The South Saskatchewan River flows through the heart of the city, where the Meewasin Trail creates a 60-kilometer network of linear parks along both shores. This system offers a continuous path for exploration, connecting you to the urban core and the sprawling landscapes of the prairie.
Riverside Paths and Waterfront Views
Follow the water to experience the city’s namesake beauty—Meewasin is the Cree word for "beautiful." The Meewasin Trail provides access to a variety of views, crossing the river at the University Bridge, the Broadway Bridge, and the Idylwyld Bridge. Along the way, you can encounter public art like Prairie Wind, which captures the feeling of prairie grass moving in the wind near the River Landing area.
- Prairie Lily River Cruise: Experience the water from a different perspective with an hour-long cruise on the modern riverboat "Prarie Lily" departing from the dock behind the former Mendel Art Gallery.
- Eco Glide Adventures: For a more active way to navigate the Meewasin Park trails, you can explore the area via Segway or Ninebot personal transporters with a guide.
History and Cultural Landmarks
Saskatoon’s identity is deeply rooted in its history as a cultural hub of central Saskatchewan. You can trace this heritage through several distinct sites that showcase local and national history.
- Wanuskewin Heritage Park: Located outside the core, this site offers an experience of 6,000 years of First Nations culture and includes a daily tour of the bison herd.
- Western Development Museum: Visit "1910 Boomtown," the longest indoor museum street in Canada, to see the progression of pioneer settlement and vintage farm machinery.
- Ukrainian Museum of Canada: Located on Spadina Crescent East, this site preserves and recreates Ukrainian culture within the Canadian landscape.
- Diefenbaker Canada Centre: Situated at the University of Saskatchewan, this center houses the only combined Prime Ministerial archives, museum, and research centre in the country.
Art, Nature, and Local Flavors
The city offers diverse ways to engage with its local culture, from high-art galleries to unique culinary experiences.
- Remai Modern Arts Gallery: Located in a gleaming riverside building, this gallery houses the collections of the former Mendel Art Gallery.
- Civic Conservatory: A space filled with flowers, lush plants, and small trees.
- Lucky Bastard Distillers: Visit to tour the distillery, taste their whisky, gin, and vodka, or sample a liqueur made from local Saskatoon berries.
While the city is known for its distinct seasons—including long, cold winters and warm summers—the best time to experience the riverside parks and outdoor festivals like Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan is during the warmer months. Plan your visit to explore the historic neighborhoods of Nutana, Riversdale, and Sutherland to see how these former towns have evolved into a vibrant modern landscape.