48 Hours in Saskatoon: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary

Saskatoon, the vibrant heart of the Canadian prairies, is the perfect destination for a weekend escape. With a thriving food scene, rich Indigenous culture, and scenic river views, you can experience the best of this charming city in just 48 hours. Whether you’re here for the first time or rediscovering its beauty, this itinerary will help you make every moment count.

Day 1: Culture, Cuisine & the South Saskatchewan River

Morning: Kickstart Your Day at Hometown Diner

Located in the trendy Riversdale district, Hometown Diner is a local favorite. Fuel up with their signature avocado toast or classic buttermilk pancakes, paired with a fresh cup of locally roasted coffee. The laid-back vibe and friendly service make it the perfect place to ease into your day.

Late Morning: Discover Art at Remai Modern

Next, take a walk to the beautiful Remai Modern Art Gallery, one of Canada’s leading modern art museums. Overlooking the South Saskatchewan River, the gallery features works by Picasso, contemporary Canadian artists, and rotating exhibitions that highlight Indigenous voices and global creativity.

Lunch: Elevated Prairie Cuisine at Shift

Located inside Remai Modern, Shift Restaurant offers elegant dishes inspired by prairie ingredients. Try their bison tartare or house-made pastas while enjoying panoramic views of the river.

Afternoon: Walk or Bike Along Meewasin Trail

Rent a bike or walk along the Meewasin Valley Trail, a scenic path winding along the riverbanks. You’ll pass through lush parks, charming bridges, and photo-worthy skyline views — perfect for a peaceful afternoon in nature.

Evening: Dinner & Drinks in Broadway District

Wrap up the day at Little Grouse on the Prairie, an intimate Italian restaurant known for its handmade pasta and warm atmosphere. After dinner, stroll along Broadway Avenue, home to Saskatoon’s best local boutiques, cafés, and live music venues like Amigos Cantina.

Day 2: Heritage, Markets & Prairie Magic

Morning: Brunch at Poached & Farmers’ Market Stroll

Start your day at Poached Breakfast Bistro, a Saskatoon staple. Their creative takes on eggs Benedict and mimosas are legendary. Then walk to the Saskatoon Farmers’ Market (open on weekends), where you’ll find handmade crafts, fresh produce, and artisanal snacks from local vendors.

Midday: Dive into Local History at Wanuskewin

Drive just 15 minutes north to Wanuskewin Heritage Park, where Indigenous culture and history come alive. Walk interpretive trails, see live bison roaming the prairie, and explore archaeological sites dating back thousands of years.

Alternative: If you prefer to stay in the city, check out the Western Development Museum and experience a replica 1910 boomtown.

Lunch: Farm-to-Table at Odla

Back in town, head to Odla, a restaurant and market serving food grown right on their family farm. Their dishes change seasonally and always feature Saskatchewan’s finest ingredients.

Afternoon: Relax in the Park or Paddle the River

Spend your afternoon unwinding at Kinsmen Park, where you can relax under the trees or ride the Ferris wheel with views of the city. In summer, rent a kayak or canoe through Escape Sports and enjoy a peaceful paddle on the South Saskatchewan River.

Evening: Sunset & Cheers at a Local Brewery

End your weekend with sunset views from the riverside gardens behind the Delta Bessborough Hotel — a perfect photo op. Then head to 9 Mile Legacy Brewing or Shelter Brewing for a flight of locally brewed beers and great conversation.

Quick Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: June–September for festivals and patios; December–February for snowy adventures.
• Where to Stay: Alt Hotel, Delta Bessborough, or a cozy Airbnb near Broadway.
• Getting Around: The city core is walkable. Rent a bike or use Saskatoon Transit for convenience.
• Local Tip: Ask locals for recommendations — Saskatoon has a small-town feel with big-city warmth.

Final Thoughts

In just 48 hours, Saskatoon offers a mix of arts, culture, history, and nature that few cities can match. Whether you’re here for the food, the views, or the community spirit — you’ll leave with a full heart and a camera roll of memories.

