Not everyone wants to live downtown — but more and more Calgarians are craving a walkable, convenient lifestyle where groceries, gyms, cafes, and services are just a few blocks away.

Whether you’re a young professional, downsizer, or a busy family looking to reduce reliance on your car, these 10 Calgary neighborhoods offer the perfect balance of suburban space with urban-like convenience.

Let’s explore Calgary’s most car-optional communities beyond the city core.

1. Seton (SE)

Why it’s great:
Nicknamed the "Downtown of the South," Seton was built from the ground up as a walkable urban village.

• South Health Campus

• Superstore, Save-On-Foods, and more

• YMCA (huge rec centre), Cineplex VIP, restaurants

• Wide sidewalks, bike paths, and future LRT stop

Best for: Professionals, healthcare workers, young families

2. University District (NW)

Why it’s great:
A master-planned community that blends student life, modern urban design, and day-to-day walkability.

• Whole Foods, Cineplex, Staples, pet stores

• Gyms, cafes, medical offices, and green space

• Easy access to the U of C, Market Mall, and Foothills Hospital

• Bike-friendly infrastructure + great transit

Best for: Students, hospital staff, professionals

3. Bridgeland-Riverside (NE fringe of downtown)

Why it’s great:
Though technically close to downtown, Bridgeland offers a distinct, cozy neighborhood feel with everything you need nearby.

• Blush Lane, Bridgeland Market, restaurants

• Yoga studios, F45, pathways, cafes

• CTrain access + excellent cycling

Best for: Urbanites who want charm and calm

4. Marda Loop / Garrison Woods (SW)

Why it’s great:
A trendy inner-southwest community with boutiques, dining, and groceries all within walking distance.

• Safeway, Blush Lane, Shoppers Drug Mart

• Boutique fitness (Barre Belle, F45, yoga)

• Strong community vibe and great schools

Best for: Upscale buyers, young families, professionals

5. Mahogany (SE)

Why it’s great:
Combines lakeside living with serious shopping and dining power — walkable for many residents depending on their location within the community.

• Westman Village retail district: Analog Coffee, Diner Deluxe, fitness studios

• Sobeys, banking, salons, clinics nearby

• Beach club, paths, and year-round activity

Best for: Families, downsizers, lake lovers

6. Aspen Woods / West Springs (SW)

Why it’s great:
These upscale communities offer suburban luxury without isolation — thanks to growing commercial hubs like Aspen Landing and West 85th.

• Safeway, Blush Lane, banking, dental, gyms

• Great public and private schools

• Short drive or transit ride to downtown

Best for: Professionals, families, and commuters

7. Chinook Park / Kingsland / Haysboro (SW)

Why it’s great:
Mature communities near Macleod Trail with solid transit access and surprising walkability.

• Proximity to Chinook Centre, Heritage CTrain Station

• Local restaurants, fitness centres, clinics

• Quiet streets but close to everything

Best for: Commuters, seniors, savvy buyers

8. Capitol Hill / Mount Pleasant (NW)

Why it’s great:
Bordering SAIT, North Hill Mall, and Confederation Park, these communities blend residential charm with easy access to shops and services.

• Safeway, Starbucks, banking, clinics nearby

• Fitness studios, CTrain, and walkable to SAIT/U of C

• Fantastic bike lanes

Best for: Students, urban families, professionals

9. Lake Bonavista / Willow Park (SE)

Why it’s great:
Mature communities with an established lifestyle — now benefiting from proximity to Southcentre Mall and Lake Bonavista Promenade.

• Walk to groceries, medical, fitness, and dining

• Access to LRT, recreation centres, and green spaces

• Bonus: Lake access (Bonavista) and golf 

Best for: Families and active retirees

10. Auburn Bay (SE)

Why it’s great:
Another lake community that’s just steps away from South Health Campus, Seton YMCA, and major retailers.

• Walkable to Superstore, Sobeys, and services

• Pathways, lake, dog parks, and schools

• Quick access to Deerfoot & transit options

Best for: Young families, healthcare professionals

🏡 Final Thoughts: Suburban Doesn’t Mean Car-Dependent

These communities prove that you can have space and convenience — no long commutes or daily car reliance required. From groceries and gyms to schools and services, Calgary’s newer urban villages and mature hubs offer walkability without sacrificing lifestyle.

Thinking About a Car-Light Life?

Let’s find a home in one of these convenient communities! Whether you’re buying your first place, relocating, or downsizing, I’d love to help you discover the best fit for your lifestyle.

