During my Cowgirl vacation in Saskatchewan I was lucky to have spent a couple nights discovering the many fun things to do in Saskatoon. Prior to my visit, I did not know much about Saskatoon but having explored Moose Jaw last year, I had a sneaky feeling that I’d find plenty to do in the Paris of the Prairies! My recent trip blended immersive cultural experiences with unforgettable dining and scenic outdoor adventures, making for a weekend packed with memorable moments. It’s s delicious city that will surprise you, that’s for sure!
Disclosure : This post is in partnership with Tourism Saskatchewan but, as always, opinions are TOTALLY ours!
Things to do in Saskatoon on a Momcation
Saskatoon is centrally located in Saskatchewan and has multiple daily, direct flight options from Toronto. This make it very easy to spend a weekend in Saskatoon if you’re thinking of a quick Momcation! If you love good food, small town charm and big city culture, then you’ll definitely want to read on because I discovered all of that during our girls getaway in Saskatoon!
Places to Explore on a Saskatoon Girls’ Trip
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Saskatoon then you’ll want to take in these Saskatoon experiences that will delight each and every one of your senses.
Acknowledge the Land and Its History at Wanuskewin
When you visit Saskatchewan you feel the spirit of the land and you’re encouraged to acknowledge the deep-rooted cultures of Indigenous peoples. When you step foot in Saskatchewan you are standing on the traditional lands of Nakota, Nehiyaw/Cree and Métis, among others. On our first day, upon landing at the Saskatoon airport, we visited Wanuskewin Heritage Park which is an important stop for anyone seeking an authentic Indigenous experience. This national historic site located in the city of Saskatoon, is a gathering place that has hosted Indigenous peoples for thousands of years.
You could spend an entire day here because the Interpretive Centre has interactive exhibits, art galleries (the only Indigenous-led and curated gallery in Saskatoon) and many spaces celebrating Northern Plains Indigenous peoples. You can learn about the bison hunts and the site’s historical significance, dating back over 6,400 years. It’s the longest-running archeology dig in Canada!
As for us, we decided to take one of their tours. They have a variety of tours that are engaging and super interesting (everything from Bison Walks to Bannock Bakes). We took part in their Native Plant Walk tour and our guide taught us fascinating details about the medicinal and edible plants in the Opimihāw Valley. They spoke to us of their traditions and the important relationship between them and the land. I definitely appreciate plant life a whole load more, now that I know the significance of some the plants that grow in Saskatchewan. It has definitely made me want to take a plant walk tour in every place we visit!
Tootle Around Downtown Saskatoon
Downtown Saskatoon surprised me because there were walkable stretches and plenty of cute stores that were filled with small town vibes but big city designs! We spent a couple hours meandering around Riversdale and Broadway, popping into various stores. These areas are also home to some fabulous restaurants and bars, which means you could easily spend an entire day shopping and eating!
Spots in Riversdale that caught my attention included Hardpressed Print Studio (Akira loves the Provincial Grain socks and the SPCA Cat Tee from here), The Little Market Box (perfect for snacks, tea and plants), Peryton Books, Nefelibata Arts & Crafts(this was a bit of a dig and find treasure trove of random things), Twigg & Squirrel (beads and furs), Green Goddess Artisan Shoppe (really cool jewellery but also fun hats!) and Spex by Ryan (the coolest collection for sunglasses and specs!).
Over on Broadway I found these following Saskatoon shops interesting : Soul Paper (stationery galore), Alt Haus (a very funky store with a cafe inside) and The Wanuskewin Collection (beautiful collection of Indigenous designs).
Frolic at Black Fox Farm and Distillery
This is one of the few TRULY farm-to-still distilleries in North America because they grow everything on site. The husband-wife duo are fifth generation farmers who are also award winning scientists who now grow 90% of what is in their products-from honey to haskap berries! When you visit the distillery I urge you to explore the farm. Fresh fruit, flowers and grains are harvested and distilled into whisky and gin.
During your visit to Black Fox you can enjoy a tasting or sit on their patio and relax with a flight and some nibbles. You can also take one of their many tours and I highly recommend taking a look at their events calendar to see if there’s fun experiences happening to add to your list of things to do in Saskatoon on a girls’ trip.
