Visit Popular Saskatchewan Attractions

Northern Saskatchewan

In addition to numerous sites that allow visitors to experience the region’s natural wonders, visitors can learn more about the people of the First Nations, early settlers and the artists who continue to make the north a popular artistic retreat. The Northern Gateway Museum near Denare Beach reveals collections of artifacts and exhibits on the First Nations traditions and history. They also provide glimpses into the mining techniques that were common in the early 1900s, as well as tidbits from the fur trade that dominated the region.

Are you interested in learning more about the region’s gold rush days? If so, Creighton Museum and Tourism Centre should be your next stop. Here you can learn more about the first strikes, the development of the gold rush settlements and even see a Northwest Mounted Police post replica.

Visitors heading up to Stanley Mission can get the chance to travel over the Churchill River to see the  Holy Trinity Anglican Church. The church is the oldest building in Saskatchewan, constructed between 1854 and 1960. This gorgeous specimen was built using local logs cut by First Nations builders and finished with stained glass shipped from England.

Moving down to Prince Albert, visitors should add the Prince Albert Town Hall and Opera House (now the Prince Albert Arts Centre) to their itineraries. Finished in 1893, this is one of the few remaining prairie town halls, and its facade alone fascinates architecture buffs. The city also houses four different history museums:  the Evolution of Education Museum, the Prince Albert Historical Museum, the Rotary Museum of Police & Corrections and Diefenbaker House.

Meanwhile, art lovers won’t want to miss the Mann Art Gallery. And if you love attending live performances whenever you travel, schedule a stop at the Diefenbaker Theatre inside The E. A. Rawlinson Centre for the Arts. Want to try your luck? Roll the dice at the Northern Lights Casino.

Central Saskatchewan

If you want to learn more about the First Nations, and you find yourself in the Central region, a trip to Wanuskewin Heritage Park is in order. Here you can take part in a First Nations dance class, learn about the medicine wheel and experience life in a tipi.

From there, you may be interested in exploring the lives of some of the first settlers to the area. They were Russian Doukhobors who escaped religious persecution. Known for living in shelters that were dug into the hillsides, the settlers continue to fascinate. You can visit the Doukhobor Dugout House NHS near Blaine Lake to watch the costumed interpretive guides wash clothes in the creek while singing a cappella songs of the age. If you want to learn more, drive out to Veregin, to see The National Doukhobors Heritage Village. Other intriguing historical sites in the region include the Batoche NHS and Fort Battleford NHS, both instrumental in the North-West Rebellion.

Another great way to learn about early life in Saskatchewan is to explore the Western Development Museum in Saskatoon. The life-sized replica of the 1910 Boomtown includes more than 30 buildings, including a new Edwards Funeral Home exhibit. While you are Saskatoon, be sure to pick up a ticket to see a performance at the Persephone Theatre, or investigate the modern art offerings at the Remai Modern (formerly Mendel Art Gallery). Animal lovers will want to talk to the animals at the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo.

Southern Saskatchewan

If you find yourself exploring Southern Saskatchewan, a visit to the 1891 Government House Museum is a "must." Once serving as the home of the Lieutenant Governor of the North-West Territories, the property now invites guests to learn more about its early days and to wander through their Edwardian Gardens. There are also fun elements for kids, Victorian-like photo sessions and a lovely Victorian tea that is open for reservations.

Other fascinating stops include the gorgeous Beaux Arts Legislative Assembly Building and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Heritage Centre. The Saskatchewan Science Centre is perfect for kids who love interactive exhibits and hands-on learning opportunities. They are also likely to adore the dinosaurs and other exhibits on display at the Royal Saskatchewan Museum. If you are interested in First Nations culture and work by Western Canadian artists, a trip to see the MacKenzie Art Gallery in Regina is well-worth your time. Enjoy theater-in-the-round at The Globe Theatre, attend an event at the Conexus Arts Centre or take in the seasonal flora blooms of the Regina Floral Conservatory.

Outside of Regina, the tunnel tours in Moose Jaw are a big hit. The stories and the history of the tunnels capture the imagination – not a surprise when you add Al Capone to the mix. You may also find yourself drawn to the Esterhazy Flour Mill, as it reveals the province’s milling days. Likewise, the wooden grain elevators that dot the prairies never fail to enchant. Architecture buffs flock to Gravelbourg's ecclesiastical buildings which include a bishop’s residence, a cathedral and a convent.

For a truly unique experience, schedule a trip to Fort Qu'Appelle to visit the Standing Buffalo First Nation Powwow. It is reportedly the largest and oldest powwows in the province and includes dancing competitions, food and crafts.