Welcome University District Residents! Your Guide to All Things Northwest Calgary
August 14, 2018
A Fresh Take on Where to Shop, Play, Eat and More!
If you haven’t guessed yet, we really love the Northwest. It’s vibrant and flourishing, with a culinary scene stacked with casual and fine dining spots, a stunning backdrop of the mountains, and a wealth of natural and historical features. We might be bias, but it is one of the best areas to live in Calgary.
Welcome to our neck of the woods!
Whether you’re a new resident at University District, a Northwest neighbour, or Calgarian looking to learn more about the community, we have a great Northwest guide that will let you shop, play, eat and explore – from the daily conveniences to the neighbourly hot spots, we’ve got you covered.
Are you looking for a day-out adventure or need to do some home-decorating shopping? What about a bite with family and friends to satisfy that mid-afternoon craving? Keep reading our U/D guide to explore what this part of the city has to offer. You might find some interesting things to do, see and taste near University District that you never knew about.
Where to Shop
We know that Northwest Calgary has more to offer than most people are aware of. Whether you need to host your first dinner party, are a serious foodie and fashion lover, or have some household chores to do – we can help you! Maybe minus helping you do the household chores.
Below is a quick run-down of popular and nearby shopping options for all of your needs including supermarkets, home renovation, décor retailers and shopping centres. Based on feedback, we’ve identified the top amenities people look for as residents in a new community.
Grocery
- Safeway
Adjacent to U/D, Safeway is conveniently located right in Market Mall. It offers a pharmacy and an in-store Starbucks, in case you need a kick of caffeine while grocery shopping. One hand on the cart, one hand on the cup.3625 Shaganappi Trail N.W. | 403-286-5510 | Map
- Co-op
With two nearby locations – Brentwood and Dalhousie – Co-op offers a pharmacy, deli, bakery, a huge selection of fresh produce and even a range of household items.Brentwood: 4122 Brentwood Road N.W. | 403-299-4311 | Map
Dalhousie: 5505 Shaganappi Trail N.W. | 403-299-4331 | Map
- Planet Organic
Located in the neighbouring community of Varsity and a 3-minute drive from U/D, Planet Organic is known for its fresh, wholesome products and range of supplements and vitamins.4625 Varsity Drive N.W. | 403-288-6700 | Map
- Costco
Costco –if you want a really fun experience where warehouse shopping turns into an adventure — is a short 10-minute drive from U/D in the Northwest shopping area of Beacon Hill.11588 Sarcee Trail N.W. | 403-516-3701 | Map
- Save-On-Foods
Our new grocery partner, Save-On-Foods, will be opening its newest locationright here in University District in 2020! Want to know what other retailers are coming to U/D? Sign up for our newsletter here.
Looking for some sweet (and savoury) advice on making dinner at home feel a little more special? Save-On-Foods spills the beans on the ins and outs of making a meal to remember. Check out the guide!
Home
- Home Sense
Homesense is located next door to U/D next to Market Mall. Here you can find a unique and fine selection of bed, bath and home décor products at great prices.3625 Shaganappi Trail N.W. | 403-288-2224 | Map
- Pier 1 Imports
Shop for unique, imported home furnishings and décor, including furniture, table-top items, accents and more at the nearby Pier 1 Imports located in Brentwood.3630 Brentwood Road N.W. #700 | 403-210-5550 | Map
- Real Deals
Bringing fabulous home décor to Calgary! Just down the hill from University District, Real Deals can be found in the charming community of Bowness.8607 48th Avenue N.W. | 403-457-4779 | Map
- Home Depot
For all your home improvement needs, Home Depot is there! A quick seven-minute drive from U/D, Home Depot can be found in the community of Banff Trail – with a second location in Beacon Hill.Banff Trail: 1818 16th Avenue N.W. | 403-284-7325 | Map
Beacon Hill: 11320 Sarcee Trail N.W. | 403-374-3860 | Map
- RONA
Located in the neighbouring community of Bowness, RONA offers products for your renovation, construction and home decoration projects.6912 29th Avenue N.W. | 403-288-5455 | Map
Need some design inspiration for your urban patio? Here are 5 designer approved tips that will have you living large on your urban balcony.
Shopping
- Market Mall
Adjacent to University District, Market Mall – one of the largest malls in Calgary – is just a short walk, jog or bike ride away, and is home to some of the best shopping in the city!3625 Shaganappi Trail N.W. | 403-288-5466 | Map
- Northland Village Mall
Northland Village Mall is only a five-minute drive away, or you can bike, in the nearby community of Dalhousie. It features over 80 retailers including, Walmart, Best Buy and Canadian favourite – Tim Hortons.5111 Northland Drive N.W. | 403-974-0050 | Map
- North Hill Centre
A short 10-minute drive away, North Hill Centre – Calgary’s first shopping mall – has an array of stores including flower shops, bookstores, salons, and so much more.1384 – 1414 19th Street N.W. | 403-289-2516 | Map
- Brentwood Village Shopping Centre
Located down the street from us along 32nd Avenue N.W., Brentwood Village Shopping Centre offers an eclectic blend of restaurants, pubs and shops.4122 Brentwood Road N.W. | 403-444-2863 | Map
Where to Get Your Sweat On
Wondering where Northwest Calgarians go to work out, relax and punch things? It turns out the Northwest has quite the list to get pulses racing everywhere. We’ve tried it all, from stylish yoga and kickboxing studios to hiking trails and old-school (and new school) gyms. Break a sweat with a workout or exercise class at one of these nearby trails or fitness centers!
