Take a tour throughout University District and see how our local retailers can make your holiday plans easy this Thanksgiving season!

Save-on-Foods:

For all of your Thanksgiving fixings, head to Save-on-Foods U/D, conveniently located on University Avenue.

Does preparing a turkey with all the sides leave you feeling overwhelmed? Save-on-Foods offers prepared Thanksgiving meals to make hosting simple and easy. These ready-to-heat-and-serve meals include items such as sous vide turkey, brussels sprouts, roasted carrots, mashed potatoes and gravy. Small gathering? Their Everyday Chicken Meal Combo will feed four people and comes with a whole roast chicken, two salads and buns. Go ahead and take the credit for cooking it all…we won’t tell.  

Market Wines:

Just a simple stroll down the avenue is Market Wines, an independent wine shop featuring artisan winemakers. They can provide customized recommendations to please the wine connoisseur in your family and pair perfectly with your meal. 

Market Wines specializes in quality wines from small, family producers, which means you can try hard-to-find treasures and unique varieties. If you’re not hosting a meal, a bottle of wine makes a perfect gift to your host or hostess. Market Wines also offers a selection of craft beer and spirits to suit every taste and preference. 

YYC Cycle and Orangetheory Fitness: 

Want to build up an appetite ahead of your Thanksgiving meal? YYC Cycle and Orangetheory Fitness can help you work up a sweat and feel great. With all the time you’ve saved getting a pre-cooked, ready to heat meal, you’ve got time to get in a workout in before guests arrive. At Orangetheory fitness, they customize your workout to your experience level, helping to accommodate everyone on their fitness journey.  

Prefer the bike? YYC Cycle offers spin classes for beginners through to experienced riders. Their studio classes can get you set to cycle and might encourage you to head out on the pathways from U/D to the river valley where you can see all the fall colours right in the heart of the city. 

COBS Bread:

We all know that the best part of any meal is dessert! COBS Bread has abundant choices of bread and buns to add to your Thanksgiving feast, and they also make some amazing desserts. For something traditional, try their pumpkin tarts or pumpkin scones, or get festive with their gingerbread scones.

Want to wow your family and friends, or even yourself, with your cooking skills? COBS Bread has some great recipes on their website, including their Herby Sourdough Stuffing. This could be the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving meal.

Ingredients

• 1/2 COBS Bread Sourdough Loaf, unsliced
• 1 Shallot
• 1 Celery Stick
• 1 tbsp Thyme
• 1 tbsp Chives
• 1 tbsp Parsley
• 1 Egg
• 1/2 cup Vegetable Broth
• Parmesan, to garnish

Directions

1. Pre-heat the oven to 375°F & grease your casserole dish. 
2. Finely dice your shallot & celery sticks.  
3. Roughly tear your Sourdough Loaf into chunks of varying sizes. 
4. In a small frying pan, melt 1 tbsp butter then add the celery and shallots. 
5. Once both are soft and starting to brown, add in the thyme, stirring for 1 more minute.  
6. In a medium sized bowl, whisk the egg and veggie broth together until combined. Add in your remaining fresh herbs, a pinch of salt and pepper, and the cooked shallot & celery mixture.  
7. Add the Sourdough and stir until the liquid has been soaked up. 
8. Pour into your prepared casserole dish and bake in the oven for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.  
9. Grate some parmesan on top once the stuffing has cooled a little & serve warm. 

Village Ice Cream:

Looking for some ice cream to go with a traditional apple pie? Or, how about seasonal or vegan flavours for something a bit different? Village Ice Cream has all the flavours you know and love, as well as some great seasonal flavours that would go well with a pie or COBS scone. 

Fun fact: Village Ice Cream has monthly limited edition flavours along with their official menu! Check out their Instagram page each month to see what they’re serving.

Friendsgiving at Central Commons Park:

If you’re looking for something more casual for a Friendsgiving, U/D has some great outdoor spaces with amenities that will make your friends gathering one to remember. Central Commons Park in the heart of the U/D has picnic areas, BBQs and is dog-friendly. Share food with your friends and neighbours and enjoy the spectacular views of the city and neighbourhood.

Even better, order your Friendsgiving meal from Borough Bar + Grill which overlooks the park! With great menu items like fried brussel sprouts, mixed green and caesar salad, roasted beets, pizzas and a half rotisserie chicken, Borough Bar has your Thanksgiving plans covered. 

