Things To Do
in Saskatoon
Saskatoon sits along the South Saskatchewan River in central Saskatchewan, Canada, offering a lively mix of riverbank parks, cultural institutions, and prairie charm. The city blends a growing arts scene with historic neighborhoods, bustling markets, and a strong sense of community. Its river valley and university campuses shape a youthful, outdoors-loving vibe with easy access to outdoor adventures.
Throughout the year, Saskatoon invites you to explore, dine, and connect with welcoming locals in a compact prairie city setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll along the scenic River Landing, soaking in the beauty of the South Saskatchewan River. Visit the Wanuskewin Heritage Park to learn about the Indigenous history and culture of the area, where you can also enjoy a guided tour. Afterward, grab a hearty brunch at one of the local cafes in the downtown area, sampling traditional Saskatoon berries in your dish.
Explore the charming streets of the historic Nutana neighborhood, where you can admire the stunning architecture of the early 20th century homes. Stop by the Remai Modern Art Museum to view contemporary art exhibits and installations, all while enjoying the stunning river views. Wrap up your afternoon with a visit to the Saskatoon Farmers' Market, where you can browse local produce, crafts, and delicious treats.
As the sun sets, head to the Broadway Avenue for a lively atmosphere filled with restaurants and bars. Enjoy a delicious dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant, featuring locally sourced ingredients and unique dishes. After dinner, catch a live performance at the Persephone Theatre or enjoy a cozy nightcap at a nearby pub.
Begin your day with a visit to the Saskatoon Nature Society and embark on a guided birdwatching tour at the nearby Beaver Creek Conservation Area. Experience the tranquility of the wetlands and forests while spotting various species of birds and other wildlife. Enjoy a packed picnic breakfast amidst nature's beauty before continuing your exploration.
Head to the Meewasin Valley Trail for a scenic hike or bike ride along the riverbanks, where the natural landscape offers picturesque views and opportunities for photography. Take a break at one of the scenic lookout points to appreciate the breathtaking scenery and perhaps enjoy a light lunch on the go. Don't forget to keep an eye out for the diverse flora and fauna that the trail has to offer.
In the evening, unwind with a sunset paddle on the South Saskatchewan River, where you can rent a kayak or canoe. Experience the peacefulness of the water as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant hues. After your paddle, find a riverside restaurant for dinner, relishing the fresh air and stunning views.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee/espresso | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $50-90 |
| 🚌Public transit day pass | $7-10 |
| 🏨One night in mid-range hotel | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant river valley and easy access to outdoors
- Strong arts scene and growing culinary options
- Walkable core with a friendly, approachable vibe
- Relatively affordable compared to bigger Canadian cities
- Very cold winters and limited indoor city-center options in deep winter
- Smaller skyline and fewer high-rise attractions than coastal cities
Places to Visit in Saskatoon
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic architecture with river views and modern art space; great for architectural shots and sunset reflections on the water.
Classic city skyline and river vantage point, especially beautiful at sunrise or blue hour.
Lush river valley trails that offer sweeping views of the city and river bend, ideal for wide landscape shots.
Historic quad, limestone buildings, and green spaces provide collegiate-era photography with seasonal foliage.
Food in Saskatoon
Saskatoon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A seasonal pie made with wild Saskatoon berries, a local favorite found at bakeries and farmers’ markets.
Must-Try!
Indigenous-inspired flatbread served with berry jam, commonly available at cafes and cultural centers.
Classic Canadian dessert with a gooey filling, frequently found in local bakeries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Indoor market offering local produce, baked goods, honey, jams, and prepared foods, especially rich in summer and fall.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly greeting and a handshake are typical in formal settings; casual interactions often start with a simple hello.
Show respect for Indigenous cultures and history; ask before taking photos of people or sacred sites when appropriate.
Line up in an orderly fashion; give people space in public areas and on transit.
Safety
Tipping in Saskatoon
Ensure a smooth experience
In Canada, tips of 15–20% are customary in restaurants; rounding up for smaller service tasks is common; tipping for takeout is optional but appreciated for large orders.
Credit cards and debit (Interac) are widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common in shops and cafes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot and relatively dry, with long daylight hours. Ideal for riverfront walks, patio dining, and outdoor festivals; expect occasional thunderstorms.
Very cold with snow and short daylight. Embrace layered clothing, winter activities, and cozy indoor venues for dining and culture; plan for driving conditions.
Mild but variable, with rainfall and rapidly changing conditions. Great for blooming trees and early outdoor markets, but pack for sudden weather shifts.
Crisp air and colorful foliage accentuate river valley vistas. Ideal for scenic walks, photography, and harvest-season dining experiences.
Saskatoon at Night
Hiking in Saskatoon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive interpretive trails about 20-30 minutes from downtown, offering prairie vistas and cultural insights.
In-city river valley trails with scenic overlooks and varying difficulty for walkers and hikers.
Short drive south of Saskatoon with rolling hills and longer hiking routes around a lake.
Additional quiet hiking options within a short drive offering wildlife viewing and peaceful scenery.
Airports
How to reach Saskatoon by plane.
The primary airport serving Saskatoon, with domestic flights and some international connections; convenient ground transportation to the city center.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of European descent with a growing urban, cosmopolitan culture.
Significant First Nations and Métis presence, contributing to the city’s cultural diversity.
Increasing representation from East Asian, South Asian, and other global communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple of Canadian culture with local leagues and rink facilities year-round.
Popular in winter with community clubs offering lessons and league play.
Active outdoor leagues and seasonal matches across the city.
Part of the regional sports scene, with local teams and events in warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saskatoon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Saskatoon eateries offer vegetarian options; look for veggie-forward mains, salads, and sides; many places can adapt dishes on request.
Gluten-free options are widely available, but always confirm ingredient lists and cross-contact practices with staff.