The land of the Battle of Batoche, Manitou Springs fondly described as ‘The Dead Sea of Canada’, the ancient land of Wanuskewin, beautiful sandy beaches, are not the only things that beckons visitors to Central Saskatchewan. Summer is the best time to acquaint yourself with this regions rich history, breathtaking beauty of boreal forests, enjoy cultural and community events, watch outdoor theatre, not to mention dancing to incredible music. Try out this handpicked list of 50 summer activities in Central Saskatchewan.
A Gnarly Good Time
Located near Hafford, is The Crooked Bush. Be sure to check this mysterious wonder of nature off your summer adventure list. Walk the self-guided trails through this strange grove of aspen trees. Instead of towering up towards the skies, the trees twist in horizontal or even downward directions, giving the grove a fairy tale kind of strangeness that you almost have to see to believe.
The Boomtown Experience
Prepare to be transported all the way back to 1910 at the delightful Boomtown in Saskatoon. The Western Development Museum boasts a fascinating indoor street straight out of the pages of history. Reconstructed buildings and thousands of artifacts as well as the newer exhibits complete with a sod house, will transport you back to the early days of prairie life. Be sure to check the website for the fascinating and fun programs they offer throughout the summer. If all that time travel works up an appetite, be sure to stop by the Boomtown Café for home cooked fare after.
A Sandy Paradise
You don’t have to travel out of the province in search of spectacular beaches. Only thirty minutes northwest of Yorkton, Good Spirit Provincial Park is home to one of the most beautiful beaches in all of the country. Perfect for soaking up the sun, the tranquil waters of the lake are also great for swimming and fishing. The park has plenty of other activities including golf, hiking, dining, and camping- perfect for an extended stay. Be sure to check out Dune Discovery Interpretive Trail for more sandy adventures.
A Stay to Remember
Want to be the coolest parents in the world? Take the kids down to Nutrien Playland at Kinsmen Park. You and your kiddos can have a blast hitting up the carousel, reaching new heights on the Ferris wheel, or jump aboard the train that circles the park. After all that hot summer fun, cool down at the water area or enjoy playing in the sand. There’s never ending fun, so be sure to come back more than once!
Make a Splash
Make a splash this summer at the Access Communications Water Park at the Gallagher Centre in Yorkton. With a wave pool, lazy river, whirlpool, huge instructional pool, climbing wall, and many other features, make it a destination for this summer!
Berry Blast
No trip to Saskatoon would be complete without visiting The Berry Barn, the ever popular getaway. Located just a short drive from the city, the Berry Barn features a greenhouse, a gift shop and bakery, and of course, an incredible menu. Stalk up on all your Saskatoon berry favorites, and treat yourself to some of the delectable bakery items. You can stay for lunch or come for dinner. The barn itself is gorgeous, but you’ll be absolutely delighted by the views of the South Saskatchewan River.
Theatre Come to Life
Craving a little entertainment this summer? Look no further than The Barn Playhouse. Located just fifteen minutes north of Saskatoon, the incredible live theatre is sure to fit the bill. Talented actors bring the entertaining plays to life. The tickets are affordable and there is lots of fun and good eats to be had before the shows!
A New Provincial Park
Porcupine Hills Provincial Park is the province’s newest provincial park. If you haven’t been to visit the area, located by the town of Hudson Bay, it’s definitely a unique experience. Offering great summer fishing, beautiful trails, unspoiled natural scenery, and smaller campgrounds, you’ll be sure to get a more authentic outdoor experience.
An Afternoon Stroll
It might come as a surprise to learn that arguably one of the province’s most beautiful trails can be found located within city limits. Extending through Saskatoon, running on both sides of the river, the incredible Meewasin Trail boasts views of the river and many different sites and stops along the way. A full twenty kilometers of the trail was just designated part of the Great Trail, so be sure to get out and start exploring this summer.
An Ever Changing Park
Prairieland Park, in Saskatoon, is your go-to destination in the city for all things awesome. Featuring unique events throughout the year, the summer is definitely an exciting time. From dinosaurs to flea markets, fascinating shows, to the Saskatoon Exhbition, Prairieland definitely has adventure covered all summer long.
An Artsy Event
Treat yourself to a night out and watch the arts come to life at the Dancing Sky Theatre. Located in Meacham, this off the beaten path theatre is not to be missed. There is also a full dining room for some good eats.