Planning your trip to Saskatoon?
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Just over an hour’s drive from Saskatoon, nestled between open prairie and rolling hills, lies the Last Mountain Lake National Wildlife Area (NWA) — a peaceful paradise for nature lovers, bird watchers, and anyone craving a relaxing lakeside escape. Known for its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and laid-back atmosphere, the NWA is the crown jewel of Last Mountain Lake and a must-visit destination in Saskatchewan.

Last Mountain Lake National Wildlife Area (NWA)

Location & Access

Located at the northern end of Last Mountain Lake, the NWA is 120 km northwest of Regina and about 9 km west of Govan. Coordinates: 51.3667° N, -105.2339° W. It’s easily accessible via Highway 20 with clear signage directing visitors to the sanctuary.

Wildlife & Conservation

Established in 1887, this is Canada’s oldest bird sanctuary and a designated National Historic Site. It plays a vital role in the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network, supporting over 280 species of birds, including endangered ones like the whooping crane and piping plover. It’s also an important stopover for migratory birds.

Activities & Amenities

Visitors can enjoy a variety of immersive activities:

• Wildlife Viewing & Bird Watching: Observation towers and trails offer excellent viewpoints.
• Hiking & Nature Walks: Interpretive paths and a floating boardwalk reveal prairie, marshland, and forest habitats.
• Boating & Canoeing: Permitted in designated areas, except during breeding season (May–July).
• Photography & Nature Study: Ideal for photographers and nature lovers.
• Picnicking: Day-use picnic sites available throughout the area.

Facilities include:

• Observation tower
• Self-guided trails
• Picnic areas and washrooms
• Interpretive pavilion and admin building (open 8:00 am–4:00 pm)

About Last Mountain Lake

Formerly known as Long Lake, Last Mountain Lake is the longest natural lake in southern Saskatchewan, stretching over 93 kilometers from Craven to Nokomis. Formed by glacial activity, it features diverse shorelines and wetlands and provides vital habitats for wildlife.

The lake itself surrounds the NWA and offers an extended nature experience. It’s perfect for those wanting to explore beyond the sanctuary while staying close to natural beauty.

More Reasons to Visit

Boating & Fishing

Last Mountain Lake offers multiple boat launches and excellent fishing. Popular catches include:

• Walleye
• Northern pike
• Yellow perch
• Whitefish

Winter visitors can enjoy ice fishing in a tranquil setting.

Parks & Beaches

• Rowan’s Ravine Provincial Park: Features camping, boat rentals, trails, playgrounds, and a marina.
• Regina Beach: A lively lakeside town with restaurants, shops, and a swimming beach.
• Arlington Beach: Quiet and family-friendly, ideal for relaxed getaways.

Scenic Trails

Explore interpretive trails throughout the sanctuary and surrounding parklands, offering peaceful walks through rich ecosystems.

Camping & Accommodation

Whether you’re camping or staying in comfort, there are plenty of options:

• Rowan’s Ravine Provincial Park: Electrical and non-electrical campsites, modern amenities.
• Lakeside Cabins & B&Bs: Found in Regina Beach, Bulyea, and along the eastern shore.
• Airbnb & VRBO: Offer cottages, glamping tents, and vacation homes.

Seasonal Highlights

Summer:

• Canoeing and paddleboarding
• Swimming and beach volleyball
• Picnics and barbecues

Winter:

• Cross-country skiing
• Snowshoeing
• Winter birdwatching and ice fishing

Local Events & Communities

Engage with the area’s small-town charm:

• Regina Beach Farmers Market (summer weekends)
• Last Mountain Rodeo in Craven
• Local art & craft fairs
• Prairie-style diners and cafes

Tips for Visiting the NWA

• Bring binoculars and a camera for wildlife and scenery
• Dress in layers and pack sunscreen & insect repellent
• Book campsites or rentals in advance
• Stay on trails and respect conservation rules

Getting There

From Saskatoon, drive south on Highway 11 to Lumsden, then take Highway 20 or 322 toward the lake. It’s about 1 hour and 15 minutes depending on your final stop.

