Ahh… summertime can feel like the best time in Calgary with music festivals, biking and hiking trails, foodie events, patio hopping and one-day road-trips. The quintessential Calgary summer experience awaits!
With fall around the corner, we know that the season is coming to an end sooner than we’d like. Here to help, University District, gathered a list of activities for you to enjoy! Whether you’re empty-nesters in search of new adventures, or looking for a fun day with family and friends, our Northwest Community is close to some of Calgary’s most exhilarating activities.
So what piques your interest? From soaring down North America’s fastest zipline to short day trip adventures a hop, skip and jump away from University District, here’s our top-five.
Photo credit: Winsport Canada’s Olympic Park
An adrenaline rush doesn’t require a trip out of the city. Test your nerves on three high-speed ziplines called the Trainer, Plaza and Monster – recognized as North America’s Fastest Zipline. Smile, laugh andscream as you soar down Winsport’s iconic 90-metre ski jump tower made famous by Eddie the Eagle in 1988. We think it’s one of the most extraordinary activities in the city that the whole family can enjoy. Prove you won’t need wings to fly!
Post activity: Make a date for a tasty meal at Milestones in Market Mall, a U/D neighbour! A short drive away from Winsport, Milestones has been giving classic favourites a tasty twist for more than 10 years in Varsity, a community known for its easy-going vibe and strong community energy. Offering a frenzied blend of flavours from around the world, with a focus on fresh ingredients,there’s something for everyone on this menu! Don’t miss their Wednesday date night special where two can dine for $50. After a great meal, walk it off with a stroll over to our North Pond (right across the intersection from Shaganappi Trail and 32 Ave).
Tips: Spontaneity is fun but for Winsport Zipline, advanced booking is highly recommended. Call Guest Services at 403-247-5452 (extension 4) to book.
Winsport Canada Olympic Park: 88 Canada Olympic Road N.W. | 403-776-0617 | winsport.ca
Milestones:3625 Shaganappi Trail N.W. | 403-247-3792 | milestonesrestaurants.com
Looking for more fun ideas to get you outside and active? Check out our Guide to NW Calgary Playgrounds for all ages that include a list of NW Calgary outdoor fitness gyms!
Photo credit: D. Da Silva
When was the last time you visited the Calgary Tower? Only a 15-minute drive or quick ride on the LRT line from University District, the Calgary Tower is a signature on the city’s skyline, and a destination that isn’t only for tourists to appreciate. Straight in and straight up for an unforgettable experience. In less than one minute, you’re 191 metres above Calgary, soaking in the best view of the city! The 360-degree perspective showcases the downtown’s glittering skyscrapers and nearby Rocky Mountains, to the Prairie fields and rolling Foothills that make Calgary so unique. You might even see University District from there. If you can muster the courage, step onto the glass floor observation deck and snap the ultimate selfie. We love seeing your photos so don’t forget to tag us at #UDLIfe!
Post activity: After taking in views at the top, continue your day of exploration with a visit to the charming Northwest community of Hillhurst. to indulge your sweet tooth at the newly opened Made by Marcus. Known for its handcrafted, out-of-the-ordinary ice cream flavours, you’re bound to find one to satisfy.
Tips: Save $1 off admission to the Calgary Tower with this coupon courtesy of Calgary Attractions, valid until December 31, 2018.
Calgary Tower: 101 9th Avenue S.W. | 403-266-7171 | calgarytower.com
Made by Marcus:221 19th Street N.W. | 403-452-1692 | madebymarcus.ca
Are you looking for a new ice cream shop to cool off at during the hot summer days? Explore our recommendations for the best ice cream shops NW Calgary has to offer.
Are you a foodie? Do you think about dinner while eating lunch? If the answers are “yes” then Craving Kensington Food Tour is the perfect bucket list activity for you! Savour and stroll your way through Calgary’s exploding culinary epicentre with a visit to five different local businesses. Your senses will be wowed with private tastings that will tantalize your taste buds. We recommend comfortable (stretchy) clothes to fully enjoy the experience!