No matter how you celebrate this Thanksgiving, we’re here to help you prepare.

Summer is almost over, but the fun doesn’t have to end! Discover the fantastic fall events and activities happening August to September at University District! 

U/D Block Party 

The U/D Block Party is back for its third year, and it’s going to be better than ever! The block party is happening September 17, 2023, from 1-4 pm, with the fun all along University Avenue through to Staples. The event is free for everyone to enjoy the local musicians, activities, and fantastic retailers of U/D!  

Returning to the U/D Block Party is Edmonton’s premier brass party band, The Brasstactics! Playing funky throwbacks from the ’70s, ’80s, ’90s, and ‘00s, their electric energy is sure to get you grooving. The Brasstactics will be roaming Retail Main Street throughout the party serving up your favourite tunes!

You can now follow the Brasstactics on Spotify where they have recently released their cover of “Bad Guy” by Billie Eilish. 

The Brasstactitcs is a New Orleans-style brass band made up of ten talented musicians. They describe their music as, “a crash course in human culture,” playing everything from AC/DC to Dr. Dre. 

The U/D Block Party will feature a plethora of activities for kids! Activities include:

•  Face painting 
•  Balloon twisting 
• Giant inflatables 
• Roaming performers 
• A Lego building booth 

University District is proudly home to over 30 fantastic retailers who love to engage with the community! So, keep your eyes peeled on the Retail Main Street for special promotions and contests! 

U/D Night Market 

Mark your calendars! The last two Night Markets of the season are coming up Aug. 30 and Sept. 27 from 5 – 9 pm. It’s your final chance to visit the more than 30 local artisans and enjoy live music and entertainment! The U/D Night Market is put on in partnership with Marketspot and is free for all to attend.

Be sure to check out the live music and entertainment perfect for the whole family. 

The August Night Market will feature: 

• 5 – 6:30 PM Joash Charles
• 6:30 – 7:30 PM Felix Hurricane and the Manik Men
• 7:30 – 8 PM Skinny’s Variety Comedy Show
• 8 – 8:30 PM Skinny’s Circus Playshop*
• 8 – 9 PM Felix Hurricane and the Manik Men 

*Join Skinny for hands-on activities and explore the magical world of circus arts. Fun for the whole family at University District! 

Visiting U/D 

Even when we aren’t hosting events, U/D has lots to do! Designed with walkability top of mind the community has no shortage of parks, pathways and shopping.

Central Commons Park is placed at the heart of the community. Featuring picnic tables, pavilions, BBQs, a splash pad and more, this four-season park offers an inviting space to relax and enjoy nature. Be sure to take a stroll through Central Commons Park which pairs perfectly with a scoop of Village Ice Cream! 

Soak up the last days of summer sun at one of the many patios at U/D! Enjoy refreshing drinks and fantastic food overlooking Central Commons Park at Borough Bar + Grill, The Canadian Brewhouse and The Banquet Bar. 

You can enjoy all of U/D’s events, retail and amenities with our free two-hour surface lots or  three-hour underground parkade! Explore the community with comfort knowing there are a variety of parking options.

University District has tons of choices for burger lovers. Ranging from a classic beef to veggie and grain burgers, there’s something to satisfy everyone’s cravings and dietary needs. To get the inside scoop, we asked some of the staff at the University District Discovery Centre which U/D burger is their favourite – here are the results.

Rhonda’s Pick – Five Guys

A longtime employee of University District, Rhonda has worked at the University District Discovery Centre since it opened in 2017. She has seen the community transform from its initial construction to the award-winning urban community it is today. 

Rhonda’s favourite burger in University District is from Five Guys. “The burgers taste so fresh, and you always get great value at Five Guys,” says Rhonda. She was a fan of how hefty the patties were and the overflowing amount of fries she got on the side. 

Five Guys serves delicious customized burgers in a quick-service and casual dining setting. It’s the perfect spot for a meal on the go or a relaxed hangout with friends. With their large selection of toppings, there are more than 250,000 possible burger combinations. Visit Five Guys in U/D today and create your dream burger.

Milton’s Pick – Borough Bar + Grill

Milton has worked at the University District Discovery Centre for the past five years. You can find his smiling face in the Discovery Centre or strolling Retail Main Street checking in with our amazing retailers and community members.

