Located in the province of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon acquired its identify from the Saskatoon Berry, a wild berry that grows in the area. Nicknamed “The Paris of the Prairies”, Saskatoon is also referred to as the “City of Bridges” thanks to its 8 bridges that span the South Saskatchewan River.
This metropolis gives experiences as various as its seasons. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie keen to savor farm-to-table freshness, or an adventurer in search of thrilling actions, Saskatoon has one thing in retailer for everybody. From its bustling downtown alive with the humanities, eateries, and boutique shops, to its peaceable riverfront that beckons with wide-open areas and delightful trails, Saskatoon captivates with its attraction and heat.
Top issues to do in Saskatoon
In this information, we’ve curated the highest 23 issues to do in Saskatoon, every promising a novel perspective of this prairie metropolis. Let’s uncover the must-visit spots, delve into mouthwatering culinary delights, and embark on thrilling outside adventures that make Saskatoon actually value a go to. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a returning customer, these experiences will depart you with lasting reminiscences and a deeper appreciation of Saskatoon’s spirited coronary heart.
Let’s take a look collectively at 23 issues to do in Saskatoon in totally different classes – outside actions, museums, meals, and music festivals!
1. Wanuskewin Heritage Park
Wanuskewin Heritage Park may be discovered about 3 km north of Saskatoon. The proposed UNESCO World Heritage Site acquired the identify of the park comes from a Cree phrase which means “living together in harmony,” and it’s a image and a reminder of the connection with nature and the ancestors dwelling in the realm in the previous. The park exhibits what life was like for the First Nations Peoples who lived as nomadic hunter-gatherers
This park in Saskatoon is house to necessary archeological discoveries that may be dated to over 6000 years in the past courting again to earlier than the Pyramids of Giza. With a novel design, fascinating rooms, and artwork exhibitions, Wanuskewin Heritage Park is a must-see when visiting this a part of Canada.
Fancy some Saskatoon berries and Muskeg tea? How about bannock or bison? At the restaurant, you’ll be able to select from a various menu of conventional meals from the Indigenous communities. See extra data right here.
2. Saskatoon Forestry Farm & Zoo
The forestry farm and the zoo in Saskatoon SK is without doubt one of the Saskatoon sights that enchantment to all ages. Here, you’ll uncover wonderful gardens in addition to heritage buildings, not to point out all kinds of species which are native to western Canada.
This is a spot the place historical past, flora, and fauna come collectively to inform a tremendous story in regards to the province of Saskatchewan and the town of Saskatoon in explicit and Canada in normal. The Saskatoon Zoo Society is a non-profit, charity devoted to fostering respect for nature via schooling.
3. Meewasin Valley Trail Saskatoon
On either side of the South Saskatchewan River stretching for over 80 km, we now have the Meewasin Trail. Winding via the town, shut to many of the main touristic sights and necessary historic locations, this path is a part of the Trans Canada Trail.
Known for its breathtaking pure magnificence, the Meewasin Valley Trail gives top-of-the-line outside experiences in Saskatoon. Not solely does the path supply gorgeous pure magnificence, nevertheless it additionally offers entry to a number of factors of curiosity, together with the Beaver Creek Conservation Area, the Saskatoon Natural Grasslands, and the Prairie Lily Riverboat. The Meewasin Valley Trail fantastically captures the guts of Saskatoon’s pure attraction and is a must-visit for outside fanatics and nature lovers alike.
When visiting Saskatoon plan not less than just a few hours in this space; there are many enjoyable issues to do right here, comparable to using bikes and discovering climbing trails or strolling trails. Adults and kids alike will benefit from the day trip and the number of actions accessible.
4. Remai Modern Museum
With views over the South Saskatchewan River, the Remai Modern Museum accommodates 406 items of Pablo Picasso’s linocuts amongst its 11 gallery areas. And it is a everlasting assortment that you could go to anytime, throughout the museum’s opening hours. Plan your go to right here.
The constructing housing the museum was opened to the general public in 2017 and honored Frank Lloyd Wright’s prairie model. In the atrium, you’ll discover the fireside and an intriguing set up that includes hanging cubes. Haegue Yang is the artist behind this attention-grabbing murals, and the set up was crafted from Venetian blinds, so it’s one thing to uncover and speak about once you get again house.
