Explore Fort Saskatchewan!
February 03, 2021
It’s a little bit country, and it’s a little bit rock and roll! Fort Saskatchewan has certainly grown into a thriving, bustling city, but still retains a lot of the pioneering spirit it was founded on.
The city – lovingly known to locals as just The Fort – has become popular for its flock of sheep that it has used for turf control for nearly three decades now. They can be seen roaming the downtown and river valley keeping the grass trim and giving the city just 30 kilometres northeast of Edmonton a warm, friendly feel.
Fort Saskatchewan’s population of nearly 27,000 people in 2019 is a 2.3 per cent increase from just the year before, and its rapid growth has necessitated the City in annexing 952 hectares of land from neighbouring Strathcona County just last year.
Despite the growth, there is a quaint, relaxed lifestyle that can be found here, but there is also an electric liveliness that residents also get to enjoy. The historic Shell Theatre in the downtown provides the setting for exciting live performances, the thriving Chamber of Commerce Farmers’ Market in the summer months attracts visitors from far and wide, and the Fort Heritage Precinct celebrates the pioneer city’s distinct culture and history.
Progress is evident everywhere in the city, most especially in the new communities that are being developed providing a wide array of housing options. Qualico Communities Edmonton are developing Forest Ridge and Sienna, while Landrex offer Windsor Pointe and WestPark.
Forest Ridge in WestPark offers natural green spaces, playgrounds, lush parks and scenic walking paths. While Sienna residents enjoy a peaceful setting complete with parks, trails, a playground and a beautiful pond.
In the southwest corner of Fort Saskatchewan lies Windsor Pointe, a unique community where “home” includes the great outdoors. WestPark is Fort Saskatchewan’s most popular family neighbourhood. This master-planned community features premium lifestyle amenities and community appointments that enhance home values and owner satisfaction.
But why will people want to live in Fort Saskatchewan? Well, for one thing, there is no shortage of amenities, including boutique shops, delicious diners and various points of interests that make it a great place to live. Here are a few, as we Explore Fort Saskatchewan.
Discover
River Valley
www.fortsask.ca
Founded on the south bank of the North Saskatchewan river, it is no wonder that the River Valley remains a big part of life here and a major source of pride in the community. In a 2017 survey of more than 2300 residents, the river valley trails ranked second as what part of Fort Saskatchewan respondents were most proud of. A close-knit, friendly community was first! The extensive trail system spans 19 kilometres and includes trails perfect for cycling, walking or jogging.
Dine
Bear’s Den
9923 102 Street, Fort Saskatchewan
Bearsdensportsbar.com
The popular sports bar is closed for dine-in right now due to the pandemic lockdown, but pick-up and delivery orders are still available for their delicious bar chow that includes a gluten-free menu. They are the biggest sports bar in the Fort and able to seat 340 people. It offers many amenities including 28 HD TVs with great surround sound, upstairs lounge with sectional leather couches, pool tables, VLT’s, games. They can’t wait to welcome everyone again.
Shop
Tarts n Tiques
Eastgate Plaza, 8818-111 Street,
Fort Saskatchewan
Or find them on Facebook
Just over a year since it opened in Dec 11, 2019, this local boutique shop has become a popular shopping destination. “I have 53 local vendors, some antiques plus I order product in from Canadian companies,” says owner Cindy Graham. “I have always been a true believer of supporting local and feel blessed that I am able to showcase all of the local talent
we have in our area!”
About Pepper Rodriguez
Pepper Rodriguez is a writer, editor of New Home + Condo Guide's Calgary and Edmonton editions.