Our furry friends are part of our social circle, like a shadow they go where we go. Urban hiking is a social activity. It provides an opportunity to connect with friends and family. You can also engage with the community while exploring the urban environment. Calgary has 157 public off-leash areas totalling 1145 hectares, some of the most in North America.
Tag: architecture
Evolution of Stampede Park | Saddledome
The plan to create a Culture and Entertainment District anchored by the new $1.22 billion Scotia Place will transform Victoria Park. The former Olympic Saddledome appears destined for extinction in this evolving landscape. Explore this iconic landmark destination on a 900 km pathway system as you bike Calgary.
Old School
Calgary has had success preserving prominent examples of its sandstone construction boom. This is achieved through the ongoing use and adaptive reuse of its historic schools. This construction era followed a fire in 1886 that destroyed much of the wood building stock. These schools anchor some of the oldest neighbourhoods. This makes them a great place to explore or start a hike of a historic community.
Sandstone City Legacy
Calgary’s sandstone construction boom began after a fire roared through town in the early morning of Nov. 7, 1886. This building era left a legacy of unique buildings renowned for their beauty and character. So many that Calgary acquired the nickname Sandstone City. Place your vote for which building is best.
Emergent – Towers
The plaza at 9th Avenue and 1st Street SW is a great urban lookout. You can explore the emergence of Calgary as an urban centre. It is reflected in the mirrored surfaces of a public art installation called Emergent (2017) by Jill Anholt. Capture the city’s heritage and success as you’re surrounded by some of the tallest buildings in Calgary at their completion.
Behind Stephen Avenue
Learn what’s behind Stephen Avenue. One of only three National Historic Districts in Western Canada. Painted on the back of the sandstone Hudson Block is a 100 x 40ft mural by artist Curtis Van Charles. It is centred around George Stephen, 8th Avenue’s namesake, surrounded by symbols of his life accomplishments.
The Urban Explorer 