A Wee Walk to Kensington

Kensington is one of the areas of Calgary that's just outside the downtown core, but is still considered in the centre. Starting with this area is a natural progression for a few reasons; mainly the accessibility, but also the great atmosphere and shops located in Kensington. The LRT (Calgary's Light Rail Transit) runs parellel to 10th street, a main road in the area.

It is one stop outside of the downtown "Free Fare Zone". I recommend saving yourself $2.75 for 30 seconds on the train and either get out and walk across the bridge, or if you're feeling more adventurous risk it and take the train to the next stop - Sunnyside station.

This area is right on the river with paths for running, biking and taking in the nature that surrounds the city centre. If you're downtown (let's say at the Calgary Tower) its easy enough to walk there in about 20 minutes. You cross the Peace Bridge, which looks like a chinese finger trap, over the river and you're basically there.

On the edge of Kensington is the oasis of Riley Park. Whether you want to have a day by the wading pool, watch a recreational cricket game, or play some ultimate frisbee its your green spot. Especially in the summertime, its a great way to have a relaxed day in the sun. In the winter its always fun to go make a snowman or snowfamily if you have the time.

My favourite monthly event in Calgary happens in Kensington on 10th Street: Market Collective. It happens over a weekend where local artisans get together to showcase and mainly sell their creations. It's different each month with unique vendors, musicians, and a themed photography booth scene:

If you're looking for a more consistent event, the Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Centre has a weekly Farmers Market; Wednesdays 3-7, May 30 - October 3. Its about a 5 minute walk from Sunnyside station right near Riley Park. This is one of the best Farmer's Markets in the city as their initiatives are focused on Community Shared Agriculture; its officially local!

For a lot of visitors to the city that are staying downtown its difficult to find a reasonably priced grocery store close to your hotels/hostels. My solution is to head down to Kensington, check out this more-bustling part of the city and grab some items on your way. There is a Safeway right in front of the Sunnyside stop. So you can go for a stroll down 10th Street, Kensington and even 14th and grab some inexpensive eats on the way back. That is, if you can resist the delicious restaurants on your journey.

Those restaurants and pubs are the focus of next weeks blog. I'll have my perfect day in Kensington along with some Top 5 lists rating my favourites in the area.

I know you can't wait...