Milton’s favourite burger spot in University District is Borough Bar + Grill. As a University District Discovery Centre Community Ambassador, Milton frequents all the wonderful retailers we have in U/D. 

“I’m a regular at Borough Bar + Grill, and the food not only looks good but it tastes good too,” says Milton.

The Beef Burger at Borough Bar + Grill  is a beef patty topped with lettuce, tomato, pickles, american cheese, and borough sauce, on a potato bun. Head over to Borough Bar + Grill at U/D to enjoy a delicious burger on their outdoor patio, which is open nine months a year and overlooks Central Commons Park! 

The Burger Options are Endless in U/D 

There’s no shortage of amazing burgers at University District, so we rounded up some other notable burgers that are definitely worth trying as you seek out your own favourite burger in U/D.  

The Banquet

The Banquet is one of our go-to spots for good vibes, good eats and the Big Banquet Burger does not disappoint. With real Canadian bacon and cheddar cheese on a lightly toasted brioche bun, enjoy this classic burger while experiencing the lively and fun atmosphere of The Banquet.  

OEB Breakfast Co.

OEB Breakfast Co. is a popular brunch spot, but they also serve up a mean burger. The Notorious B.I.T is an 8 oz angus chuck burger with white truffle aioli, and all the works on a vegan Japanese milk bun. However, if a traditional burger is not your thing, OEB’s got you covered with a vegan Veggie & Grain Burger. 

The Canadian Brewhouse

What’s better than bite-sized burgers! Try out the Three Bomb Beef Sliders from The Canadian Brewhouse. Share these delicious sliders with your friends or keep them all for yourself. If you’re up for a hearty challenge and think sliders are too small for you, then brace yourself for The Great Canadian Burger Challenge. This giant six-patty burger, topped with all the fixings, served alongside a large poutine, is not for the faint of heart! Are you ready to take on this epic burger adventure?

McDonald’s

Who doesn’t love a classic burger from McDonalds? Whether you’re looking to recreate a taste from your childhood or need a snack on the go, this is the burger for you. From their classics like the Big Mac to original cheeseburgers, you know it and love it.  Eating on the run? The U/D McDonald’s location features a walk-up window for quick service on the go.  With a wide variety of food retailers in University District, there’s even more to anticipate. Coming soon to U/D is UNA pizza + wine, Seed N Salt and Native Tongues Taqueria! Stay tuned for these exciting new additions to the food scene, and check out our website for a complete list of our retailers so you can plan your next visit.

From gorgeous parks to nearby pathways, there are so many options for those who love to ride in Calgary’s northwest. Here are a few of the best bike routes in and around U/D:

The Green Spine

Acting as the backbone of this vibrant community, the green spine is a linear park that connects the north and south ends of University District and is perfect for venturing from one end to the other or simply for a leisurely stroll. It is one of the best places to cycle in University District thanks to its long pathway filled with unique plants, gathering spaces and unmatched views. Pack a lunch and stop for a break at the South Pond with views of the Bow River Valley. 

North and South Ponds

University District is home to two green spaces with gorgeous ponds. The North and South Ponds offer beautiful landscapes and are a must-stop when out for a ride in the community. The North Pond offers a storm pond and amphitheater while the South Pond is naturalized and a great spot to watch the variety of birds that call it home. 

University District was recently named Calgary’s best car-free neighbourhood by Avenue Magazine because of its walkability and easy access to many amenities without the need for a car. This neighbourhood is a great place for biking enthusiasts to play, rest and shop. 

Edworthy Park

Edworthy Park is located just a short ride south from University District and is a great place to go for a ride. This park’s long, paved pathways make for an exquisite ride along the Bow River. Be sure to stop for lunch, coffee or ice cream at Angel’s Cafe and enjoy the gorgeous views of Calgary’s iconic river. 

Looking for a bike and hike? Edworthy Park has easy access to the Douglas Fir Trail, a dirt trail famous for its many steps, boardwalks and dramatic views of the Bow River Valley and unique natural features. Lock up your bike at the bottom and then head up the trail for the added bonus of aworkout. 

32 Avenue Bike Path

The bike path along 32 Avenue is a lovely commute to get around Calgary’s northwest area. This path conveniently connects the nearby neighbourhoods of Varsity, Brentwood, Charleswood and Banff Trail to a range of amenities and parks nearby. When you’re on this path, make sure to check out the North Pond in U/D and venture south to check out some of University District’s retail options like Village Ice Cream, COBS Bread, Monogram Coffee and Freshii.

