9 Things to Do in Saskatoon Canada

You’ll find Saskatoon blends ancient Indigenous history at 6,000-year-old Wanuskewin Heritage Park with modern attractions like Remai Modern’s impressive art collection. Explore the 80-kilometer Meewasin Valley Trail system by foot or bike, visit the authentic 1910 Boomtown at Western Development Museum, and meet prairie wildlife at the Forestry Farm Zoo. Browse Broadway Avenue’s independent shops, sample local spirits at craft distilleries, cruise the Saskatchewan River, and hunt for treasures at the farmers’ market for budget-friendly adventures that showcase this prairie city’s surprising depth.

Discover 6,000 Years of Indigenous History at Wanuskewin Heritage Park

Just three kilometers north of Saskatoon, you’ll discover one of Canada’s most significant archaeological treasures at Wanuskewin Heritage Park. This National Historic Site preserves nearly 6,000 years of Northern Plains First Nations history—older than Egypt’s pyramids.

You’ll explore 19 archaeological sites across 240 hectares, including tipi rings, bison kill sites, and a rare medicine wheel. The park’s deep coulees along the South Saskatchewan River contain artifacts like pottery fragments, projectile points, and ancient animal bones that tell remarkable stories of Indigenous life.

Led by First Nations guidance, Wanuskewin offers educational programs where you’ll gain authentic insights into Indigenous culture and ongoing spiritual practices. The park hosts approximately 14,000 school children annually, serving as a key educational resource throughout Saskatchewan. The name means “being at peace with oneself” in Cree—fitting for this peaceful gathering place that’s working toward UNESCO World Heritage designation.

Walk or Bike the 80-Kilometer Meewasin Valley Trail System

When you’re ready to explore Saskatoon’s natural beauty without spending a dime, the Meewasin Valley Trail System offers nearly 80 kilometers of scenic pathways along the South Saskatchewan River.

You’ll find over 60 kilometers of connected routes within the city, featuring both paved urban sections and gravel natural segments.

Start with the popular 12-kilometer Urban Loop between Senator Sid Buckwold Bridge and Circle Drive Bridge for stunning city views.

The North Loop extends 19 kilometers through Meewasin Park, while the shorter 8-kilometer South Loop connects River Landing with Victoria Park and Diefenbaker Park.

You’ll pass through landscaped parks like Friendship Park and Cosmopolitan Park, cross multiple bridges, and enjoy four-season access with snow-clearing on key segments. About 20 km of the trail connects to The Great Trail, linking you to Canada-wide trail networks for extended adventure.

The modest elevation changes make it perfect for casual walking and cycling.

Explore Remai Modern’s World-Class Art Collection

Since opening in 2017, Remai Modern has established itself as Saskatchewan’s premier contemporary art museum. It houses more than 8,000 artworks that span from 1900 to the present day. You’ll find an incredible mix of local, national, and international pieces that connect prairie art to global movements.

The museum’s crown jewel is its collection of more than 400 Pablo Picasso linocuts and ceramics—considered the most extensive worldwide. These works came from patron Ellen Remai’s major donation.

You can explore five floors of galleries showcasing everything from Canadian modernists to contemporary prairie artists. The museum is located on Treaty 6 Territory and the Traditional Homeland of the Métis, acknowledging the Indigenous heritage of the land.

Most works were acquired through donations, keeping admission affordable while maintaining world-class quality. The collection thoughtfully balances regional prairie perspectives with international contemporary art movements.

Step Back in Time at the Western Development Museum’s 1910 Boomtown

Where else can you stroll down a complete Saskatchewan town street from 1910 without leaving the comfort of a climate-controlled building? The Western Development Museum’s 1910 Boomtown offers exactly that experience at 2610 Lorne Avenue on Prairieland Park grounds.

You’ll explore over 30 authentic buildings including a general store stocked with period goods, a working blacksmith shop with demonstrations, and a newspaper office featuring an operating printing press. The museum also houses the Saskatchewan Agricultural Hall of Fame, celebrating the province’s farming heritage and agricultural pioneers.

The homestead building shows how early settlers actually lived, while the bank, police station, and dentist’s office reveal professional life from that era.

At $15 for adults and $30 for families, it’s budget-friendly entertainment. Don’t miss the Transportation Gallery’s vintage cars or the “Winning the Prairie Gamble” exhibit exploring prairie agriculture.

Meet Prairie Wildlife at Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo

How often can you observe bison grazing alongside Arctic wolves and prairie dogs all in one afternoon? At Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo, you’ll encounter Saskatchewan’s largest collection of native prairie wildlife without leaving the city.

This CAZA-accredited zoo showcases historic keystone species like wapiti and pronghorn in spacious outdoor paddocks, while black-tailed prairie dogs demonstrate complex social behaviors in their town-like colony.