Cinema Under the Stars
Travel back to a by-gone era, where drive-in theatres were all the rage. Growing increasingly hard to find, The Jubilee Drive-in theatre at Manitou Beach is a beautiful, quaint experience that you won’t want to miss. Don’t miss your chance to experience a movie under the stars, right from your own vehicle.
By-Gone Battles
Journey back to the late eighteen century to witness how the country changed after the Northwest Resistance. At Batoche National Historic Site, you can learn all about life from that time and even see the bullet holes and scars that the battle left.
An Afternoon Away
If you’re ultra-busy this summer, but still want to have that camping, outdoor experience, never fear. Head on out to Blackstrap Provincial Park, only a forty minute drive south of Saskatoon. With inviting beaches, rolling hills, and cool waters, Blackstrap is the perfect place to enjoy an afternoon of swimming, watersports, or fishing. If you have a little more time, pack a tent and extend your stay at the campground.
A Weekend of Watersports
Come explore the inviting waters of Jackfish Lake in the Battlefords Provincial Park. Located forty kilometers north of North Battleford, the lake boasts beautiful, unspoiled waters perfect for swimming and fishing, and stretches of sandy beach for soaking up the summer sun. The park also features a beautiful campground and a golf course, amongst many other activities.
Canada’s Wheat King
Bring the whole family for a trip to the beautiful Seager Wheeler Farm National Historic Site. With a visitor centre jam packed with history, you can learn all about “Canada’s Wheat King,” Seager Wheeler. Enjoy a sweet treat in the Sun Room, or even inquire about camping out at the property. Be sure to check the website for special events throughout the summer so that you don’t miss out.
An Ancient Land
Located just outside of Saskatoon, lies the beautiful Wanuskewin Heritage Park. Come explore all that this ancient landscape has to offer. Get a glimpse into a history that extends past six thousand years. Come see the incredible exhibits or traverse the beautiful trails. There are always workshops and events happening throughout the year, so check out the website’s calendar.
A Family Getaway
If you’re searching for that perfect destination for the whole family, Wakaw Lake Regional Park might just be what you’re looking for. Only an hour away from Saskatoon, it’s not too close and not too far away. With a beautiful beach complete with playground, a tranquil lake for swimming, fishing, and watersports, a mini-golf course, campground, and a huge restaurant on site, as well as all the amenities the nearby town of Wakaw has to offer, it’s the perfect family escape for that weekend, or week, away.
Games Night
Single and looking for something to do? Can’t get everyone organized? Trying to get the kids to spend time with you? Summer doesn’t always have to be about camping or hiking or being outdoors. King Me Board Gamery Café has something for everyone. Enjoy tasty treats and delicious beverages all while getting together for some board game fun. With over six hundred games to choose from, this unique café is sure to be a great time, every time.
Catch Yourself a Trophy
Try your hand at catching a trophy sized fish on Tobin Lake. If you’re not familiar with the lake or if you’re new to fishing, it’s always worth giving a lodge a try. Book a stay at the beautiful Tobin Lake Resort. They offer beautiful log cabins for rent, as well as boats and guides available to make sure your stay is the best it can be.
Explore Ancient Routes
Walk in the footsteps of early settlers and fur traders at Redberry Lake. The area was home to cart trails and was used by fur traders as far back as the early 1800’s. Located by Hafford, the area features a beautiful lake perfect for swimming and activities like kayaking. There is also a golf course and the park itself is incredibly scenic.
An Artsy Escape
No trip to Saskatoon would be complete without a visit to the Remai Modern. The incredible architecture of the building is in itself worth the journey. The spectacular art gallery overlooks the river and features art from the twenty-first century. Be sure to check out the calendar for the many different programs and events they offer.
A Spring Fed Lake
Visit the only naturally spring fed lake in the area. Clearwater Lake Regional Park is the perfect family destination. With clear waters, sandy beaches, grassland, and rolling hills, it’s any nature lover’s paradise. Nearby, in the town of Kyle, there’s even a museum and a drive-in theatre so you can round out your vacation in style.