Confederation Park

Confederation Park sprawls across an expansive 160 hectares, brimming with beautiful sights. This park is perfect for a long ride in Calgary’s northwest and offers a great place to stop and enjoy the scenery, play a round of golf at Confederation Golf Course, play tennis, baseball, or enjoy the natural playground. Located between Mount Pleasant, Capitol Hill, Collingwood and Highland Park, this park is a great route for exploring many northwest neighbourhoods with ease. 

Calgary’s northwest is a perfect place for beginner, novice and expert bikers to enjoy. For a more extensive guide of where to cycle based on your level of expertise, check out this blog. 

Not into biking outdoors or looking for an indoor workout? University District is home to YYC Cycle and Orangetheory Fitness both with great offerings to get your sweat on.

In June 2023, University District hosted the fourth annual Tails & Treasures, Calgary’s favourite, free dog-friendly event. Hundreds of Calgarians and their furry friends attended for entertainment, activities and competitions. 

This year’s Tails & Treasures featured a Smooch Your Pooch photo booth where pet owners could capture memories, and the puppy pool party was a big hit with our four-legged friends, all while enjoying live music performed by The Rondel Roberts Band. The big highlight of the event was the world-famous Global Pet Foods SuperDogs™, who put on three exciting shows. 

The remarkable talents of the SuperDogs™ were showcased through fast-paced, hilarious, and interactive performances. These heartwarming and athletic displays created a truly entertaining experience for all.

To delve deeper into the world of these highly trained dogs and their professional trainers, we had the privilege of interviewing Alysa Lindberg, a professional dog trainer with the SuperDogs™ who has travelled across North America performing with her dog. When asked about her background and experience, Alysa shared, “I have been with the SuperDogs for 15 years. I travel all over the place for this job, but my hometown is Calgary, and I live right near University District.”

Alysa emphasises that the success of a show depends on one critical factor: “Practice, practice, practice.” That involves practising skills in diverse environments with loud noises and varying weather, ensuring both the trainer and the dogs are well-prepared to showcase their talents, anytime, anywhere. 

Alysa explains that as a positive reinforcement trainer, she uses food or toys to teach dogs tricks. Her favourite beginner trick for teaching pups at home is a spin. She explains, “It’s just getting your dog to go into a circle in front of you.” If you want to try this with your own furry friend, she suggests putting a treat near your dog’s nose and gently guiding them in a circle. Once they follow you all the way around, they are rewarded with a treat at the end. 

Along with performances by international canine stars the SuperDogs™, the event encouraged Calgarians to bring their beloved furry friends to participate in the community dog show. Enthusiastic participants had the chance to showcase their pups’ impressive costumes or tricks.

Veda, an autism and mobility service dog, earned the well-deserved title of this year’s costume contest winner. Dressed in a colourful rainbow tutu in celebration of Pride Month, Veda captured everyone’s smiles and attention.

With a strong bond formed over the past two years, Veda and her owner Mac have shared an inseparable connection. Veda was trained through the MSAR Canadian Israeli partnership that is “changing lives one dog at a time.” This adorable canine not only captivates with her undeniable charm but also impresses with her remarkable intelligence as a bilingual dog fluent in Hebrew.

Both Veda and devoted owner Mac enjoy living in University District, where they appreciate the dog-friendly environment and the warm sense of community that surrounds them. Although it was their first time at Tails and Treasures, they “make it to most University District events.” Mac’s favourite part of the day was “just watching everyone have fun with their dogs.” Learn more about these two in one of our previous blogs here.

Carmen, a Calgary dog walker, had her first experience in University District and was pleasantly surprised by the warm and inviting atmosphere. “Everyone is so friendly and nice,” she observed, appreciating the fact that the community celebrates pets. “It is nice to find a place where I can bring all the dogs in my life.”

If you missed Tails & Treasures, don’t worry! Plenty of fantastic events are still awaiting you this summer and fall in University District.

From empty nesters to professionals to students, the community members of University District share an appreciation for the sense of belonging, convenience, safety, and opportunity U/D offers.  Meet Emma, Jane, and Ethan, and learn what brought them to this community.

Meet Emma

Emma is a university student who lives and works in U/D. She is a born and raised Calgarian who lived in Hillhurst prior to moving to U/D in May of 2021. 

