Far from endless fields of grain, Saskatchewan surprises with thrilling history, epic wildlife and some of Canada's darkest skies.
From urban exhibits to prairie badlands, this province invites explorers ready for both culture and adventure.
In Regina, the RCMP Heritage Centre brings Canada's iconic mounted police to life. Interactive displays trace frontier patrols to modern-day service. Snap photos in full uniform, explore artifacts, and reflect at the Place of Reflection—1500 stones honoring residential school victims and fallen officers. Admission is CAD 18; guided tours run daily.
Also in Regina, the Royal Saskatchewan Museum dazzles with "Scotty," the world's largest T-rex cast. Paleontology enthusiasts will appreciate the region's rich dinosaur heritage, while dioramas showcase Saskatchewan's ecosystems. Admission is CAD 12.50, with discounted family rates and free admission on Canada Day.
Southwest lies Grasslands National Park, a realm of rolling badlands and roaming. East Block offers the Rock Creek Campground (CAD 20/night) and the 11 km Badlands Parkway drive with scenic viewpoints. In West Block, cruise the 20 km Ecotour Scenic Drive in search of plains and prairie dogs. Hikes range from gentle (Eagle Butte, 3 km) to epic (70 Mile Butte, 12 km). Stargazers will marvel in this dark-sky preserve.
Moose Jaw's storied tunnels once smuggled bootleg; today, theatrical tours dramatize Prohibition-era moonshine runs. Choose from "Chicago Connection" or "Passage to Fortune" experiences (CAD 30, 1.5 hrs). Afterward, hunt murals downtown or ride the historic trolley (CAD 15) to learn ghostly tales and train-station secrets.
Prince Albert National Park blends boreal forests and clear lakes. Camp at Waskesiu (sites CAD 25/night) or stay lakeside at Elk Ridge Resort. Rent canoes or e-bikes at Grey Owl Centre to explore shorelines. Trails from 1 km to 40 km weave through spruce groves—keep watch for elk and fox. The Nature Centre (free) offers kid-friendly exhibits.
Straddling Saskatchewan and Alberta, Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park rises above the plains with forests and grasslands. Centre Block provides campsites (CAD 22/night) and hiking trails; West Block's auto-tour reveals Conglomerate Cliffs. At night, the park's observatory hosts stargazing sessions (CAD 10), free with park admission (CAD 10/vehicle).
In Saskatoon, the Meewasin Valley Trail unfurls over 90 km along the South Saskatchewan River. Wander past pagodas honoring early Chinese settlers, splash pads for families, and the iconic Delta Bessborough Hotel. From May to September, board the Prairie Lily riverboat cruise (CAD 20, 1 hr) for narrated city views.
From ancient fossils and prohibition dramas to tranquil starry nights and riverside promenades, Saskatchewan is full of surprises. Pack your sense of wonder—and sturdy boots—to uncover this prairie province's best-kept secrets.