Schools

Hillhurst in Calgary has several educational institutions catering to different age groups. The Calgary Board of Education (CBE) and The Calgary Catholic School District (CCSD) primarily serve the area.

Public Schools (Press on the school names to be directed to the school's main website to learn more)

➡️ Hillhurst School: Located at 1418 7 Ave NW, Calgary, AB T2N 0Z2, Hillhurst School serves students in grades Kindergarten through 6. Specializing in inclusive education with a strong emphasis on literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional learning to support diverse student needs. It integrates innovative programs like arts, environmental education, and technology, fostering creativity and community engagement in a vibrant, urban neighbourhood setting.

➡️  Queen Elizabeth High School: Located at 512 18 St NW, Calgary, AB T2N 2G5. Queen Elizabeth High School serves students in grades 7 through 12.  Queen Elizabeth High School (QEHS) in Calgary, AB, specializes in career and technology studies (CTS), with strong programs in trades like automotive, welding, and culinary arts, including a student-run restaurant called Le Café. It also offers advanced academics through AP courses, fine arts, athletics, and dual credit opportunities for post-secondary pathways.

➡️ Queen Elizabeth School: Located at 402 18 St NW, Calgary, AB T2N 2G5. Ernest Manning High School serves students in grades Kindergarten through 6. Queen Elizabeth School specializes in inclusive education for diverse learners, including support for special needs through integrated and individualized programs. It focuses on core academics such as literacy and STEM, as well as the arts, PE, and community activities for holistic student growth.

Catholic Schools (Press on the school names to be directed to the school's main website to learn more)

➡️ Madeleine D'Houet School: Located at 108 22 St NW, Calgary, AB T2N 2M8. This School serves students in grades 7 through 9. They offer a well-rounded, faith-based education in a caring, inclusive and nurturing community to meet each student’s unique needs. In addition to core curriculum programming mandated by Alberta Education, we are pleased to offer our students a variety of supplementary courses, options and services in collaboration with our many community partners. The values of Catholic faith permeate all programming options within Calgary Catholic schools.

➡️ St. Francis High School: Located at 4877 Northmount Dr NW, Calgary, AB T2L 0A7. St. Francis High School serves students in grades 10-12. OSt. Francis High School in Calgary, AB, specializes in providing a robust Catholic education that emphasizes academic achievement, spiritual growth, and leadership development in a supportive community.

Calgary Board of Education Alternative & Private Options:

Public & Catholic Schools:

➡️ Auburn Bay School: Located at 7 Auburn Bay Ave SE, Calgary, AB T3M 0K9. Serves grades Kindergarten through 6. Auburn Bay School in Calgary, AB, specializes in delivering a comprehensive, inclusive educational experience that emphasizes academic achievement, community involvement, and personal development in a supportive environment.

➡️ Bayside School: Located at 15 Auburn Crest Park SE, Calgary, AB T3M 0Z4. Serving grades Kindergarten through 5de School in Calgary, AB. Bayside School in Calgary, AB, specializes in providing a dynamic and engaging educational environment that fosters academic success, personal growth, and community involvement for students.

➡️ Joane Cardinal-Schubert High School: Located at 19480 45 St SE, Calgary, AB T3M 2P9. Serves students in grades 10-12. Joane Cardinal-Schubert High School in Calgary, AB, specializes in providing a comprehensive education that emphasizes academic excellence, personal growth, and leadership development in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Private Schools:

➡️  Calgary Academy: Serving grades K-12. Located at 1677 93 St SW, Calgary, AB T3H 0R3. Calgary Academy is a designated special education private school located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. It offers academics from kindergarten through grade 12, with the kindergarten program opening in 2019.

➡️  Clear Water Academy: Located at 3910 Quesnay Wood Dr SW, Calgary, AB T3E 8G1. This Christian School serves Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12. Clear Water Academy is a private university preparatory school managed by the Legion of Christ. Clear Water Academy in Calgary, AB, specializes in providing a values-based education that emphasizes academic excellence, character development, and a strong sense of community within a Catholic framework.

➡️  Calgary French & International School: Located at 700 77 St SW, Calgary, AB. This school serves grades Pre-School to Grade 12. Calgary French & International School in Calgary, AB, specializes in providing a bilingual education that fosters academic excellence and cultural awareness through a curriculum that integrates French language instruction with international education principles.

