If you’re looking for the best city life has to offer consider East Village, Calgary. With 49 acres between Fort Calgary and the downtown business core, East Village’s central location along the banks of the Bow River makes it a highly desirable place to live.
However, it hasn’t always been the fairytale real estate it is today. Once a depressed and rundown area passed by many, one kiss from the CMLC and $357 million in infrastructure and improvements, this area has magically transformed into the handsome piece of real estate it was always meant to be. Now, East Village is where you go to exercise your ‘it’ factor with hip eateries, indie music venues, galleries and converted warehouse shops.
Let’s take a walk and I’ll show you more…
George C. King Bridge
Formerly St. Patrick’s Bridge, George C. King Bridge was reopened in 2014. Bridging the villagers with the downtown city folk. This bridge now offers easy access to downtown and St. Patrick’s Island.
Elbow River Traverse
Tired of running in circles, East Village Calgarians can now show off their 2 minute mile with the Elbow River Traverse. This traverse now easily connects East Village with Ramsay and Inglewood with a quick 65 meter long cycle, run or stroll over the Elbow River.
Jack & Jean Leslie River Walk
On days where the risk of frostbite is low, enjoy a beautiful stroll or life threatening rollerblade down the Jack & Jean Leslie River Walk. Designated pedestrian and cycle lanes are nestled right along the riverbank of the Bow River and Elbow River.
5th Street Square
Best place for secret rendezvous or creepy people watching is the neighbourhood plaza at the intersection of 7 Avenue and 5 Street SE.
East Village Music Pavilion
Kick off your music career at the East Village Music Pavilion where you can book your CD release party! With the George C.King Bridge, Bow River and Fort Calgary you are surrounded by everything Calgary!
St. Patrick’s Island
No need for an international vacation when you can step out your back door and make your way to St Patrick Island. Enjoy 31-acres of nature, right in the heart of downtown Calgary!
The Heart or East Village
With all the amazing amenities and easy access to and from East Village Calgary, it’s the culture and community that makes East Village one of the best places to live.. Whether you’re a book lover or a creative genius there are a lot of venues in East Village to quench your thirst for knowledge and inspiration.
East Village Art Walks:
The whole area has it’s creative touches with murals, sculptures and unique art created by local artists.
Calgary Central Library:
The Central Library is located at 800 3 Street SE, directly east of City Hall. Read and borrow to your heart’s content, or pretend you’re well read but really you’re looking to rent the whole DVD series of Grey’s Anatomy.
Studio Bell:
Share the love of music with friends at the Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre, where you can explore Canadian Music History Exhibits, mortify your date with your Stairway to Heaven rendition in the hands-on music area, enjoy concerts and more!
Fort Calgary:
Fort Calgary is one of the most recognizable historical sites in East Village and Calgary. A museum representing some of Calgary’s complicated history including details on the NWMP’s mission to wipe out the whiskey trade. (Looks like we victoriously lost that battle!)
Historical Buildings:
Repurposed to trendy pubs, bakery’s, shops and more, many historical buildings still boast their past in the East Village, including the Hillier Block, Simmons Building, The King Edward Hotel (House of Blues) and one of Calgary’s oldest hotels – the St. Louis hotel.
Something for everyone in East Village, Calgary. If you’re looking for more than just a stroll through the Village then this may be the perfect place for your coolness factor! Check out these red hot listings!