Overview

Saskatchewan is a land of open skies, golden prairies, and endless horizons — a place where nature, culture, and history come together in wide, welcoming spaces. Located in the heart of the Canadian Prairies, Saskatchewan is known for its sun-soaked farmland, lakes and forests in the north, Indigenous heritage, and two vibrant cities: Saskatoon and Regina. Whether you’re canoeing through untouched wilderness or enjoying a summer festival in the city, Saskatchewan offers authentic and peaceful Canadian experiences.

  • Capital: Regina
  • Largest City: Saskatoon
  • Other Major Cities: Prince Albert, Moose Jaw, Swift Current, North Battleford
  • Population: ~1.2 million (2024 est.)
  • Time Zone: Central Standard Time (UTC−6) year-round (no daylight saving)
  • Climate: Continental — long, cold winters; warm, dry summers with lots of sunshine

Top Destinations in Saskatchewan

Saskatoon

A dynamic city on the South Saskatchewan River with a strong Indigenous presence, farm-to-table cuisine, and arts and festivals year-round.

Regina

The provincial capital is home to Canada’s RCMP heritage, stately parks, and the historic Saskatchewan Legislative Building.

Prince Albert National Park

Where boreal forest meets prairie — a haven for hiking, canoeing, and wildlife in central Saskatchewan.

Grasslands National Park

A stunning and rare example of protected prairie grassland, rich with bison, badlands, and stargazing opportunities.

Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park

A forested highland area straddling the Alberta border, offering hiking, biking, lakes, and dark sky preserves.

Must-See Attractions

  • Wanuskewin Heritage Park (Saskatoon) – A sacred Indigenous site and UNESCO World Heritage nominee
  • RCMP Heritage Centre (Regina) – Explore the story of Canada’s national police force
  • Royal Saskatchewan Museum – See dinosaurs, natural history, and Indigenous exhibits
  • Remai Modern (Saskatoon) – A world-class modern art museum on the riverfront
  • Tunnels of Moose Jaw – Explore underground passages tied to Prohibition-era smuggling and immigration history

Things to Do

  • Canoe, kayak, or hike in Saskatchewan’s northern lakes and parks
  • Attend a Pow Wow or Indigenous cultural event
  • Drive the Saskatchewan scenic routes — Qu’Appelle Valley, Yellowhead Highway, and more
  • Explore art galleries, markets, and breweries in Saskatoon and Regina
  • Watch the stars in one of the province’s official Dark Sky Preserves

Getting There & Around

Airports

  • Saskatoon John G. Diefenbaker International (YXE), Regina International (YQR), and regional airports

Transport

  • Public transit in Saskatoon and Regina
  • Rental cars are essential for rural travel and national parks
  • VIA Rail stops in select towns along the Canadian route

Best Time to Visit

  • Summer (Jun–Aug): Ideal for outdoor activities, lake trips, and festivals
  • Fall (Sep–Oct): Prairie landscapes glow with golden hues and crisp air
  • Winter (Nov–Feb): Great for skating, snowmobiling, and winter festivals
  • Spring (Mar–May): Wildlife watching and blooming wildflowers begin

Local Food & Culture

  • Cuisine: Strong farm-to-fork focus with local meats, grains, lentils, and vegetables
  • Specialties: Saskatoon berries (in pies and jams), bison, perogies, bannock, and craft beer
  • Markets: Regina Farmers’ Market, Saskatoon’s Riverdale Market
  • Festivals:
    • Saskatoon Jazz Festival
    • Regina Folk Festival
    • Nutrien WinterShines (Saskatoon)
    • Fringe Theatre Festival (Saskatoon)
  • Indigenous Culture: Present throughout the province — learn through museums, art, tours, and storytelling

Souvenirs from Saskatchewan

  • Saskatoon berry syrup, jam, and wine
  • Indigenous crafts, beadwork, and dreamcatchers
  • Bison jerky and locally made honey
  • RCMP-themed merchandise from Regina
  • Prairie photography and handmade pottery

Fun Facts

  • Saskatchewan is called “Land of the Living Skies” for its dramatic sunsets and auroras
  • There are over 100,000 lakes in the province
  • It’s the only Canadian province with no natural borders (just straight lines!)
  • Saskatchewan is Canada’s top producer of wheat and lentils
  • Moose Jaw’s tunnels were once used by Al Capone’s rum-runners during Prohibition

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day Prairie City Break (Saskatoon + Regina)

  • Day 1: Saskatoon – Remai Modern + river walk
  • Day 2: Drive to Regina – RCMP Heritage Centre + Wascana Park
  • Day 3: Museums, cafes, and craft breweries

5-Day Nature & Culture Journey

  • Day 1: Saskatoon – Wanuskewin Heritage Park
  • Day 2: Drive to Prince Albert National Park – hike, canoe, or wildlife tour
  • Day 3: Lake day + visit Waskesiu townsite
  • Day 4: Head to Moose Jaw – spa and tunnel tour
  • Day 5: Return to Regina for culture and dining

Cities

  • Saskatoon