Inner-city living doesn’t get much better than Mission/Cliff Bungalow. A historic neighbourhood (with Mission among Calgary’s oldest communities), these days the area offers access to some of Calgary’s coolest local restaurants, coffee shops and boutiques. If living a hop, skip and a jump away from the likes of Shokunin, Mercato and Blue Rock Swim Club wasn’t tempting enough, the area is within walking distance of the Saddledome — making it ideal for concert-goers and hockey fans, alike.
The hustle and bustle of urban living aside, Mission also rests along the Elbow River. With the river pathways close at hand, along with green spaces like Lindsay Park, residents can enjoy scenic nature views without ever leaving the centre of the action. Not only does Mission/Cliff Bungalow boast vibrant day- and nightlife, but the area also fosters a deep sense of community. Residents routinely engage in neighbourhood potlucks, cleanups and nurturing the community garden. The area is home to the Montessori School of Calgary (located in the historic Cliff Bungalow School building) and near two high schools, Western Canada and St. Mary’s, as well as St. Monica Junior High. Tucked away from the bustle of 4th Street S.W., Mission is also home to the MNP Community & Sport Centre. —S.C.
Opportunity for Improvement
Mission/Cliff Bungalow is on the cusp of change, with multiple multi-storey, multi-use buildings in the works — altering the community’s urban landscape while providing additional living space. However, the increase in density brings to the forefront community concerns over parking and traffic congestion once the new builds are completed.
Highlights
Lilac Festival
For the last 35 years, a vibrant community festival has swept through Calgary’s inner-city neighbourhoods in June. Lilac Festival is hosted by the 4th Street Festival Society, who work tirelessly to bring the enchanting start-of-summer event alive. Soak in the family-friendly festivities with thousands of other Calgarians and enjoy more than 500 artisan vendors, 70 performances across six different stages and more.
Mercato
This Calgary staple has been serving the Mission community authentic Italian cuisine since 2005. While the restaurant started as a small Italian shop located in Bridgeland, it soon made the decision to relocate to Mission. Before long, it opened a full-service restaurant, welcoming Mercato to Calgary’s inner city. Whether it’s handmade pasta or a traditional pizza, the beloved restaurant brings a taste of Southern Italy to your plate.
Elbow Island Park
Hidden in beautiful Elbow Island Park is a series of colourful and organic art installations. Known as The Wandering Island, the permanent artworks have been installed around the park’s existing infrastructure, showcasing local and international artists’ functional creations. This hidden gem features engraved stepping-stone pathways, mixed-material staircases and sun chairs, all exploring different subject matter like ecology and Indigenous heritage.
Masters Gallery
If you head over to the heart of Mission, you will find a small gallery selling contemporary and Canadian historical art. Since 1976, the gallery has boasted an impressive collection, showcasing significant Canadian works from post-war oil paintings to Jean-Paul Jérôme abstracts. Masters Gallery also represents more than 20 contemporary artists of varying styles and media. Pop into the storefront to browse its beautiful collection or snag a new addition for your own collection. —R.P.