Saskatoon, known as the 'City of Bridges,' is a vibrant prairie hub defined by the winding South Saskatchewan River and a rapidly evolving culinary scene. It is best visited in the summer months when the riverbank trails come alive and the city hosts a variety of outdoor festivals.
Top Things to Do in Saskatoon
Tap an attraction to look it up on TripAdvisor.
Getting Around Saskatoon
From the Airport
Rideshare. Uber and local taxi services like United Cabs are available at the Saskatoon John G. Diefenbaker International Airport; a trip to downtown takes about 15 minutes. Rental Car. Several major rental car agencies have counters located directly in the arrivals hall of the airport.
Once You're There
Rideshare. Uber is the primary rideshare app used throughout the city for quick and reliable transportation. Walking. The downtown core and the Broadway District are very walkable, though you will need a car to reach attractions like Wanuskewin Heritage Park.
Where to Stay in Saskatoon
Hotel picks for Saskatoon are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Saskatoon
Odd Couple★ 4.7 (1,008)228 20th St W, Saskatoon, SK S7M 0W9, CanadaA local favorite for modern Asian fusion, their ginger beef and Vietnamese-inspired small plates are essential orders.
Leyda's Cafe★ 4.6 (1,527)702 14 St E, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0P7, CanadaThis entirely gluten-free and nut-free cafe offers incredibly fresh, healthy, and flavorful meals that cater to all dietary needs.
Hearth Restaurant★ 4.6 (702)102 Spadina Crescent E, Saskatoon, SK S7K 0L3, CanadaFocusing on hyper-local ingredients, this restaurant offers a sophisticated seasonal menu that highlights the best of the prairies.
Little Grouse on the Prairie★ 4.6 (416)167 3 Ave S, Saskatoon, SK S7K 1L8, CanadaAn intimate Italian-inspired space that excels at handmade pastas and a curated selection of fine wines.
The Hollows★ 4.6 (206)334 Avenue C S, Saskatoon, SK S7M 1N4, CanadaLocated in a historic building, this restaurant is famous for its creative, vegetable-forward dishes and cozy, rustic aesthetic.
Una Pizza + Wine★ 4.5 (1,365)707 Broadway Ave, Saskatoon, SK S7N 1B3, CanadaThis popular spot brings California-style thin-crust pizza to Saskatoon with a focus on fresh toppings and a great wine list.
Calories Bakery & Restaurant★ 4.5 (919)721 Broadway Ave, Saskatoon, SK S7N 1B3, CanadaA legendary Saskatoon establishment, it is the go-to destination for decadent desserts and a reliable, upscale brunch.
Primal Pasta★ 4.5 (699)423 20th St W, Saskatoon, SK S7M 0X3, CanadaThis spot is renowned for its nose-to-tail approach and house-made pasta featuring local Saskatchewan grains.
Sticks and Stones★ 4.5 (23)2803 Faithfull Ave #205, Saskatoon, SK S7K 8E8, CanadaKnown for its lively atmosphere, this restaurant serves a unique blend of Korean and Japanese dishes that are perfect for sharing.
Ayden Kitchen and Bar★ 4.3 (664)265 3 Ave S, Saskatoon, SK S7K 1M3, CanadaOwned by Top Chef Canada winner Dale MacKay, this restaurant serves elevated comfort food with a focus on high-quality local meats.
3 Days in Saskatoon
Riverbank Icons & Modern Art
Morning. Start your trip by walking the iconic Meewasin Valley Trail, which hugs the South Saskatchewan River and offers the best views of the city's skyline. Make your way toward the Delta Bessborough, a historic railway hotel that serves as the most recognizable landmark in the city. Spend some time admiring its castle-like architecture before crossing the nearby Broadway Bridge. This bridge connects the downtown core to the historic Broadway District, which is perfect for a morning stroll among local boutiques. Aim to arrive early to beat the heat and enjoy the crisp morning air along the riverbanks.