Fred Mendel’s personal artwork assortment was moved from the Mendel Art Gallery to the Remai Modern Museum. This artwork gallery is without doubt one of the most outstanding vacationer sights in Saskatoon and needs to be on prime of the listing for individuals who journey in the province.
5. Check out downtown Saskatoon
If you’re visiting Saskatoon for the primary time, a leisurely stroll round downtown is a should. Immerse your self in the colourful ambiance of Saskatoon’s metropolis middle, identified for its gorgeous river views, charming boutique retailers, and eclectic vary of eating places. Downtown Saskatoon is compact but various, serving as the town’s enterprise hub whereas concurrently showcasing its wealthy cultural heritage.
Stroll alongside the attractive River Landing, go to the Remai Modern artwork museum or take a historic strolling tour to be taught in regards to the metropolis’s previous. Don’t neglect to take a look at Broadway Avenue, the place you’ll discover a mixture of classic and trendy purchasing choices, and twentieth Street, the guts of the Riversdale neighborhood, teeming with vibrant murals, stylish espresso retailers, and native artisan shops.
6. Canoe the South Saskatchewan River
For an unforgettable water-based journey, attempt canoeing down the South Saskatchewan River. This is a novel method to see Saskatoon, providing you with a distinct perspective of the town and surrounding areas. The calm waters make it an appropriate exercise for canoeists of all expertise ranges.
Outfitters in Saskatoon can equip you with all the required gear, and even present guided excursions if desired. As you glide down the river, you’ll possible catch sight of varied wildlife, from birds to beavers, additional enhancing this immersive outside expertise. Remember to take a second to merely float and soak in the breathtaking Prairie vistas.
7. Prince Albert National Park
Just two hours north of Saskatoon lies the extraordinary Prince Albert National Park. This huge expanse of wilderness is famend for its pristine lakes, dense forests, and considerable wildlife, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Here, you’ll have the chance to interact in numerous outside actions comparable to climbing, fishing, boating, and tenting.
The park additionally holds historic significance as the house of Grey Owl’s Cabin, a tribute to the British-born conservationist who lived there in the Thirties. Exploring the various ecosystems, you’ll encounter quite a lot of wildlife from white pelicans and elk to the long-lasting plains bison. A go to to Prince Albert National Park is actually a journey into the guts of Canada’s wilderness, offering a memorable and invigorating expertise for all ages.
8. Cross Country Skiing
If you’re visiting Saskatoon in the winter, don’t miss out on the possibility to go cross-country snowboarding. This common winter sport is an effective way to discover Saskatoon’s scenic outside whereas getting a exercise. There are a number of trails across the metropolis appropriate for cross-country snowboarding, together with these in Kinsmen Park and Holiday Park.
The trails supply various ranges of issue, making it an exercise that everybody from freshmen to skilled skiers can take pleasure in. Equipment leases are available for those who don’t have your individual gear. The tranquil silence of the snowy panorama, interrupted solely by the crunch of your skis, is a refreshing winter expertise you received’t quickly neglect.
9. Berry Barn
The Berry Barn is a pleasant nation eatery nestled in a serene riverside setting. Famous for its scrumptious home-style meals, the Berry Barn is a must-visit for foodies. The charming, rustic ambiance is complemented by the attractive environment, that includes verdant orchards and a flowering backyard.
It’s not simply in regards to the meals on the Berry Barn, although. This common Saskatoon attraction is thought for its berry manufacturing, notably saskatoon berries, which you’ll be able to decide your self throughout the summer season months making it a success with Saskatoon residents as nicely. Whether you’re having fun with a hearty breakfast, a slice of their famed berry pie, or just soaking in the idyllic views, the Berry Barn gives a novel and unforgettable eating expertise.
10. attempt the gin at Black Fox Farm and Distillery
If you’re a lover of spirits, a go to to Black Fox Farm and Distillery is a should. This award-winning distillery is famend for its high-quality, flavorful gin produced with substances grown proper on the farm. They have a spread of gins that includes totally different flavors, every with its personal distinctive character, from their basic dry gin to these infused with flavors like cucumber or haskap berries.
