The thing I love most about living in and exploring Saskatchewan is the diversity of getaway destinations in the province. Whether you’re craving an outdoor wilderness adventure or a weekend trip under the big city lights, Saskatchewan has it all.

Looking to escape our routine and to reconnect with one another, my partner and I recently jetted off for a couple’s weekend in Saskatoon. With only 24 hours on the clock, we wanted to fill our day with as many things to see and do as possible. 

Outdoor Adventure

Liam and I keep a “bucket list” of different things we'd like to do together, and one of the activities high on the list that had yet to be checked off was skating on an outdoor rink. So, upon planning our trip to Saskatoon, my heart was set on visiting one of the city’s most popular skating rinks – the Cameco Meewasin Skating Rink @ Nutrien Plaza.

We arrived downtown and were in awe of the picturesque views of the Delta Hotels by Marriott Bessborough and the South Saskatchewan River that bordered the skating rink. We laced up our skates inside the warming shelter (that was warmed by a wood-burning stove), then hit the ice. It was heartwarming to see many other families, couples and groups of friends embracing the season and enjoying the outdoors together. Even with the sun shining, there was an outdoor firepit to keep skaters toasty. 

If you’re looking for the perfect date night activity, check out Meewasin Sip & Skate.

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Embrace your inner child with a tube ride down Optimist Hill.

Snowshoe through the trails and discover the history of the valley at Wanuskewin Heritage Park. Snowshoes are available for use at the Interpretive Centre.

Clip in to your cross-country skis and glide along the civic trails. If you can’t bring your skis with you, local shops, such as Escape Sports, can rent you a pair.

 

Happy Hour

Next, we ventured to Crossmount Cider Company, an apple orchard and cidery located 5 km south of Saskatoon. Its hard apple cider – Flatlander – is produced on the expansive property and there is a tasting room open year round.

We ordered a flight of cider each, trying all eight ciders on tap, and made our way outside to one of the outdoor winter domes. The dome was warm, quiet and intimate, but large enough to accommodate up to six people – perfect for an outing with friends. Other guests surrounded the outdoor firepits, with all the fixings for making s’mores, while others enjoyed the beautiful winter afternoon as they skated across the frozen pond.

The skating rink is free to the public and always open, but there are no amenities available outside of cidery hours. All ages are welcome. Call the Tasting Room to inquire about the outdoor winter domes and firepits.

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Sip on bold and flavourful beer at High Key Brewing Co.’s new downtown taproom.

Cash in on Happy Hour deals at Shelter Brewing Company, where you can also indulge in tacos from Dylan & Cam’s!

Enjoy a distillery tour and cocktail or whisky tasting at Black Fox Farm & Distillery.

*Remember to drink responsibly and always plan a safe ride home.

 

Dinner

Serving Brooklyn-style pizza, Thirteen Pies Pizza + Bar is our go-to food spot in Saskatoon. Its horror movie-themed menu and elevated cocktails are to die for.

We shared our favourite pizza, The Killer Cheese from Outer Space (the truffle honey is phenomenal), and I Know What You Ate Last Summer. Each bite sparked conversation over our delight and appreciation for the flavours and ingredients featured. Once our bellies were full and happy, we spent some time enjoying the trendy atmosphere of the bar before moving on to our next, and final, stop of the night.

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Landing on Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants list, Primal is the pasta paradise of your dreams.

Experience one of Saskatoon’s tasty gems, Hearth Restaurant, located inside the Remai Modern. 

 

After Hours

To inspire some friendly competition, we ended our night at The Stoked Centre. The Stoked Centre is Saskatoon’s newest entertainment destination, with high-speed electric go-karts, a 200-ft. zipline, 15 bowling lanes (10-pin), arcade games and a restaurant and bar with a three-storey LCD screen. With so much to do under one roof, its the perfect spot for a fun date night activity or a night out with friends.

The Stoked Centre was unlike any entertainment centre we had seen in Saskatchewan, and we easily spent the remainder of our night playing Mario Kart (I won), air hockey (I lost), and a few of the other arcade games spanning across the two floors of the building.

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Experience the rush of a Saskatchewan Rush lacrosse game!

Stop in and explore the exhibits at Remai Modern (admission by donation and free for youth under 18), or take in a live theatre show at Persephone Theatre.

Challenge each other and work together while trying to escape at Breakout Escape Rooms & Game Lounge. Choose from seven themed escape rooms or spend time in the Board Game Lounge.

 
Photo supplied by The Stoked Centre

 

Breakfast

We woke up early the next morning and began our day with a gorgeous walk along the Meewasin Valley trails at sunrise. In search of a spot to stop for brunch before starting the trek home, we came across a quaint restaurant located only three blocks from our hotel, Flint Saloon and Poached Breakfast Bistro. On the menu, there is a wide array of brunch options, from benedicts (of course), omelettes and classic breakfast. After brunch, the restaurant “flips” into Flint Saloon, which is available for dinner service. Never having been to Poached, we both agreed it would be our new brunch spot when we visit the city.

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Popular breakfast spot, OEB Breakfast Co., serves incredible breakfast dishes, and even mimosa flights!

Located in Saskatoon’s eclectic Riversdale District, Hometown Diner serves all-day breakfast and lunch.

 

Where are your favourite places to eat, stay and play in Saskatoon? Share your photos with us on Instagram by using the hashtag #ExploreSask.

 

Author: Alexandra Exner

 

Alexandra Exner is a local Saskatchewanian based in Regina. When she’s not scrolling through Instagram or out in the community discovering new experiences to highlight on social media, you can find her in the gym, out on the walking path or on the volleyball court. Her Saskatchewan bucket list item is to visit Athabasca Sand Dunes Provincial Park.