Journey Back in History
Journey back in history to the Fort Pelly National Historic Site. Located only ten kilometers south of Pelly, you’ll be able to see a plaque in the place of the fort which served as the headquarters for the Swan River District of the Hudson Bay Company for nearly fifty years. While the area might not be incredibly exciting for everyone, if you’re a history buff, it’s worth the journey just to stand on the same land where this vibrant fort was once a thriving part of life over a century and a half ago.
Get Cultured
Saskatoon is a hotspot for arts and culture and there is almost nothing better than the Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan Festival. Overlooking the river, you’ll get to take in two different productions that run almost the entire month of July.
Sail the High Seas
Okay, so maybe you won’t be sailing the seas, but you can take an enchanting cruise down the river on the Prairie Lily. With many different cruises including a one hour cruise or dining cruise, it’s sure to be an unforgettably beautiful experience.
The Dead Sea
If you haven’t been to Manitou to experience the mineral rich waters, it’s definitely an adventure you should have this summer. Try to sink the buoyant waters. We dare you. The Manitou Springs Resort and Mineral Spa has everything you need for the perfect vacation getaway including all the spa services you’ll want to book into for a little me time.
All Aboard
About an hour from Saskatoon, between Cudworth and Wakaw, is the incredible Wheatland Express Excursion Train. Jump aboard and experience life on the prairies from a different perspective. You can even have dinner!
No Sea in Sight
Venture out to see the only lighthouse in all of Saskatchewan. Located not far from Saskatoon, the Cochin lighthouse is fully functional, even though it doesn’t really need to be, because there is no sea in the province. Although it might seem a little funny, the lighthouse is beloved by locals and tourists alike.
Wet and Wild
Located only twenty minutes south of Saskatoon, Pike Lake Provincial Park is the perfect place for a wet and wild adventure. Not only is the park located on the South Saskatchewan River, which is perfect for water activities, there is also an outdoor pool with a waterslide. The park also offers a whole host of other activities like golf, volleyball, and hiking.
Learn How to Fly
Okay, you won’t really be flying at Rosthern Valley Regional Park, but you can soar down the zip line or race down the massive slide. The playground features other fun activities, and located only thirty-five minutes north of Saskatoon, it’s close enough for a day away for the whole family. Or if you’re planning on spending a few days, there is also a campground and a beautiful golf course.
Dance the Night Away
Take a trip to see the renowned Danceland, known for the world famous horsehair dance floor. Located at Manitou Beach, the dancefloor is over five thousand square feet, perfect for dancing the night away! Manitou Beach has many different activities to do and sights to see, so be sure to come for a few days.
Bird Watching
It might come as a surprise, but North America’s oldest bird sanctuary is located in Saskatchewan. Located at Last Mountain Lake, two hours northwest of Regina, the area is an important stop over for over two hundred and eighty different types of birds. Take yourself on a one hour self-guided driving tour, or walk the two self-guided trails. There is also a lookout tower and information kiosk. Be sure to bring your camera!
Ancient Echoes
Located northwest of Rosetown, in Herschel, the Ancient Echoes Interpretive Centre is the perfect place to learn all about the pre-historic history of the province as well as current ecology. You’ll be able to see archeological dig sites, take in aboriginal petroglyphs, and see many different types of fossils. Take a guided hike through the ravine, or explore the different exhibits at the centre, it’s sure to be an adventure you won’t soon forget.
Theatre Brought to Life
Never been to live theatre? Who says you have to leave the city to have the perfect summer adventure? Persephone Theatre in Saskatoon offers exciting events all year round. Live theatre is an exciting experience, one like no other, so don’t miss out! Check out the website’s schedule to see all the many events offered this summer, as well as productions and plays.
Arts on the Prairies
The Station Arts Centre in Rosthern is an artistic paradise in the middle of the prairies. Located in a fascinating historic CN Railway station, they offer a gallery which showcases art from local artists, a tea room, and a performing arts theatre. Only a thirty-five minute drive northwest of Saskatoon, make this one a destination adventure this summer.
Picturesque Boreal Forest
Summer is all about camping and enjoying the outdoors and Duck Mountain Provincial Park offers just about everything you could need for the perfect summer adventure. Pristine waters, Boreal forest, camping or cabin rentals, beautiful beaches, excellent fishing and spectacular hiking- you name it, the Park has it.
