Things To Do
in Moose Jaw
Moose Jaw is a small city in southern Saskatchewan known for its prairie setting, historic downtown and warm community feel. It has well-preserved 20th-century architecture, notable attractions like the Tunnels of Moose Jaw and Temple Gardens Mineral Spa, and a lively arts scene. The city functions as a regional service hub with museums, parks and festivals that celebrate local history and culture.
Visitors appreciate its approachable size, easy access from Regina and authentic small-town Canadian hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure by delving into the fascinating underground tunnels where you will learn about the city's prohibition era and its historical significance. As you walk through these illuminated passages, listen to stories of infamous mobsters and local characters that shaped Moose Jaw. The engaging guided tour will not only educate but also immerse you in the vibrant past of this unique city.
After your exploration of the tunnels, head to the nearby Moose Jaw Museum and Art Gallery to admire local artwork and artifacts. Enjoy the rotating exhibits and learn more about the culture and history of the region. Take a leisurely stroll through the museum's beautiful gardens, soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Evenings in Moose Jaw offer an array of dining options. Choose a cozy bistro or an upscale restaurant to sample local cuisine and craft beverages. After dinner, unwind by taking a casual walk along the scenic paths of Crescent Park.
Start your day with a visit to the Moose Jaw Civic Centre, where you can witness the architectural beauty of this historic building. Explore the various community events and exhibitions that frequently take place within its walls. Don’t miss the chance to interact with local artists or community members who can share their insights about Moose Jaw.
In the afternoon, indulge in some retail therapy at the charming local boutiques and shops that line the downtown streets. From unique souvenirs to handmade crafts, you can find treasures that reflect the local culture. Stop by a quaint café for a refreshing break and chat with the locals.
As night falls, immerse yourself in the local music scene by checking out a live performance at a nearby venue. Enjoy a mix of genres, from rock to folk, showcasing the talent of Moose Jaw's artists. Wrap up your day with a late-night dessert from a trusted local bakery.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $2.50-4.50 |
| 🍺Beer (domestic pub pint) | $6-9 |
| 🚕Taxi start (flag drop) / short ride | $3.50-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $100-160 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable downtown with heritage charm
- Easy access to prairie parks, valley trails and outdoor activities
- Affordable compared with major Canadian cities
- Limited late-night entertainment and fewer dining choices than larger cities
- Harsh winters that limit some outdoor activities
Places to Visit in Moose Jaw
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic façades, vintage signage and the dramatic tunnel entry areas provide atmospheric photos—great for storytelling and architectural detail shots.
Photogenic pools with steam rising (in cooler weather) and modern spa architecture—best for relaxed, lifestyle images.
River valley trails, wooden bridges and changing seasons offer nature shots, fall colors, and wildlife photography close to town.
Riverside views, mature trees and sculptural elements; calm water reflections at sunrise or sunset make for beautiful images.
Turn-of-the-century brick buildings, murals and downtown storefronts are ideal for urban and street photography.
Food in Moose Jaw
Moose Jaw Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Locally sourced beef prepared as steaks or slow-roasted cuts; common in many Moose Jaw steakhouses and family restaurants.
Must-Try!
Reflecting Eastern European heritage in the region—often served with sour cream and sautéed onions at diners and community events.
A leaner alternative to beef that appears on some pub menus and specialty restaurants in the area.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A seasonal market featuring local produce, baked goods, preserves and occasional prepared foods—good for sampling seasonal Saskatchewan produce and home-style treats.
During festivals and summer evenings you’ll find food trucks and street vendors offering comfort foods like fries, tacos and smoked meats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
People are friendly and polite—simple greetings, please and thank you go a long way. Expect casual small talk about weather and local sports.
Be respectful at historical and Indigenous sites. Ask before photographing people or cultural events and follow signage or guidance from Indigenous-run attractions.
Line up politely in stores and service counters; public behavior is generally low-key and courteous.
Safety
Tipping in Moose Jaw
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary: 15–20% in restaurants, rounding up or a few dollars for taxi drivers, and small tips for hotel staff. For excellent service, leave more; for counter-service it’s appreciated but not mandatory.
Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted; tap-to-pay is common. Cash is useful for markets, small vendors and tips. Interac debit cards are standard; contactless and mobile payments are increasingly supported.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, sometimes hot days (20–30°C / 68–86°F); long daylight hours make it ideal for outdoor festivals, hiking and patios—pack sun protection and light layers for cooler evenings.
Crisp temperatures and colorful foliage in the river valley; good for photography and outdoor walks—bring a jacket as temperatures drop quickly.
Very cold with snow and temperatures often below freezing (-10 to -30°C / 14 to -22°F possible); winter sports, ice fog on cold mornings, and bundled layers are essential. Roads can be icy—plan travel accordingly.
Variable weather with thawing and muddy trails in early spring; by late spring temperatures rise and wildflowers appear—bring waterproof boots for valley trails.
Moose Jaw at Night
Hiking in Moose Jaw
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Trails following the Moose Jaw River through a deep, wooded valley—easy to moderate routes ideal for hiking, walking and birdwatching close to town.
Lakeside trails with prairie and marshland scenery, interpretive loops and opportunities for wildlife viewing and gentle hikes.
Short hikes around the lake, picnic areas and opportunities for nature walks within a short drive of Moose Jaw.
Airports
How to reach Moose Jaw by plane.
About 45–60 minutes east by car; the nearest major airport with domestic flights and car rental options. Shuttle services and taxis can connect Moose Jaw and Regina.
Small aerodrome used mainly for private and training flights—limited commercial service; most travelers use Regina for scheduled air travel.
Approximately 2 hours north by car; an alternative for some flights with more routes and rental car availability.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of the population with deep local roots, farming and service-sector backgrounds.
Significant Indigenous presence and cultural influence in the region, including First Nations and Métis peoples with historical ties to the land.
Growing immigrant communities including Filipino, South Asian and other groups contributing to cultural and culinary diversity.
A noticeable segment of older adults attracted by affordable living and community amenities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Hockey is very popular at community and junior levels; local rinks host minor hockey and adult leagues year-round.
Curling has deep roots in Saskatchewan—local clubs host leagues and bonspiels, especially in winter.
Golf is popular in summer months with local courses attracting recreational players and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Moose Jaw.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but can be limited compared with larger cities; most restaurants will offer salads, vegetable pastas and grilled veggie mains—call ahead if you need special dishes.
Vegan choices are available at cafes and some restaurants (bowls, salads, plant-based burgers), but options are fewer—consider bringing snacks or checking menus in advance.
Gluten-free menus are commonly offered; smaller kitchens may manage cross-contamination less strictly, so alert staff to severe allergies.