Strathearn is located just south of downtown. Somewhat wedge-shaped, the neighbourhood is bound by 85th Street and Connors Road with the North Saskatchewan River Valley bordering northwest. It boasts incredible views of the river valley and downtown skyline, offers a wide diversity of housing and is a community laced with cultural and artistic flair.
Strathearn has a very active arts community. Neighbours join together to plan community-focused events including the Front Porch Music Series, Annual Strathearn Art Walk and ongoing events at the local arts centre. Take a stroll on any given Saturday to find conversations spilling out of the cafe, couples walking towards river valley views and children playing at the community league park.
Strathearn has a lazy, small town feeling to it. The neighbourhood is laid back, yes, but is far from lazy. People are always coming and going, recreating in the park, tending to their garden or planning the next event. You’ll feel welcome here and will notice the French influence quickly, as Strathearn is on the edge of Edmonton’s French Quarter.
There is a diverse demographic in Strathearn – from young professionals without kids to growing families, empty nesters and retirees. According to the 2011 census, the largest age group is 50-plus, taking up 38 per cent of the population, however the central location and active community culture continues to attract young professionals and families. Neighbours are friendly and will likely greet you with a hello and a smile.
Schools, churches, medical clinics and parks are all right in the neighbourhood. More shopping and supermarkets can be found in nearby Bonnie Doon. The river valley is just across 98th Avenue giving access to its extensive trail and park system. In the winter, the nearby Edmonton Ski Club provides an urban ski experience to residents and downtown amenities are just across the river.
Major bus routes run through the neighbourhood and commuters can quickly get to downtown. The LRT expansion plan includes connections in Strathearn, Bonnie Doon, Holyrood and along 73rd Avenue. 85th Street takes vehicle traffic to Whyte Avenue and southern neighbourhoods beyond or head north to get onto 98th Avenue downtown.
The neighbourhood is home to Strathearn Heights, a 22-acre apartment complex located in the heart of Strathearn. There is a Strathearn rejuvenation project that will completely transform this property into a transit-oriented, sustainable urban village. Although it will be better for Strathearn, existing tenants will have to be relocated and construction will undoubtedly disturb the peace.
Coffee shops, local retail stores and corner mini-marts are all affordable. The classy Red Ox Inn offers a fine-dining experience with higher prices to match, but it is well worth it. Real estate costs are about city average for the typical mid-century bungalow. Mansion-like homes perch on the edge of the valley with commanding views and demanding six-digit listing prices.
After trying their artistic appetizers, herb-crusted pork tenderloin, baked Arctic char, and the selection of decadent desserts, you will give big kudos to the chef. Reservations are most definitely recommended.
more infoIt was originally created to showcase the artwork of its owners, but transformed into an art gallery/gift store/coffee shop/lunch stop. It’s creative, eclectic and delicious. What more could you ask for?
more infoCentre d’arts visuels de l’Alberta is an art centre that promotes visual arts in the community and the francophone culture. They run regular art exhibits, workshops, competitions and art camps.
more infoHome to the very active Strathearn Community League, Silver Heights Park features an outdoor skating rink, a league hall, a playground, a spray park, some basketball hoops and sports fields.
more infoIt might look like a typical corner store, but this mini-mart offers more than just pop and chips. Come in for their hot takeaway items. Seriously, residents rave about the fried chicken!
more infoThis local spa offers massage, acupuncture and esthetic services. Treatments are for those who want to pamper themselves and relax, or for stress and pain relief.
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