A quaint & experience-filled day trip sits only 25 mins from Calgary
When you think of getting out of Calgary to spend a day exploring and adventuring, how long do you typically expect to drive? Odds are, you’re looking at a couple hours west to the mountains, a little less than that east to the badlands, or something in between to a lake or hiking trail. What you might not know (and what we’re here to tell you) is that there is a fantastic day trip full of activities to be found right beside Calgary, just a swift 25 minutes away. We’re talking about the lovely and very underrated town of Strathmore, and the surprising amount that it has to offer. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities, a guys day out, or a unique downtown shopping experience, this hidden gem has you covered.
Let’s take a look at what you can find on a day trip to Strathmore, shall we?
FOOD & DRINK
Alright, this is an easy place to start because Strathmore is absolutely packed with awesome coffee shops, some delightful farm-to-table operations, cute delis, and a great brewery. There are hot spots like Origin Malting & Brewing Company, a 4th generation business that grows, malts, and brews barley right there. They also have a dynamite taproom and food truck called Hunger Payne’s. Oh, and Hunger Payne’s smokes all their own meat in-house, as if you needed any more incentive to check them out.
There are plenty of more spots that are equally deserving of your attention. The historic Station Restaurant gives you the opportunity to learn about Strathmore’s significance on the CP Rail, and The Roadhouse Restaurant commemorates the town’s Stampede and cowboy history.
Either way, you’ll get your fill of delicious food and drink in Strathmore, but you won’t want to leave out dessert! The Sweetsmith Candy Company, started by the owner when she was a teenager, is an incredible destination experience where you can see, taste, sample, and even book tours!
ACTIVITIES
Next up, what is there to do in Strathmore? The short answer: lots. Stroll along Lakeside Blvd, which is in the heart of downtown, which is a beautiful park surrounded by mature trees, pathways along the lake, and a playground and splash park. Then tour around the flower-lined streets of the quaint and cozy downtown, popping in and out of shops and restaurants along the way. Or you can hit up the top-notch aquatic centre, sportscentre & field house for some serious fun!
Along with that, Strathmore is an absolute hot spot for great golf. With one great course in the town, plus another 6 courses within 30 kms, you’ll be able to swing the sticks at a variety of options all summer long. If you’re looking to switch things up and try out something new, definitely check out Strathmore Disc Golf Course!
LIFESTYLE
Now, if the ongoing pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that home is where you make it, no matter where that may be. The convenience of living in the city is definitely a plus, but it’s hard to argue that the serenity of a town like Strathmore isn’t the change of scenery most of us could use in our lives.
Combining amenities and accessibility, the town of Strathmore boasts an extensive pathway and canal system, two dozen playgrounds, 10 schools, major grocery chains, and a hospital for a population of only 14,000. Not to mention the unreal aquatic centre, sports centre and fieldhouse! Yep, all of that for only 14,000 residents. Plus, because of the size of the town, everything we just listed is only a 5-minute drive away.
If all this sounds good to you, here’s the kicker. Homes in Strathmore are less expensive for more square footage and bigger lot sizes than any communities in Calgary. You’ll find the tight-knit feel of a small-town community while having more open spaces to explore than ever before. Plus, Calgary is always just a short car trip away.
So, next time you’re thinking about a quick trip out of town, consider Calgary’s own backyard. Trust us, you’ll find more than you were expecting in Strathmore.
