University District is home to residents, visitors, students and thousands of employees who work in the world-class facilities, hospitals and offices in the vicinity. We know you’re on the go, so here are six ways to maximize your time when you’re taking a quick break in U/D.
Fuel up
There’s no shortage of quick and delicious ways to spend your lunch break. U/D has quickly evolved into one of the city’s most exciting culinary destinations with on-the-go options such as Five Guys, Freshii, BarBurrito, The Alley Bubble Tea and Osmow’s Shawarma, all located along University Avenue.
If you are looking for a sit down option be sure to check out Canadian Brewhouse, The Banquet, OEB and Borough Bar + Grill.
If your idea of the perfect lunch is an iced coffee or scoop of ice cream, local favourites Monogram Coffee and Village Ice Cream are great options to try. Both are Calgary-based businesses, and known for their rotating seasonal menu items.
Get a pampered at Foxy Box
At Foxy Box you can enjoy your lunch break by getting pampered by the team. A laser and wax bar offering a variety of services in a comfortable and fun environment.
Go for a walk
Did you know that taking breaks throughout the day actually improves focus and creativity? Moving your body helps reduce fatigue and keeps your brain firing all day long. U/D is home to more than 12 kilometres of pathways, connecting parks, communities and retailers.
A few parks you can enjoy all year long are the Northwest Commons Park, North Pond and Urban Dog park and Central Commons Park . Central Commons Park is a community hub that is home to countless amenities including an ice skating rink, amphitheater, splash pad, BBQ pits and plenty of nearby underground parking.
Squeeze in a mid-day workout
Do you find it challenging to fit in a daily workout? OrangeTheory Fitness and YYC Cycle are easy to access along University Avenue, and both offer regular noon hour classes.
Cram in some studying at Staples Studio
One of the exciting additions to U/D is the Staples Studio, the first of its kind in Alberta. Staples Studio provides a unique coworking space for individuals looking to collaborate and connect in the community. Entrepreneurs, students and small businesses are filling the space to help meet their business and studying needs.
Open seven days a week, Staples Studio is the perfect place to work, meet and dream up your next great business opportunity.
Pick up ingredients for a cook at home meal
Set yourself up for meal planning success by stopping by Save-On-Foods for your last minute grocery needs. The U/D location also features click and collect grocery services, so you can order your groceries online and pick them up at your convenience.
Some of the other grocery solutions at U/D include Cobs Bread, perfect for a fresh loaf or dinner rolls, and Market Wines, offering a curated collection of wines, beers and spirits.
Looking for an insider tip? Market Wines’ wall of $20 and under bottles of wines is one of the best spots to find a bottle to celebrate midweek. Their team works tirelessly to keep the rotation unique and seasonal.
Whether you’re visiting for 30 minutes or 3 hours, there is so much to explore! University District offers 3-hour parking with registration in our convenient underground heated parkade.
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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