Saskatoon
Straddling the banks of the South Saskatchewan River in central Canada, Saskatoon is a picturesque city situated in a lush valley. With about a quarter of a million people, Saskatoon is the largest city in Canada’s premier agricultural and mining province of Saskatchewan, but it still retains a laid-back atmosphere.
In the winter months, temperatures rarely rise above freezing point in Saskatoon, but the skies are often blue so there is plenty of opportunity for outdoor activities. Visit between May and September, when there is no snow on the ground, to discover the city’s natural attractions at their best.
Walk or cycle the trail of the Meewasin Valley along the river. On your way, see works by famous Canadian artists at the Mendel Art Gallery. On the outskirts of town, the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo is a fun place for families.
The city’s cultural heritage is diverse and there are plenty of attractions where you can learn about this. The name Saskatoon is derived from the Cree word for a local berry. The First Nations people have lived here for some 6,000 years and still hold a special connection with the land. Travel back in time and explore the Wanuskewin Heritage Park, with its prairie trails, archeological digs and cultural center. Learn how people survived in the prairie in the late 19th century at the Ukrainian Museum of Canada or walk the recreated streets of the Saskatoon Western Development Museum to see the effects of the agricultural boom in 1910.
Saskatoon is also lively at night, thanks to its many restaurants and bars. Check the city’s website for a schedule of events, which includes the Saskatoon Exhibition, Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan Festival, Winterfest, Saskatchewan Jazz Festival and ethnic Folkfest and Vesna.
Rent a car or make use of the city’s cheap and efficient bus system to reach all major inner-city. The nearby Saskatoon John G. Diefenbaker Airport has regular flights to major Canadian and American cities.