By: Angela (Level 4 Biomedical Discovery and Commercialization; First Year Experience Program Assistant)
Getting to Locke Street
Reaching Locke Street from the main campus is a breeze. Simply hop on the 1, 5, or 51 bus heading eastbound from any campus bus stop. The bus ride takes approximately 20 minutes. Get off at Main and Pearl St, and from there, it’s a short walk to the Locke Street South shopping district. Head west on Main Street and turn south on Locke Street, and you’re all set to begin your adventure.
First Impressions: Concrete Poetry
178 Locke St S (near The Burnt Tongue)
As you walk from Main Street, Locke Street immediately showcases its unique charm. One of the standout features is Concrete Poetry, an art installation by Simon Frank. Originally installed in 2011 and reinstalled in various areas in 2019 after construction, this poetic journey begins at 178 Locke St S, near The Burnt Tongue. Stroll south on the west sidewalk to Herkimer Street and then north on the east sidewalk to read the entire poem, guiding you through a series of delightful shops.
Unique Shops and Local Treasures
The Local Life: 218 Locke St S, Lulu & Lavigne: 228 Locke St S, Epic Books: 226 Locke St S
Locke Street is a haven for shoppers looking for unique gifts and local treasures. The Local Life is perfect for locally crafted gifts, while Lulu and Lavigne offer charming home decor, gift cards, and adorable plushies. Epic Books is a must-visit for book lovers searching for their next great read.
Delicious Eats: West Town Bar and Grill
214 Locke St S
When hunger strikes, West Town Bar and Grill is the place to go. Their omelets, French toast, and Joe’s Big Breakfast are delicious, filling, and affordable.
Sweet Treats: Donut Monster
246 Locke St S
For a sweet treat, Donut Monster is a must-visit, offering unique donuts, coffees, lattes, and other drinks. With free Wi-Fi, it’s also a great spot to take a study break with your laptop.
Creative Fun: Play with Clay
198 Locke St S
One of the highlights of the day is a visit to Play with Clay, where pottery painting is a relaxing and creative activity. Prices range from approximately $16 to $40, depending on the size and design of the clay piece. Play with Clay only takes walk-ins for pottery painting. They also offer pottery-making and painting sessions for those interested in diving deeper into their artistic side.
Cozy Cafe: Democracy
202 Locke St S
Afterwards, head to Democracy for hot matcha lattes and a cozy study session. The atmosphere is perfect for unwinding with a warm drink and getting some work done.
Exploring Unique Boutiques: The Witches Fix + Nest
The Witch’s Fix: 195 Locke St S, Nest: 171 Locke St S
Locke Street is home to unique boutiques like The Witches Fix, offering a variety of stones, bracelets, and more. The Nest sells pet toys, handcrafted home decor, enamel pins, and plushies, ensuring you find something special for everyone.
A Sweet Ending: Gelato AMO Café
171 Locke St S
End your Locke Street adventure on a sweet note at Gelato AMO Café. Their gelato is the perfect way to wrap up a day of exploration and enjoyment.
Returning to Campus
When it’s time to head back to campus, continue walking north on Locke Street, past Main Street, to King Street. From the King & Strathcona bus stop, you can catch the 1, 5, or 51 bus back to campus, concluding a perfect day on Locke Street and I hope you had so much fun at Locke St even if you just do a few activities!
Remember to stay safe by keeping an eye on your belongings and being aware of your surroundings as you explore! Click this link for more information about personal safety.
Ok byeeee!!! <3
From: The First-Year Experience Team