A River Runs Through It

Photo: Tourism Saskatchewan /
Douglas E. Walker

What visitors remember about Saskatoon is the winding river, its banks lined with trees and interconnecting trail of parks, communities and activities. Saskatoon's most prominent landmarks, the castle-like Delta Bessborough Hotel and the greystone buildings of the University of Saskatchewan, overlook the river. The Meewasin Valley Centre, which provides a glimpse into the history of the city and the South Saskatchewan River Valley, is set on the riverbank, as are the Ukrainian Museum of Canada and the renowned Mendel Art Gallery & Civic Conservatory. Take a guided boat tour on the Saskatoon Princess and discover the natural and cultural heritage of the area. Or take an evening riverboat cruise and watch the world go by as you enjoy dinner and unparalleled views.

Link To the Past

Photo: Western Development Museum

Head to the Western Development Museum for a glimpse into Saskatchewan's past. The facility boasts a priceless collection of antique automobiles and tractors, plus "1910 Boomtown" - a life size recreation of a main street from yesteryear and one of the longest indoor streets in North America - plus the "Winning the Prairie Gamble" interactive exhibit. Saskatoon has a number of historic associations with Canada's 13th Prime Minister, The Right Honourable John Diefenbaker. The Diefenbaker Canada Centre on the university campus contains the memorabilia and archives of "The Chief," as he was fondly dubbed, and his gravesite is close by.

The Magic of Wanuskewin

Photo: Tourism Saskatchewan /
Douglas E. Walker

A visit to Wanuskewin Heritage Park is a must as you explore even further back into the area's history. Constructed just outside the city on a site visited by generations of First Nations people, Wanuskewin interprets more than 6,000 years of Northern Plains Indian culture. Much more than a museum, Wanuskewin is an interactive environment that encourages visitors to get involved by building a tipi, visiting a buffalo jump or medicine wheel site and learning about the deep respect First Nations cultures have for the land. The magic of Wanuskewin leaves an indelible impression.

Art, Artists & Actors

Photo: Lyndon Smith

You will find a vibrant, sophisticated arts community here (this is the home of music legend Joni Mitchell, after all). Browse through the many craft shops and art galleries, like the Saskatchewan Craft Council Gallery on Broadway and the Darrell Bell Gallery. Enjoy a leisurely coffee and croissant at the Pacif'ic Gallery & Fine Art Café before seeing a performance by the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra or one of five professional theatre companies, including the Saskatchewan Native Theatre Company.

The Latest Advancements

Photo: Tourism Saskatchewan /
Douglas E. Walker

The new Canadian Light Source is the first and only synchrotron facility in Canada. Thanks to an energetic, entrepreneurial spirit, Saskatoon's research and technology sector has always been on the leading edge and the synchrotron pushes the city further to the forefront. Companies from around the world will use this new facility for their research, bringing innovative ideas to Saskatoon. Tours of the facility are available.

The Lure of the Links

Saskatoon boasts eight golf courses offering championship-level play, modest green fees, accessible tee times and unforgettable prairie hospitality. The new Dakota Dunes Golf Links offers a world-class, links style course spaciously laid throughout natural sand dune formations and indigenous prairie grass. The Willows Golf & Country Club, just minutes from downtown, offers four separate nine-hole courses of rolling-dunes style golf.