Your Guide to a Memorable Weekend in Saskatoon: Top Attractions and Hidden Gems

Recently, we had the opportunity to discover the charm of Saskatoon, often referred to as the “Paris of the Prairies.” I’ll admit, I was unsure what I would find. After all, we’ve all heard the jokes about the prairies being nothing but flat land as far as the eye can see. But this vibrant city, nestled in the heart of Canada’s breadbasket, offered a surprising blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication.

With its stunning riverfront and thriving arts scene, there is plenty to do. At the same time, the warm and welcoming hospitality introduced me to the real prairie charm – the people. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, rich cultural exploration, or a simple, relaxing getaway, this city has it all.

This guide will provide you with everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable weekend in Saskatoon. So if you can’t find me…I’m out and about Saskatooning!

This article is now available as a mobile app. Go to GPSmyCity to download the app for GPS-assisted travel directions to the attractions featured in this article.

History of Saskatoon

• The land Saskatoon now stands upon is Treaty Six Territory, the homeland of the Métis. Several indigenous groups, such as the Cree, the Dakota, and the Nakota, inhabited the area.
• In 1882, Saskatoon, as we know it today, was settled as a temperance colony, populated primarily by traders and merchants who benefited from its location near the river.
• The city’s name comes from the Cree word for a local edible red berry: Mis-sask-quah-toomina.
• In 1890, the railway arrived, offering new opportunities to the growing trade hub.
• The University of Saskatchewan was constructed in 1907, attracting a growing number of people to the area and establishing the city’s budding reputation as an educational and cultural center.
• Following the challenges of The Great Depression in the 1930s, the city rebounded with solid growth in several sectors, including energy, mining, and technology.

How to Get to the City

If you’re looking to plan a fun Canadian road trip, the drive to Saskatoon will take approximately 30 hours. While this isn’t the ideal distance to drive all in one shot, it does allow you to visit other great destinations along the way, like Thunder Bay, Ontario, and Winnipeg, Manitoba. It is also a 2 ½ hour drive from Regina if you are planning to visit both Saskatchewan cities.

Public transit is also available, including busing directly to the city or taking Via Rail to Winnipeg before transferring to a bus for the rest of the trip. However, it is a long trip with few opportunities to stretch your legs.I recommend flying from Toronto to Saskatoon John G. Diefenbaker International Airport. Flights with Flair Airlines start as low as $77 one-way.

Accommodations in Saskatoon

There are several nice hotels in Saskatoon, making it easy to find an excellent option for any group. The area also offers an assortment of stunning bed and breakfasts, Airbnbs, campgrounds, and other accommodations. Here are three recommendations from my travels to help you get started:

Alt Hotel Saskatoon

480 2nd Avenue South

Located on the banks of the South Saskatchewan River, the Alt Hotel Saskatoon is a beautiful modern hotel with a waterfront view. If you’re hungry or in need of a late-night snack, Altcetera, the in-house convenience counter, is open 24/7 with snacks, fresh sandwiches, wraps, salads, and other cold meals on the go. Bokeh on the Plaza, the on-site restaurant, has a delicious menu with pasta, pulled beef, spicy pork, and more. Dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options are available.

The rooms were incredibly clean and comfortable, and the checkout times were flexible to accommodate your schedule (based on hotel availability). For those travelling with a furry travel companion, well-behaved pets are welcome with an additional $45 housekeeping fee per stay.

Delta Hotels Bessborough

601 Spadina Crescent E

If you’re looking for an elegant and historic hotel experience, you will quickly fall in love with the architecture and décor at Delta Hotels Bessborough. The hotel offers warm and welcoming rooms, an on-site full-service spa, two dining options, and the iconic Delta Bessborough Gardens, often used to host headline concerts and events.  

The Garden Court Café offers a seasonal menu inspired and crafted from local ingredients, while Stovin’s Lounge creates the perfect spot to relax and grab a drink at the end of the day with your travel companions. Of course, being located downtown, you can also easily spend your evening out enjoying the local cuisine and bar scene before returning to the hotel to turn in for the night.

The James Hotel

620 Spadina Crescent E

Another one of the hotels in Saskatoon that I have stayed at and experienced firsthand is The James Hotel, a boutique hotel conveniently located downtown near the city’s many attractions and events. They were recently featured in Air Canada enRoute’s “Your Guide to Five of Canada’s Best Hotels,” and for good reason! From the friendly staff to the beautiful décor and the hotel’s fascinating history (family-owned since 1935), this is a welcoming and comfortable place to enjoy as your “home base” during your next trip.