📩 Contact Chris Marshall
📞 403-585-5362

When summer finally rolls into Calgary, there’s nothing better than escaping the heat by dipping your toes—or your whole body—into a refreshing lake. While Calgary doesn’t have natural lakes within city limits, there are several beautiful, swimmable lakes just a short drive away. Whether you're looking for family-friendly beaches, scenic picnic spots, or tranquil waters surrounded by nature, there’s a perfect lake for you.

Here are some of the best swimmable lakes near Calgary to explore this summer:

1. Johnson Lake (Banff National Park)

📍 Approx. 1.5 hours from Calgary

Tucked in Banff National Park, Johnson Lake is a hidden gem with crystal-clear water, soft beaches, and spectacular mountain views. It’s one of the few lakes in the national park warm enough for swimming, thanks to its shallower depth. It’s also great for paddle boarding, kayaking, and lakeside picnics.

💡 Tip: Bring water shoes—the beach is a bit rocky in places.

2. Ghost Lake Reservoir

📍 About 45 minutes west of Calgary

Ghost Lake offers a blend of adventure and relaxation. It’s a large reservoir with areas for swimming, boating, windsurfing, and sailing. The water tends to be on the cooler side, but it’s perfect on a hot summer day.

💡 Note: This lake is popular with boaters—stick close to the designated swimming areas for safety.

3. Sikome Lake (Fish Creek Provincial Park)

📍 Within Calgary city limits

If you want to stay in town, Sikome Lake is your go-to urban beach. This man-made lake is open seasonally and features lifeguards, change rooms, picnic areas, and sandy shores. It’s ideal for families and anyone who wants a convenient swim spot without leaving the city.

💡 Pass required: There is a small entry fee for access.

4. Chestermere Lake

📍 30 minutes east of Calgary

This large lake is right next to the city and perfect for a day trip. The designated public swimming area is located near Anniversary Park, where you’ll also find a sandy beach, playgrounds, and picnic spots. There are two other lakeside parks as well: Cove Park and Sunset Park. The water is relatively warm in summer and suitable for swimming, paddling, and boating. 

💡 Parking can fill up fast—arrive early!

5. Sylvan Lake

📍 1.5 hours north of Calgary

One of Alberta’s most popular summer destinations, Sylvan Lake boasts a long sandy shoreline, shallow waters, and a bustling beach-town vibe. You’ll find everything from swimming and jet-skiing to beach volleyball and food trucks along the boardwalk. The Sylvan Lake Aqua Splash park is a fantastic attraction - a blast (and a workout!)!

💡 Make a weekend out of it—there are lots of cabins and rentals nearby.

6. Barrier Lake (Kananaskis Country)

📍 1 hour west of Calgary

While known for its icy-blue color (and equally chilly temperature), Barrier Lake is breathtakingly beautiful. Brave the cold for a refreshing dip, or simply relax by the shore and enjoy the views. It's also a great spot for hiking and picnicking.

💡 Kananaskis Conservation Pass required.

7. Sibbald Lake

📍 1 hour west of Calgary

Sibbald Lake is a smaller, quiet lake in the Kananaskis region. The beach area is rustic but peaceful—perfect for families or those looking to unwind. It’s also surrounded by great hiking and camping options.

💡 Ideal for a day trip or overnight camping.

🌞 Summer Lake Day Essentials

Before heading out, don’t forget to pack:

• Sunscreen & hats

• Towels and swimsuits

• Snacks & lots of water

• Water shoes (some beaches are rocky)

• A portable speaker or book

• Life jackets

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re craving a beach day close to the city or a scenic mountain escape, Calgary’s surrounding lakes have something for everyone. Just remember to check for seasonal updates or restrictions (especially in provincial and national parks) before heading out. 🌿

Happy swimming! 🏊‍♀️💦

📉 Calgary Real Estate Market Update – May 2025
Residential sales eased 17% year-over-year, mainly due to a slowdown in the apartment condo sector. But here’s the silver lining: sales are still 11% above long-term May trends and inventory gains are helping the market shift into more balanced territory.

🏡 Detached and semi-detached home prices remain stable and higher than last year, while increased supply in apartments and row homes is putting slight pressure on prices.

📊 Benchmark price: $589,900
📦 Months of supply: 2.6 (balanced market)

“Easing sales and rising inventory are creating healthier market dynamics and taking pressure off prices,” says Ann-Marie Lurie, CREB® Chief Economist.

➡️ Want to know how this impacts your buying or selling plans? Give me a call

📱403-585-5362

✏️Data sourced from Calgary Real Estate Board.

May 2025 CREB Calgary Real Estate Full Report      

May 2025 CREB Calgary REGION Real Estate Full Report

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