~Amenities in Grande Prairie Part 1~

One thing I appreciate about Grande Prairie is the amenities that they have that make life more enjoyable and bearable given we are so remote.  The city owns many great facilities that will prevent you from being bored living here.  Here is an overview of some of the amenities available, more will come in future posts.

The Montrose Cultural Centre which includes the Grande Prairie Public Library, The Prairie Art Gallery and the Teresa Sargent Hall. Esquire's Coffee is located inside as well where you will be served up a local cup of your caffeinated (or decaf if you go that way) beverage and a variety of sweets and savory treats to satisfy your craving.  A bright and inviting seating area indoors and a relaxing outdoor seating area are a great place to enjoy a fresh book and a cup of joe.

I very much enjoy this facilily, the Public library is top notch with a children's library area on the top floor, half for youth, half for younger children.  The main floor is complete with computers with internet access, reference books, fiction books, magazines, a study room, classroom, a fireplace seating area, and many comfortable chairs and study areas throughout.  The staff are top notch and they run great programs for all age groups.

The Prairie Art Gallery is a home to the largest public art collection in the Peace Region.  It is FREE for anyone to go and check out both the permanent and traveling exhibitions that are on display.  They have self guided tours available for groups as well. 

Knowledge Campus:
Is a multi-funciton campus that includes The Eastlink Centre, The Coca Cola Centre, The Gymniks Gymnastics Club and the St Joseph High School.  Presently a Public High school is being built as well, opening 2014 or 2015.  

The Eastlink Centre is a fabulous facility that I will most definitely expand on in another post.  It is a barrier free facility that provides a mix of aquatics and field sports activities that can accommodate every type of athlete.  There is something for the whole family here to provide an active, fun time.  The Eastlink Centre also houses Wannawafel, Second Cup, Titos Bistro, Ernies Sports Experts, Jugo Juice, Ready, Set Dance and Ultimate Health covering every aspect of health and wellness.  Our family is at The Eastlink Centre on average 3 times a week.  It really is a premier facility.

The Coca Cola Centre is home to two national league sized ice rinks with spectator seating.  They have drop in shinny and hockey nights as well as seasonal camps available.  Figure Skating, Speed Skating, Hockey games all take place here.

The Gymniks Gymnastics Club conducts classes for pre-schoolers through adults in both fun and competitive avenues.   It can be very difficult to get registered however as it is a very sought after club.


The Crystal Centre
Is home to the Grande Prairie Storm, our Junior League Hockey Team and a Events Center that boast great entertainment and sports venues throughout the year for the whole family.  Sir Elton John even played here last year!

Dave Barr Community Centre
This community centre offers skating and hockey in the winter months and ball hockey and lacrosse in the summer.  There is also a preschool program, and kids camps that run here regularly. 

Grande Prairie Museum
Located in Muskoskeepi Park it tells the story of Grande Prairie's heritage and culture through exhibitions and displays.  They also offer educational programs and tours on a regular basis.  One of my favorite events that is held at the museum is the Maple Sugar festival in the spring.  There are many family friendly and educational things to do!

Muskoskeepi Park
This park is in the heart of Grande Prairie and covers approx 1100 acres.  It has many specific use areas throughout the park that keep it hopping all year long.  Some things you will find here are mini golf, a splash park, BMX bike area, walking trails, lawn bowling, a stocked fishing pond, ice skating in winter, snowshoes, and 'Thrill Hill' toboggan hill.  Bear Creek Outdoor pool is also here however it is closed this year (2013) for upgrades and repairs. 

There are unlimited opportunities for fun at the park.  The Park Pavillion, in the heart of the park, also offers various concerts, events, classes, camps and activities throughout the year.  Some highlights are The Easter Eggstravaganza, Canada Day celebrations and Winterlude Family Day. 

 The Park Pavillion in the heart of the park

A beautiful fall view of Bear Creek for which the park is named.  'Muskoskeepi' is a Cree Word meaning Bear. 

I think its clear that Grande Prairie's amenities are geared towards an active, cultural lifestyle;  probably not what you would expect from a remote Northern community!  The city does a great job of providing a place for families to live and grow and have fun.  They are constantly hosting events that are usually free or low cost to participate in.