Afternoon. After grabbing lunch, head back across the river to visit the Remai Modern, a stunning architectural marvel on the riverfront. Spend at least two hours here exploring the world-class contemporary art collections and the famous Picasso linocut series. Once you have finished at the museum, walk a few blocks to the Ukrainian Museum of Canada to gain insight into the profound cultural history of the region. The exhibits here are beautifully curated and offer a quiet, reflective contrast to the modern art gallery. If you have extra time, wander through the nearby park spaces to watch the river flow slowly past the downtown core.
Evening. As the sun begins to set, head back toward the Broadway District for a vibrant evening atmosphere. Dine at one of the many high-end restaurants in the area to experience the city's culinary prowess firsthand. After dinner, grab a locally-made craft beer or a cocktail at one of the neighborhood's cozy pubs. The area is highly walkable and feels safe and inviting even after dark. End your night by looking back across the river to see the Delta Bessborough illuminated against the night sky, providing the perfect photo opportunity to wrap up your first day.
Indigenous Heritage & History
Morning. Dedicate your second morning to the profound history of the Northern Plains at Wanuskewin Heritage Park. Located just a short drive north of the city, this National Historic Site offers walking trails through the valley where Indigenous peoples gathered for over 6,000 years. Be sure to catch a dance performance or a guided tour to fully appreciate the cultural significance of the land. The interpretive center is excellent, providing deep context on the archaeological digs that take place on-site. Wear comfortable walking shoes as the trails can be extensive and offer beautiful vistas of the Opimihaw Creek valley.
Afternoon. Return to the city and head to the Western Development Museum to explore the 'Boomtown' exhibit, a life-sized indoor recreation of a 1910 Saskatchewan town. It is a fascinating way to understand the pioneer spirit that built this province. You can spend hours ducking into the various storefronts, from the old-fashioned general store to the blacksmith shop. Afterward, head to the nearby Saskatoon Farmers' Market to browse local crafts, fresh produce, and handmade goods from regional artisans. It is a great place to pick up a unique souvenir or a quick snack to keep your energy up.
Evening. For your final evening in the city, head over to the University of Saskatchewan campus to admire the beautiful stone architecture and the lush grounds. The campus is a hub of activity and offers some great vantage points of the river valley. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a restaurant in the nearby Sutherland or Nutana neighborhoods to experience the local pace of life. If you are visiting in the summer, check the schedule for outdoor events or theatre performances that often take place on the university grounds. It is a peaceful way to conclude your historical exploration of Saskatoon.
Parks & Local Leisure
Morning. Start your final day with a leisurely morning at Kinsmen Park, which features a charming carousel and a miniature train that is perfect if you are traveling with family or just want a nostalgic experience. The park is beautifully landscaped and offers plenty of benches for people-watching. From there, take a slow walk through the residential streets toward the river to find hidden gardens and public art installations. It is a quiet, low-stress way to start the day before the city gets busy. Grab a coffee from a local roaster and enjoy the morning breeze in one of the city's most beloved green spaces.
Afternoon. Spend your afternoon exploring the various independent shops and cafes scattered throughout the Riversdale neighborhood. This area has transformed into one of the coolest parts of the city, filled with murals, vintage stores, and specialty boutiques. Stop by a local bakery for a mid-afternoon pastry or browse the shelves of a local bookstore. The neighborhood is vibrant and reflects the creative energy of Saskatoon's younger generation. Take your time wandering the side streets, as you will often find unique street art and small community gardens tucked away between the older buildings.
Evening. Conclude your trip with a final dinner at one of the city's top-rated restaurants, focusing on the farm-to-table movement that Saskatoon is famous for. After dinner, take one last walk along the Meewasin Valley Trail to see the city lights reflecting off the South Saskatchewan River. It is a tranquil and memorable way to reflect on your three-day journey. If you still have energy, find a local lounge for a nightcap to toast to your successful exploration of the prairies. The riverfront is always bustling with locals enjoying the evening, making it the perfect spot for your final moments in the city.