In addition to the excellent accommodations, The James Lobby Bar is a perfect place to unwind and enjoy a drink with friends. They have an extensive wine list, cocktail menu, and beer & spirits menu. The food menu features a wide range of options, from quick bar bites to high-end entrees like Short Rib Bordelaise and Filet Mignon.

Fun Things to Do in Saskatoon

If you’re searching for unique and entertaining things to do in Saskatoon, you’re in luck. There is no shortage of events, attractions, and enjoyable destinations. In fact, I would argue the biggest challenge is deciding which local attractions make it onto your itinerary and which must wait for your next visit (a problem I struggled with). Here are a few of my top recommendations for activities and attractions in Saskatoon:

Remai Modern Art Gallery

102 Spadina Crescent East

This beautiful art gallery is a must-see spot for anyone with a love for the arts. The Remai Modern Art Gallery first opened its doors in October 2017. Since then, it has been dedicated to showcasing galleries of various sizes and styles—from paintings and artwork to large glass sculptures and interactive art displays. They even house the world’s largest Picasso linocut collection!

If you’re visiting with children, this is a great opportunity to introduce them to the world of art. I recommend visiting on the weekend, so the whole family can try their hand at the free artmaking activities hosted at the gallery every Sunday between 1 and 4 PM.

Even the building is considered a work of art – designed by renowned Canadian architects KPMB. Their design was so impressive that it received an Award of Excellence from Canadian Architect Magazine in 2012.

Wanuskewin Heritage Park

4 Penner Rd

For those interested in learning about the Indigenous history of Saskatchewan, Wanuskewin Heritage Park is a spot you don’t want to miss. Located on the northern edge of the city, serves as a traditional gathering place and an Interpretive Centre dedicated to over 6,000 years of Northern Plains Indigenous culture.

During your visit, there are many different things to do and experience, including an impressive display of Indigenous Art, Tipi sleepovers, a visitor centre packed with knowledge, and more than 6 km of trails to explore. I suggest viewing the herd of Plains Bison that lives on the property from the raised viewing platform. When you’re finished, pick up a souvenir and support the talented Indigenous creators at the gift shop, where you’ll find clothing, fine art, stone carvings, hand-beaded moccasins, jewellery, and more.

Han Wi Moon Dinner at Wanuskewin Heritage Park  

One of the most memorable experiences during my stay was the Han Wi Moon Dinner. Near dusk, visitors are taken on a 45-minute guided tour around the property, learning about the culture, history, and science of the land on which the park is situated.

You’ll then gather with all the other guests around a campfire before being served an incredible meal by Chef Jenni Lessard. This three-course meal is also an educational opportunity, showcasing seasonal ingredients that can be foraged from the prairies. Finally, you will be invited to watch a cultural presentation and listen to the fascinating stories shared by respected storyteller Dr. Ernie Walker and our host Honey Willow.

Rotary Park  

A beautiful green space with an incredible view overlooking the South Saskatchewan River, Rotary Park is a hub for many activities in the city, including canoeing, kayaking, sportfishing, tennis, and walking trails. The park also features many well-maintained gardens and various memorials.

One impressive sight in Rotary Park is the Peace Prayer Pole, a sculpture designed by local artist Doug Betham. The ground around the sculpture features sponsored memorial bricks. On the pole itself, the powerful message “May Peace Prevail on Earth” is displayed in four languages—English, French, Cree, and Japanese. This is only one of many peace poles located in over 160 countries, representing each location’s dedication to world peace. 

Paddleboarding with Back2Nature Wellness and Events

Of course, with the city being located on the river, it makes sense that one of the more popular activities in Saskatoon is paddling, including canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. While there are many places you can rent a paddleboard and launch it in the river for a relaxing recreational paddle, I had the chance to enjoy a unique paddleboard tour of the area while learning about the vital role this waterway played in the city’s history.

Back2Nature Wellness and Events offers several different stand-up paddle board experiences, from magical Full Moon paddles to educational guided tours. In addition to giving us a knowledgeable tour sharing the ways the Indigenous people used the river throughout history, they also offered lessons and guidance on how to paddle and basic paddle safety. 

The Prairie Lily

When deciding what to do in Saskatoon during my visit, I quickly fell in love with the focus on the river and all it had to offer. So, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to take a cruise down the river through the Meewasin Valley. The Prairie Lily offers dinner, luncheon, and brunch cruises, sightseeing cruises, and feature cruises, like Sailing with a Sommelier or the opportunity to see the Nutrien Fireworks Festival from the water.  

The ship offers a spacious 700-square-foot cabin with air conditioning and heating to keep you comfortable regardless of the temperature outside. The upper deck is covered by a canopy with open seating, allowing you to experience the fresh air and picturesque views.

