With its traditions and historic places, to its rolling and untouched nature—the Northwest is a worthy place for romance.
From chance encounters, budding friendships, and stories of unique connections made in the Northwest, we find places near us that continue to prove Calgary is both easy to love, and easy to find love in.
Beyond the typical locales for date night, the Northwest offers something for all—whether it’s celebrating a milestone or exploring something new as friends, Valentines or soul mates.
From the Northwest that surrounds the U/D community, we’d like to share some of our favourite romantic activities.
As a perfect backdrop for your date, Bowmont Park offers a panoramic view of the Bow River Valley, the Bow River, and the Rockies from its upper plateau. From the lower, it is the perfect place to bring your pet.
For dates and animal companions alike, the park boasts considerable areas for outdoor activity—including on- and off-leash areas, and a wealth of hiking and biking trails.
Come celebrate shared interests and remember the importance of play.
Located at NW Calgary, 85th Street and 48th Avenue NW
Take advantage of Calgary’s winter and skate the Bow River. The shallow lagoon within Bowness Park runs along its southern edge, making it the perfect outdoor rink for when the temperature drops, and is open from mid-December to mid-March.
For a post-skate warm up, get a hot chocolate during the YYC Hot Chocolate Festival, like the White Chocolate Matcha Kiss at The Light Cellar, and a snack at Seasons of Bowness, otherwise known as the Tea House.
Come for a perfectly packaged romantic winter date.
Located along the Bow River between Stoney Trail and 85th Street N.W.
Photo Credit to Arno Hoogveld
Whether it’s too warm for the ice, or too cold to be outside, the Olympic Oval at the University of Calgary is a tried-and-true romantic destination that promises perfect weather.
Historically built for the Calgary Olympics and named the fastest ice in the world, it’s also the perfect place for a little healthy competition on date night.
Free skates happen intermittently throughout the month, so be sure to check the Oval’s schedule for best timing.
Come by during free-skate times to learn, teach your date, or flaunt your twizzles.
Located at 2500 University Drive N.W.
Photo Credit to Anna Michalska
Across the water from Bowness Park is a Northwestern gem, Baker Park. Lining the river, the setting is pure calm surrounded by nature, and it’s no surprise that Baker Park’s gazebos are the setting of most of Calgary’s outdoor weddings—winter and summer.
The park ranges from flowered fields and treed areas, to grassy patches and paths throughout, making it ideal for walks, bikes, extreme frisbee, and everything in between.
Come for sightings of couples tying the knot, incredible green space, and a quieter, more undisturbed backdrop for your date.
Located at 9333 Scenic Bow Rd. N.W
Photo credit to Jackie Bourgaize
A perfectly intimate venue for those looking for a show.
It’s in Jackie Bourgaize and Dale Sorensen’s home, and with the help of local artists, the couple hosts live music in their living room. The concerts are not-for-profit, with most of the proceeds from ticket sales given back to performers from the Calgary area. Attendees are welcome to bring their own drinks as well as food for sharing.
Come for relaxed, low-key entertainment at this child-friendly venue.
Located at 119 Nottingham Road N.W.
Do you have a favourite romantic spot in the Northwest? Share it with us at info@wcdt.ca!
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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