Trails
- Douglas Fir Trail
Douglas Fir Trail offers some of the best views of the city and is located down the hill from U/D. Venture into Calgary’s natural environment and capture your adventure from every angle.Bow River Pathway | 403-268-2489 | Map
- Nose Hill Park Trails
Nose Hill Park is an 11-square kilometer natural area in Northwest Calgary. It’s home to an impressive network of pathways and trails that make for a perfect afternoon outing. Watch for the lookout points and spend some time reading about the history of Nose Hill.2888 Shaganappi Trail N.W. | 403-268-2489 | Map
- Upper Wood’s Home Trail – Jeal Nature Path
Located a short 10-minute drive from U/D is Jeal Nature Path, a breathtaking wooded hike in the nearby community of Greenwood.9400 48th Avenue N.W. | Map
Fitness Centres
- 9 Round Varsity
Located minutes from U/D is 9 Round Varsity – a fitness center and health club dedicated to circuit training with an emphasis on kickboxing.4625 Varsity Drive N.W. | 587-333-4405 | Map
- Bikram Yoga
Relax and stretch out at Bikram Yoga, located less than five minutes from Market Mall.208 – 4625 Varsity Drive N.W. | 403-457-4711 | Map
- Orangetheory Fitness
Orangetheory Fitness– less than a fifteen minute drive from U/D – offers full body workouts in a group training environment, focused on training endurance, strength and/or Power.#317 8888 Country HIlls Boulevard N.W. | 403-474-8959 | Map
- GoodLife Fitness
GoodLife Fitness– a short seven minute drive from U/D – offers a range of fitness services, including yoga, weight training, TRX, cycling and more.5111 Northland Drive N.W. | 403-247-2121 | Map
- Vecova Recreation Centre
Located in the neighbouring community of University Heights, Vecova Recreation Centre has a salt-water pool and full size gymnasium for residents and visitors to enjoy.3304 33 Street N.W. | 403-284-2231 | Map
- University of Calgary
University of Calgary is home to some of the finest athletic facilities thanks to the ’88 Olympic Winter Games, which include the Olympic Oval, an aquatic centre, a fitness centre and 200-meter running track. Best part, it’s right next door to U/D.2500 University Drive N.W. | 403-220-5029 | Map
Interested in trying a different workout routine? Take a look at our favourite fitness classes in Northwest Calgary.
Where to Play
The Northwest is a hot spot – both for restaurants and parks – largely because of Calgary’s thriving food scene, high-end lifestyle and young spirit. Whether you live in this part of the city or are just visiting for an evening, here’s a round up of where to play and explore in the Northwest.
Restaurants
- NOtaBLE
Nestled in our neighbouring community of Montgomery, Notable offers diners generous portions made in-house from delicious local ingredients that are bound to delight. No time to stop in for bite, grab a meal to go with their Gourmet 2 GO menu!4611 Bowness Road N.W. | 403-288-4372 | Map
- Moxies
Also located in Market Mall, Moxies is serving up something for everyone, including their daily brunch, classic dishes and signature meals that are sure to excite your palate. For those who don’t know, Moxies Happy Hour is from 3-6pm and 9 p.m. to late, every day!3625 Shagnappi Trail N.W. | 403-288-2663 | Map
- Ginger Beef Peking House
Tucked away in Brentwood Shopping Center – a five-minute drive from U/D – is Ginger Beef Peking House, a Calgary staple that is a hidden gem. Did you know Ginger Beef was created in Calgary?3630 Brentwood Road N.W. | 403-282-5090 | Map
- Matador Pizza and Steakhouse
A fixture in Northwest Calgary since 1976, this Italian eatery is just down the street from U/D. Check out their daily specials, which includes Monday pasta and wing night!4625 Varsity Drive N.W. | 403-286-3133 | Map
- Lotus Fine Indian Cuisine
Located a short 10-minute drive away is another hidden gem that’s serving up traditional and modern Indian dishes guaranteed to please your taste buds. Don’t miss theweekday lunch special – all you can eat buffet for $13.95 + GST.3843 19th Street N.W. | 403-284-9111 | Map
- Big T’s BBQ and Smokehouse
Featured on Food Network’s “You Gotta Eat Here”, Big T’s BBQ and Smokehouse is taking the art of BBQ to a whole new level! Best part…90% of the menu items are gluten free!2138 Crowchild Trail N.W. | 403-284-5959 | Map
Parks
- U/D Urban North Pond and Urban Dog Park
Now open! Our ¼ acre urban dog park is the perfect haven for our four-legged sidekicks and human friends alike. Come check it out for yourself! The park can be accessed by foot or bike from Shaganappi Trail and 32nd Ave, or you can park at our Discovery Centre. Take a look at our map and stay tuned for more details about future parking plans.We celebrated our park opening on July 15! See how the day unfolded with dog-inspired activities and enjoyment in our latest blog post.Discovery Centre: 4410 University Avenue N.W. | 403-288-0280 | Map
