University District Business & Community Reviews

University District (U/D) is an award-winning mixed-use urban community located in northwest Calgary. Developed by University of Calgary Properties Group (UCPG), the 200-acre master-planned community blends residential, retail, office, and open spaces into a vibrant, walkable neighbourhood. It is Alberta's first LEED-ND Platinum certified community designed with a "feet-first" approach, prioritizing pedestrians, cyclists, and community connection.
Source: myuniversitydistrict.ca

University District is located in northwest Calgary, west of the University of Calgary, overlooking the Bow River and Rocky Mountains. The neighbourhood is easily accessible from Shaganappi Trail NW and is minutes from the University of Calgary, Foothills Medical Centre, Alberta Children's Hospital, and Market Mall. The Discovery Centre is located at 4410 University Ave NW.
Sources: myuniversitydistrict.ca, visitcalgary.com

University District is developed by University of Calgary Properties Group (UCPG), a mission-driven organization created by the University of Calgary to oversee the development and management of university land projects. Residual profits from UCPG are directed back to the University to fuel its academic mission.
Source: myuniversitydistrict.ca

The development of University District has a long-term vision, with completion anticipated in 2034. Currently, the community is home to over 3,500 residents, with more than 13,000 expected upon full completion over the next decade.
Source: myuniversitydistrict.ca

No, the land in University District is not for purchase. University District follows a leasehold land model where the land is owned by the University of Calgary, and homeowners hold subleasehold titles under 99-year leases. This model ensures higher standards, consistency, and a commitment to keeping the original vision intact as the community grows.
Sources: myuniversitydistrict.ca, Wikipedia

After the 99-year lease term, there are two possibilities:

• The lease may be renewed
• The lease will expire and not be renewed, and owners will be paid out at the fair market value of their unit

This model is similar to other successful leasehold communities like Wesbrook Village at UBC, UniverCity at SFU, and leasehold models in Jasper and Banff.
Source: myuniversitydistrict.ca

University District's Retail Main Street features over 50 shops and services. Popular dining options include:

• CHARCUT – Upscale Italian and Country French cuisine
• UNA pizza + wine – Creative pizzas and wine
• Native Tongues Taqueria – Authentic Mexican street food
• OEB Breakfast Co. – Renowned breakfast and brunch
• Borough Bar & Grill – Rotisserie-focused dining
• Monogram Coffee – Award-winning coffee
• Village Ice Cream – Fresh, locally made ice cream
• Fuwa Fuwa – Japanese soufflé pancakes
• The Banquet – Premium dive bar and gaming lounge

Source: visitcalgary.com

University District offers a wide range of retail and services including:

• Shoppers Drug Mart – Pharmacy and convenience
• HEAL Wellness – Açaí bowls, smoothies, wellness products
• Verdex Capital, TD Wealth Management, Stringam LLP – Financial and legal services
• Over 50 shops and services located along Retail Main Street

Future retail includes 12,000 sq. ft. of main floor retail at the upcoming Scholar building.
Sources: myuniversitydistrict.ca, visitcalgary.com

University District features 40 acres of green space and 12 km of interconnected pathways, including:

• Central Commons Park – A year-round outdoor hub with splash pads, BBQ stations, ice rink, and fire features
• Northwest Commons Park – An award-winning National PlayCore Demonstration Site designed for all ages and abilities
• North Pond – Stunning water feature bordering the North Urban Dog Park
• South Pond – A quiet oasis providing natural stormwater management

Sources: myuniversitydistrict.ca, visitcalgary.com

Yes, University District is very dog-friendly. The community features two completely contained off-leash dog parks (north and south) where both small and large dogs can roam safely in separated enclosures. The parks also include water features and plenty of green space for dogs to play.
Source: visitcalgary.com

Recreational amenities in University District include:

• Cineplex VIP Cinemas – Adult-only (18+) movie experience with reclining seats and in-theatre dining
• 12 km of interconnected pathways for walking, jogging, and cycling
• Central Commons Park with splash pads, BBQ stations, ice rink, and fire features
• Northwest Commons Park – Accessible playground
• Urban off-leash dog parks

Source: visitcalgary.com

University District hosts several signature annual events that bring the community together:

• U/D Night Market – Held on the final Wednesday of each month from May to September in Central Commons Park, featuring live music, entertainment, and local vendors
• U/D Block Party – Summer community celebration
• Winter Pop-Ups – Seasonal holiday market events
• Show Suite Open Houses – Pianos & Petals, Mingles & Melodies, Harvest Social

Sources: myuniversitydistrict.ca, visitcalgary.com

University District is designed as a "feet-first" community with excellent transportation options:

• Connected to 3 LRT stations – University, Banff Trail, and Brentwood stations on the Red Line
• Enhanced transit service including MAX stations
• 12 km of interconnected pathways for walking and biking
• "Complete streets" design accommodating walking, biking, and driving
• Seamless connections to the University of Calgary Main Campus and surrounding communities
• Free 3-hour underground parking available in the community

Sources: myuniversitydistrict.ca, visitcalgary.com

University District is served by several excellent educational options:

• University School (K-6) – Calgary Board of Education public school located in the community
• Senator Patrick Burns School (Grades 7-9) – Designated for Regular program students from University District effective 2025-26
• F.E. Osborne School (Junior High) – Previously designated, changed to Senator Patrick Burns for 2025-26
• North Point Schools – New UIQ Campus opening 2026-27, serving grades 7-12

The area is also home to the University of Calgary, offering world-class post-secondary education.
Sources: CBE website, northpointschools.ca

University District is strategically located near two of Calgary's major medical facilities:

• Foothills Medical Centre – One of Alberta's largest hospitals
• Alberta Children's Hospital – World-class paediatric care

The community also features HEAL Wellness offering açaí bowls, smoothies, and wellness-focused products.
Source: myuniversitydistrict.ca

Yes, the Alt Hotel Calgary University District is a stylish and contemporary hotel offering comfortable rooms, friendly service, and convenient access to Retail Main Street and Market Mall. The hotel is perfect for both business and leisure visitors to the neighbourhood.
Source: visitcalgary.com

University District offers a diverse range of housing options from award-winning builders:

Completed Projects: Condominiums and townhomes (Esquire, Maple, Noble by Truman)

Under Construction:

• Academy by Truman – 222 rental units (1-3 bedrooms), completion 2027
• Scholar by Truman – 203 rental units (1-2 bedrooms), 12,000 sq ft retail, completion 2027
• Cadence by Luxuria Homes – 156 condo units across two 5-storey buildings
• Vanguard by Luxuria Homes – 28 three-storey townhomes (approx 1,900 sq ft each)

Source: myuniversitydistrict.ca