Plan Your Visit

Visit the official Government of Canada page for maps, rules, and updates.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re an adventurer, birdwatcher, or someone seeking serenity, the Last Mountain Lake National Wildlife Area is one of Saskatchewan’s true treasures. With breathtaking views, vibrant wildlife, and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s the perfect destination for a meaningful nature getaway.

Start planning now at TriptoSaskatoon.com — and let the sanctuary refresh your soul.our soul.

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Discover the Hidden Spring Gems of the Prairies

Saskatchewan might be known for its endless skies and golden wheat fields, but springtime in this prairie province has a soft, floral surprise: cherry blossoms! While not as widespread as in Japan or Vancouver, Saskatchewan has its own quiet charm when it comes to blooming trees. From city parks to community gardens, here are some of the best places to experience cherry blossoms in Saskatchewan.

1. University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon

One of the best-kept secrets in Saskatoon is the blossoming trees on the University of Saskatchewan (U of S) campus. Come spring, the pathways near the President’s Residence and Arboretum display beautiful ornamental cherry and plum blossoms. It’s a peaceful place for a walk, photos, or a quiet picnic under the petals.

2. Kiwanis Memorial Park, Saskatoon

Located along the South Saskatchewan River, this park is a scenic spot with pathways lined by trees that bloom beautifully in spring. While not all are cherry trees, you’ll often find a few blossoming species that create that perfect pastel ambiance.

3. Wascana Centre, Regina

In the heart of Regina, Wascana Centre is a massive park surrounding Wascana Lake. Several areas around the Legislative Building and nearby gardens showcase flowering trees, including ornamental cherry, crabapple, and plum trees. Early May is usually when you’ll spot the first pops of pink.

4. Forestry Farm Park & Zoo, Saskatoon

Besides the animals and nature trails, this park features a Heritage Rose Garden and other blooming trees. If you visit in late April or early May, you may catch crabapple and cherry trees in bloom near the main entrance and garden paths.

5. Local Neighborhoods and Community Gardens

Many residential areas and community gardens in cities like Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, and smaller towns such as Outlook have privately planted ornamental cherry and flowering plum trees. These trees typically bloom in late April to early May, depending on weather conditions.

Bonus: Plant Your Own Blossoms!

If you live in Saskatchewan and want to enjoy cherry blossoms every spring, consider planting an ornamental cherry or plum tree in your yard. Hardy varieties like Prunus × kerrasis (dwarf sour cherry) or Western Sand Cherry thrive in the province’s climate.

Best Time to See Cherry Blossoms in Saskatchewan:

• Bloom period: Late April to early May
• Peak bloom: Usually the first or second week of May, but it can vary due to spring temperatures.

Final Thoughts

While Saskatchewan may not have massive cherry blossom festivals, the quiet beauty of blooming trees here is something special. Take a stroll, grab your camera, and appreciate the peaceful magic of springtime blossoms right here in the prairies.

Have a favorite blossom spot in Saskatchewan?
Share it in the comments or tag us on Instagram with your cherry blossom photos!

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Along with the dance/music presentation, the Step Back in Time Walk, the Bison Walk, and special programming, there are guided tours available every day. We went on a Medicinal Plant Walk with one of Wanuskewin’s wonderful guides whenever we visited.

You are welcome to explore the 7km of walking trails that Wanuskewin currently offers. Along the way are lots of plants and herbs. A guide showed us how to use a variety of berries, leaves, and plants—some of which we would even consider weeds—medically to treat various illnesses.

Certain plants have several uses, such as treating bug bites or acting as a natural sunscreen. This fascinating walking tour highlighted some of nature’s real marvels.

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There are countless breathtaking lakes and rivers to explore in Saskatoon and across Saskatchewan. There is a place to enjoy paddling a paddleboard, kayak, or canoe close to the city.