Tell us about yourself, Emma!

“I am currently in school for digital media and journalism. I am also the assistant manager over at OrangeTheory University District and have been with them since their early pre-sales! I love to hang out with my friends around U/D and go climbing!”

What made you decide to move to U/D? 

“Honestly I was desperate to get out of a different place that made me feel unsafe. Since coming here I have loved every moment and feel the safest I have in an apartment ever! I also was looking for a walkable community. Having my work, grocery, liquor and entertainment all within walking distance has definitely improved my quality of life, especially as a working student.”

Can you tell me about the first time you visited or heard about U/D? 

“The first time I heard about the U/D was 2020. My brother spent a few months in the Alberta Children’s Hospital and I would meet my dad at the Save-On-Foods Starbucks for a visit. Having a space separate from the hospital yet still close enough where I could see my family was so helpful during that time. I know this community is a huge asset to families in the hospital and purely having a grocery store within walking distance is a game changer.”

Meet Jane 

Jane is an active senior resident of University District who loves the diversity and walkability of living in the community. She moved to U/D from a seniors residence in Cochrane about two years ago

Tell us about yourself, Jane!

I’m retired. I enjoy walking my dog and I enjoy that the Save-On-Foods is so close to everything. I still have a car and can drive, however if there comes a time when I can’t, I can walk to everything. 

What made you decide to move to U/D? 

“I was in a seniors’ home and I thought, I don’t want to be around these old people, even though I’m probably older than most of them. I like renting in U/D because there is a lot of variation and different kinds of people from all over the world. Lots of university students, who are all great, and there’s also seniors, middle-aged people, kids and dogs. The versatility of so many different people in the area- I like that.” 

Meet Ethan and Paige 

Ethan is a recent university graduate who moved to U/D at the end of 2022. Paige works in U/D and is a frequent visitor of the area. 

Where did you live before moving to U/D? 

Paige: “I work at PlantLife in University District and I live in Harvest Hills, so Ethan is the one that lives here, but honestly we love the neighborhood. We love that we can walk down to Save-On-Foods and grab some food and Village Ice Cream here is really good!” 

Ethan: “We really love the area, lots of friendly dogs too which is always nice for us. I think that if we do move away from here that’s something that our dog is really going to miss. The socialization aspect of it too, all the nice people who stop and say hi to him and all the other dogs. It’s nice just to have everything in one spot. For the most part, we don’t have to go anywhere to pick stuff up. Groceries are right here and if we want to go out to dinner we love Borough – everything we need is within a 5 minute walk.” 

Where did you live before moving to U/D? 

Ethan: “I was kind of in the area – I was in Rosemont which is east of McMahon Stadium. So not too far, but I remember this area when I was in high school it was just fields. None of these buildings were up and it was just an empty space. It’s cool to see how fast it’s gone up.” 

What made you decide to move to U/D?

Ethan: “I was shopping around for a comfortable spot to be, because we knew we were going to be between homes for a little bit while we were renovating the new spot. When my parents started to see the amenities that were popping up it pushed them to pick U/D. It was the prime location mixed in with all the nearby amenities that are in this area.” 

Be sure to join us at one of our upcoming events to see all that is happening and experience the community at University District! Check out our events calendar for more information. 

Northwest Calgary is home to many hidden gems and unique places to visit and shop. From special cultural bakeries to adorable cafes and coffee shops, here are five must-stops in northwest Calgary that may not be on your radar.

1. Caspian Bakery & Supermarket

Caspian Bakery & Supermarket, located on Bowness Road in Parkdale, opened in 2020 and is an authentic Persian grocer and bakery. Famous for its Ashe Reshteh, a specialty Persian soup, this shop is filled with delicious and authentic persian flavours. 

Says owner of Caspian, Morteza, “We chose to open Caspian Bakery and Supermarket in Parkdale because of the proximity to the river and convenience for our customers in both the northwest and southwest ends of the city. It has been a great community to run our business and we are so thankful for the customers who have supported us.” 

In addition to Ashe Resheh, you will find specialty halal ingredients, spices and desserts at Caspian including Iranian rice, Persian-style chicken and more. If you haven’t tried their flat bread yet, it is worth the stop!

Visit Caspian Bakery and Supermarket at 3404 3 Ave NW.

