With the of proximity to downtown and the Kensington shopping district the communities of Sunnyside & Hillurst are known to be two of, if not the most, desirable neighborhoods in Calgary.
Another huge part of what makes Sunnyside & Hillhurst so great is the access to many parks and beautiful outdoor spaces.
5 mins from VEN, in any direction, there is something for everyone. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll down the street, bike along the river or run a hillside trail, it is all right there.
We thought we would take a second to highlight 3 of our favorite spots to visit:
Riley Park is nestled at the bottom of the hillside, below SAIT and just steps from VEN. This park is the perfect place for a summer picnic, to walk the dog or even take in a free concert.

Within in Riley Park there is a beautifully landscaped hillside and garden; Senator Patrick Burns Rock Garden. A perfect spot for an early evening walk.


McHugh Bluff is literally right in VEN’s backyard and runs from 10 ST NW to Centre Street NW; over looking community of Sunnyside.
There is no shortage of things to do on the Bluff! You can hike the hillside, run the stairs or take a walk on the City Pathway; which is one of the most extensive pathway systems in North America.


We wanted to include the neighborhoods of Sunnyside and Hillhurst on our list.
The streets and homes in these neighborhoods are so unique and fun, that touring the residential streets is an outdoor adventure all in itself. Let us tell you, we walk these streets often and always find something new each time!

The community of Sunnyside & Hillhurst has so many great places to visit we couldn’t contain ourselves to highlight just 3 spots. Here are 4 more that are definitely worth a visit:
- Memorial Drive Pathway and Poppy Plaza
- Peace Bridge
- Prince’s Island Park
- Peace Park
Summer is finally upon us! We will be out and about, continuing to explore all that the area has to offer. Do you have a favorite place to visit in the Sunnyside & Hillhurst area?
