Varsity is a residential neighbourhood in northwest Calgary, established in 1963. It is home to the University of Calgary, founded in 1966, and Market Mall, opened in 1971. The University CTrain station (Red Line) sits within the community, with Dalhousie station nearby.
All Calgary community guides
Guide To Varsity
Parks And River
The community borders the Bow River valley with natural areas and pathways nearby. Neighbourhood parks and playgrounds serve families throughout Varsity.
Main Street
Market Mall at 3625 Shaganappi Trail NW is the main shopping hub, with major retailers and restaurants. University District across from campus adds more dining and shops.
Community Resources
The Varsity Community Association serves the neighbourhood. The University of Calgary, founded in 1966, sits within the community and is one of Canada’s top research universities.
Explore The Area
Market Mall, opened in 1971, is the community’s major shopping destination with 907,207 square feet of retail. The University of Calgary campus brings sports facilities, cultural events and continuing education to the doorstep.
Public Transit
Public Transit (Calgary Transit) does serve the area, as well as cabs/taxis and Uber.
Is there a c-train station?: Yes. University station (Red Line) is within the community; Dalhousie station is nearby.
Main bus route: 65 Market Mall/Downtown West
Outreach/Support
There are some resources in Varsity but make sure you’ve reached out to the Calgary Food Bank first, as well as 211.
Varsity news and updates
City of Calgary newsroom: Varsity
Source: City of Calgary Newsroom
History Of Varsity
Varsity was established in 1963 in northwest Calgary, growing alongside the University of Calgary, which was founded in 1966 on land within the community. The neighbourhood grew up around the university campus.
Market Mall opened on August 4, 1971 at 3625 Shaganappi Trail NW and became one of Calgary's major shopping centres. Today Varsity is a large northwest community served by the University and Dalhousie CTrain stations and the Varsity Community Association.
WikipediaLocal Organizations
Business Improvement Area
Varsity is not part of a business improvement area. Local businesses along the community's commercial streets operate independently.
Varsity Community Association
Varsity is served by the Varsity Community Association.
Ward 1 Councillor
Kim Tyers
Ward 1 Councillor
Elected October 20, 2025
Kim Tyers was elected Ward 1 councillor on October 20, 2025, running with Communities First.
Local Legends
20+ years in business!Market Mall
Opened August 4, 1971 at 3625 Shaganappi Trail NW, with 907,207 square feet of retail space.