The distillery gives informative excursions the place you’ll be able to be taught in regards to the distillation course of, from seed to sip. You’ll achieve perception into how the farm-grown substances are reworked into the scrumptious spirits they promote. After the tour, you’ll be able to pattern their merchandise in the tasting room. Buying a bottle to take house is an effective way to bear in mind your Saskatoon journey.
11. Persephone Theatre
Do you want reside theatre? Persephone Theatre in Saskatoon has been providing reside theater performances for nearly half a century now. Persephone Theatre is without doubt one of the largest regional theatre firms in Saskatchewan. During a daily season, you’ll be able to see performances on two phases, the Rawlco Radio Hall has 400 seats, whereas the Backstage Stage studio is a smaller corridor with solely 100 seats. You’ll simply discover Persephone Theatre as it’s positioned shut to the town middle, in the Remai Arts Center.
12. Go mountain biking in Blackstrap Provincial Park
Just a brief drive from Saskatoon, Blackstrap Provincial Park gives thrilling mountain biking trails. Known for its man-made mountain, the park has trails appropriate for all ranges of expertise, from newbie loops to more difficult climbs and descents for skilled riders.
Beyond the joy of the paths, you’ll be handled to gorgeous views of Blackstrap Lake and the encompassing prairie panorama. Bike leases can be found on the park, making it straightforward for everybody to take pleasure in this exhilarating exercise. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or simply trying to take pleasure in a leisurely experience amidst lovely environment, mountain biking in Blackstrap Provincial Park guarantees an pleasurable outing.
13. Ukrainian Museum in Canada
As the identify suggests, this museum honors the colonists that got here right here from Ukraine, Europe, and contributed to the event of the nation. The Ukrainian Museum is without doubt one of the not-to-miss actions in Saskatoon. Here you’ll find attention-grabbing artifacts (art work, clothes, and so forth.) donated by Ukrainian households. And there’s a reward store to seize a memento of your time there.
14. Hot air balloon
For a really distinctive and unforgettable expertise, think about a sizzling air balloon experience over Saskatoon. There’s nothing fairly like the sensation of floating gently in the sky, watching the town and the gorgeous Saskatchewan panorama unfold beneath you.
You’ll have the chance to discover Saskatoon from an entire new perspective, taking in views of the cityscape, the winding South Saskatchewan River, and the expansive prairies past. Hot air ballooning is a serene, nearly magical expertise, making it an ideal exercise for an important day or just to make your go to to Saskatoon actually unforgettable.
15. Saskatoon Western Development Museum
Are you up to yet another journey to a museum? This time it’s the Saskatoon Western Development Museum, a kind of locations the place you’ll really feel such as you’ve traveled again in time. Here you’ll be able to take a look at 1910 Boomtown, a illustration of the city again in 1910.
Saskatoon was thriving due to the railway and this museum traces its railway roots. With over 30 buildings capturing the ambiance and elegance of the time, this museum ought to undoubtedly be amongst your journeys and actions deliberate in Saskatoon. Interesting shows embrace the Royal Northwest Mounted Police jail, a 1911 electrical automobile on boomtown avenue and images from the period. Check out extra right here.
16. Cameco Meewasin Skating Rink
Are you prepared for some skating in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan? Then you are able to do this in Cameco Meewasin Skating Rink. The locals would let you know that it is a must-do throughout your journey to this a part of western Canada.
And the place of the Meewasin Rink is nice too, simply alongside the South Saskatchewan River, shut to an iconic, historic lodge – The Delta Hotels Bessborough. As at all times, when taking a visit, examine the climate circumstances earlier than planning. Here you’ll find official updates in regards to the Meewasin Skating Rink. Provided the climate permits it, you’ll be able to take pleasure in hours of contemporary air skating.
17. Diefenbaker Canada Centre
Located in the University of Saskatchewan campus, Diefenbaker Canada Center is the one middle of this type in the area. The middle is house to an archive and a museum devoted to the life and work of Canada’s prime minister, so it’s a kind of locations undoubtedly value a visit. It consists of replicas of the Prime Minister’s workplace and Privy counsels Chambers
While you’re in the realm, take a look at 1020 Spadina Crescent East, a heritage constructing, built-in 1912.