Post activity: No summer is complete without a slushy summer drink from the first graffiti-decorated shipping container alley bar in the city! Container Bar is a one-of-a-kind patio that serves up drinks in coconuts and even lets customers spin their own vinyl records. University District approved, it’s an experience like no other.
Tips: Craving Kensington Food Tours are held only on Thursday evenings. Book online in advance to reserve your spot.
Craving Kensington Food Tour: 1131 Kensington Crescent N.W. | 844-535-5239 | albertafoodtours.ca
Container Bar:1131 Kensington Road N.W. | 403-457-4148 | containerbaryyc.com
Photo credit: Kananaskis Nordic Spa
Everyone needs a break from the city once in a while. Living in University District and the Northwest means you’re only a quick 50-minute drive from the biggest playground – the beautiful Rocky Mountains, home to the newly opened and oh-so-relaxing Kananaskis Nordic Spa. Treat yourself to some well deserved, guilt-free self-indulgence at the alpine sanctuary known for its signature massages and outdoor pools overlooking the alpine tree line. It’s close enough to the city while being the perfect couple escape from everyday life.
Post activity: Come back to the city and embark on a new culinary experience at Wiener Schnitzel Haus. Nestled in the heart of our neighbours Montgomery, this family-owned and operated gem is serving up homemade, authentic Austrian cuisine, brimming with bold flavours and uses only the freshest of ingredients. While there, we recommend that you try the schnitzel – a thin boneless cutlet traditionally made of veal, breaded and pan-fried. Have you ever tried schnitzel? We love it! No visit is complete without it!
Tips: For the most relaxing stay possible, head out to Kananaskis Nordic Spa in the morning. Stop by the Lazy Loaf and Kettle on the way out of the city, and enjoy the mini road trip as the sun rises. When you get there, try the heated hammocks, although you might start to snooze. We can’t think of a better place to take a refreshing nap.
Kananaskis Nordic Spa: 1 Centennial Drive, Kananaskis | 403-591-6800 | knordicspa.com
Wiener Schnitzel Haus: 4703 Bowness Road N.W. | 403-288-2230 | wienerschnitzel.ca
Make the most of your summer by giving back to your community! Don’t know where to start? Check out our Guide to 5 Places to Volunteer in Northwest Calgary.
Lounging in a raft while floating down the Bow River is an iconic Calgary summer activity that we think you should experience at least once in your lifetime.If you love the outdoors, the Bow River is an absolute must-try for your bucket list. You’ll have the calming sounds of the river, the panoramic views of the skyline, and be surrounded by nature in the middle of the city. We know – it’s hard not to feel relaxed, inspired, and joyful.
If you don’t have your own raft, you can rent a four to 10-person floater raft from the University of Calgary Outdoor Centre for as low as $45. Grab your friends, kids or grandkids and make it an outing to remember!
Post activity: Take a break from the sun-filled experience and stop in at Vietnamese Beef Stew Noodle House, a hidden gem for Asian cuisine in NW Calgary’s community of Brentwood. This long-time favourite gets a stamp of approval from Vietnamese food-lovers of all ages. What do we think is a must-order? The beef stew noodles, loaded with carrots, daikon, slices of beefy goodness and slick noodles. It’s a small, family-owned and operated restaurant that delivers a mighty large menu and top-notch service that won’t disappoint!
Tip: Return your raft two (2) hours before close and receive a $15 discount off of your next raft rental from University of Calgary Outdoor Centre. Also remember to bring good water shoes or sneakers, as flip flops are not recommended, and to always wear your lifejacket.
UCalgary Outdoor Centre: 2500 University Drive N.W. | 403-220-5038 | ucalgary.ca/outdoorcentre
Vietnamese Beef Stew Noodle House: 3616 52nd Avenue N.W. | 403-220-0681
Have a summer bucket list activity we missed from the list? Share your activity suggestion with us and the community on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
The University District blog is a resource for Calgarians who want to live, work, play, visit or buy in the northwest. We will provide you with information, stories, news and a closer look at the things that matter so you can live a more inspired, active and connected life in NW Calgary at University District… Life works here.
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