2. Salsita Mexican Food Market

Salsita Mexican Food Market is located in the heart of Cambrian Heights and offers authentic Mexican food, pre-prepared meals, ingredients and even cooking classes. Having opened in 2008, this Mexican specialty store is famous for its wide variety of salsas and guacamoles, all prepared in-house by Salsita’s small but mighty team. 

Says Owner Jane Williams, “After I purchased Salsita in 2008, we decided to relocate from the Beltline to Cambrian Heights because we felt there was a gap in the market for specialty Mexican cuisine in this area of the city. We have loved connecting with the local community here, learning about their adventures in the kitchen and providing our expertise where we can.” 

In addition to salsas and other ingredients, Salsita is proud to prepare authentic Mexican freezer meals, offering its customers quality dinner options that are easy to reheat and aren’t filled with preservatives as they focus on fresh ingredients.

Visit the Salsita website or visit them at 777 Northmount Dr NW.

3. Pelican Pier – Seafood Restaurant & Fish Market

Pelican Pier is located on 14th Street in North Haven and offers freshly imported seafood, as well as operating a seafood restaurant. Pelican Pier has access to the best quality seafood, importing it weekly from around the world. They stock fresh and frozen products and also offer custom orders for special events. 

Pelican Pier also operates a family seafood restaurant seven days a week. With fan favourites like coconut shrimp, clam chowder, fresh oysters and of course, fish and chips, this restaurant is the perfect place for seafood lovers alike. 

Visit Pelican Pier for your next dinner out or seafood restock at 4404 14 St NW. For more information, visit the Pelican Pier website.

4. Lotus Fine Indian Cuisine

Craving Indian? Lotus Fine Indian Cuisine opened in 2016 and is located in the heart of Charleswood. Offering authentic and delicious Indian cuisine, Lotus is a fan favorite for those living in the neighborhood. 

Says owner, Yogesh Hundekari, “Some of our most popular dishes include our butter chicken, garlic naan, korma, vindaloo and biryanis. We are proud to provide the authentic flavours of India to customers and appreciate all of the love we have received from the community.”

Lotus also offers a daily lunchtime buffet from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. For only $16.95, customers can enjoy all you can eat indian dishes at Lotus. To learn more, visit the Lotus website or visit them at 3843 19 St NW.

5. The Lazy Loaf & Kettle

The Lazy Loaf & Kettle has been situated in the heart of Parkdale since 1994 and has been a favourite for members of the community ever since. Offering specialty sandwiches, soups and bakery items, The Lazy Loaf is a must stop for feel-good food.

Says Front of House Manager, Leah Funke, “Our customers love coming to the Lazy Loaf for our build-your-own sandwiches with fresh baked breads and meats that we smoke in-house. Everything we serve is made from scratch, making our dishes different from any of the other sandwich shops in the city.”

Lazy Loaf offers a new special offer and soup each day to customers and it is well-known for its quality bakery items. To learn more, visit the Lazy Loaf website or visit them at 8 Parkdale Crescent NW.

1.Visit the U/D Night Market:

Immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere of the U/D Night Market, in partnership with MarketSpot! This monthly event in Central Commons Park brings the community together, offering music, local artisans and an unforgettable evening. Join us on the last Wednesday of every month from May to September, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and explore University District.

2. Lawn Games:

Invite your friends and family for a day filled with laughter and friendly competition. Central Commons Park provides the perfect backdrop for classic lawn games like frisbee, bocce ball, spikeball, cornhole and lawn bowling. Pack your favourite games and let the fun begin!

3. Fitness Challenges:

Take your workout routine outdoors and embrace the park’s open spaces. Participate in organized fitness challenges or create your own exercise regimen. Not sure where to start? Here are some activities to get you going:

• Running: Pop in your headphones and lace up your runners at Central Commons Park then explore the area’s pathways. Try the Strava app which allows you to track your pace and progress over time!
• Walking: Track your steps with a fitness watch or by using an app like the Pedometer & Step Counter app. If you are feeling competitive, challenge your friends or family to see who can get the most steps in!
• Outdoor Yoga: Roll out your mat and let the soothing sounds of nature guide your practice with yoga in the park. Looking for a guided practice? Try out the Yoga for Beginners app and get flowing!

4. Find a Patio to Enjoy a Bird’s Eye View:

Elevate your park visit by enjoying the view from the Canadian Brewhouse patio. Sip on a refreshing brew while taking in the park’s beauty. With Daily Specials and a prime vantage point, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the ambiance.

