Southwest Calgary - Live, Play, Connect

April 13, 2023

Suburban living with a strong sense of community, the Southwest (SW) quadrant of Calgary is perfect for all ages and stages of life. The newest communities feature highly desirable postal codes that mix modern and sleek homes with function. Built on the naturally rolling foothills and nestled amongst trees, SW homes provide the right elevations for desirable city and mountain views. With three parks and over three kilometers of pathways within the community, homeowners in Vermilion Hill get to enjoy their own outdoor playground as soon as they step out of their front door.vermhillrevision-5.jpg

In addition to in-community offerings, many new and future-planned retail districts, such as The Shops at Buffalo Run and Eagle Landing Taza, create convenience that has never been better. Downtown, which is located 25 minutes away, also lets homeowners have a pulse on everything happening within the city.

Southwest Calgary has a long-established history of tranquil neighbourhoods harmoniously balanced with nature and offers a myriad of adventures. There are plenty of themed and inclusive playgrounds for children of all ages as well as multi-use walking and biking paths. Nearby attractions and entertainment include:

  • Granary Road, a 36-acre interactive learning park that offers children a hands-on experience to explore larger-than-life exhibits and learn about insects, ecosystems, and animals.goat2.jpg
  • From world-renowned equestrian shows, exciting FC Calvary soccer matches, to hosting international holiday markets and a drive-through Christmas light display, Spruce Meadows is sure to have an event for every interest.
  • For special nights out, the Rothney Astrophysical Observatory offers events for the public to learn about astronomy. Located a short drive away, you are sure to be able to catch the best glimpses of Alberta’s night sky as you stargaze.
  • If you enjoy art, Leighton Art Centre offers exhibits and workshops, and events throughout the year to spark your creativity. Nature summer camps offer kids a hands-on connection to art, the outdoors, and Alberta’s heritage.
  • Southland Leisure Center is the place to be to catch a wave. This indoor waterpark includes a large wave pool, dive tank, waterslides, and an aqua playground. If you’re looking for something a bit drier, amenities are boundless. Southland Leisure Center offers registered classes and lessons, racquet sports, skating, cardio fitness, weight training, gym activities, playschool, preschool, and even day camps.
  • Enjoy learning about Western Canada’s history while you blast to the past at Heritage Park. As Canada’s largest history museum, the park contains over 180 exhibits. Sail Glenmore Reservoir on the S.S Moyie boat, hop on the train for a relaxing ride around the park and enjoy some thrills on the antique midway rides. Heritage Park offers special events throughout the year as well as summer day camps for children.
  • Winsport, also known as Canada Olympic Park, is a world-class establishment within the city. Best known for its ski and snowboarding hill, Winsport offers many activities throughout the year including hockey, skating, tubing, summer bobsleigh, downhill karting, mini golf, monster zipline, and mountain biking. With lessons, camps, clubs, a National Sport School, and a Performance Training Centre, learning and experiencing a sport has never been more convenient.
    maarten-duineveld-pmfJcN7RGiw-unsplash-0001.jpg
  • Close to many of Calgary’s largest outdoor amenities, an escape to nature while being within the city is simple. Glenmore Reservoir, directly south of downtown, offers sailing, rowing, canoeing, kayaking, and many other water sports. On the northern shore of the reservoir is Weaselhead Flats, a naturalization area comprised of 237 hectares set amongst the meandering Elbow River.Glenmore_reservoir_flats.jpg
  • Fish Creek Provincial Park (Canada’s largest urban park with over 3,300 acres) offers boundless recreation options. The park includes Sikome Lake, a popular summer spot for residents with its sandy beaches and warm water. Winter hikes and snowshoeing within the park offer a hidden gem of small frozen waterfalls.
    vermhilltwo-11.jpg
  • Less than a 40-minute drive away is Bragg Creek Provincial Park and Elbow Falls, a hamlet with restaurants, stores, and unique charm. Whether it’s exploring the impressive waterfall, enjoying local cuisine, or getting ice cream, Bragg Creek is a fantastic day trip.
  • The Rocky Mountains are a top destination attracting tourists from all over the world. Approximately an hour’s drive away from Vermilion Hill, the Rockies is the perfect location for a staycation or a ski day to enjoy the fresh mountain air. There is sure to be an outdoor activity for everyone year-round.
    campingrevisions-11.jpg

Other Great Resources for Southwest Calgary and Nearby Amenities:

Whether it’s recreation centres, schools, festivals, shopping, dining, entertainment, or the beautiful outdoors, you can find it all near Vermilion Hill. It’s an exciting time to be in the southwest!