Due to its proximity to Downtown Edmonton and its strong sense of community, it’s no wonder Oliver is such a popular neighbourhood. The real estate market in Oliver is vast, with everything from apartments, infills, single-family homes, duplexes, row houses, and anything in between. If you have been looking for places to live in Edmonton that makes for a family-friendly neighbourhood with easy access to the city, Oliver will definitely have what you’re hoping to find!
History of Oliver
Oliver, one of the older communities in Edmonton, partially surrounds and encompasses the downtown area. Oliver’s development began in the 1880s with the construction of schools, hospitals, churches and other infrastructure. The community was initially known as “West End” until being renamed after citizen and revered politician Frank Oliver* in the 1950s, a time of growth and increased demand for residential development. Over time, Oliver’s proximity to downtown (and its ever-growing supply of jobs) caused a large influx of new arrivals and family homes replaced by apartments. Nowadays, Oliver is a thriving and diverse community still famous for its proximity to the downtown area.
*Edmontonians have been advocating to change the community name due to the historical suffering of BIPOC by Frank Oliver. We encourage you to read this article for more information.
Community Favourites
If you’re looking to put down roots in the Oliver neighbourhood, you will be thrilled to know there are many things happening in the community, which makes it one of the great places to live in Edmonton.
Oliver Community League
Established in 1987 as an offshoot of the West End Community League, the Oliver Community League has worked to improve the quality of life for residents of Oliver through their various programs and committees. Check out their website for more information on events and community league membership.
Peace Garden Park
Peace Garden Park, located on 120 Street, is a community garden and a city park. According to the community leagues website, the garden “provides an opportunity for residents to enjoy the health, social, economic and environmental benefits of local, organic gardening.” The garden creates a sense of camaraderie, and the food grown can serve as a donation to the food bank, giving back to the community. For more information or to get on the wishlist for a garden plot, visit their website.
Oliver Pool
The Oliver Outdoor Pool is a crowd favourite around the neighbourhood! With changerooms, a pool deck with picnic tables, a water slide, and an on-site concession, it remains a great place to spend a summer day with family and friends.
Little Free Libraries
Little Free Libraries is a program established to use the communities old newspaper boxes. Community residents are encouraged to leave old and unwanted books and pick up something new!
Local Schools + Childcare
No matter your or your children’s needs, Oliver has a variety of schools and childcare centres to choose from. Depending on whether you are looking for protestant or catholic, English or French, there is something for everyone!
Daycare
Appleton Childcare Centre
Appleton Childcare Centre is a daycare in the heart of Oliver, available for children from two months up to five years old. “All children should have the opportunity to be active participants in an educational environment, so they can develop their skills and abilities to become equal members of the society.” Click here for their schedule, features, admission requirements, and more information.
Planet Kids Daycare
Planet Kids Daycare is a newly built childcare centre with a fun space theme interior. According to their website, the staff “provides a program that allows for each child to play in situations that will facilitate the unique growth of healthy physical, emotional, cognitive and communication dimensions.”
Kids3daycare
Kids3daycare is devoted to providing high-quality, accessible and affordable daycare for all. The staff at Kids3daycare believe “an adult’s role is to provide a child-centred inviting environment and programming that encourages children to actively explore and engage in many learning opportunities.” They offer a variety of programs for kids of all ages and offer kids nutritional snacks to help foster an understanding of the importance of nutrition.
Kindergarten – Grade 12
Oliver School
Oliver School, one of the oldest schools in Edmonton, teaches grades kindergarten to grade 9. Oliver School is “a safe place where students are encouraged and supported in their drive to reach their greatest potential.”
Holy Child
Holy Child Catholic Elementary School teaches elementary students from kindergarten to grade six. Holy Child offers education through the Catholic philosophy and also provides after-school child care, french immersion, and other notable school programs.
Victoria School
Victoria School of the Arts is focused on combining arts and academics, fostering the idea that students should think critically in their art classes and creatively in their academic ones. Victoria School offers programs in art and design, dance, media, music, and theatre.
Post Secondary
MacEwan University
Oliver is a popular location amongst young adults thanks to its proximity to MacEwan University. Hopping on your bike can you get to school in no time, or public transportation is always available nearby. MacEwan offers a student-centred attitude to learning, evolving to meet your needs.
Local Eats
Are you on the hunt for a nice cup of coffee, a freshly baked treat or a fun and filling meal? Whatever it is, you can find it in Oliver. From the brewery district to the Oliver exchange, this bustling community has no shortage of beloved local businesses.
Doughnut Party
If you’re looking for a special treat for yourself or a gathering with loved ones, Doughnut Party offers scrumptious and fresh doughnuts daily. With their wide variety of doughy treats, you will have trouble reaching for just one. Here is more information about Doughnut Party!
Tokiwa Ramen
Tokiwa Ramen prepares their “soup daily using quality ingredients locally sourced whenever possible.” With their vegetarian menu and dedication to not using artificial flavours, everyone will undoubtedly find something delicious. Tokiwa is such a crowd favourite that people begin lining up outside before they even open to ensure they get a spot for lunch.
Iconoclast Cofee Roasters
With some of the best coffee in the city, whether you’re looking for a fresh cup or some beans to bring home, Iconoclast Coffee Roasters can meet all of your coffee needs! They offer a lovely space where you can do some in good company and with good coffee! Visit their website to learn more about their business.
Brio Bakery
Dedicated to making delicious levain-based bread, Brio Bakery is a favourite among many. A fresh loaf of bread or a carefully crafted pastry makes your visit delicious and worthwhile. For more information on the bakery or to place an order, click here!
Odd Company Brewing
Founded by a group of chemists with a brewing hobby, Odd Company is all about experimentation, with their beers being “equal parts mad science and fine art.” Whether you’re looking for a good drink or a fun snack, you can find it all any day of the week at Odd Company!
Ready to call Oliver home?
If you’re looking for places to live in Edmonton, or are hoping to explore the real estate market in Oliver, you can reach out to us below. Our team would love to help you find a place to call home in one of Edmonton’s favourite neighbourhoods!