Discover a fresh viewpoint by heading downstairs to The Banquet Bar! Embrace a laid-back atmosphere brimming with games to create endless summer memories.

If you are looking for a spot unlike any other, try out Borough Bar + Grill. Offering a three-season patio where you can enjoy refreshing cocktails and an impressive menu filled with appetizers and mains that gather people for an unforgettable experience. 

5. Self-Guided E-Scooter Tour:

Experience the thrill of riding an e-scooter and explore the vibrant University District. Venture around the U/D community and enjoy the 12 km of pathways in the area or take a scenic ride to the Bow River pathway to adventure further. Make a pit stop at Monogram Coffee or Village Ice Cream for a delightful treat along the way. 

Looking to explore even more of the NW? Discover innovative and inspiring Dale Hodges Park. Loop from Dale Hodges Park along the Bow River to Bowmont Park and Bowness Park and back along the river to Shouldice Park and University District.

Download the BIRD Canada app to find a scooter near you and up-to-date map of the operating area. 

6. Splash Safety at the Splash Pad:

Cool off and make a splash at the Central Commons Park’s Splash Pad. This family-friendly feature offers a refreshing experience for all ages. The splash pad is open every day from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., from June through early September (weather permitting). 

But before you jump in, here are some safety rules and notes to note before you visit! 

• Hydration: Bring water bottles to quench your thirst.
• Supervision: Parents are expected to watch for their little ones – all children under the age of 13 must be supervised at all times.
• Footwear: Play barefoot and avoid bringing breakable objects into the Splash Park.
• Playful Etiquette: Play responsibly, avoiding running and rough-housing.
• Food and Beverages: Enjoy snacks and drinks outside the splash pad area to maintain cleanliness and safety.
• Swimwear and Diapers: Water-resistant swimwear are required for all non-toilet-trained children.
• Recreation Only: Remember, the splash pad is for play, not bathing.
• Wheels Stay Out: Keep skateboards and bikes away from the splash pad area for everyone’s safety.

7. Dog-Friendly Adventures:

Central Commons Park welcomes your furry friends! Bring your dog along for a delightful outing and explore the park together. Enjoy a leisurely walk and stop at U/D’s Urban Dog Park in the nearby North Pond or meet other dog owners throughout our dog-friendly community. Remember to keep your dog on a leash in open spaces, clean up after them and respect the park’s rules.

For more information about pup-friendly open spaces in U/D, click here

8. Photography Excursions:

Central Commons Park is a hidden gem for photography enthusiasts. With its picturesque landscapes and modern architectural features, it offers endless opportunities to capture stunning images. Grab your camera and embark on a photography excursion with friends, family or simply on your own. Explore the park’s winding paths, focus your lens on the intricate details of flowers and plants or try your hand at artistic photography!

For some professional photography insights, click here!

9. Grill and Gather at the Public Barbeques (BBQ’s)

With three briquette-fueled BBQs available for public use, it’s time to fire up the grill and enjoy good food, great people and stunning scenery. As summer heats up, Central Commons Park becomes the perfect spot for outdoor gatherings and delicious barbecues with family and friends.

Before you start flipping those burgers, let’s go over some essential guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable BBQ experience.

• Bring your own supplies, briquettes, oven mitts and BBQ tools.
• There are three cast iron BBQs available on a first-come, first-served basis. Wood is not permitted.
• Use Charcoal Lighting Fluid Safely: Allow the fluid to settle before igniting the briquettes. Never use gasoline as an igniting agent.
• Clean the BBQ after use.
• Avoid spraying igniting fluid onto hot coals.
• Safely dispose of briquettes in designated areas.
• Never leave the BBQ and hot briquettes unattended.
• Never fight a grease fire with water; use an appropriate fire extinguisher or smother the flames with a lid.
• In case of burns, run the affected area under cool water for five minutes. 

If you are new to the BBQ, read our guide on How To Use BBQS!

10. Explore Northwest Commons Park:

While visiting Central Commons Park, don’t miss the nearby Northwest Commons Park. It serves as a national demonstration site for inclusive play, offering a remarkable experience for people of all abilities. With accessible flooring, a ramp system, a giant chess board, ping pong table and tons of accessible play features, this park is a great spot for everyone to enjoy!