During the summer they have U Pick flowers and flower decorating classes and in the winter there’s wreath and centerpiece making experiences you can book! Prance around, take some gorgeous pictures and chat with the staff here because they’ll tell you all about their sustainable farm to still practices.
Shake Cocktails at Lucky Bastard Distillery
This is definitely a Momcation worthy activity in Saskatoon. Three friends started this distillery when one of them won the lottery and figured they were too young to retire. Lucky Bastard Distillery is the first distillery to operate in Saskatoon since the prohibition era and they have a beautiful space where you can sample their range of products (everything from Dill Pickle Vodka to Single Malt Whisky) and purchase various items to help you make some epic cocktails.
They also have a space where you can partake in a cocktail class. These do have to be pre-booked and it’s a fun way to spend some time on your girls getaway in Saskatoon. They offer mocktails too so don’t be afraid to see if you can get a private class if there’s no public ones happening during your Saskatoon vacation.
The events space is very “prohibition era chic” so you’ll definitely want to take some group shots (photos….though drink shots are encouraged too) here!
Enjoy a Meewasin Grazing Dinner
I did not put this on the restaurant list because this truly unique experience in Saskatoon isn’t hosted often or held in a traditional restaurant. You have to be prepared for this Saskatoon activity which is why they send you a list detailing what to wear and bring with you for this outdoor adventure. It was still warm during our September visit so I did not layer up too much but I did wear closed toed shoes and sprayed on bug spray! Upon arrival we met the group that would be dining together and we were offered extra bug spray if needed. We then began our guided hike through native prairie at Beaver Creek Conservation Area. Similar to the plant walk, we learned about the land and got right in the fields for a truly immersive all-senses experience. We hiked (I did it with ease so you know it isn’t strenuous at all) for about an hour with plenty of breaks included in that hour. We even enjoyed a drink whilst watching the sheep in the fields.
After the hike, we were rewarded with a three-course dinner prepared by the team at Odla. We sat outdoors overlooking beautiful Beaver Creek and caught sunset as we enjoyed our family-style meal featuring locally sourced and seasonally inspired ingredients. When it came time for dessert and tea, we returned to the fields for an interactive sheep and stock dog demonstration. Shepherd Jared Epp showcased how Meewasin uses grazing practices to support the prairie ecosystems and answered our many questions. This was truly a unique experience that will leave every one of your senses satisfied!
I will mention that this dinner takes place at special times. Meewasin, meaning “beautiful” in Cree, is a conservation organization in Saskatoon dedicated to protecting the South Saskatchewan River Valley’s natural, cultural and historical heritage. They manage several parks, trails and conservation areas, including Beaver Creek and parts of the Meewasin Valley Trail. They offer outdoor recreational activities, educational programs and seasonal events, fostering environmental stewardship and public awareness of Saskatchewan’s unique prairie landscape. Hopefully they’re hosting one of these dinners during your Saskatoon Momcation!
Best Saskatoon Food and Drinks
I was truly amazed by the vibrant and diverse food scene in Saskatoon and had the best time drinking and eating our way through the city on this Saskatoon girls trip! Two things stood out for me as we dined at various places in Saskatoon. First was how tight knit the food community is here. Nearly everyone seems to know each other and they’re very generous with the well-deserved praise of the neighbourly establishments. I was told this goodwill spreads throughout the community because they’re so used to helping each other survive the harsh winters and that neighbours truly do look out for each other. The second thing was the abundance of bison on menus, reflecting both Saskatchewan’s large herds and the animal’s deep connection to Indigenous culture in the region.
Breakfast Restaurants in Saskatoon
Poached
This Saskatoon breakfast spot is a breakfast bistro by day (saloon by night) and has the cutest vibes for a girly breakfast. Love that they allow you to mix and match here which is why I can tell you that the Poached Eggs over Shrimp and Crab Risotto Cakes are fab as is their Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate (which my friend ordered) and you should get two orders of the Bacon Roll Ups!
This cozy family diner is a great spot to kick off your day at. Their menu features local and seasonal items that will please sweet and savoury breakfasters. They have a wide range of breakfast offerings here so you can choose between Fried Chicken and Pancake, Burgers, Avo toast and a variety of Eggs Bennys. I want you to know that it’s absolutely acceptable to order a milkshake for breakfast (because I did) and that you should probably order one of their seasonal donuts too!
