there every hour. They also have a decent looking restaurant (although I didn't eat there) and a fitness room and pool (although sadly, I didn't make it to either of those either).
The bedding wasn't the softest, highest quality, but that's really my only complaint. Oh yeah - that and the fact that the alarm clock in my room was set to super loud on a fuzzy radio station and it woke me up on my first morning at 5am or so and scared the sh*t out of me! I made sure to turn it off after that but note to MC staff: please check alarm clocks between guests to make sure no one else has a similar experience - it was not fun and I had a hard time falling back asleep after that!
Next visit to Calgary, I'll try to plan ahead to stay downtown where there is more action, but I'd stay here again without complaining if need be; I'd just make sure to turn off that alarm clock!