Shopping on Broadway Ave

If your idea of the perfect day involves visiting all the unique local shops, Broadway Ave is one of the places to visit in Saskatoon. This walkable neighbourhood is home to some of the most charming shops and restaurants I have ever seen. The area also hosts many of the city’s most exciting festivals and events. Before planning your stay, I recommend checking the list of events online to see if anything catches your attention.

Here are a few of the local spots that I recommend visiting:

Hardpressed Print Studio

224 20^th St W

First launched in 2005, Hardpressed Print Studio is a unique clothing company inspired by and celebrating the province of Saskatchewan. It started as a single press in the basement of a Saskatoon townhouse and has now grown into a thriving retail store and apparel company. To this day, their in-house line is designed and printed on-site.

Committed to giving back, a portion of all sales made in their retail store or online is donated to charities throughout the province that support vulnerable communities.

Alt Haus Interior Design

617A Main Street East

Created by the talented and creative power couple Miranda and Jo Van Young, Alt Haus is a one-stop shop for interior design, furniture, art, home goods, accessories, and murals. The couple prides itself on creating a one-of-a-kind store with a curated shop that features exciting and unique pieces from local artists and makers, as well as creative individuals who inspire them from around the world.

They also have a Coffee Haus where you can enjoy a fresh cup of coffee made from in-season beans and elevated with their handcrafted syrups. After all, what could make a shopping experience better than a good cup of coffee?

Whether you’re planning a renovation or redecorating project, or simply want to shop for a new statement piece while supporting local, this is the place! 

Broadway Theatre + Joni Mitchell Plaque

715 Broadway Ave 

Have you ever dreamt of enjoying a show on Broadway but never made the trip to New York? If so, visiting Saskatoon’s Broadway Theatre may be a fun way to enjoy the experience with a bit of prairie charm. The 430-seat theatre hosts various shows and live performances, including theatre, dance, music, and more. While they do sometimes host private events, there are almost always public performances you can enjoy.

The theatre is run by a non-profit, community-based organization called The Friends of the Broadway Theatre. Their mission is to educate, entertain, and inspire the community through the arts while maintaining the federally recognized historic building.

A plaque in front of the building on Broadway Avenue honours Canadian-American music icon and former Saskatoon resident Joni Mitchell. The songstress rose to fame in the 1960s folk music circuit and received many awards throughout her career, including eleven Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. 

Meewasin Valley Authority

Here are a few parks in the area that I enjoyed visiting:

River Landing

Covering over 36 acres, this riverfront park is a popular destination for special events, farmers’ markets, and other community events. River Landing features an amphitheatre, pavilion, riverfront stage, outdoor adult fitness circuit, and water play feature. Whether you’re travelling solo or with the whole family, there is plenty to do and explore.

Friendship Park + Gabriel Dumont Statue

Another park space in the city, Friendship Park, is part of the Meewasin Valley Trail system. It’s a popular place for people to gather, walk, bike, and rollerblade. One special attraction in this park is the Gabriel Dumont Statue, a bronze sculpture depicting the Métis leader on his horse. Dumont is best known as “adjutant general of the Métis people,” leading his small army in the Northwest Resistance in 1885.

Kiwanis Memorial Park

Restaurants in Saskatoon

Every trip requires a little fuel to keep you going. Make sure to plan time between  your many events and activities to visit these restaurants in Saskatoon to indulge in the local culinary scene and give you the energy needed for the rest of your adventures:  

The Night Oven Bakery

216 Avenue D North

This small bakery may not look like much at first glance, but if you’re a fan of hand-crafted bread and baked goods, you don’t want to miss this stop! The Night Oven Bakery prides itself on sourcing organic ingredients, stone-milling locally grown organic grain in-house, and baking using a wood-fired oven.

They have several different types of sourdough breads, pretzels, bagels, croissants, cinnamon buns, cookies, and more. Their dedication to the traditional approach to baking results in mouth-watering baked goods that attract people from all over.

The Little Market Box + Chocolates by Those Girls at the Market

332 20^th Street W

A daily farmers’ market and artisanal shop, The Little Market Box brings together local artisans, farmers, and small business owners in one spot. If you are looking for things to do in Saskatoon that really support the local community, this is a great place to start. I was pleasantly surprised by the wide assortment of options, from the freshest seasonal produce to handcrafted jams and sweets. I challenge anyone to try to leave empty-handed (I couldn’t).

