Celebrate Fall in Saskatoon: A 24-Hour Itinerary
The equinox presents near equal lengths of day and night and the shift into the winter season, where days shorten until the winter solstice in December. Longer nights mean more opportunity to unwind and stargaze or enjoy Northern Lights. For more ways to explore this season, check out our fall seasonal activity guide for more ways to discover Saskatoon.
Morning: Downtown Coffee and a Riverside Walk
Head to the heart of downtown Saskatoon and pop by Living Sky Café for fresh-baked goods. Grab a window seat to enjoy their selection of premium teas and locally roasted coffee, or take it to go and head toward the South Saskatchewan River - the defining geographical feature of the city. The trails on the riverbanks throughout downtown and beyond are part of the Meewasin Valley Trail, where you’ll find scenic spots, fall foliage, and routes to satisfy a quick stroll to an all-day adventure.
Photo Credit- Living Sky Café
Late Morning: Brunch or Lunch with a View
Still downtown, head to River Landing for classic brunch and lunch options at OEB Breakfast Co. Enjoy farm-to-table dishes in a fun and modern setting, including fun takes on classics like the Montreal smoked meat eggs benedict or the breakfast poutine à la duck confit. The location is superb - steps away from Saskatoon’s premier contemporary art museum, Remai Modern (pop in to peruse the Picasso’s), and the Persephone Theatre, one of the city’s favorite performance venues for live theatre.
Photo Credit- OEB Breakfast Co.
Afternoon: Explore the Saskatoon Forestry Farm & Zoo
The Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo delights visitors with gardens of seasonal foliage , wildlife viewing opportunities, and history all in the mix. Established as a forest nursery in 1913 the site was used to produce trees and plant research for over 50 years. While the nursery closed in 1965 it was purchased and reopened by the City of Saskatoon in 1966 as the Forestry Farm Park and later renovated in 1972 to expand facilities for animals in the park. Today, a visit offers the chance to see a wide variety of animals from mountain goats to gila monsters.
Photo Credit- City of Saskatoon
Dinner: Enjoy Seasonal Dishes on Broadway
Head to Odla for seasonal farm-to-table fare where much of the menu is sourced from 50+ local producers. Try their family style four course tasting menu showcasing tried and true favorites on the menu alongside one of the city’s best negronis. Make sure to leave room for desserts like their butterscotch pudding consisting of vanilla wafer and whipped cream and the perfect touch of sea salt.
Photo Credit- Sik Pics
Evening: Sunset and Stargaze Just Outside the City
Escape the city lights to Cranberry Flats Conservation Area to view the sun slip under the horizon. A 16 km drive south of Saskatoon, Cranberry Flats offers a peaceful and quiet spot a short drive from the city. A popular spot for family picnics and dog walkers (dogs must be on leash), the scenic area boasts sandy beaches and a wheelchair accessible trail. Note that the site is open from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm, so stargazing here is best in late fall and winter’s shorter days.
Photo Credit- Meewasin Valley Authority
Saskatoon has something for everyone in all four seasons, so head out and enjoy the fall!