18. University of Saskatchewan
Did you think about that one of many prime sights in Saskatoon could be a visit to the University of Saskatchewan? Well, when in Saskatoon plan to spend an hour or two right here because the college campus might be some of the vibrant locations in the area. More than this, the Peter Mackinnon Building is a nationwide historic website. Boasting river views, the University of Saskatchewan campus is taken into account among the many most lovely campuses in Canada.
19. Beaver Creek Conservation Area
This is a path exterior the town, however simply reachable. It’s a beautiful place for those who like climbing and strolling trails whereas admiring the wildlife. Make certain to carry a digicam, you’ll need to take loads of images! The trails are marked and have totally different colour codes, so that you received’t get misplaced. The views are spectacular and you may select to do an extended or shorter hike, the quick ones take not than 20 minutes.
20. Sasktel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival
Did you already know that Sasktel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival attracts greater than 80,000 individuals annually? This makes it one of many largest music festivals in Western Canada! You can jump-start the summer season enjoyable and music extravaganza in the most effective place ever! You may also take pleasure in the most effective of what the area has to supply throughout the ten-day pageant held on the finish of June. And you don’t have to fear, even for those who’re not a giant fan of jazz, the pageant truly caters to all music lovers! Make certain to ebook your lodging nicely in advance, there are many individuals coming right here annually throughout the pageant.
21. Prairie Lily Riverboat Cruise Saskatoon
Are you visiting Saskatoon with your beloved? Or perhaps you’re simply on the lookout for some of the romantic actions to do whereas in the realm? A river cruise looks as if the proper reply then! A romantic cruise on a Prairie Lily Riverboat to take pleasure in very good metropolis views and relaxation for some time is simply one other factor you are able to do to get to know the town and what it has to supply higher.
22. Saskatoon Farmers Market
One of probably the most sought-after actions and one of many journeys you shouldn’t miss when here’s a go to to the Saskatoon Farmers Market. The Farmers Market is hosted in the Riversdale and River touchdown neighborhoods on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. With indoor and outside facilities, the Farmers Market provides you a novel alternative to pattern the most effective meals produced domestically. Have a light-weight dinner on Friday night and head to the marketplace for a fast, scrumptious breakfast on a Saturday morning.
23. Taste of Saskatchewan Festival
Welcome to a gourmand’s fantasy! Thirty of the most effective eating places in Saskatoon supply their best dishes throughout a six-day pageant held in Kiwanis Park on the river’s west financial institution. As we’ve talked about earlier than, the meals scene in Saskatoon is vigorous as it’s, however in mid-July, issues do get much more heated throughout the pageant. You can take a look at extra particulars in regards to the pageant right here.
Things to do in Saskatoon FAQ
Is Saskatoon value visiting?
Absolutely! Saskatoon gives a various array of sights for all sorts of vacationers. From its vibrant downtown and luxurious inexperienced areas to its wealthy cultural heritage and distinctive culinary scene, Saskatoon is a metropolis that actually has one thing for everybody.
What is Saskatoon most identified for?
Saskatoon is thought for its lovely riverfront, dynamic cultural scene, and pleasant, welcoming vibe. It’s additionally well-known for its festivals, just like the Saskatoon Jazz Festival, and landmarks just like the Delta Bessborough Hotel and the University of Saskatchewan.
What is an attention-grabbing reality about Saskatoon?
One attention-grabbing reality about Saskatoon is that it’s named after the Saskatoon berry, a candy, violet-colored berry native to the realm. The metropolis is typically referred to as “Paris of the Prairies” for its charming riverfront and quite a few bridges.
We hope you’ve loved this journey via a number of the greatest experiences Saskatoon has to supply. The metropolis’s mix of nature, tradition, and journey makes it a really outstanding vacation spot. See you in Saskatoon!
Final phrases about your journey to Saskatoon
Saskatoon can give you all this and way more. The metropolis parks, the Beaver Creek Conservation Area, the river views, and the journeys in the realm are simply a number of the causes behind Saskatoon’s recognition. It’s a spot like no different that many are completely satisfied to name house!