Post Secondary Institutes:

➡️  Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (S.A.I.T):  Located at 1301 16 Avenue NW, Calgary AB. SAIT offers more than 110 career programs in technology, trades and business. Established in 1916, it is Calgary's second-oldest post-secondary institution and Canada's first publicly funded technical institute. SAIT is renowned for its hands-on programs and strong emphasis on applied education. The institution offers a variety of diploma and certificate courses across fields such as technology, business, health sciences, and trades. Special programs include:

• Technology and Engineering: Programs in Information Technology, Engineering Technology, and Renewable Energy.
• Health and Community Studies: Focuses on practical training in nursing, medical laboratory technology, and pharmacy.
• Hospitality and Tourism: Offers training in culinary arts, hospitality management, and tourism entrepreneurship.

➡️ Bow Valley College, South Campus: Located at 345 6 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 4V1. Bow Valley College emphasizes adult learning and skills development with programs tailored for the workforce. They focus on accessibility and career readiness. Notable programs include:

• Health and Community Services: Including Practical Nursing and Social Work.
• Business: Programs in Business Administration, Marketing, and Office Administration.
• Creative Technologies: Offers training in digital media and information technology.

• South Campus (part of Bow Valley College): The South Campus specifically enhances access to education in Calgary's southern regions. While it shares many programs with Bow Valley College, its focus also includes:

  • Adult Upgrading and Essential Skills: For individuals seeking to enhance their skills before pursuing further education or employment.
  • Personal and Professional Development: Programs designed for lifelong learning and career advancement.

➡️ Robertson College: Located at 2912 Memorial Dr #100, Calgary, AB T2A 6R1. Robertson College focuses on career-focused diploma programs within short time frames. They are known for:

• Healthcare Programs: Such as Medical Office Assistant and Pharmacy Assistant.
• Business and Management: Including Business Administration and Accounting.
• Information Technology: Cybersecurity and Network Administration courses are also offered.

➡️ University of Calgary: Located at 2500 University Dr NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4. As a comprehensive research university, the University of Calgary offers year-round undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines with a strong focus on research and innovation. Key areas include:

• Engineering: Specialized programs in Software, Civil, and Chemical Engineering.
• Health Sciences: Including Medicine, Nursing, and Kinesiology with an emphasis on research.
• Business: The Haskayne School of Business offers undergraduate and MBA programs focused on leadership and entrepreneurship.
• Arts: Offers a rich selection of programs ranging from Fine Arts to Social Sciences.

 These institutions collectively contribute to a vibrant educational landscape in Calgary, catering to students' diverse interests and career aspirations. Each facility has its own unique approach to education, ensuring a variety of pathways for students looking to develop skills and knowledge for the job market. All schools are located in Calgary and are accessible to families near/within the city boundary.

Amenities

Hillhurst, one of Calgary's most beloved inner-city neighbourhoods, is packed with amenities that make everyday life convenient, active, and enjoyable. Straddling the border with the adjacent Sunnyside area, it benefits from shared resources and a walkable layout that encourages community interaction. From lush parks to eclectic dining, here's an in-depth look at what Hillhurst offers in key categories. Whether you're a resident or just visiting, these features highlight why it's a top spot for urban living.

Parks and Recreation 

• Hillhurst is a haven for nature lovers, with easy access to Calgary's extensive pathway system and riverfront.

  • Sunnyside Park: The crown jewel of the area, this 10-hectare urban oasis along the Bow River features playgrounds, picnic areas, sports fields, and off-leash dog zones. It's perfect for summer barbecues or winter sledding, and hosts community events like outdoor yoga and markets. The park connects directly to the 1,000+ km Bow River Pathway, ideal for biking, running, or birdwatching with views of downtown's skyline.

  • Riley Park and Community Garden: A smaller, family-oriented green space on 8th Avenue NW, it features a playground, basketball courts, and a community garden where locals grow veggies and flowers. It's a low-key spot for neighbourhood picnics and promotes sustainability through plot rentals managed by the Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association (HSCA).

  • Bow River Pathways and Nearby Extensions: While not "in" Hillhurst per se, the neighbourhood's eastern edge hugs the river, providing seamless access to trails leading to Prince's Island Park or Confederation Park. These paths are paved, lit, and multi-use, supporting everything from casual strolls to the annual Calgary Marathon.

• These spaces contribute to Hillhurst's high livability score, with over 70% of residents within a 10-minute walk of a park, according to Calgary's planning data.

• Recreation in Hillhurst revolves around community-driven facilities that promote health and social bonds.