Snacks and Treats in Saskatoon
Pique
This bustling Saskatoon bakery and cafe is the perfect spot to grab a quick lunch at or hug a warm cup with some treats nearby whilst you read a book. We swung by here to grab a quick to-go lunch but next time I plan to linger longer and try more of their goods. The sandwiches my friends and I ordered were so good as was the Kouign-amann. Next time I plan to try their tarts and croissants!! I also highly recommend taking a closer look at the various spices, jams and pre-packaged snacks they offer because they’re great food souvenirs! You can also watch the bakers and pastry chefs work their magic through the glass wall!
Every girls trip should be filled with treats galore – that’s my take anyways! This Saskatoon ice cream parlor features a variety of fun flavours and takes pride in using organic milk and cane sugar as their base. They also source as many ingredients as possible from local farmers, makers and producers. Vegans/dairy free folks-they have some fun rotational flavours for you too!! Getting an ice cream flight is definitely encouraged here – just wish they would also add some mini waffle cones to the flight.
Did you expect to get authentic Pierogies in Saskatchewan? You should because there’s a fairly significant population of Ukrainian descent in the province. Though this may be listed under snacks, arrive hungry if you’re a pierogi fan—there are plenty of varieties to try! Baba’s Pierogies offers as authentic an experience as it gets. The Ukrainian ladies we met in the kitchen worked their magic on pierogies and cabbage rolls, and if you’re lucky, you might even get a quick kitchen tour! In addition to the quick service sit down area, they also have a drive-through- possibly the only pierogi drive-through in the world. Be adventurous and try seasonal items, like Philly Cheese Steak or Tex Mex, and even sweet pierogies like Blueberry and Apple Pie.
Cocktails in Saskatoon
Parlour
You know how much I appreciate a true speakeasy… so know that there’s no name board to direct you to this craft cocktail bar! I’ll let you hunt it down and hope that you’ll give yourself a couple hours to responsibly enjoy a few drinks here. Okay, Okay… Follow the blue cat sign to a hidden stairwell. Some of their tinctures and concoctions feature herbs and flowers from their rooftop garden – the staff here are more than happy to chat with you about the many cocktails they can shake or stir for you! Whether you’re looking for something “different” or a classic cocktail, you’ll be very happy here.
If you’re looking for a mid afternoon pick me up this wine bar is the place to be. Whether it’s sitting by their bar, in their main room or the comfy living room filled with couches, it’s the perfect spot for respite. Their wine collection is fantastic, as can be expected (their collection of Orange wines looked fab) but they also have nibbles to raise you out of a mid afternoon slump. The Bison Tartare was great and the canned olives reminded me of the many bars we patroned in Spain and Portugal. I also loved that my martini came in a cute self-pour bottle.
Best Meals in Saskatoon for Dinner or Lunch
Hearth
This was one of my favourite dining experiences in Saskatoon, and it’s easy to see why this restaurant continues to earn acclaim. Their dishes were well prepared and fun and their servers were knowledgeable and attentive. Named one of Canada’s top 100 restaurants in 2024, it showcases locally sourced and foraged ingredients, with recipes inspired by the co-owner’s grandmother.
The atmosphere was cozy, and although the warm September evening was perfect for patio dining, we chose to sit indoors, surrounded by beautiful art. Oh did I mention that this restaurant is housed in the Remai Modern, a modern and contemporary art museum? Honestly, I loved every dish we ordered here and even though I initially wanted to get the tasting menu, I’m so glad our group of four ordered a variety of dishes to share instead. The menu changes often and I have a feeling you can’t go wrong with anything here EVER! If you see the Mushrooms in Mornay Sauce- order it!
I absolutely loved everything about this family-run Asian restaurant in Saskatoon. Everyone from baby to grandma can be spotted here depending on when you visit! Odd Couple was born out of the desire to recreate Canadian-Asian favourites with an “East meets West” twist. You’ll notice ingredients and cooking techniques inspired by Cantonese, Vietnamese and Japanese cuisines with a Canadian twist. Seeing Crab Rangoons on the menu definitely took me back to my college years in Maine and it absolutely hit the spot. Definitely ask for their chili paste. Everything from the Spring Rolls to the Ginger Beef and Singapore Noodles was perfection.
