17 Avenue SW (Calgary) facts for kids

17 Avenue SW is a very important road that goes from east to west in the southwest part of Calgary, Alberta. It's a busy street that changes a lot as you travel along it.

The eastern part of 17 Avenue SW, especially between the Calgary Stampede Grounds and 14 Street SW, is a lively place. It's full of fun things like restaurants, nightclubs, and shops. This area is so special that it has its own official name: the 17th Ave Retail and Entertainment District. It's a great spot for people to hang out and have a good time.

As you go further west, from 14th Street to Sarcee Trail, the street becomes a mix of homes and businesses. You'll see smaller shopping areas, a retirement home, and bigger commercial buildings near the Westbrook Mall. Even further west, past Sarcee Trail, 17 Avenue SW goes through quieter neighbourhoods with larger properties. You'll also find Rundle College and the Westside Recreation Centre along this stretch. Public transportation is also available, with the C-Train (a light rail system) running along 17 Avenue west of 33 Street SW, along with rapid bus services.

The Famous Red Mile

Typical celebration along the Red Mile

17th Avenue got a special nickname, the "Red Mile", in 2004. This happened when Calgary's NHL team, the Calgary Flames, were playing really well in the playoffs. During those exciting times, it was common to see huge crowds of over 100,000 fans filling the street and its many restaurants and pubs on game nights.

This street has become the main gathering spot for Calgary Flames fans. They often celebrate right in the street, like they did during their last playoff run in 2015. The street also ends near the Stampede Grounds on its east side. This makes it a central and exciting place for all the party-like fun that takes over the city during the famous Calgary Stampede festival.