Established in 2001, this southwest neighbourhood is a convenient home base for families and singles, alike, thanks to its proximity to a wide range of amenities and attractions. While there’s plenty of appeal right on its doorstep, other handy destinations like Aspen Landing Shopping Centre, WestHills Towne Centre and CF Market Mall are all just a short drive away.
While access to major roadways like Bow Trail S.W. makes it easy to head downtown for a bite, foodies can also find plenty of local dining options close to home with restaurants like Brekkie, Vin Room West, Mercato West, Una Pizza + Wine, and Blanco Cantina. The neighbourhood also offers amenities like grocery stores, fitness studios and salons. Even more local produce, products and bites are just 10 minutes away at the Calgary Farmers’ Market West.
West Springs is also a great community for those who enjoy outdoor recreation — the neighbourhood is also a 10-minute drive from Canada Olympic Park’s beloved ski hills and outdoor activities, plus there’s easy highway access to hit the slopes in Canmore and Banff. — A.W.
Unique Challenge
The neighbourhood caters to families, with a quarter of the population under 14 and another quarter in their 40s (a.k.a., those kids’ parents). Over 60 per cent of households are couples with children. With only seven per cent of homes in apartments, there aren’t currently many opportunities for aging in place.
What the Neighbours Say
“West Springs offers the perfect balance of convenience and community. It’s close to downtown and it’s incredibly easy to access key areas of the city. With the recent opening of Stoney Trail, you can really zip in and out of the area in no time. It’s also really family friendly, with lots of parks to enjoy and walkable to grocery stores and restaurants.” — Cher Kotulski, a West Springs resident for the past six years.
Neighbourhood Highlights
Brekkie
Brekkie brings a fresh take on breakfast culture to Calgary’s west end, where chef-driven creativity meets cozy neighbourhood vibes in a thoughtfully designed space. Don’t let the potential wait deter you (pro tip: join the waitlist ahead of time online); this 85th Street S.W. gem delivers equally impressive sweet and savoury options that are worth the wait.
From the “famous” eggs Benedict selections to seasonally rotating delights like sugar plum French toast and pumpkin cranberry pancakes, each dish showcases locally sourced ingredients with flair. The menu hits all the right notes.
More than just a restaurant, Brekkie has mastered the balance of feeling both sophisticated and homey.
Mercato West – Pizzevino Bar
Mercato West is a lively one-stop shop Italian culinary destination. The philosophy is simple: share everything, with generous portions perfect for family-style dining. While the ristorante crafts modern takes on traditional classics, the casual Pizzevino Bar serves up perfect pizzas and other casual fare, and the market beckons with treasures like three flavours of tiramisu and fresh pasta in every shape imaginable. It’s a dream for busy families.
Mercato’s ready-to-heat meals showcase homemade classics from cannelloni to lasagna, paired with an array of house sauces.
Whether you’re shopping for ingredients, grabbing dinner to go or letting them cater your next party, Mercato West brings a taste of Italy to Calgary’s west end.
West Springs Playground & Park
West Springs offers a perfect blend of recreational amenities for families of all ages. The community’s interconnected walking and cycling paths wind around a peaceful pond, linking together its thoughtfully designed play spaces. Active families can choose between two playgrounds: a toddler-friendly area in Westpark and the West Springs School playground, which include an impressive rope web climber. In the summer, The City sets up a mobile Skate & Scoot skatepark at West Ridge School. The City-managed tennis court adds to the recreational mix, while abundant green spaces and pathways provide peaceful spots for nature walks and afternoon picnics. — L.K.
By the Numbers
Population: 11,560
Median Household Income: $172,000
Housing Types: 70% single-detached; 15% row house
Percentage of owners: 88%
