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| - River Park is the best/my favorite park in the city.
So much so that I've lived in several crappy rentals just to be within walking distance, and I've labored through the drive almost daily during the years I wasn't nearby.
Reasons I love River Park:
-The view is spectacular regardless of the time of day, and the view of downtown as I walk fills me with a strange sense of pride that I can be in such a great space while also being so close to downtown.
-There is a dedicated contingent of volunteers who fight for the park's well-being, keep baggies stocked (should you forget yours), and who organize formal clean-up days for when people
-There are so many people and pets that it's hard not to look strangers in the eye (or even have a conversation). Although the packedness can be a bit of an obstacle, especially when there are cyclists passing through, I love seeing our public spaces so broadly enjoyed.
-There are bins at either end and in the middle in which you can deposit your...business.
-People smile here. I like smiling.
Drawbacks:
-It's packed. You'll note that above I spin this as a positive, although I'll concede I've also observed some near dog + pedestrian + cyclist incidents. Parking during the height of the summer can also require creativity, but that's a very small proportion of the year.
-As in any public space, some opt not to obey the code - like cleaning up after your pet, keeping control of your pet, or not littering. But these people are the exception rather than the norm, in my experience.
Overall, the best of the best and hands down one of my favorite places in Calgary. My Pug, Schmeebs, even (more or less) approves.
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