Community Profile: Varsity

The community of Varsity spreads out from the University of Calgary's campus and endowment lands, expanding north of 32nd Avenue N.W. on the west side of Crowchild Trail.

Developed in the 1960s around the same time as the original U of C campus, Varsity features a variety of two-storey and Ranch-style home designs, with many now experiencing full renovations or rebuilds. Almost 13,000 residents call this community home.

"Varsity is a wonderful community for families," said long-term community resident and president of the Varsity Community Association Bob Benson. "It's safe with lots of green space, schools and the U of C, as well as shopping, and the access to community sports through the community association is outstanding,"

Benson and his wife Lorraine have lived in Varsity since 1988, raising four children who now range in age from 25 to 32.

"Varsity is a wonderful community for families." - Bob Benson, Varsity Community Association president

Benson notes the community's innovative pathway system is particularly great for residents. "The kids use it to get to elementary school and to the playgrounds," he said. "It's also great for walking dogs and visiting neighbours."

Currently, excitement is building about University District, a new development on Varsity's doorstep that will add another 12,000 residents to the already vibrant area. University District will offer a walkable nine-block main street with ample retail offerings, including Analog Coffee, J. Webb Wine Merchant and Save-On-Foods.

"The water feature on the University District lands is particularly attractive, and we are watching the ongoing residential construction with interest," said Benson.

Emily Allert-House, communications and community engagement lead for University District developer West Campus Development Trust, suggests that some exciting details about the development are yet to come, including another residential project and an expanded list of sophisticated retail offerings.

"There will be opportunities to sip and get social, get some retail therapy, be active and creative, run everyday errands, and more," said Allert-House.

Top Attractions

With more than 200 retailers, including latest luxury addition Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5^th, Market Mall offers a full shopping experience, from groceries to the latest in shoe collections.

A cultural, sporting and academic hub, the University of Calgary is the perfect spot to enjoy a play, an art opening or a concert.

With Nose Hill Park on Varsity's western edge, not to mention several parks within the community, residents here have ample opportunity to immerse themselves in nature.

Fun Fact
Varsity was awarded the title of Calgary's Best Neighbourhood by Avenue Calgary in 2017.

Tagged: Calgary Community | Feature