Introduction
Established during the First World War, Alberta Avenue is one of the oldest communities in Edmonton. Home to Arts on the Ave, the borders comprise a rectangle, with 111 Avenue and 97 Street serving as the south and west borders of this inner-city community. The north border runs along 122 Avenue from 97 Street to 89 Street, and the south border follows 112 Avenue.
Lifestyle
In 2015, Alberta Avenue was named the second best area in Edmonton for property investment by the community newsletter Rat Creek Press. Arts on the Ave and the Alberta Avenue Community League work together to bring festivals and events to the community year round. The Carrot Coffee House and Nina Haggerty Centre for the Arts keep community arts thriving. And for exercise, some residents partner up in dog walking groups.
The Vibe
With a concentration on the arts, Alberta Avenue will soon be one of the foremost cultural areas in Edmonton and might even rival Whyte Ave in the Edmonton arts scene. Major contributors to the artistic community include Theatre Prospero, Nina Haggerty Centre, and The Studio. More local investors and businesses are coming to the area, including a wave of locally owned restaurants, coffee shops, and bakeries.
Meet the Neighbours
According to Edmonton's 2012 municipal census, more than half of the 6,000 people living in Alberta Avenue are under the age of 60. There are a mix of families, singles, couples, and seniors in the area and the average household income is $60,000. With a strong Asian community alongside the Anglo-Canadians, the many churches in Alberta Avenue reflect this cultural diversity.
In the Area
The nearby NAIT is the go-to trades college in Edmonton, while the Royal Alexandra Hospital is situated closer than the transit centre. In the community you will find CLI College, French immersion, and both public and Catholic schools. Aside from the tree-lined streets, there is a beautiful walking trail in Alberta Avenue Park with the community centre at the south end of the park.
3.3 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Edmonton grew up around Alberta Avenue. By car, getting to the more popular areas like Jasper and Whyte is easy. 118th Avenue connects to the Wayne Gretzky Drive freeway and the Yellowhead Trail is only a few blocks north. The Kingsway transit centre is nearby while the NAIT LRT line, opened in 2015, allows easy access across the city. For private flights, the municipal airport is a few blocks away.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
Local news coverage has focused on Alberta Avenue’s successful revitalization, especially when it comes to crime. While it continues to be an issue, the area is experiencing a growing trend in the reduction of overall crime that is expected to continue. Luckily, the beautiful suburban areas bordered with trees provide a quiet aura of peace.
Dollars & Sense
The Carrot sets the bar for inexpensive and delicious fare. As revitalization continues, prices for amenities and entertainment will likely rise, but overall Alberta Avenue is an affordable place to be. There is a mix of rental and for sale homes. In some cases, the homes may be old or small and the property itself is the main investment. Rentals are for houses and roommates.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Carrot Coffee House
A volunteer-run coffee house with ethical practices and coffee sourcing, The Carrot is a community institution focused on local artists, open-mic nights, readings, live music, and even host events like their sidewalk art sale.
more infoAlberta Avenue Park
Bring your family and friends for a picnic and fun on the playground or become a member of the community association to take advantage of the spacious community garden.
more infoNina Haggerty Centre for the Arts
Champions of freedom of expression, The Nina will give you the space and supplies you need to express yourself. People with developmental disabilities are invited to come in and create art in this supportive atmosphere.
more infoKoultures Afro-Continental Restaurant
The trademark of Koultures is African cuisine mixed with continental influences in a fine dining venue. Unique in Edmonton for their menu and professionalism, this is a neighbourhood restaurant to be proud of.
more infoTheatre Prospero
Live theatre is often more entertaining and vibrant than a movie. Theatre Prospero offers classical theatre and training in Shakespearean plays for all ages and is home to the Thousand Faces Festival.
more infoBedouin Beats
Get some exercise and learn how to belly dance. The shop portion of Bedouin Beats offers accessories and clothing for your next performance.
more info