The downtown core is at the heart of Regina, bordered by the CPR Rail line to the north, Victoria Avenue to the south, Broad Street to the east, and Albert Street to the west. A vibrant and evolving area, Downtown Regina offers residents plenty to do and plenty to see, all within convenient walking distance.
Downtown Regina is made up of approximately 30 city blocks and is home to office buildings, restaurants, shops, pub, theatres, and just about any other modern convenience you could want in a neighbourhood. Residents who work downtown can walk from the office to their apartment without worrying about traffic, parking, or paying for cabs. Seniors can visit parks, churches, banks, and the library – all of which are easily accessible.
With a renewed focus on revitalizing Regina's downtown core, the city is banking on it becoming a hip and trendy place to live, work, and play. Heritage-style condos and high-rises with all the latest amenities are drawing people to the area. Popular attractions such as the seasonal Regina Farmers' Market on Scarth Street and the Regina Folk Festival in Victoria Park keep things interesting for residents.
According to the 2011 Statistics Canada census, 820 people resided in Downtown Regina, but that's up from 635 in 2006 and is expected to continue rising. The majority of households consist of one person, and while the city hopes to attract younger demographics, seniors currently make up a large portion of the population. As of 2006, seniors accounted for 43 percent of residents with 29 percent aged 75 or older.
Enjoy an elegant Sunday brunch in the Hotel Saskatchewan's Cortland Dining Room or stock up on fresh produce at the seasonal Regina Farmers' Market. Watch a performance at the Globe Theatre or films at the Regina Public Library. Art galleries, boutiques, a mall, and an abundance of office buildings make for a lively urban environment. When you need to get away from it all, take a stroll through Victoria Park.
One of the biggest advantages to living downtown is having walking-distance proximity to a wide range of amenities. As of the 2011 census, more people in Downtown Regina claimed to walk to work than drive. Public transportation is another bonus, Downtown Regina Transit transfer points are currently located on 11th Avenue between Scarth Street and Rose Street. Regina International Airport is just an 8-minute drive or 29-minute bus ride away.
Big-box retailers and convenient suburban shopping centres have reduced the amount of activity in the downtown core over the years, but there are plans for rejuvenation. The Downtown Neighbourhood Plan, completed in 2009, outlines a 20-year growth and development strategy with a goal of attracting more retailers and residents to downtown. New buildings, improved public transportation, and a permanent home for the popular Farmers' Market are among the proposed improvements.
With amenities ranging from basic to luxurious, Downtown Regina can suit any budget. Cozy pubs like Bushwakkers and O'Hanlon's offer entertainment and high-quality meals at reasonable prices, while Casino Regina delivers everything from penny slots to high-end poker tournaments. As of the 2011 census, the average household income was $46,438, but the high senior population is reflected in the fact that 57% of residents here aren't in the labour force.
This historic hotel in the heart of the city isn't just for visitors. Locals can enjoy the fine-dining available in the Cortland Dining Room, an elegant restaurant with an award-winning chef and popular Sunday brunch.
more infoDowntown Regina residents enjoy a broad selection of shops and services at this mall. The more than 90 retailers onsite include The Bay, Sears, Roots, Pandora, lululemon athletica, and many more.
more infoHoused in The Prince Edward Building – a designated heritage site – Regina's Globe Theatre has been producing theatre-in-the-round performances in the Scarth Street facility since 1966. Young thespians will love the Globe Theatre School.
more infoGreat food and great beer – if that combination interests you, head to this downtown brewpub located near the Warehouse District. This award-winning pub has been a local favourite for years, and with good reason.
more infoThis is the largest branch of Regina's nine public libraries. Residents can enjoy a variety of social programs, the Dunlop Art Gallery, or the repertory film theatre. They've even got books.
more infoTry your hand at a table game, slots, or the weekly poker tournament. If you're not a gambler, take in a live show or catch a Riders game with friends in the CPR Lounge.
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