The Best Things To See And Do In Small Town Saskatchewan

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Small towns in Saskatchewan offer a unique experience filled with charm, history, and natural beauty. From scenic landscapes to cultural landmarks, there's plenty to explore. Here are some of the best things to do when visiting small towns in this Canadian province.

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Visit Museums and Heritage Sites

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Saskatchewan's small towns are rich in history, and many have museums or heritage sites that capture the essence of the past. For example:

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The Western Development Museum in Moose Jaw offers a glimpse into the transportation history of the region.

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Motherwell Homestead National Historic Site near Abernethy lets visitors experience pioneer life and the legacy of one of Canada's early agricultural leaders.

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​​Explore Provincial Parks

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Saskatchewan, renowned for its vast prairies and expansive skies, also boasts a remarkable variety of provincial parks. These parks feature diverse landscapes, including lush forests and sandy beaches, making them ideal escapes for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

 

Among the popular parks is Prince Albert National Park, a must-visit spot in central Saskatchewan, known for its boreal forests, sparkling lakes, and abundant wildlife like bears, elk, and wolves. Here, visitors can enjoy hiking, canoeing, and camping. Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park, straddling the Alberta-Saskatchewan border, offers unique elevated landscapes and diverse ecosystems, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing.

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Meadow Lake Provincial Park in northwestern Saskatchewan is a paradise for water enthusiasts, with over 20 lakes that provide excellent opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating. The park also offers numerous campgrounds and trails, making it a great family vacation spot.

 

Saskatchewan Landing Provincial Park, located along the South Saskatchewan River, is known for its rolling hills and scenic vistas, popular for camping, hiking, and golfing. Its historical significance is linked to its location along the historic fur trade route.

 

Grasslands Provincial Park in southern Saskatchewan (pictured below) showcases the prairie landscape's natural beauty, offering a haven for diverse wildlife like bison and pronghorns, and is ideal for backcountry camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

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Saskatchewan's provincial parks are crisscrossed with trails for all skill levels, offering everything from leisurely walks through wildflower meadows to challenging forested hikes. Many parks feature beautiful lakes and rivers suitable for swimming, kayaking, and fishing, whether you prefer a peaceful paddle or the thrill of fishing. Camping is a beloved activity, with numerous campgrounds offering a range of amenities, from rustic tent sites to fully serviced RV spots. Picnic areas provide perfect settings for meals surrounded by nature.

These parks play a crucial role in conserving Saskatchewan's natural heritage by protecting diverse habitats and offering refuge to various wildlife species. Visitors can expect to see animals ranging from majestic elk to playful foxes and an array of bird species.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Participate in Outdoor Activities

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Many small towns provide access to lakes, rivers, and trails:
 

Fishing and Boating: With numerous lakes, such as Lake Diefenbaker, fishing enthusiasts can enjoy a relaxing day on the water.

 

Hiking and Biking: Trails like the Trans Canada Trail offer scenic routes for hikers and cyclists.​

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Visit Art Galleries and Theaters

 

Explore local art and performances:

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• The Station Arts Centre in Rosthern combines a gallery and a theater, offering a platform for local artists and performers.

• The Art Gallery of Swift Current features exhibitions of contemporary and traditional art.

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Taste Regional Delicacies

 

Saskatchewan's food culture is as rich and varied as its history. Bannock, a staple in Indigenous cuisine, has become a beloved food across the province. This versatile flatbread can be baked, fried, or cooked over an open flame and is often served with jam, honey, or savory toppings. Saskatoon berries, named after the city of Saskatoon, are a local favorite. Similar to blueberries, they are used in a variety of dishes, including pies, jams, sauces, and desserts. Pemmican, a traditional food of the Indigenous peoples, historically comprised dried meat, fat, and berries, serving as a vital source of nutrition and energy, especially during long winters or journeys.

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Saskatchewan also offers a unique selection of locally sourced game meats, such as bison, elk, and deer. These meats are often grilled, roasted, or smoked, celebrated for their rich flavors and lean qualities. The farm-to-table movement is strong in Saskatchewan, with many restaurants focusing on locally sourced ingredients.

 

Fresh produce, meats, and grains from the prairie lands prominently feature on menus, offering diners a true taste of the region. The province also boasts a growing number of craft breweries and distilleries. Many establishments (you can see Saskatchewan's best small town restaurants here) use local ingredients to create unique beers, spirits, and cocktails that reflect Saskatchewan's agricultural heritage. 

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