Scenic Saskatoon: Prairie Charm with a Creative Soul

Walk the Meewasin Trail

This scenic path winds along the South Saskatchewan River and offers some of the city’s best views, especially at sunrise or sunset. One of my favorite stretches is through Kiwanis Memorial Park, where you’ll find the elegant white gazebo and the sculpture of children forming a globe. I used to climb all over that statue as a kid (long before signs and liability warnings went up!). Whether you’re walking, biking, or just soaking in the prairie air, this is the perfect way to experience Saskatoon’s natural beauty.

Explore the Remai Modern Art Gallery

Today, the Remai Modern is a striking architectural landmark on the riverfront, home to the world’s largest collection of Picasso linocuts and a rotating series of thought-provoking contemporary exhibitions. It also features a sleek restaurant and curated gift shop. But growing up, the art gallery was in a different spot—across from Kinsmen Park—and it had something magical: a greenhouse filled with banana trees and exotic flowers. While my grandma explored the art exhibits, I would wander through the lush greenery. The new space is more polished, but I still miss the greenhouse days.

Stroll Broadway Avenue

Saskatoon’s hippest neighborhood is full of boutique shops, vintage stores, cafés, and theaters—ideal for an afternoon of relaxed exploring. Cross the Broadway Bridge at golden hour and take in a panoramic view of downtown and the Bessborough, a must for photo lovers and romantics alike.

Wanuskewin Heritage Park

Located just outside the city, this national historic site offers powerful insight into the history and living culture of the Northern Plains Indigenous peoples. I still remember visiting on school trips, stepping inside a real tipi, and standing at the edge of the steep cliffs once used in buffalo jumps. The park’s trails wind through beautiful prairie landscapes rich with history, and its interpretive center deepens your understanding of the traditions, resilience, and stories tied to this land.

Bonus local memory

Somewhere on the drive between Saskatoon and Wanuskewin, there used to be a tiny “Creepy Doll Museum”—more curiosity cabinet than curated exhibit. I remember my grandma pulling over so we could peek inside. It was a little eerie, a little charming, and totally unforgettable. While it may be gone now, it’s the kind of odd roadside stop that adds character to Saskatchewan travel—and a reminder to always keep your eyes open on prairie drives.

Play (or relax) at Kinsmen Park

Right in the heart of the city, Kinsmen Park is a family-friendly oasis with wide green spaces, whimsical playgrounds, and the popular seasonal rides at the Nutrien Playland, including a Ferris wheel, carousel, and a mini train that circles the park. I have so many memories of spinning around on those rides as a kid and lounging on the grass with my family. It’s a lively summer stop, but even outside of fair season, it’s a great place for a picnic or a stroll under the trees.

Step back in time at the Western Development Museum

Walk the indoor “Boomtown” streets of Saskatoon as it looked during the early 1900s—from general stores to the blacksmith’s shop, it feels like you’re truly stepping into the past. As a child, I’d run around the streets before settling down for lunch with my mom or grandma at the museum’s cozy café, which is styled to match the historic theme. The museum also features an impressive collection of vintage vehicles, including classic cars and farm machinery that reflect Saskatchewan’s prairie heritage.

Visit the University of Saskatchewan campus

With its stately stone buildings and riverbank location, the U of S campus is one of Saskatoon’s most beautiful and peaceful spots. I love walking around the grounds and popping into the free museums. The Museum of Natural Sciences has real dinosaur bones and a striking geological collection, while the Museum of Antiquities showcases replicas of classical sculptures from ancient Greece, Rome, and beyond. There may be even more hidden gems on campus, but these two are always worth the visit.

Calories Restaurant & Bakery

This Broadway Avenue staple is one of my go-to spots. I’ve been here several times and always look forward to their mango black tea (I never remember the name—I just call it “the mango tea”). Their soups are consistently delicious, and if you’re lucky, you’ll catch their raspberry angel food cake—it’s light, sweet, and unforgettable. The bright, artsy interior adds to the cozy charm, making it a great place to settle in for a thoughtful meal or treat.

The Healthy Living Bistro

This cozy café on Broadway is one of my favorite spots in the city—not just for the food, but for the warmth and authenticity it brings. They serve hearty, homemade Ukrainian meals like borscht, perogies, and nalysnyky (delicate filled crepes), along with nourishing soups and sandwiches. My go-to is their creamy mushroom soup paired with a cup of tea, enjoyed from a real teacup—no takeout mugs unless you ask. It’s the kind of place where you feel instantly welcomed, whether you’re stopping in for lunch or browsing their Canadian-made olive oils, teas, and chocolates. Bonus: They recently opened an ice cream and gelato shop just next door.

Honeybun Café

This humble downtown café on 2nd Avenue is a true local gem, and yes, their cinnamon rolls are famous—they’ve even been featured in the newspaper. The team starts baking and prepping food early in the morning, so everything feels extra fresh and made with care. They serve up delicious homemade soups (though I skip the lemony ones), pasta salads, and even their own take on pizza pockets. My usual order is a cup of Assam tea with either the soup or pasta salad, depending on what I can have that day. It’s a welcoming, no-fuss spot that’s earned its loyal following for good reason.

Jounior’s Restaurant

Located on Broadway, Jounior’s is a relaxed, no-frills spot with a warm, community feel. One of the highlights for me is their fresh croissants, especially the ham and cheese version served sandwich-style—it’s simple but so satisfying. Their English breakfast tea is also surprisingly good, making it a great place to grab a casual breakfast or light lunch while watching the neighborhood go by.

The Coachman (Market Mall)

The Coachman isn’t just a diner—it’s a Saskatoon institution. Opened in 1966, it’s the oldest restaurant in the city, located right in the heart of Market Mall, which itself is the city’s oldest shopping mall. I’ve always loved it as a quiet alternative to the food court—a place to sit down, recharge, and enjoy a classic, comforting meal. Whether you’re visiting for nostalgia or just need a break from browsing, The Coachman has been serving up familiarity and warmth for generations.

Tim Hortons

You can’t skip Tim’s in any Canadian city—it’s part of the cultural fabric. Whether you’re in it for the coffee, steeped tea, or donuts, it’s a comforting staple. I always go for their English breakfast tea and a chocolate-glazed. Simple, perfect, and pure Canadiana.