10 Most Green Neighborhoods in Calgary

Alongside a vast variety of easily reached amenities such as shops, services, schools and commuter roads, Calgary communities are also well-known for their plentiful parks and green spaces! If you enjoy the outdoors, then you will love these ultra-green neighborhoods.

10 Green Areas of Calgary

• Bowness

• Kincora

• Silver Springs

• Aspen Woods

• Scenic Acres

• McKenzie Towne

• Oakridge

• Sunnyside

• Lake Bonavista

• Thorncliffe

Understanding the unique characteristics of each Calgary community, including information about green spaces, demographic data, and market trends, can be a big help to potential buyers in finding the neighborhood that fits their lifestyle best.

Introduction to Calgary’s Green Neighborhoods

Calgary is a city that has a lot of natural beauty and a lot of focus on the environment. Calgary is a beautiful place with many parks, green spaces and environmentally friendly programs if you are looking for a city where you can live in sync with nature. According to the latest census, in 2016, Calgary has 197 neighborhoods which the municipal government refers to as ‘communities’. In this section, we will discuss some of the green neighborhoods in Calgary, and the features and attractions that make them unique.

Calgary’s green neighborhoods are not only pretty, but there are many advantages to making them your neighborhood. Ranging from healthier air to higher property values, there is much to gain from living in a green neighborhood. Calgary has 212 total communities when including additional communities counted from 2015 to 2019. Want some peace and quite or a more active community, Calgary’s green neighborhoods have it all.

Some of the most notable green spaces in Calgary include Nose Hill Park, a sprawling 1,129-hectare park with grassy trails and stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, and Fish Creek Provincial Park, a 1,348-hectare park perfect for hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching. These parks, along with many others, contribute to the city’s lush landscape and provide residents with ample opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors.

These neighborhoods offer a range of housing options, from single-family homes to condos and townhouses. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious estate or a cozy starter home, Calgary’s green neighborhoods have something for every budget and lifestyle.

Bowness, Northwest Calgary

Bowness in West Calgary is home to one of the city’s most popular parks: Bowness Park. The area features summer sports, picnicking, ice skating, boating, and more. It’s also part of the pedestrian pathway network that cuts through the city centre making it a great place to begin a family bike ride. Bowness is located within the city limits, offering a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty.

Kincora, Northeast Calgary Communities

Kincora in northwest Calgary is bordered by the communities of Sherwood, Sage Hill, Evanston and Hidden Valley. Located away from the hustle and bustle of downtown, it offers residents a variety of outdoor opportunities, like hiking and biking in a peaceful prairie setting.

Kincora is easily accessible via Centre Street, making it a convenient location for residents.

Silver Springs

“The ravine” or “the gully” lies in the Bowmont Natural Area in this community in Northwest Calgary. Here you’ll find off-leash areas for your four-legged friend as well as hiking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds and sports fields. Silver Springs is located near Centre Avenue, providing easy access to both the Southeast and Northeast areas of Calgary.

Aspen Woods, West Calgary Communities

Aspen Woods is a relatively new community in West Calgary. It includes the Westside Recreation Centre, access to the Bow Trail, and many other outdoor opportunities. It’s also extremely close to popular 17th Avenue were you can easily walk to restaurants, boutiques, entertainment venues and more.

Residents of Aspen Woods can also enjoy a visit to the nearby Calgary Zoo, one of the city's key attractions.

Scenic Acres

With a name like Scenic Acres, you know you can expect to see picturesque natural landscapes. This popular retirement community in West Calgary features beautiful parks, green spaces, walking paths and more.

McKenzie Towne, South Calgary Communities

This master-planned neighborhood includes many green areas and parks, including a splash park for kids, skate park, outdoor hockey rink and a community gymnasium. There are numerous ponds and walking paths in the area as well.

Oakridge

Located in Southwest Calgary, Oakridge borders the Glenmore Reservoir and the Weaselhead Natural Area, which both promising tons of outdoor fun. The neighborhood also includes a community association that offers classes, swimming and more. Southwest Calgary is home to several of the province's major attractions, including Heritage Park and Spruce Meadows.

