From Historic Inglewood to Modern Lake Communities
From the original settlement surrounding Fort Calgary to sprawling, award-winning modern suburbs in the deep south, Calgary has grown into a city of incredibly diverse neighborhoods. Covering over 825 square kilometers, the city is geographically massive, offering everything from ultra-dense, walkable urban corridors to tranquil, family-oriented lake communities.
Click a neighborhood to discover its unique YYC vibe
Established: 1875 (Calgary's oldest neighborhood)
Character: The original main street of Calgary, now transformed into an eclectic arts and music hub. Lined with heritage buildings, it boasts live music venues, antique shops, and the highest concentration of craft breweries in the city.
Famous For: The Ironwood Stage, Record shopping, National Music Centre, Brewery Flats
Established: Early 1900s
Character: Located just across the Peace Bridge from downtown, Kensington (comprising Sunnyside and Hillhurst) is highly walkable. It features independent bookstores, premium coffee roasters, and excellent brunch spots.
Famous For: The Plaza Theatre, Riley Park, highly pedestrian-friendly streets
Established: Early 1900s (Rapidly densified post-2000)
Character: The most densely populated area of Calgary, sitting just south of the downtown core. 17th Avenue SW (The "Red Mile") serves as the neighborhood's spine, packed with the city's best restaurants and nightlife.
Famous For: Nightclubs, high-end dining, The Red Mile Flames celebrations
Established: Reborn 2007-Present
Character: Once an industrial zone, this neighborhood has undergone a spectacular multibillion-dollar revitalization. It is now a showcase of modern architecture, high-rise condos, and beautiful paved riverwalks.
Famous For: Central Library, Studio Bell, St. Patrick's Island, Fort Calgary access
Established: 1880s (Historically "Little Italy")
Character: A rapidly gentrifying neighborhood just north of the Bow River. It retains its European roots through incredible Italian dining and markets, mixed with highly sought-after modern infill housing.
Famous For: Top-tier dining (OEB Breakfast, Shiki Menya), proximity to the Calgary Zoo
Established: 1950s (Commercial boom 2010s)
Character: A bustling, upscale outdoor shopping and dining district surrounded by affluent young families. Known for its intense infill development, replacing post-war bungalows with million-dollar modern homes.
Famous For: Boutique shopping, Marda Gras Street Festival, young affluent demographics
Established: 2018
Character: Calgary's newest purpose-built neighborhood. Designed as a highly walkable, "mindful" community nestled between the University of Calgary, the Alberta Children's Hospital, and Foothills Medical Centre.
Famous For: Sustainable design, massive dog parks, healthcare/student proximity
Established: 2000s
Character: The crown jewels of Calgary's "Deep South." These master-planned suburban communities are built around massive man-made lakes, offering residents exclusive access to beaches, paddleboarding, and winter skating.
Famous For: Resort-style lake living, massive family homes, South Health Campus
Established: 1899 (Originally the Village of Rouleauville)
Character: A heavily francophone historical background, now one of the trendiest neighborhoods for young professionals. Centered along 4th Street SW, it is packed with lively patios right along the Elbow River.
Famous For: The Lilac Festival, Elbow River pathways, dense apartment living
Established: 1911 (Amalgamated into Calgary in 1964)
Character: Once an independent town, Bowness retains a fiercely independent, small-town feel. It is economically diverse and boasts one of the most beloved natural parks in the city.
Famous For: Bowness Park (lagoon skating and summer boating), river access
Established: 1908
Character: Sitting atop the bluff immediately north of the Bow River, this historic neighborhood offers the most iconic, sweeping views of the downtown Calgary skyline.
Famous For: McHugh Bluff stairs (a favorite for fitness buffs), multi-million dollar ridge homes
Established: 1904
Character: Calgary's most prestigious and historically wealthy neighborhood. Marketed heavily to affluent American transplants during the early 1900s, it features massive historic mansions, curved streets, and towering old-growth trees.
Famous For: Wealth, historic estate architecture, quiet exclusivity near downtown
Calgary's massive footprint means you can choose an ultra-dense urban lifestyle or a sprawling suburban lakeside retreat without ever leaving the city limits.
Tip for 2026 Visitors: If you are coming to town for the Stampede or a major event, look for accommodations in the Beltline, East Village, or Victoria Park. These areas put you within walking distance of Stampede Park, the BMO Centre, and the new Scotia Place event centre.