Straddling the South Saskatchewan River, Saskatoon is the “city of bridges” and features tree-lined streets amid green spaces, leafy parks and diverse wildlife. Soak up the city’s culture at specialty museums, galleries and a heritage park highlighting its indigenous past.
Things to do in Saskatoon
Derived from the Cree word meaning “living together in harmony”, the Wanuskewin Heritage Park offers family-friendly outdoor adventures. Browse exhibitions on indigenous peoples who inhabited the area, including archaeological sites dating back 7,000 years. See the 1,500-year-old medicine wheel, then observe wildlife roaming prairie grasslands at nearby Beaver Creek Conservation Area.
Learn about the city’s connection to Ukraine at the Ukrainian Museum of Canada. Dedicated to those who immigrated to Saskatoon from Ukraine, it boasts exhibits on craftwork, such as wood carvings, embroidered fabrics, ceramics and traditionally decorated Easter eggs. Afterward, you can dine on blueberry and potato stuffed perogies at Baba’s Homestyle Perogies.
Pay homage to Saskatoon’s railway roots at the Saskatchewan Railway Museum, which showcases streetcars, railcars, locomotives and railroad memorabilia. Art enthusiasts can browse a permanent collection of local and national works at the Mendel Art Gallery, which is connected to the Civic Conservatory where you can see seasonal displays of plants, orchids and other rare foliage.
Take the entire family to the Saskatoon Forestry Farm to explore its beautiful gardens and children’s zoo. See Capuchin monkeys and grey wolves in natural habitats or visit the famous Kinsmen Bear exhibit, then admire tropical fish from the nature walkways.
Getting around Saskatoon
Saskatoon has domestic and international flights from Saskatoon John G. Diefenbaker Airport, which is about five kilometers away. The city center is pedestrian and bicycle-friendly, while a car is needed to travel further afield.