Fine Arts
If you happen to be camping and exploring the Duck Lake area, the Duck Lake Interpretive Centre (Museum) is home to the Glen Scrimshaw Gallery Head office. Be sure to check out the amazing display of Glen Scrimshaw’s incredible artwork in the gift shop and theatre areas. You won’t be sorry you did, as most people have heard of Glen Scrimshaw’s beautiful work, and it’s definitely neat to be at the heart of it all. You might even be lucky enough to catch Glen Scrimshaw and get him to sign a calendar for you.
A Heritage Village
If you’re in the Duck Lake area, be sure to stop by the National Doukhobor Heritage Village. Located in Verigin, the fascinating area boasts an incredible Prayer Home and a museum, which holds a few thousand Doukhobor items. You’ll also be able to see barns, a blacksmith shop, and farming equipment, as well as learn all about the unique history of the area.
Time Travel
Time travel isn’t actually real- or is it… either way, you can transport yourself back to the days of the thriving Hub of the Hudson’s Bay Company. Fort Carlton Provincial Park is really neat, in that it features a reconstructed fort with tons of different artifacts that can actually be touched as well as seen. The hands on staff will help make your visit an exciting and informative one. There is also a picnic area and a small campground.
Days of Music
Don’t miss the incredible Sask Jazz Festival. Held in June, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of Jazz, as well as many other types and forms of music. Great food and tasty beverages, as well as incredible scenery, help round out the experience. For a list of music festivals in Saskatchewan, see here.
An Off Land Adventure
Canoe or kayak the Chief Whitecap Waterway this summer. The waterway extends all the way from Gardiner Dam to Saskatoon. If you’re new to paddling, you might want to choose to only do part of the trail, or if you really want an insane adventure, you could start at the dam and make it back to Saskatoon, camping out along the way.
A Furry Good Time
Make it a destination spot if you live out of town, or just come for the afternoon for an exciting staycation adventure. The Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo has everything you need to have a blast, including amazing animals, a trout pond, and a scenic picnic area.
Bounce to the Skies
At Crickle Creek, only a few minutes south of Saskatoon, the entire family can enjoy a day of fun filled activities, including huge inflatable bouncers at the fun zone! They also feature mini-golf, a par 3 golf course, and ice cream! What summer adventure could be better?
Soar Like a Bird
Soar like a bird this summer at Skydive Saskatoon. What better summer adventure could be had than jumping out of a plane and skydiving for the very first time? Skydive Saskatoon has experienced instructors that can help you check this one off your bucket list.
Indulge Your Taste Buds
Visit Wolf Willow Winery this summer. They’re not just known for exceptional wines, you can come enjoy a meal, and the scenery, since the vineyard overlooks the valley of the South Saskatchewan River, is absolutely gorgeous. Located just outside Saskatoon, you don’t have to drive far to get that European feel.
A Look Back
Take a look back at the past at the Western Development Museum in Yorkton. The collection is wide and varied. Even if you’ve been to the WDM in Moose Jaw or Saskatoon, the Yorkton experience is different and just as exciting, so be sure to check it out.
Sink a Putt
With some of the best golf courses in the country, finding the perfect golf course this summer is easy. Whether you’re an experienced pro or just want to come out for the fun of it with a group of friends, or maybe you’re trying it for the first time, pack up the clubs and get out there!
Get A Bird’s Eye View
Get a bird’s eye view of Saskatoon by embarking on a hot air balloon ride at Sundance Balloons. If you’ve always wanted to get up high and take to the sky, there’s no time like the present. If you’re on a tight budget, check discount sites like Groupon for cheaper rates.
Broadway
Whether you’re from Saskatoon or not, Broadway Ave always offers something exciting. Festivals, excellent dining options, theatre, live music, plays, antiques, and incredible shopping. You name it, Broadway is home to some of the most unique shops in the city. Located just off the river, it’s also incredibly beautiful and even if you’re only taking a walk through window browsing, you can still make an afternoon of it.
More Summer Adventures:
- 50 Summer Outdoor Adventures in Saskatchewan
- 10 Must Visit Beaches in Saskatchewan
- 50 Amazing Things to Do in the Parks and Natural Areas of Saskatchewan
- Waterfalls of Saskatchewan – A Canoeist’s #Bucketlist
- Summer Adventures in Northern Saskatchewan
- 50 Summer Adventures in Southern Saskatchewan