While I was there, I had the opportunity to do a chocolate tasting with Those Girls at the Market, a Saskatoon business dedicated to creating chocolate treats that are organically, ethically, and sustainably sourced. For those with dietary restrictions, their entire range of sweets is vegan-friendly and free from dairy, gluten, nuts, and soy. 

Hometown Diner

210 20^th St W

A modern diner located in Saskatoon’s Riversdale District, this is a great spot for those who are looking for a menu that features fresh, local ingredients—especially those who appreciate all-day breakfast. The Hometown Diner doesn’t accept reservations, but you can add your name to the waitlist online before making your way over.

Chef Cole Dobranski and his team make an incredible dish, regardless of what you order. It was SO good that I went there twice during my recent visit. 

Odd Couple

228 20^th Street West

If you’re a fan of Asian cuisine, you should check out Odd Couple. This family-owned and operated restaurant was established by Andy Yuen, his wife Rachel, and his parents Sam and Jane after they immigrated from Hong Kong in 1996. They wanted to create a space to explore Canadian-Asian dishes, including recreating some of their old favourites, bringing together the unique flavours of the East and West.

Unlike most Asian restaurants, which focus on meals originating in one specific location, Odd Couple does a great job of combining Cantonese, Vietnamese, and Japanese cuisines with popular Canadian dishes in new and fun ways. 

Pique

130 4^th Avenue North

This coffee shop and bakery is a great place to kickstart your morning or grab a quick bite of freshly made bread, pastries, and croissants throughout the day. While I didn’t have a chance to stop in and eat during my visit, I did enjoy a tasty, packed lunch they created while en route to one of my day trips. Pique is owned by husband-and-wife team Tazia and Karan Thakur, the couple that brought to life another popular Saskatoon location – Calories (more on that below).  

Hearth

102 Spadina Crescent E

A newer restaurant in the Saskatoon area, Hearth first opened its doors in 2018. Since then, it has gained an incredible reputation, including being named one of the top 100 restaurants in Canada—and for good reason! The restaurant is located in the Remai Modern Art Gallery, with a menu focused on locally grown and foraged ingredients in a new and creative light. There are many options for those with dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free meals. Many of their standard meals can also be adjusted by request. 

Odla

801 Broadway Avenue

If you’re looking to indulge in truly fresh, locally-grown food, Odla is the ideal solution. The restaurant is a collaboration dreamt up by husband-and-wife Arlie and Brett LaRouche. Their holistically managed farm is the leading supplier to the restaurant, offering a unique farm-to-table experience. The farm itself is operated in such a way that it pays tribute to the traditional (and far simpler) ways of living and farming practiced by the long line of Swedish farmers in Arlie’s family tree.

The restaurant itself is co-owned by sommelier Lacey Sellinger and chef Scott Dicks. The two have beautifully created a menu showcasing the farm’s seasonal ingredients while pairing them with unique wine and cocktail options. Together, the team has created a magical experience that I highly recommend.

Poached Breakfast Bistro

259 2 Avenue South

Another incredible stop for breakfast or brunch, the Poached Breakfast Bistro offers all your favourite breakfast foods, including a selection of eggs benedicts, omelettes, French toast, and more. The restaurant offers a classy aesthetic while still offering the classic breakfast favourites. Word has it that there is always a lineup for this spot, and they don’t accept reservations, so be sure to plan your visit to get there early or be prepared to wait… but rest assured, it’s well worth the wait! 

Shelter Brewing Company

252 2 Avenue South

Craft beer lovers will be happy to know that Shelter Brewing Company offers a wide assortment of beer styles to purchase to-go or enjoy while kicking back in their taproom or patio. The nano brewery focuses on small-batch, high-quality beers, so you can expect to see new options with each visit. If you’re looking for a beer and a bite to eat, Dylan & Cam’s operates a small taqueria inside the brewery, serving tacos, burritos, nachos, and more. The two pair beautifully, providing the perfect place to relax for an afternoon or fuel up after a day of exploring the area. 

Cathedral Social Hall

608 Spadina Crescent East

Dedicated to highlighting Saskatchewan’s craft beer scene, Cathedral Social Hall is another excellent place to enjoy dinner and a cold beer. The popular beer hall has 30 beers on tap at any time, rotating between the many incredible beers brewed in the province, as well as cocktail, wine, and non-alcoholic drink options. The pub-style menu has all the best foods to pair with a cold one, including burgers, pizza, nachos, and more. Plan your visit for Hall Happy Hour (Monday to Friday, 3 PM to 6 PM) to enjoy deals on both food and drinks. 

