Are you looking for a great, family-friendly neighbourhood in Calgary? You’ll find no shortage of options, especially in the Southwest. This naturally-beautiful quadrant boasts top-notch schools, fantastic family recreation options, and amenities that cater to residents of all ages. Here, I’ll look at four of the best Calgary neighbourhoods for families — and tell you what makes them so great.

1) West Springs

You just can’t go wrong with West Springs. Here you’ll find an abundance of great options for education, including West Ridge School, St. Joan of Arc School (which is Catholic), and West Springs School. If you want to see staff dedication in action, check out the busy West Springs School calendar.

The area is also home to a number of businesses aimed at childhood development and parental support. Joso’s Play Centre provides ample play space for children over 12 months; it includes a ball pit, a double slide, and a large selection of toys. And Brilliant Beginnings offers classes for both children and parents with a focus on multi-sensory learning and parent-child bonding.

Of course, the neighbourhood is a great place for moms and dads to have fun, too. Restaurants like Mercato (a foodie favourite) are great for date nights, and Mama Massage is the perfect place for busy moms to unwind.

2) Discovery Ridge

There’s no doubt about: Discovery Ridge is one of the best Calgary neighbourhoods for families. The area is incredibly safe, and it offers numerous schooling options. It’s also a true gem for families that want to stay active.

Explore Discovery Ridge and one of the first things you’ll notice is its beautiful parks. Griffith Woods Park is a prime example—encompassing 93 hectares, the area boasts forests, creeks, and natural green space. For a different range of activities, try Westside Recreation Centre. The leisure centre offers an aquatic park, a youth wellness centre, an ice arena, climbing walls, and much more.

What about fun family nights at home? Consider takeout from Maharaja East Indian Restaurant, a local favourite. And for mom and dad, Javino Coffee and Wine Bar is the perfect place for a pick-me-up or a night on the town.

Lastly, Discovery Ridge is also just 30 minutes from the airport, making it perfect for parents who travel for business. 

3) Strathcona Park

No list of family-friendly neighbourhoods would be complete without Strathcona Park. First off, the community is safe and highly-walkable, so taking the kids out for fresh air is a pleasure. And thanks to the nearby Sarcee Trail and Bow Trail, it’s also great for commuters: getting to the downtown core is a breeze. 

When it comes to education, you’ll find a selection of public, private, and french immersion options. Strathcona Park is also yet another Southwest Calgary neighbourhood that boasts wonderful outdoor spaces. If your family has dogs, you’ll be covered in this community, which offers three off-leash options. And Strathcona Ravines Park is a true marvel—it’s one of the best places to experience nature within the city’s boundaries.

4) Signal Hill

If you’re looking for the perfect place to settle down, consider Signal Hill. Providing both scenic Rocky Mountain views and a bustling shopping district, the area offers the best of two worlds. Everything you and your family need is just a short jaunt away, from grocery stores and restaurants to an abundance of shops and medical offices.

Homes in Signal Hill also enjoy close proximity to the Westside Recreation Centre. Plus, the neighbourhood has a popular library branch and a number of fantastic walking pathways. These pathways now extend all the way along the Sarcee Trail, connecting the region to the rest of Calgary. Like the other communities on this list, Signal Hill also has a number of great schooling options—including a prestigious Montessori School location.

Searching for the best Calgary neighbourhoods for families? I know the region and its housing market inside and out—and I’d love to help you. Get in touch and let’s talk about it!