The community of Altadore is located in the southwest inner city portion of Calgary. Altadore is part of the Marda Loop Communities Association. The community currently has an area redevelopment plan in place. It was established in 1945.
The neighbourhood of Altadore is a jewel of the city thanks to its vibrant cultural and social scene. It is one of the fastest-growing communities in Canada. The varied mix of green spaces, parks, recreation, and Marda Loop shopping district make it a must visit.
In 2010, it was named Canada’s top neighbourhood. In 2020 the neighbourhood ranked 15 on Avenue Magazine’s Best Neighbourhoods. It continues to attract younger families. It is the perfect mix of luxury city living with classic character homes as well.
The inner-city neighbourhood is close to all the action! There is an energetic vibe that encompasses the community.
74% of the population in 2016 was between the ages of 15-64. 50% of residents were families with children still living at home. In Calgary’s municipal census in 2018, Altadore’s population was 6,831 living in 3,218 dwellings.
The Marda Loop district is one of Calgary’s busiest and most popular outdoor shopping areas. Many come to experience the local boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants. The shopping district is highly sought after for those who prefer to shop local.
In the summertime, the Marda Gras street festival draws over 35,000 Calgarians each year. There are street performers, local food, and various activities for families to participate in!
A plus for residents is the proximity to main routes such as Crowchild Trail, Glenmore Trail, and 4th Street SW.
There are many amenities and aspects that make this area so desirable.
Parks and Green Spaces
River Park features 21 hectares of land. It is located in southwest Calgary on the ridge above Sandy Beach. The park also has a large off-leash area for canine friends. Enjoy a nice picnic or a long walk with a great view.
Across the community border is the Elbow River Pathway, which is great for bikers and runners.
Residents have access to various picnic areas and parks along the river pathways.
There are seven playgrounds located throughout the area which is great for families with small children.
Recreation Spaces
The community of Marda Loop consists of the neighbourhoods Marda Loop, Garrison Woods, Altadore, Riverpark, and South Calgary. It is located in the southwest quadrant of the city.
The Marda Loop Community Association offers various resources and activities for residents to enjoy. Tennis courts, an outdoor pool, and multiple indoor and outdoor skating rinks and seasonal beach volleyball courts provide ample entertainment! Sports teams, a dance program, and a play group are also operated through the community association.
Indoor rinks and arenas in the area include the Flames Community Arena and the Garrison Curling Club, and Stu Peppard Arena.
Lakeview Golf Course is a public course that is available for community residents to enjoy as well.
Restaurants
Various cuisines line the streets of the community. There is something for everyone. Here are just a few of the different places to grab a bite or drink.
Pegasus Greek Restaurant offers authentic Greek food made from scratch.
The Garrison Pub gives the ultimate comfort food experience, enjoy classic pub food from this restaurant.
Monogram Coffee is the perfect place to grab a specialty cup of coffee. Each flavour they offer has been carefully crafted and tested. Their coffee is perfect for a cold day. Why not grab a pastry too?
If you’re up for dessert, head to My Favourite Ice Cream Shoppe. Choose from over 70 flavours of delicious ice cream. The shop is decorated with vintage items which give it a unique feel.
Marda Loop Brewing is a local brewery that offers various craft drinks and some classic pub bites. The brewery is the perfect place to gather with friends or co-workers.
Transit
There are two bus routes that serve the area. Route 13 and Route 7 have stops that pass through Altadore. The closest C-train station is the 39th Avenue station which is 1.62 kilometres away. The next closest station is Chinook at 1.94 kilometres away.
Schools
Altadore Elementary, on 16th Street S.W. is a school that opened in 1952. It serves students from kindergarten to grade six and was opened in 1952.
Dr. Oakley School, on 20th Street S.W. was repurposed in 1980 and currently serves students with learning disabilities from grades three to nine. Both schools are operated by the Calgary Board of Education.
The designated public junior high school is Mount Royal Junior High close by in the neighbourhood of Mount Royal. The designated public senior high school is Central Memorial High School located in the North Glenmore Park neighbourhood.
There are a few private schools in Altadore as well including Rundle Academy. The Calgary Catholic school board does not currently have any schools in the community.
Miscellaneous Amenities
The Militaries Museum of Calgary is the largest tri-service museum in all of Western Canada and the second largest military museum in the country. Over 50,000 visitors year-round visit the museum and over 10,000 students participate in educational programs offered by the facility. The Military Museums is dedicated to preserving the memories and traditions of those who proudly served Canada. This museum is a must-see.
The Guiffre Family Library is conveniently located on 14 St SW. The library offers free wifi, meeting spaces, a separate children’s area, quiet study rooms and more. It’s a fun place for families looking for an activity and for students hoping to get in a study session. The library is conveniently accessible by bike, transit, and walking too!
Though this neighbourhood might be older, the energy and vibe is undeniable. It’s an exciting place that offers something for people in stages of life. What’s your favourite thing to do in Altadore?
Reborn Renovations is an award winning home renovation company located in Calgary, providing interior and exterior renovations as well as home additions. Proudly serving Calgary, Airdrie, Okotoks, and Cochrane.
Learn more about some of the other areas we service including Haysboro and Legacy
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Photo from: Gerold Haukenfrers, Contributed to Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/RqRAVxQmGih2Ggey5