Calories

721 Broadway Ave

Owned by the same couple as Pique, Calories has a long history in Saskatoon, first opening its doors in 1986. The coffee shop and restaurant were built on two pillars—real ingredients and flavours. This dedication has stood the test of time, continuing to attract visitors from all over today. Here, you’ll find a high-end dining experience with incredible attention to detail.

All the soups, stocks, and sauces used are made from real, raw ingredients with no additives, a promise that has also been carried forward to many other aspects of the restaurant. As a result, they confidently state that they can accommodate allergies and dietary restrictions with unmatched certainty as they have the highest possible control over every ingredient. They are also the first non-smoking restaurant in Saskatoon, laying the foundation for those that have followed. 

Day Trips from Saskatoon

In addition to the many events in Saskatoon, the city is conveniently located near some incredible day trip spots. From exploring the local natural beauty to learning more about the history of the area, these are the day trips I recommend considering during your trip:  

Shiloh Baptist Church in Maidstone

This small building may not look like much at first glance, but it has an incredible role in the history of the African American pioneer community. The Shiloh Baptist Church was first built in 1911 to support the Shiloh People, as they are now remembered. The colony was founded by a group of 10 to 12 families, led by Julius Casar Lane and Joseph Mayes after the government in the state of Oklahoma passed discriminatory legislation forcing them to look for a better future. The colony and those living in the surrounding area grew to approximately 50-75 families in the late 1920s.

Today, the church and the Shiloh Baptist Cemetery are maintained by the Shiloh Baptist Church and Cemetery Restoration Society, spearheaded by descendants of those original families. A bronze plaque shares important information about the area’s history and names 39 men, women, and children buried in the cemetery. Members of the Saskatchewan Genealogical Society continue to research, learn, and share more about this vital part of the province’s history today. 

Batoche National Historic Site

This must-see stop for history buffs and those interested in the lives of the 19^th century Métis settlers. At this location, Louis Riel took his last stand in the Battle of Batoche, the final major battle in the North-West Resistance. In total, it is claimed that the Métis lost 51 soldiers with another 173 wounded, ending the uprising and collapsing the provisional government they had formed. On May 15^th, 1885, Riel surrendered.

Today, the Batoche National Historic Site offers guided tours, demonstrations, and school programs to educate visitors about the Métis lifestyle. Skilled interpreters and demonstrators share weekend workshops showcasing the Métis culture, art, skills, and crafts. It’s also a beautiful outdoor location to explore, with walking paths, hiking trails, birdwatching, picnic areas, and waterways for canoeing. 

Manitou Lake

A beautiful little lake located in central Saskatchewan, Manitou Lake is credited with having healing mineral waters, attracting many interested in learning about its natural benefits. It is a salt lake that offers no fish (sorry to those looking to do some fishing), but this creates an unusual feeling of buoyancy for those who do try swimming in the area. There is a beautiful beach where you can cool off on a hot summer day or relax with the family for a picnic.

Alternatively, the village offers art galleries and one-of-a-kind shops to explore if you want to do more in the area. Big Manitou Regional Park has a nine-hole golf course, horseshoe pits, ball diamonds, and a children’s playground.

In addition to its healing waters, the spot provides many opportunities for outdoor lovers to enjoy the area’s natural beauty, including hiking trails that lead up into the hills. Locals say the lookouts here offer the most spectacular sunsets and views of the northern lights (when they are visible). 

Blackstrap Provincial Park

Just a 35-minute drive from Saskatoon, Blackstrap Provincial Park is a nature lover’s paradise. Located on the side of Mount Blackstrap, the park offers many outdoor activities and adventures for visitors of all ages, including a beautiful beach and stunning trails. The boat launch on the lake’s east side is a popular spot for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, water skiing, and windsurfing.

The main attraction is the park’s namesake, a 45-metre manmade mountain that stands tall in the otherwise flat prairie province. Needless to say, it stands out from a distance!

If you are interested in a longer getaway (a day or two instead of just a day trip), Blackstrap Provincial Park also offers various camping opportunities for those of different skill levels and preferences, including fully-serviced and non-electric campsites, Camp-Easy Yurts, and luxury glamping domes. This will give you even more time to enjoy the many activities and attractions in the park. 

Enjoy an Unforgettable Weekend in Saskatoon

With its vibrant spirit and natural beauty, Saskatoon offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. During my recent visit, I enjoyed exploring the city’s rich history (including the area’s Indigenous roots), embracing the area’s vibrant cultural and arts scene, and immersing myself in the great outdoors. I say it often in my guides, but there really IS something for everyone here!With this guide as your starting point, I hope you feel well-prepared to plan an epic weekend in Saskatoon and make lasting memories exploring the Paris of the Prairies!