6 of the best Calgary neighbourhoods to spend an afternoon in
Calgary is full of amazing neighbourhoods and communities, and taking an afternoon trip to some of them can feel like going to an entirely new city.
From quaint streets lined with boutiques and cafes to bustling avenues full of art and lively restaurants, here are six of the best Calgary neighbourhoods to spend an afternoon in.
Inglewood
If you’re looking for a historic, fun, artsy neighbourhood, Inglewood is the place to be. You can grab a bite to eat at one of the many local restaurants and cafes in the area and then wander down 9th Street SE to find unique boutiques, art galleries, and vintage shops.
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Nature lovers can stop by the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary or take a stroll along the Bow River. Inglewood is also home to an amazing entertainment scene. You can end your day at Festival Hall or Ironwood Stage and Grill for some live music and entertainment.
Kensington
Kensington is one of the top shopping destinations in the city thanks to its numerous boutiques and unique stores. From books to consignment stores, you can easily spend an afternoon browsing local finds. Coffee lovers will appreciate the neighbourhood’s many cafes, including Higher Ground, Deville Coffee, and Good Trade.
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The Plaza Theatre is a fully licensed venue, allowing you to grab a drink and a snack while enjoying a movie, or skip the screening and hang out at its bar or cafe and soak up Kensington’s vibe.
Bridgeland
Bridgeland is a vibrant neighbourhood located just northeast of downtown. It’s a relatively small community, which makes it perfect for an afternoon trip. If you’re into ice cream, Bridgeland truly has it all. You can stop in at Village Ice Cream, Noto Gelato, Made by Marcus, or Lukes Drug Mart for some of the best ice cream in the city.
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You can find numerous cozy places to eat, from casual cafes to nice restaurants that are perfect for grabbing a bite to eat. Take some time to wander the streets and explore local shops, or visit Tom Campbell’s Hill Natural Park for stunning views of the city and the Bow River.
Beltline
Beltline is a bustling neighbourhood located right in the heart of downtown. You can find trendy shops, street art, and amazing restaurants. If you’re looking for a day of shopping, 17th Avenue SE is home to over 700 different businesses.
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Beltline offers some amazing eats; local favourites include Ten Foot Henry, Regrub, Ship and Anchor Pub, and Porch. You can end your day by checking out the amazing nightlife scene at the neighbourhood’s many bars and clubs.
East Village
Located in the northeast part of downtown, East Village is a riverside neighbourhood that is full of charm. You can roam the streets looking at historic buildings and public art, or stop in at some of the local shops.
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You can visit Studio Bell, the home of the National Music Centre, where you can explore interactive exhibits and learn about Canadian music history. The Calgary Central Library is also located in East Village, offering gorgeous architecture and cozy gathering spaces, making it the perfect place to hang out and enjoy East Village.
Mission
If you’re on the hunt for a bite to eat, Mission is the perfect neighbourhood to explore. Its streets are lined with charming restaurants, cafes, and bakeries, offering everything from casual bites to upscale dining. You can spend your afternoon wandering the neighbourhood’s boutiques and art galleries, or take a stroll along the Bow River pathway.
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With historic charm, a thriving food scene, and stunning scenery, Mission is a great neighbourhood to spend an afternoon in.