Calgary’s oldest neighbourhood, Inglewood, is fast becoming one of the trendiest areas in the city.
“We’ve got some really neat things in Inglewood,” says Arts on Atlantic Gallery owner Stephen Murphy. “We have the Calgary Zoo. We have the Calgary Bird Sanctuary. We have the fish hatchery.”
And a whole lot more.
Inglewood is known for it’s great nightlife, a vibrant music scene, one-of-a-kind shops and award-winning restaurants. An eclectic mix of businesses make wandering the shopping district an interesting and adventurous afternoon experience.
“I absolutely loved living in Inglewood,” Murphy said.
“There’s nowhere else in the city like it.”
Real Inglewoodians (as residents in this part of the city call themselves), take advantage of the nearby river pathways, the off-leash dog park and other green spaces in the community.
And, don’t forget the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary at the end of 9th Ave., where visitors can see up to 270 species of birds. “I really think the Bird Sanctuary is a fabulous place,” Murphy said.
Part of Inglewood’s charm is its history. Antique storefronts and houses dot the community and faded paint advertises on sides of buildings.
“I have to say, I like the historical aspects,” Murphy said.
“Part of the reason I chose this location for the gallery is that it has character, the old tin roof, the radiators in the front and the high ceilings.”
But, if you’re dropping by for a day — just down the street from Murphy’s gallery are unique shops and galleries you won’t find anywhere else in the city.
To the west is Recordland and it’s hundreds of vintage vinyl albums.
To the east is Choklat, with it’s handmade, super chocolate truffles and Knifewear, where owner Kevin Kent specializes in hand-forged Japanese knives.
Most businesses in the community are owner-operated businesses.
“We’re so focused on providing good customer experience,” Murphy said.
“We like it that way, we like being different and providing people with a very unique shopping experience.”
A favourite of Murphy’s is popular restaurant, Rouge. Rouge is one of the community’s gems and one of the many award-winning restaurants in the city.
But his all-time favourite?
“I have to say, Inglewood Pizza makes the best pizza in town, there is no doubt about it.”
