Top 25 Must-See Attractions in Saskatoon

Saskatoon, situated in the province of Saskatchewan, is often overlooked in guides to Canada. However, it deserves recognition as a notable destination. Visitors to Saskatoon are encouraged to embody two essential attributes: a warm disposition and an open sense of humor, as friendliness and relaxation are hallmarks of this charming locale.

There are several interesting facts about this prairie city: its name derives from an Anglicized Cree term that translates to ‘place of many berries’. On average, Saskatoon experiences only 353mm of annual rainfall and enjoys approximately 2,268 hours of sunshine, making it the sunniest location in Canada. Conversely, it faces harsh winters, with temperatures occasionally plummeting below -45 degrees Celsius, and sweltering summers, where temperatures can rise above 40 degrees. Additionally, Saskatoon has a modest population, around 250,000 inhabitants.

During extreme weather conditions, visitors might wonder how to pass the time. Here is a curated list of 25 activities in Saskatoon.

1. Shop at the Saskatoon Farmer’s Market

For anyone spending time in the prairies, a visit to a farmer’s market is essential. The Saskatoon Farmer’s Market proudly holds the distinction of being the oldest and largest in the province. Generations of farming families have contributed their goods for the enjoyment of visitors over the years. The market has evolved to encompass not just farmers but also artisans, crafters, and specialty food producers. If your schedule allows, visit River Landing on a Wednesday, Saturday, or Sunday during the summer months to savor a delightful lunch while exploring the market along the picturesque Saskatchewan River.

2. Take a Horse Drawn Carriage Ride

What better way to embrace a sunny summer day than by taking a ride in a charming horse-drawn carriage? Enjoy the rhythmic clop of hooves, with scenic river vistas to one side and city views to the other. Several tour options are available, including a downtown tour starting from the historic Bessborough Hotel and a Spadina Crescent tour that showcases the southern perspectives of the Saskatchewan River, among others. The carriage rides typically operate from May through September.

3. Spend the Afternoon at Wanuskewin Park

Saskatchewan holds its aboriginal heritage in high regard, with numerous parks and cultural sites available for exploration. Wanuskewin Park features archaeological sites that predate even the Egyptian pyramids, with evidence of human settlements dating back over 6,000 years, representing some of the best-preserved sites of Pre-Contact existence. The park also offers engaging cultural programs, such as Tipi sleepovers, storytelling sessions, and archaeological discussions.

4. Lunch at the Berry Barn

If you have yet to experience a Saskatoon berry, the Berry Barn is a delightful destination. Situated a short drive from downtown Saskatoon on a 300-acre strawberry and produce farm, the restaurant is known for its delectable offerings. Indulge in exceptional cabbage rolls, mouth-watering Belgian waffles, and, of course, a variety of desserts featuring Saskatoon berries. Additionally, the venue features an art gallery and a gift shop filled with local handicrafts.

5. Acquaint Yourself with the Ghost of the Bessborough Hotel

Canada boasts some of the most exquisite hotels in North America, and there is no better lodging in Saskatoon than the Delta Bessborough. Built in 1935, this historic railway hotel casts its shadow over the South Saskatchewan River, and it possesses an intriguing secret— it is believed to be haunted. Should you venture out of your room at night, remain watchful for an older gentleman clad in a grey suit and fedora wandering the halls.

6. Take a Boat Cruise

Experiencing Saskatoon is most enjoyable from the perspective of the river or its banks. The Prairie Lily has been offering relaxing river cruises for many years, operating from Wednesday through Sunday. This picturesque paddleboat provides a one-hour cruise where passengers can ascend to the upper deck to appreciate the views and breezes while listening to the narrated tales of the river.

7. Mountain Bike in Blackstrap Provincial Park

Located approximately 40 minutes south of the city, Blackstrap Provincial Park is renowned for its notably tall man-made hill. In winter, this hill features several Nordic trails ideal for cross-country skiing. However, for those who prefer milder weather, spring and summer are excellent seasons to explore the extensive mountain biking trails, clearly marked by difficulty levels.

8. Visit Third Avenue United Church

Saskatoon’s Third Avenue United Church, also known as the Cathedral of Methodism, stands as a remarkable example of Gothic architecture. Initially built in 1912, this magnificent structure features life-size Nativity figures, vibrantly colored stained glass windows, and a Casavant pipe organ, inviting individuals to explore its historical significance.

9. Catch a Movie in Friendship Park

As summer rolls into the city, residents of Saskatoon take every opportunity to enjoy the outdoors. Friendship Park, situated in the Meewasin Valley, serves as a popular gathering space for locals. This park, one of the city’s most developed, becomes a vibrant outdoor cinema where dozens of community members spread blankets, enjoy dinner, and watch classic films together.