Canoeing Pike Lake

Valley Road takes you just 20 minutes south of Saskatoon to Pike Lake. Although the park is home to one of Saskatchewan’s smallest lakes, it is nevertheless very popular with day trippers from the city. It’s the ideal location for a canoe trip that lasts just a day, or for a weekend getaway for campers. The South Saskatchewan River formed the lake, which is actually an oxbow, a u-shaped lake formed when part of a river is cut off.

Paddleboarding – Poplar Bluffs into Saskatoon on the South Saskatchewan River

Distance: 12 kilometres, 2-3 hours

Situated approximately ten minutes south of Saskatoon on Valley Road is the Poplar Bluffs Conservation Area. It requires some work to get to the river from the parking lot. There’s a path that leads to the river, but it ends with a sandy drop off the side into the water below.Depending on the season and the level of the water, one must frequently hop across sandbars to access the river’s main flow. There’s a split in the river directly across Wilson Island. It takes approximately two hours to paddle back into Saskatoon’s downtown.

Kayaking the Chief Whitecap Waterway

Distance: 50km from Whitecap Dakota First Nation, 100km from Gardiner Dam, 1-3 days

The Chief Whitecap Waterway, which is a section of the Trans Canada Trail, offers canoeists more than 100 km of navigable trail with numerous pullouts along the way. You are welcome to design your own canoe adventure on the best water trail in southern Saskatchewan, regardless of your level of experience.

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Since Saskatoonians love to make the most of the summer, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best family-friendly summertime activities in the city!

Play a Game of Tennis or Pickleball

Visit one of the numerous tennis and pickleball courts located throughout the City of Saskatoon. The public is welcome to use the asphalt courts, which have a painted base. Discover them at twelve venues throughout the city that are open until September.

Explore the Meewasin Valley Trail

The Meewasin Trail system, which runs along both banks of the river and links to a number of the city’s parks and bridges, is a perennial favorite among Saskatoon’s summertime offerings. A couple of top choices to stop along the route are Victoria Park in Riversdale and Meewasin’s River Landing Water Spray Feature, where you can learn about the hydrology and geography of the Saskatchewan River Basin.

Explore Architecture at the University of Saskatchewan Campus

Did you know that some of the buildings on the University of Saskatchewan campus date back to the 1910s? This is great information for anyone interested in architecture and looking for summer activities in Saskatoon. Observe how Modernist structures like the Murray Building blend in with Collegiate Gothic-style buildings like the Thorvaldson building and the College Building (now the Peter MacKinnon Building). Spend a few hours strolling around the campus to take in all of the modern architectural designs.

Connect with Local Producers at the Saskatoon Farmers’ Market

Visit the Saskatoon Farmers’ Market to chat with local farmers and peruse the abundant harvests. Always entertaining to stroll, people-watch, or strike up a conversation with locals in Saskatoon. An essential item for any list of summertime family-friendly things to do in Saskatoon.

Heading into Fall: Nutrien Fireworks Festival

During the Labor Day long weekend in September, River Landing, the Traffic Bridge, and Rotary Park host the free Nutrien Fireworks Festival. Savor live entertainment, food, drinks, dancing, and music as you watch the fireworks.

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People love Saskatoon, but sometimes you have to get away from the city!

Manitou Lake 

In the 1920s, Manitou Lake was the most well-liked beach resort location on the prairies, drawing tourists since the early 20th century. Dancingland, a dance hall with a horsehair dance floor that was constructed in 1928, is still standing and hosts dances every week during the summer!

If the fact that Manitou Lake is a saltwater lake isn’t enough to entice you, Thus, in addition to being a fantastic place to float, the Indigenous people of the prairies have long recognized its therapeutic

Nokomis Craft Ales

drum roll please Nokomis is a rural farming community home to the small brewery, Nokomis Craft Ales! They began operations in 2014, and since then, they have produced amazing beer! They have a lovely patio area in the summer where you can sip beer, eat sourdough pizza, and get non-alcoholic options!

Champetre County 

While Champetre County is a fantastic day trip from Saskatoon, it’s an even better destination for a vacation!

Champetre County is a resort with a rustic theme! It offers charming lodgings that are ideal for friends, families, and couples!

