With a name that hearkens to a “swift flowing river” and a landscape that’s 10 percent freshwater, Saskatchewan makes it easy to forget it’s one of Canada’s landlocked provinces. A road trip from the capital city of Regina through the province’s most populated town, Saskatoon, to the border city of Lloydminster takes you through grasslands and forests, with sites to see all along the way. Experience the Indigenous history and culture, small-town life, and energetic cities.
Canadian Midas locations
Midas wants to help you get ready for your summer road trip, starting with your vehicle. Our techs can run a completely free Closer Look Vehicle Check. This in-depth visual inspection lets you know what needs fixing now and what can wait, so you can hit the road with confidence.
Make the trip before the trip to Midas and get $20 off a full-synthetic oil change. Request your appointment at Midas.com.
Regina
Wascana Lake is the epicenter of this capital city, with the grand copper dome of the Saskatchewan Legislative Building serving as a focal point. Outdoor activities abound in the surrounding park. Stroll the Queen Elizabeth II Garden to take in a literal rainbow of flowers, check out the Trafalgar Fountain (a gift from London), hit one of the many hiking or biking trails, or take a paddling tour of the welcoming waters. Regina isn’t just about nature, though. Museums, cultural attractions, and sporting events keep this city active. Local breweries, restaurants, and a farmers market add to the character.
Royal Saskatchewan Museum
While in Regina, make time for the Royal Saskatchewan Museum, which aims to educate visitors about Regina’s First Nations people, the wonders of the natural world, and even the world’s largest T. rex skeleton (say hello to Scotty!), which you can view in the museum. Scotty was discovered in Saskatchewan in 1991 and has been fascinating scientists—and dino lovers—ever since. To see an animated half-size replica of what a living T. rex would have looked like, make sure to visit the museum’s robotic dino, Megamunch—don’t be too surprised by his voracious roar. Leave the Late Cretaceous era to learn more about Saskatchewan’s more recent natural and physical history at other exhibits.
World’s Largest Coffee Pot
How much coffee is too much coffee? Travel just outside of Regina on Highway 11 to the town of Davidson to get your caffeine fix. The World’s Largest Coffee Pot is waiting to pour you a cup. This 24-foot behemoth could fill over 150,000 mugs. The intent isn’t for the love of coffee; rather, the pot is a community symbol that represents the warmth and hospitality of Davidson. Plus, it’s one of Canada’s iconic roadside attractions, making it worth a pit stop.
Blackstrap Provincial Park
Since one lake is never enough on any trip, spend a day or night at Blackstrap Provincial Park. If you don’t have your own tent, the park offers cozy yurts. Blackstrap is a great spot to go fishing, canoeing, camping, or hiking. If you prefer the beach life, you can relax on the sand too. Even if you can’t stay and play, stop and stretch your legs while taking in the views of this scenic waterway cutting through the rolling hills.
Saskatoon
As you make your way into Saskatoon, you’ll soon appreciate why this riverfront town is Saskatchewan’s largest city. Indigenous culture and arts are celebrated at museums, sites, and festivals. Take in views of the city skyline while admiring the natural world with a walk along the waterfront Meewasin Trail, which runs more than 80 kilometers. Theaters, parks, breweries, and more provide year-round opportunities for entertainment. Soak up the fascinating history of the Mounties (the Royal Canadian Mounted Police) with a stop at the RCMP Heritage Centre.
The Prairie Lily
Brunch, sunsets, and drinks are all better on a boat. Prairie Lily cruises are a great way to take in the sights of downtown Saskatoon, the bridges, and the landscaped parks. Take it up a notch and try a brunch or dinner cruise on this riverboat. Though it was built in 1989, it echoes earlier eras, when grand riverboats were more common.
Wanuskewin Heritage Park
As you make your way out of Saskatoon, make time for one last stop. Wanuskewin Heritage Park works to advance the knowledge and appreciation of the First Nations people of the Northern Plains. At this park, take in the natural landscape and beauty that guided the First Nations years ago. The on-site gallery showcases works of Indigenous artists—including visual, performance-based art, and mixed media. The center’s archeological dig uncovered fascinating history in 2021 with the discovery of petroglyphs that may be more than 1,000 years old. Stay the night in the Tipi Village for a unique experience.
Fort Battleford
Fort Battleford was established in 1876 and played a central role in the North-West Rebellion/Resistance in 1885. As European settlers moved to the land, violence erupted between them and the First Nations. Here you can tour five original Northwest Mounted Police buildings and learn about the role of the Mounties during early settlement. Aside from the history, the natural beauty is worth experiencing as well. Find Parks Canada’s iconic red Adirondack chairs to take in views of the North Saskatchewan River Valley.
Lloydminster
Spend a day in Lloydminster, which straddles the provincial border between Alberta and Saskatchewan. Enjoy the natural scenery at the Bud Miller All Seasons Park, which features a lake, trails, and even an indoor pool. In summer, make your way downtown to find picturesque arching trees, which are a lovely photo op. The town also has an interesting collection of wall art—see if you can find all of the colorful murals. Get out to a golf course in the spring, or hit the hills at Mount Joy Snow Resort in the snow.
World’s Largest Border Markers
In Lloydminster, don’t miss the chance to visit the World’s Largest Border Markers. The bright red 100-foot-tall replicas of survey stakes delineate the boundary between Alberta and Saskatchewan. Jump from one province to the other and back again, just to say you did.
This road trip between Regina and Lloydminster features some of Saskatchewan’s largest cities and most interesting attractions, but your adventures are just beginning in Canada’s Wheat Province. You still haven’t seen Mac the Moose in Moose Jaw, been awestruck by Prince Albert National Park, or taken a horseback tour of Grasslands National Park. Hop on the Trans-Canada Highway to tour more of Southern Saskatchewan or head north to explore a land of forests and lakes.