Vegans, you’ll be taken care of here so add this to your list of vegan places to eat in Saskatoon. We enjoyed lunch here during this Saskatoon girls getaway and on my next visit I plan to come here for dinner to try even more dishes.
This is a fabulous spot for a great meal over long chats. I enjoyed my final meal in Saskatoon here and it too was bangin’. I’m still dreaming of my Lemon Burrata Pasta! Not only is the pasta all hand-made here but they use Saskatchewan heritage grains and believe in whole animal butchery. You know how much I appreciate reducing food waste! Here’s an insider’s tip. Order the Bone Marrow ( I mean ALWAYS order Bone Marrow when you see it on a menu – have I taught you nothing over the years?) and then ask your fabulous server for the “luge” experience. Once you’ve slurped the creamy goodness your server will bring over a shot of sherry which you will pour into the bone’s cavity as you take the “shot”. So fun! Your friend group will definitely be giggling through this experience. I sampled what the rest of our group ordered and the Pork Agnolotti was amazing too and the Bison Carpaccio was melt in your mouth amazingness. Order the Pavlova to end your evening!
Where to Stay in Saskatoon
During our Cowgirls getaway in Saskatchewan we stayed in a variety of accommodations ranging from ranches to bunkhouses. In Saskatoon we enjoyed the comforts of a hotel stay and stayed at two different places in the downtown area. I enjoyed a good night’s sleep at both Saskatoon hotels and know that you’ll enjoy your stay at either of these hotels.
If you’re looking for modern eco friendly design then you’ll want to stay at this centrally located hotel. Not only is it conveniently located right across from the Remai Modern (and Hearth restaurant), it’s also located along the South Saskatchewan River for those evening strolls. The rooms were modern and comfortable as always and I enjoyed a river view. After a day of exploring, it was nice to unwind here.
As with most Alt Hotels we’ve stayed at, I enjoyed the water refill stations, mini fridges and rainfall showers in the rooms and the many lounge areas for guests to relax at. It should come as no surprise that I did not check out the 24 hour gym or borrow a complimentary yoga mat. I didn’t have time to enjoy the bar or the lounge area on this visit either. There’s always next time!
IF you want to live out your princess dreams, then a stay at the “Castle on the River” would make you happy. The Delta Bessborough’s Château-like architectural style definitely makes you feel like royalty. The hotel opened in 1935 and was built as apart of the Canadian Pacific Railway.
The rooms are quite large and while they do have that classic old hotel vibe, the service was attentive and they had great amenities. The hotel has a pool and spa, which I sadly did not have time to enjoy but hope to on my next visit during Summer 2025 for the TMAC conference. And, this is a Marriott property so if you have Bonvoy status, it is a great spot to enjoy some perks!
I highly recommend walking around building because there’s many little things to notice-Like the fossils that can be spotted on the Tyndall Stone used to build the hotel. We did have time to sneak in a quick breakfast before my morning flight and the service was great and the traditional breakfast menu hit the spot. So know that if you’re in a bind, a meal here is a safe choice!
If you need more inspiration for your Saskatchewan trip, my friend Andrea from Mommy Gearest also has a fab tips for horseback riding in Saskatchewan!
Weekend in Saskatoon Itinerary
As you plan your girls getaway to Saskatoon, here’s my recommendation for a Saskatoon weekend itinerary if you’re looking to narrow down your options. Our weekend in Saskatoon was a testament to the city’s blend of tradition and modernity, where Indigenous heritage and forward-thinking culinary artistry coexist beautifully. Saskatoon’s charm is undeniable. For anyone seeking a getaway with depth, relaxation, and discovery, this Saskatchewan gem offers an experience as rich as the land itself.
Oh, you’ll definitely need a car to explore Saskatoon and Saskatchewan!
- Day 1 : Arrive. Visit Wanuskewin. Lunch at Odd Couple. Roam around Riverside. Drinks at Pop Wine Bar. Visit Black Fox Distillery. Check into hotel or have pre-drinks at Parlour. Dinner at Hearth.
- Day 2 : Breakfast at Hometown Diner or Poached. Roam around Broadway. Lunch at Baba’s Pierogies. Cocktail Class at Lucky Bastard. See if Meewasin is hosting a dinner during your visit and pre-book it. Or dine a Primal.
- Day 3 : Breakfast at Poached. Visit Remai Modern or relax at hotel spa. Lunch at Pique. Depart.