Camp Wolf Willow 

Although Camp Wolf Willow is a popular vacation destination close to Saskatoon, did you know that it also makes an enjoyable day trip?

Since the Wolf Willow Winery is located near the campgrounds, you can have lunch there! They have a great menu with camping essentials like gourmet hot dogs! You should definitely try on one of their wines while you’re there!
They also provide some amazing outdoor experiences, such as yoga, horseback riding, and Back2Nature saunas!

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Come explore some undiscovered gems that provide breathtaking vistas and an opportunity to get in touch with nature.

1. Chad & Joey’s Single-Track Trail

You can easily walk to Chad & Joey’s single-track trail if you frequently stroll through the Broadway neighborhood. There’s an opening leading to the lower trails from the Broadway Bridge painted rock hangout. It’s a 5-kilometer walk from here to the Circle Drive North Bridge. The University of Saskatchewan, the former ski jump, the weir, and three of the city’s bridges are all traversed by this challenging trail.

2. Gabriel Dumont Park Trail

Situated in the Nutana neighborhood of Saskatoon, this gravel trail is a hidden gem. With its 2.4 km length, the trail provides breathtaking views of the South Saskatchewan River. It’s hardly surprising that runners and bikers frequent this trail given its picturesque views. For families looking to enjoy the outdoors or have a picnic, the parking lot is close to a playground and BBQ stations.

3. Gordie Howe Bridge to Cartwright Street

If Gabriel Dumont Park isn’t long enough for you, keep going up the winding path and stop at the bench for a rest. You’ll be able to see the Grand Trunk Train Bridge quite well from here. It’s a pleasant spot to watch the sunset, and trains pass through here regularly.

4. Peturrson’s Ravine

Part of the Sutherland network of trails, which originates at Crocus Prairie Park, is Peturrson’s Ravine. The Northeast swale and the Crocus Prarie bog are accessible from this trail.

The primary path is known as the Meewasin Trail, Peturrson’s Ravine Trail. It is a broader gravel path where you might see some animal companions going for a stroll in the afternoon. Head down to either the Lower or Upper Peturrson’s Ravine Trail if you’re game for some technical trails. These are single-track trails that are well-liked for winter snowshoeing and summer mountain biking.

5. High Roller, Stove, Ravine, & Corkscrew Single-Track

We recommend the other single-track trails close to Crocus Prairie Park if, after conquering Pearson’s Ravine, you want to increase your heart rate even further. These extremely enjoyable but challenging trails have four signs that indicate the beginning and conclusion of various sections: High Roller, Stove, Ravine, and Corkscrew.

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Known as the Paris of the Prairies, Saskatoon is sure to enchant every traveler. The scenery beside its lengthy river is even more breathtaking in the fall.

Meewasin Trails

Although the Meewasin trails are accessible year-round, autumn is when they are at their most picturesque. Numerous nature conservation areas are accessible by foot or bicycle, and they are home to over 300 different plant species and no fewer than 150 different bird species. The breathtaking scenery offers a glimpse of the rich biodiversity of the surrounding area on both sides of the Saskatchewan River.

Black Box Farm & Distillery

Experience the award-winning gins and liqueurs made using traditional methods at the Black Box Distillery. On their farm, they proudly grow 90% of the ingredients used in their spirits. After sampling their goods, you can even visit their flower field and participate in pumpkin picking this fall!

Remai Modern

Experience the world of modern and contemporary art at the Remai Modern, which features 11 distinct galleries and exceptional architecture. Don’t miss the opportunity to see Postcommodity, an interdisciplinary arts collective led by Cristóbal Martínez and Kade L. Twist, through January 23, 2021. They produce art that personifies a common Indigenous voice and lens, exploring facets of contemporary life to stimulate a distinctively Indigenous futurism. An amazing chance that should not be passed up!

Local Fashion

Hardpressed, a local shop, crafts Saskatoon-inspired apparel and accessories, including tuques, sweaters, caps, hats, and socks. You can pay them a visit in person at their studio, where they are proud to produce all of their goods from start to finish.

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