Ride the Kinsmen Express Zoo Train for guided commentary on wildlife habitats, then explore the accessible marsh pier for close-up pond-dipping from July through Labour Day.

The seasonal Prairie Butterfly House highlights native pollinators, while raptors like bald eagles and snowy owls demonstrate prairie food-web dynamics.

You’re supporting conservation research and migratory bird monitoring that contributes valuable data to Environment and Climate Change Canada. The zoo houses over 80 species and stands as the only accredited zoo in Saskatchewan.

Cruise the South Saskatchewan River on the Prairie Lily

What better way to experience Saskatoon’s skyline than from the deck of a twin-deck riverboat gliding through the Meewasin Valley? The Prairie Lily offers sightseeing, dinner, and brunch cruises along the South Saskatchewan River, showcasing downtown bridges and riverbank parks from a unique water-level perspective.

You’ll enjoy GPS-triggered commentary about the city’s history while spotting beavers and other wildlife. The vessel features climate-controlled cabins, a full bar, and two decks accommodating about 120 passengers.

Evening cruises provide stunning sunset views and photography opportunities. The experience maintains a 4.6-star rating from over 500 reviews, with visitors consistently praising the scenic river views and wildlife encounters.

Book ahead—popular cruises sell out quickly. The operating season runs spring through fall, typically starting in early May. Bring comfortable shoes and a light sweater for cooler river breezes, even during summer.

Browse Broadway Avenue’s Independent Shops and Cafes

While Saskatoon’s downtown core offers plenty of chain stores and shopping centers, Broadway Avenue delivers something more authentic—a walkable stretch of independent shops, cozy cafés, and local boutiques that feel like discovering a neighborhood secret.

You’ll find everything from fine art photography at All In The Wild to home décor treasures at Alt Haus, plus specialty stores showcasing Saskatchewan-made goods.

Don’t miss Broadway Café, a beloved 1950s-style diner that’s been serving award-winning milkshakes and comfort food for over 30 years.

Plan a “coffee crawl” hitting spots like 5 Corner’s Cafe and Broadway Roastery between boutique browsing sessions. The area is also home to Junior Cafe, conveniently located at 737 Broadway Ave for another excellent stop on your caffeine journey.

The compact layout means you can easily explore multiple shops and grab coffee or lunch without moving your car.

Sample Saskatchewan Spirits at Local Distilleries and Breweries

Saskatchewan’s craft spirits scene puts prairie grains and local botanicals front and center, giving you a taste of terroir you won’t find anywhere else. Start at Black Fox Farm & Distillery outside Saskatoon, where you’ll sample award-winning cask-aged gin and seasonal Saskatoon berry spirits while touring the actual fields where ingredients grow.

In the city, Lucky Bastard Distillers offers spirit flights featuring their zero-sugar canned cocktails and berry-infused vodkas. Don’t miss Stumbletown Distilling on Quebec Avenue for hands-on mixology sessions and behind-the-scenes tours.

Round out your tasting with Saskatoon’s brewery cluster—9 Mile Legacy, High Key Brewing, and Prairie Sun Brewery offer tasting flights showcasing Saskatchewan-grown barley in everything from IPAs to seasonal releases. For a family-friendly environment, head to Better Brother Brewing Co. in City Park, where kids can enjoy craft root beer floats and coloring activities while adults sample craft beers like Blonde Ale and Saskatchewan Rattlers Lager.

Hunt for Local Treasures at Saskatoon Farmers’ Market

Since 1975, Saskatoon Farmers’ Market has operated as your gateway to authentic prairie treasures, where local producers gather every weekend at 2600 Koyl Avenue to showcase everything they “Make It, Bake It, Gather It, Grow It.”

You’ll spend less than an hour browsing seasonal Saskatchewan produce, home-baked goods, and handcrafted artisan pieces—all while chatting directly with the farmers and makers who created them.

Visit Saturday mornings (8 a.m.–2 p.m.) or Sunday afternoons (10 a.m.–3 p.m.) for the best selection. Admission’s free—you only pay for what you buy.

Spring through fall offers peak variety, from fresh vegetables to native wildflower plugs during Mother’s Day events.

Don’t miss the handmade jewelry, textiles, and home décor that make perfect budget-friendly souvenirs showcasing authentic Saskatchewan craftsmanship. This member-owned cooperative ensures that profits directly support the local farming and artisan community rather than outside corporations.

The Sum Up

You’ll find Saskatoon offers plenty without breaking the bank. Many activities like the Meewasin Trail and Broadway Avenue browsing won’t cost you anything. Pack snacks for zoo visits, look for museum discounts, and hit up happy hours at local breweries. The farmers’ market‘s perfect for budget-friendly local treats. With free outdoor spaces, affordable attractions, and walkable neighborhoods, you can easily explore this prairie city without spending a fortune while experiencing genuine Saskatchewan culture.