  • Hillhurst Community Centre (Shared with Sunnyside): Located at 1320 5th Ave. NW, this modern hub offers a gymnasium, fitness center, squash courts, and multipurpose rooms for classes like yoga, dance, and martial arts. It's family-friendly with youth programs, drop-in sports, and a preschool. The center also has an indoor pool during certain seasons and hosts HSCA events—membership is affordable at around $50/year for residents.

  • Sunnyside Outdoor Pool: A seasonal gem (May-September) at 2nd Street NW, this heated outdoor pool features lap lanes, a shallow area for kids, and diving boards. It's a summer staple, with swim lessons and aqua fitness classes drawing crowds from across NW Calgary.

  • Sports Fields and Rinks: Sunnyside Park includes lit tennis courts, baseball diamonds, and a seasonal outdoor skating rink. Hillhurst teams up with local leagues for soccer, ultimate frisbee, and hockey, all of which are accessible year-round.

• For more intense workouts, the nearby Genesis Place in Airdrie is a short drive, but Hillhurst's facilities keep things hyper-local and inclusive.

Shopping and Dining 

• Shopping

  Hillhurst's shopping scene blends everyday essentials with unique boutique finds, centred on the lively Kensington strip (just east in the Kensington neighbourhood) and local streets.

  • Kensington Village: A pedestrian-friendly hub on Kensington Road NW, it's home to over 100 independent shops. Highlights include Value Village for thrifting, Sunnyside Natural Market for organic groceries, and specialty stores like Bluebird Music for instruments or Higher Ground Cafe's attached bookstore. It's a go-to for artisanal goods, from handmade jewelry at Local 307 to home decor at Phil & Sebastian's coffee-adjacent spots.

  • Grocery and Essentials: Options range from the upscale Sunnyside Co-op (fresh produce, deli, and pharmacy) to smaller markets like Hillhurst-Ross Drugs for quick grabs. For big-box needs, the North Hill Shopping Centre is a 10-minute drive north.

  • Farmers' Market: The Hillhurst Sunnyside Farmers' Market runs weekly from May to October at 17th Ave. SW (nearby), featuring local vendors for baked goods, crafts, and produce— a true community staple.

• Shopping here feels personal and supports local economies, with many stores emphasizing sustainability.

  Dining

  Dining in Hillhurst is diverse, casual, and infused with global flavours, making it a foodie's delight without venturing downtown.

  • Casual Eateries and Coffee Shops: Start your day at Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters (multiple locations) for specialty brews, or grab brunch at squish! sandwiches for creative twists on classics. Kensington's stretch boasts spots like Oak Tree Tavern for pub fare and Thaitalian for fusion Thai-Italian dishes.

  • Upscale and Ethnic Options: Una Pizza Napoletana offers wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas, while Mercato serves Italian market-inspired meals. For international flair, try Fonda For Now's Mexican street food or Little Miss Chief's Indigenous-fusion cuisine. Vegetarian and vegan choices abound, like at Vanilla Bean Cafe.

  • Breweries and Bars: Proximity to the Craft Beer District includes spots like Last Best Brewing for IPAs and live music, or The Nash for casual drinks with skyline views.

• With over 50 eateries within walking distance, Hillhurst caters to all budgets, from $10 quick bites to $50 date nights, and many participate in Calgary's Dine & Drink events.

Community Services 

• Hillhurst thrives on robust support services that enhance quality of life.

  • Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association (HSCA): The heartbeat of the neighbourhood, offering advocacy, event planning (e.g., Halloween parties, art walks), and volunteer opportunities. They manage community gardens, newsletters, and advocacy efforts on issues such as traffic calming.

  • Health and Social Services: Nearby amenities include the Sunnyside Medical Clinic for primary care and the Calgary Drop-In Centre (a short drive) for broader social supports. The CBE schools (like Hillhurst School) provide child care and after-school programs.

  • Libraries and Youth Services: The closest is the Judith Umbach Memorial Library in nearby Capitol Hill, but residents often use the larger Central Library downtown. Community services also include free tax clinics and senior programs through HSCA.

• These services foster a tight-knit vibe, with low barriers to participation.

Public Transit 

Hillhurst's transit access is excellent, supporting Calgary's goal of a connected city.

• LRT and Buses: The Sunnyside CTrain Station (Red Line) is a 5-10-minute walk, providing quick rides to downtown (10 minutes) or the airport. Multiple bus routes (e.g., 2, 3, 17) run along 10th Avenue and Kensington Road, connecting to SAIT, the University of Calgary, and beyond.