Sunnyside

Though Sunnyside is an inner city neighborhood, it has an active community center that offers many sports and recreational opportunities. Plenty of parks surround the area - including popular Prince's Island Park (home to many festivals) - and the Bow River is only moments away.

Lake Bonavista

This Southeast Calgary neighborhood borders Macleod Trail and Bow Bottom Trail, giving residents many opportunities for hiking, biking, and more. It is also home to many manmade lakes, giving this community plenty of picturesque views. Southeast Calgary is known for its many green spaces, playgrounds, and recreation along the Bow River.

Thorncliffe

Thorncliffe in Northeast Calgary is bordered by the Deerfoot Trail and Nose Hill Park. Spanning over 11km, Nose Hill is the fourth largest urban park in Canada and makes a great place to take your dog for a run or go for a sunset stroll.

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City Centre and Surrounding Neighborhoods

The City Centre is the vibrant heart of Calgary, offering a unique blend of urban living, entertainment, and culture. This bustling area is surrounded by neighborhoods like Downtown Calgary, Inglewood, Ramsay, Bridgeland, and Renfrew, each providing a range of housing options from high-rise condos to charming historic homes. The City Centre is also home to many of Calgary’s most popular attractions, including the iconic Calgary Tower, the fascinating Glenbow Museum, and the family-friendly Calgary Zoo.

Residents of the City Centre and its surrounding neighborhoods enjoy unparalleled access to public transportation, including the efficient C-Train and numerous bus routes. The area is highly pedestrian-friendly, with a plethora of shops, restaurants, and cafes within walking distance. The City Centre is a hub for entertainment, boasting numerous theaters, concert venues, and festivals throughout the year.

Some popular neighborhoods in the City Centre area include:

• Downtown Calgary: Known for its vibrant nightlife, trendy restaurants, and upscale condos, Downtown Calgary is the epitome of urban living.

• Inglewood: This historic neighborhood offers a delightful mix of old and new homes, eclectic shops, and unique restaurants, making it a favorite among locals.

• Ramsay: With its small-town feel, Ramsay features charming historic homes and a popular farmers’ market, perfect for those seeking a close-knit community.

• Bridgeland: A diverse neighborhood with a blend of old and new homes, Bridgeland is known for its variety of shops and restaurants, catering to all tastes.

• Renfrew: This family-friendly neighborhood offers a mix of single-family homes and condos, providing a welcoming environment for residents of all ages.

Calgary’s Green Spaces by District

Calgary is renowned for its abundant green spaces, with numerous parks, gardens, and natural areas spread throughout the city. Here’s a breakdown of some of the city’s most beloved green spaces by district:

• Northwest Calgary: Home to Nose Hill Park, one of the largest urban parks in North America. This expansive park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the city, making it a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts.

• Northeast Calgary: The Bow River Pathway System runs along the Bow River, providing scenic views, walking trails, and picnic areas. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic.

• Southwest Calgary: Fish Creek Provincial Park is a gem in this district, offering extensive hiking trails, picnic areas, and breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. It’s a haven for nature lovers and bird-watchers alike.

• Southeast Calgary: Sue Higgins Park features a large lake, walking trails, and picnic areas, providing a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

• City Centre: Prince’s Island Park is a popular spot for picnics, walking, and outdoor concerts. Located in the heart of the city, it’s a green oasis amidst the urban landscape.

Some of the most popular green spaces in Calgary include:

• Nose Hill Park: This large urban park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the city, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

• Fish Creek Provincial Park: A scenic park with extensive hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for bird-watching, perfect for a day out in nature.

• Prince’s Island Park: Located in the City Centre, this park is a favorite for picnics, walking, and outdoor concerts, offering a green retreat in the heart of Calgary.

• Bow River Pathway System: Running along the Bow River, this scenic pathway system offers walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views, ideal for a relaxing day outdoors.

By exploring these green spaces, residents and visitors alike can experience the natural beauty that Calgary has to offer, making it a truly green city.