- Edworthy Park
A natural parkland offering trails, fire and BBQ pits, playgrounds, outdoor fitness gym and off-leash dog areas. Edworthy Park is just minutes from U/D and can be accessed via Shaganappi Trail (bottom of the hill).403-268-2489 | Map
- Bowness Park
Known as one of the most beautiful parks in the city, Bowness Park is a serene spot that has a lagoon, boat rentals, winter ice skating, wading pool, playgrounds and picnic areas. It’s only a 10-minute drive from U/D!8900 48th Avenue N.W. | 403-268-2489 | Map
- Shouldice Park
Shouldice Park – a five-minute drive from Market Mall – is a sport hotspot thanks to its many soccer, softball, football and baseball fields.4900 Monserrat Drive N.W. | 403-268-2489 | Map
- Confederation Park
Confederation Park is a great escape from the city. With over 400 acres of green space, this park features a golf course, toboggan hills, playgrounds, a wetland, bike baths and so much more.905 30th Avenue N.W. | 403-268-2489 | Map
Wouldn’t it be great to meet people in your community and go for a leisurely stroll through one of Northwest Calgary’s beautiful parks? Learn how PlayCity makes it possible!
How to Get to Where You Want to Go
When it comes to getting around the city, University District and its neighbouring communities are in a sweet spot. Nestled between Shaganappi Trail, Crowchild Trail and the LRT line, residents can easily travel around – by foot, car or transit – when the mood strikes them. Here’s a round up of the nearest LRT stations and gas stations to U/D to help you get to where you need to go.
Transit
- Brentwood Station
Located down the street from University District is Brentwood Station, which has 1381 park and ride spaces.Map
- Dalhousie Station
A seven-minute drive from University District is Dalhousie Station, which has 760 park and ride spaces.Map
- University Station
One of the busiest stations on Calgary’s LRT line, University station is located just minutes from University District.Map
Gas Stations
- Shell
Shell is less than a three-minute drive from University District and has been serving Northwest Calgarians for over 25 years.4645 Varsity Drive N.W. | 403-247-8652 | Map
- Petro-Canada
Petro-Canada, also just minutes from University District, is located right off Shaganappi Trail and offers a premium car wash service.4624 Valiant Drive N.W. | 403-288-0022 | Map
- Co-op Gas Bar
University District is located near two Co-op Gas Bars, including one in the neighbouring community of Brentwood and the other in Dalhousie – both less than five minutes away.Brentwood: 4122 Brentwood Road N.W | 403-299-4311 | Map
Dalhousie: 5505 Shaganappi Trail N.W. | 403-299-4331 | Map
Everything Else You need to Know
Banks
- Bank of Montreal
Located in Market Mall, Bank of Montreal is accessible via foot, bike and car.3625 Shaganappi Trail N.W. | 403-234-2840 | Map
- TD Canada Trust
Located just outside Market Mall, TD Canada Trust is accessible via foot, bike and car.4880 32 Avenue N.W. | 403-299-3255 | Map
- CIBC
CIBC is located a mere two minutes drive from U/D.4625 Varsity Drive N.W. | 403-974-2708 | Map
- Scotiabank
Just down the street from U/D, Scotiabank is a short seven-minute drive away.4110 Brentwood Road N.W. | 403-221-6804 | Map
- First Calgary
First Calgary is less than 10-minutes away by car from Market Mall.735, 5005 Dalhousie Drive N.W. | 403-736-4320 | Map
- ATB
ATB is located only seven-minutes away from U/D.3630 Brentwood Road N.W. | 403-297-8164 | Map
Bottle Depots
- Vecova
Located across the street from University of Calgary, Vecova Bottle Depot is less than three minutes away from U/D. We love supporting Vecova for its initiatives to employ and give back to disabled adults, and help enhance its programs and research.3304 33rd Street N.W. | 403-289-5651 | Map
- Bowness Bottle Depot
The Bowness Bottle Depot is less than a seven-minute drive from Market Mall.4627 16th Avenue N.W. | 403-288-5729 | Map
Have a recommendation on hidden gems or must-try experiences in the Northwest? Share your suggestions with us and the community on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Curious as to why Alberta Treasury Branch was not included on your list of financial institutions? Located at Brentwood Mall (alongside TD and BMO), it actually has more branches in Alberta than any other bank. Should be there!
Hi Karen,
Thank you for flagging that for us and letting us know. We will definitely include Alberta Treasury Branch on our list! Just an oversight on our part, but we’ll correct it right away.