• Bike and Pedestrian Infrastructure: Calgary's Green Line LRT will further enhance access (under construction). Bike lanes on 10th St. and pathways make cycling popular, with nearby bike-share stations.

Transit is free for youth under 12, and the system is reliable, with apps like Transit for real-time updates.

View this link to see all the stops for Calgary Transit.

Library and Culture 

• Hillhurst pulses with cultural energy, blending history with modern arts.

  • Judith Umbach Memorial Library (Capitol Hill Branch): Just blocks away at 6611 14th St. NW, this CBE library offers books, digital resources, children's programs, and study spaces. It's a quiet retreat with events like author readings and tech workshops.

  • Cultural Hubs: The area hosts galleries such as the Art Gallery of Calgary (nearby) and street art murals along Kensington. The Max Bell Cultural and Community Centre (Sunnyside) features theatre, music events, and Indigenous cultural programming. Annual festivals include the Kensington Summer Street Party and Inglewood Sunfest (proximate).

  • Historic Sites: Queen Elizabeth High School's heritage building adds a cultural layer, with community tours available. The neighbourhood's pre-WWI architecture and proximity to the Calgary Stampede grounds enrich its cultural tapestry.

• In summary, Hillhurst's amenities create a self-contained yet connected lifestyle—walkable, diverse, and full of heart. It's no surprise it's often ranked among Calgary's best neighbourhoods by sites like Avenue Calgary. If you're exploring a move or visit, I'd love to hear your favourite Hillhurst spot in the comments!

Community Centre

Healthcare Facilities

• Hillhurst Medical Clinic
  Address: 1414 10 St NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1V8 (core Hillhurst location).
  Services: General family medicine, including routine exams, immunizations, mental health counselling, and chronic condition management (e.g., diabetes, hypertension). Focuses on holistic care with a small team of physicians. Limited walk-ins; primarily appointment-based. Hours: Mon-Fri 9 AM-4 PM. Close to transit (Route 3 bus); limited street parking.
• Kensington Medical Clinic
  Address: 1125 Kensington Rd NW ##200, Calgary, AB T2N 1Y1 (Kensington Village, bordering Hillhurst).
  Services: Comprehensive primary care, including sports medicine, dermatology referrals, and travel medicine. They offer telemedicine and same-day appointments for urgent issues. Multilingual staff (English, Spanish, Mandarin). Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30 AM-5 PM. Highly walkable from Hillhurst; bike racks available.
• Kensington Urgent Care Clinic
  Address: 1213 1 St NW ##100, Calgary, AB T2M 2S9 (in Kensington, 10-min walk from Hillhurst).
  Services: Handles urgent but non-life-threatening needs such as cuts, allergies, UTIs, and on-site X-rays. Extended hours for working professionals; accepts most insurance plans. They partner with AHS for seamless referrals to specialists. Hours: Daily 8 AM-8 PM. Street parking and nearby transit (Routes 2 and 17).
• Foothills Medical Centre (Primary Hospital Serving the Area)
  Address: 1403 29 St NW, Calgary, AB T2N 2T9 (10-15 min drive or bus from Hillhurst).
  Services: Full acute care hospital with ER (open 24/7), surgery, cardiology, neurology, and cancer treatment via the Tom Baker Cancer Centre. Specializes in trauma and neurosciences at Alberta's largest hospital. Serves NW Calgary; ambulance response time ~8-10 minutes for emergencies.
• Seniors' Resource Society (SRS) - Hillhurst Drop-In Centre
  Address: Operates via HSCA at 1320 5th Ave NW (Hillhurst Community Centre), Calgary, AB T2M 4K7.
  Services: Day programs for seniors 55+, including social activities, exercise classes (e.g., tai chi, chair yoga), meals, and health workshops (nutrition, fall prevention). Transportation assistance and caregiver support. Free or low-cost; drop-ins welcome. Hours: Mon-Fri 9 AM-3 PM.
• Bow View Manor (Nearby Long-Term Care)
  Address: 2828 23 St NW, Calgary, AB T2M 3Z6 (10-min drive).
  Services: Residential aged care for 150+ seniors, offering 24/7 nursing, dementia care, physiotherapy, and recreational therapy. Private and semi-private rooms; respite stays available. Managed by Bethany Care Society; waitlists are common for AHS-funded spots.

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