Technically, Kensington is a Businesses Improvement Zone that includes Sunnyside and Hillhurst. But, colloquially, Kensington has long been one of Calgary’s most vital neighbourhoods, where history, art, shopping and community come together.
Just across the Bow River from downtown, this pedestrian-friendly district mixes inner-city energy with the small-town vibes that date back more than a century to when it was the village of West Hillhurst.
Few places in the city offer such a cool strolling experience. Heritage brick buildings give way to buzzing patios, boutiques and art installations. The neighbourhood is home to established indie gems like The Plaza Theatre, Sunnyside Art Supplies and Pages On Kensington bookstore.
Coffee culture has thrived here for decades. When The Roasterie opened here in 1985, it was the first Calgary café to roast its own beans. Calgary’s first Starbuck’s also opened here in 1996. A multitude of independent cafés like Higher Ground and Aggüdo now fuel the neighbourhood.
Proximity to the Bow River Pathway makes Kensington a favourite for cyclists and joggers, and Riley Park attracts families with its playground, wading pool and rock garden.
Historic homes share space with recently developed condos and apartments, making the neighbourhood diverse and enticing to young families and business owners, alike.
Unique Challenge
Parking has long been tough in Kensington, especially on weekends. Increasing residential densification in the area and more vehicle and foot traffic can make a drive down 10th Street N.W. or Kensington Road a congested crawl. — S.Y.
What the Neighbours Say
“The draw is unparalleled. I can’t imagine another community bordered by one of the largest urban green spaces in Riley Park on one side, and the river and downtown core on the other. Between these five blocks are some of Calgary’s best local businesses and restaurants that make it a strong community and a sense of pride for our diverse residents. There is no reason to leave when it’s all right here.” — Laila Adam, a management consultant who has lived in Kensington since 2015.
Neighbourhood Highlights
Plaza Movie Theatre
The Plaza Theatre is more than just a boutique cinema. Behind the historic façade and iconic velvet curtain, you’ll find an intimate theatre where films are better shared with a crowd, a speakeasy-style bar mixing up drinks like Dark & Stormy and Pretty in Pink, and a café serving Phil & Sebastian coffee alongside Hoopla Donuts.
The vibe is quaint and cozy and tickets are cheap ($12.99 for an adult ticket), with a constantly rotating selection of independent films, blockbusters and old favourites. The Plaza is open daily (yes, even on holidays), and the theatre invites you to grab its famous popcorn (no ticket required), catch a movie, sip a cocktail or enjoy the food truck offerings on the patio.
Yoga Santosha
Yoga Santosha has been nurturing body and soul since 2007 under the thoughtful guidance of co-founders Alastair and Candace Cooke. With more than 70 classes weekly, this sanctuary offers something unique in Calgary’s wellness landscape. The gentle sound of a trickling fountain enhances the studio’s calming atmosphere, while the innovative Great Yoga Wall allows students to explore new dimensions of stretching using gravity-assisted poses. What sets Santosha apart is its holistic approach to wellness with restorative classes, workshops in breathwork, chanting and mobility led by community experts.
Regal Cat Café
The Regal Cat Café in Kensington offers the purr-fect blend of coffee, community and cats. Since being acquired by MEOW Foundation in 2022, the café has also supported adoption. For just $10 on weekdays and $12 on weekends, visitors can spend 30 minutes in the “Kitty Kingdom,” a dedicated space where adoptable cats roam, play and charm their way into hearts. Though the cats are the stars, the café’s menu shines with locally roasted Chronicle Coffee, custom-blended teas named after cat breeds (like Calico and Black Cat), and an array of treats from local bakeries including vegan and gluten-friendly options from Canela, Pretty Sweet Co.’s adorable cat-themed cookies, and Ollia’s Instagram-worthy macarons. Maybe you’re seeking a furry friend to adopt, can’t have a cat at home or just need some feline therapy with your coffee. This unique spot ensures every visit supports Calgary’s homeless cats. — L.K.
By the Numbers
Hillhurst
Population: 5,475
Median Household Income: $93,000
Housing Types: 30% single-detached; 26% apartments less than 5 storeys; 26% apartment buildings over 5 storeys
Percentage of owners: 51%
Sunnyside
Population: 4,000
Median Household Income: $69,500
Housing Types: 17% single-detached; 60% apartments less than 5 storeys
Percentage of owners: 32%
