Our Community Love Letter, Now Illustrated
Thank you to everyone who shared a place or space they love in their community. From river valleys and trail networks to public art, heritage buildings and beloved “third places,” your responses celebrate the everyday spaces that connect us across Alberta, the Northwest Territories, and Nunavut.
Your love letters have now been woven into a fun illustrated map, a snapshot of the places planners care about most. Take a look and see if you can spot your special place!
Places We Love: Community Highlights Across Alberta & the North
A collection of places, spaces, and features that people cherish in their communities—along with the stories that make them meaningful.
Edmonton
McKernan Pocket Park
Every year, the McKernan community comes together to create a unique public space that fosters intergenerational connection, skill-sharing, and beauty. A hidden oasis—especially lively on Thursday evenings.
Downtown
Celebrated for its diversity, culture, urban design, and layered history.
Citywide Park Network
A vast system supporting everything from biking to hiking—and even spaces for puppies.
Forest Heights Trail System
A gathering place for all ages and activities, including a special “Chickadee Corner” filled with birdsong and curiosity.
Sir Wilfred Laurier Park
A vibrant hub with something for everyone: pump tracks, river valley trails, picnic areas, sports fields, and constant community activity.
The French Quarter
A charming, lived-in neighbourhood full of character—tree-lined streets, warm community interactions, local amenities, and connections to Mill Creek Ravine.
Paul Kane Park
A beautiful and welcoming gathering space.
Neighbourhood Third Spaces (e.g., local coffeehouses)
Places to meet neighbours, build connections, and anchor vibrant main streets.
Terwillegar Dog Park
A reclaimed natural space where people and dogs enjoy the North Saskatchewan River Valley.
West Edmonton Mall
An unexpected “third place”—offering variety, comfort, and spaces to gather, explore, and spend time.
Calgary
Bike Network
Enables safe exploration of the city and supports active transportation.
Sunnyside (Calgary)
Back Alley Gallery (#Sunnyside_Garage_Art)
A unique cultural experience where alleys become art galleries, featuring garage door murals, QR-coded tours, and a strong sense of community creativity.
Lethbridge
Henderson Lake
A quiet, friendly park enjoyed for its calm atmosphere and welcoming community.
Okotoks
Sheep River
The heart of the community—used for swimming, fishing, picnicking, and connecting people to nature and downtown.
Red Deer
Trail Network
A high-quality system that even supported athletic excellence—helping one resident achieve a national-level marathon performance.
Waskasoo Park & Trail System
A year-round natural jewel that makes nature accessible within the city.
Leduc
Multiway Trail System
Connects the entire community, making active transportation fun and accessible.
Westlock
Tractor Weather Vane (Canadian Tractor Museum)
A symbol of authentic place-making—celebrating agricultural heritage and strengthening community identity.
Fort McMurray
Snye Park
A peaceful, sensory-rich walking experience—boardwalks, calm water, and the ritual of a warm coffee in the northern air.
Lacombe
Flat Iron Building
A beautifully preserved heritage landmark showcasing history and vitality on Main Street.
Camrose County
Nature Centre
A reclaimed gravel pit transformed into a vibrant park with fishing, scuba diving, playgrounds, and more—a powerful example of land reclamation.
Peace River
Dyke Trail
A key pedestrian corridor connecting the town and river, supporting mobility and access.
Yellowknife
Niven Lake
A remarkable transformation—from former waste site to thriving lake and wetland. Now a year-round community hub with trails, wildlife, and connections to downtown.
Jasper
UPLIFT! Jasper Mural Festival
Set in the Athabasca River Valley, this festival brings art and renewal—especially meaningful after the 2024 wildfire, symbolized by a phoenix rising.
Other Reflections
“Summer nights”
A poetic reminder that sometimes what people love most isn’t a place—but a feeling, a season, or a shared experience.