Saskatoon

Built around the beautifully meandering South Saskatchewan River, Saskatoon is a vibrant city with a lively downtown and a great music scene. Saskatchewan is known for its long summer days, and Saskatoon is perfect for enjoying them, idling by the river, on your feet or in one of the bars or cafes. It’s also known for its cold winters, which is when the live music scene makes you want to stay indoors. The best places to stay in Saskatoon can probably be found in the downtown area or in the inner city neighbourhoods. Here you’ll find some hip and happening options along with some more traditional offerings.

One of the nicest things about Saskatoon is the river, which serves to bring beautiful natural views right into the heart of town. The Meewasin Valley, for example, is a forest of mature trees and home to all sorts of wildlife. The river also means that there are a lot of bridges, and that fact, along with the city’s collection of Art Nouveau architecture, has led to the city being called ‘the Paris of the Prairies’.

If you’re interested in learning more about the Cree people, who were this area’s first inhabitants, then head out to the Wanuskewin Heritage Park, where you’ll find interlacing trails crossing lush meadows and valleys, and learn as you wander. If you’re interested in finding out about Saskatoon's more recent history, after the arrival of the famously un-fun ‘Temperance Colonization Society’, who were the first Europeans to live in this part of the world, then it’s certainly worth visiting the Western Development Museum, where you can see a re-creation of Saskatoon’s high street circa 1910 - all indoors.

Our pick of the best places to stay in Saskatoon will be the perfect base, whether you're here for busines or leisure.

For a contemporary downtown stay

• The James Hotel is a stylish, contemporary hotel in downtown Saskatoon, right on the banks of the South Saskatchewan River. There are 59 rooms and suites - some of them quite palatial - all with hardwood floors and crisp lines. There’s also a trendy Lobby Bar. Children aren’t allowed.

Still not sure which is the best place to stay in Saskatoon for you? Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Saskatoon, widen the net to include all our Saskatchewan recommendations, or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.