10. Enjoy Live Music at the Bassment

The vibrant jazz scene in Saskatoon thrives at The Bassment, consistently recognized as one of Canada’s premier jazz venues. Esteemed artists such as Diana Krall, Tara Davidson, and the Joey DeFrancesco Trio have graced this stage. This all-ages venue also hosts an eclectic mix of performances including classical, bluegrass, acoustic, and blues music.

11. Drive through the Enchanted Forest

As the festive season arrives, indulge in the joy of sipping hot chocolate while driving through Saskatoon’s premier winter attraction, the Enchanted Forest. This event runs from mid-November to early January and features 75 unique animated light displays throughout a scenic urban forest. This self-guided tour is perfect for a post-dinner activity, requiring approximately half an hour to appreciate fully.

12. Go on a Geocaching Hunt

Geocaching remains a popular outdoor pursuit, with over 400 hidden caches throughout Saskatoon. For those unfamiliar with this global activity, it involves using GPS devices to locate hidden containers known as ‘caches’. These caches often contain logbooks for visitors to record their findings, and some even offer small treasures!

13. Live Theatre at the Red Barn

Saskatoon boasts a vibrant community of farmers, artisans, and performers. Live theater flourishes throughout the city, but few venues are as unique as the Barn Playhouse. For over 25 years, this venue has transported audiences back to pioneer times while showcasing a mix of performances from Shakespearean plays to community festivals, all held in a charming barn setting.

14. Spend an Evening with the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra

The Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra has evolved since its inception in 1927, offering exceptional performances for music enthusiasts. This experience provides a wonderful opportunity to dress elegantly and relish the brilliant interpretations of renowned composers.

15. Saskatoon Forest Park & Zoo

The Saskatoon Forest Park & Zoo surprises visitors with exhibits featuring species not typically found in the Canadian prairies, such as Chinese red pandas and Madagascar ruffed lemurs. Originally established as a tree nursery over a century ago, it has transformed into an essential ecological site in the province, housing Saskatchewan’s only accredited zoo.

16. Ukrainian Museum of Canada

Established in 1936, the Ukrainian Museum of Canada serves as a tribute to the thousands of Ukrainian families who settled in Saskatchewan. This small yet significant museum effectively chronicles their contributions to the province, featuring numerous artifacts such as clothing, artwork, and personal items donated by Ukrainian families.

17. Saskatchewan Railway Museum

No exploration of Saskatoon is complete without acknowledging its rich railway history. The city developed into a bustling industrial hub largely due to the railroad’s influence. This museum, operated by dedicated volunteers from the Saskatchewan Railroad Historical Association, features an impressive collection of streetcars, locomotives, railcars, and railroad memorabilia. It opens its doors only during the summer months.

20. Sasktel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival

Saskatoon’s music scene flourishes both indoors and outdoors, reflecting the Canadian love for live performances. The Sasktel Jazz Festival is a highly anticipated event, drawing crowds annually. This festival features performances by acclaimed artists such as Wyclef Jean, Erykah Badu, and Hypnotic Brass Ensemble. This event typically takes place in late June and early July.

21. The Potash Corp Fringe Festival

Music and comedy are among Canada’s most cherished forms of entertainment. The Potash Corp Fringe Festival exemplifies this tradition by offering a platform for both established and emerging talent. Originating from an incident in 1947, when eight theatre companies were turned away from the Edinburgh Festival, the Fringe has evolved into a global phenomenon, and Canada now hosts some of the most prominent Fringe Festivals worldwide.

22. Go Shopping in Midtown

Saskatoon offers a diverse shopping landscape, featuring quirky second-hand stores, upscale boutiques, and mainstream fashion retailers. Locals often recommend exploring Broadway or Midtown, with top picks like Turning the Tide, Saskatoon’s foremost independent bookstore, where you’ll likely uncover unique literary treasures.

23. Go Camping in Antelope Lake Regional Park

There exist numerous stunning sites just a few hours away from downtown. Saskatchewan’s commitment to nature preservation makes it essential to venture outside the city for an experience in the province’s picturesque parks. Antelope Lake Regional Park, easily accessible by a short drive, is ideal for family outings. It features a manmade beach, a swimming pond, and a trout pond, along with convenient amenities such as showers, fire pits, and picnic tables.

24. Go Dogsledding!

Experience one of Canada’s most exhilarating outdoor pursuits by going dogsledding in Saskatchewan, where traditional methods are preserved. You won’t encounter small breeds here; rather, these robust dogs are eager to run and pull. Participate in a short day tour where you can learn to mush and drive a team; for those seeking a more formidable challenge, overnight excursions are also available.

25. Catch the Big One

Despite being landlocked, Saskatchewan boasts approximately 100,000 rivers and lakes, offering some of the finest freshwater fishing experiences available. Knowledgeable anglers are well-acquainted with the incredible opportunities that await within the province’s waters, including walleye, lake trout, Arctic grayling, and Northern pike. Whether you prefer ice fishing or fly fishing, there are plentiful outfitters ready to guide you to success, ensuring that you return home with remarkable stories to share.