Doors Open: Explore Secret Attractions in Saskatoon For Free on June 25th

Discover the hidden treasures of Saskatoon with Doors Open Saskatoon, an event that grants the public exclusive access to remarkable buildings not typically open to visitors.

newelly54/Flickr

Doors Open Saskatoon takes place on June 25th from 12 noon to 5 p.m.

Explore the following diverse architectural wonders, both old and new, that shape the city’s identity and aspirations:

Marr Residence (1884): Located at 326 – 11th Street East, the Marr Residence is the oldest house in Saskatoon, built in 1884. It served as a field hospital during the Riel Resistance in 1885 and now stands as a Municipal Heritage Site, providing a window into the city’s past.
Shrine of Blessed Nun Martyrs Olympia & Laurentia (2005): Situated at 215 Avenue M South, the shrine honors two Ukrainian Catholic sisters who were exiled and died in Siberia in 1952. With its cross-shaped design, stunning mosaics, and a replica of the Shroud of Turin, the shrine stands as a pilgrimage site dedicated to the martyrs.
Musee Ukraina Museum: Located at 222 Avenue M South, the Musee Ukraina Museum showcases the rich cultural traditions of Canadians of Ukrainian heritage. With over 20,000 artifacts representing spiritual, material, and cultural aspects, the museum offers a deep insight into the contributions of Ukrainian people to Saskatchewan and Canada.
Ukrainian Museum of Canada (1979): Found at 910 Spadina Crescent East, the Ukrainian Museum of Canada provides a comprehensive depiction of the history of Ukraine and Ukrainian immigration to Canada. The museum’s striking design, featuring Tyndall stone and a steeply pitched roof, pays tribute to traditional Ukrainian homes and churches.
Delta Hotels by Marriott Bessborough (1935): Situated at 601 Spadina Crescent East, the Delta Bessborough stands as Saskatoon’s iconic “Castle on the River.” Built in the Chateau-style, this ten-story hotel boasts original features like plaster relief art, heraldic emblems, and a stunning copper roof.
Drinkle Building No 3 (1913): Located at 115 3rd Avenue South, the Drinkle Building is a historic landmark in Saskatoon. Originally intended as a ten-story office tower, it now houses loft apartments, restaurants, and art studios, featuring a unique public art wall and captivating murals.
HMCS Unicorn (1943): Found at 405 24th Street East, HMCS Unicorn holds significant historical value as the Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve, celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. The building showcases a collection of naval memorabilia and weapons, preserving the legacy of prairie sailors.
Knox United Church (1914): Standing at 838 Spadina Crescent East, Knox United Church is an architectural gem commissioned by Saskatoon’s Presbyterian community. Its remarkable brick design in the Collegiate Gothic style, stunning stained glass windows, and intricate woodwork make it a must-visit.
Senator Hotel (1908): Located at 243 21st Street East, the Senator Hotel carries a rich history. Built by James Flanagan, it retains many exquisite details such as a marble staircase, original chandeliers, and moulded ceilings, offering a glimpse into the city’s past.
St. John’s Cathedral (1917): Situated at 816 Spadina Crescent East, St. John’s Cathedral stands as a significant religious and architectural landmark. Crafted from Redcliff brick and Tyndall stone, the cathedral’s terra cotta trim, stained glass windows, and towering steeple make it a prominent feature of Saskatoon’s skyline.
TCU Place: Located at 35 – 22nd St. East, TCU Place is renowned as one of the best conference facilities in Western Canada. Its versatile convention space and Sid Buckwold Theatre, with superior acoustics and expansive stage area, make it an ideal venue for events and performances.
St Vincent of Lerins Orthodox Church (1913): Found at 304 3rd Avenue, this grand church built by the Methodist community showcases Gothic-style architecture with hammer.
Gordon Oakes Red Bear Student Centre (2016): The Gordon Oakes Red Bear Student Centre, located at 5 Campus Drive on the U of S Campus, is a culturally inclusive gathering place that promotes Indigenous scholarship and intercultural learning. Designed by architect Douglas Cardinal, the Centre’s unique architectural features and symbolic elements reflect its commitment to Indigenous communities.
Diefenbaker Canada Centre (1980): Situated at 101 Diefenbaker Place on the U of S Campus, the Diefenbaker Canada Centre is a one-of-a-kind facility that serves as the archival, museum, and research center for Canada’s 13th Prime Minister, John Diefenbaker. With replica rooms, historical artifacts, and exhibits, the center offers visitors a deep understanding of Diefenbaker’s vision and contributions to Canadian history.
Merlis Belsher Place (2018): Located at 2010 College Drive, Merlis Belsher Place is a state-of-the-art sports facility that houses the University of Saskatchewan Huskies sports teams and offers recreational opportunities for the campus community and local teams. With its modern amenities and multiple ice surfaces and basketball courts, it serves as a hub for athletic activities.
Observatory (1930): Found at 108 Wiggins Road, the Observatory on the University of Saskatchewan campus is a unique structure designed for astronomical observation and research. Built in the Collegiate Gothic style, the observatory features a distinctive appearance, including a telescope housed under an impressive dome, making it an important facility for studying the stars.
Rugby Chapel (1911): Situated at 1337 College Drive, Rugby Chapel is a historic wooden chapel that originated in Prince Albert and was later moved to the University of Saskatchewan campus. Built in the Gothic Revival style, the chapel’s architectural features and stained glass windows provide a glimpse into its rich history and religious significance.
Nutana Legion – Military Museum: Located at 3021 Louise Street, the Nutana Legion houses the Saskatoon Museum of Military Artifacts, featuring a diverse collection of military memorabilia. Showcasing artifacts from both World Wars, the museum pays tribute to the brave men and women who served in the Canadian military.
Baitur Rahmat Mosque: Situated at 304565 Township Rd 362, the Baitur Rahmat Mosque is a purpose-built place of worship for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. With its distinctive minaret tower and dome, the mosque stands as a symbol of faith and community in Saskatchewan.
Black Fox Farm & Distillery (2015): Located at 245 Valley Road, Black Fox Farm & Distillery offers visitors the opportunity to explore beautiful fields of fruits, flowers, and grains while experiencing award-winning spirits. Owned by John Cote and Barb Stefanyshyn-Cote, the farm and distillery showcase the importance of terroir and the craft of whisky and gin production.
Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area: Found at 241 Township Road 362, the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is a hidden gem, providing a serene environment for hiking, wildlife viewing, and biking. With its extensive forest and commitment to environmental preservation, the area is a testament to the importance of reforestation efforts.
Queen’s House Retreat & Renewal Centre (1958): Situated at 601 Taylor Street West, the Queen’s House Retreat & Renewal Centre offers a peaceful retreat and spiritual exploration. With its serene grounds and various programming, the center serves as a haven for self-reflection, encounter with others, and personal growth.
Fire Station No. 9 and Saskatoon Emergency Measures Organization: Located at 870 Attridge Drive, Fire Station No. 9 serves as the Municipal Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) and houses.