Where to stay in Saskatoon

Saskatoon () is the largest city in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan. It straddles a bend in the South Saskatchewan River in the central region of the province.

Saskatoon is located on bluffs along the South Saskatchewan River. Early planners set aside the riverfront for parks. Several bridges cross the river, affording gorgeous views of river, trees, and skyline. Founded in 1906, with growth driven by immigration, railway links, and mining wealth, Saskatoon offers cultural sophistication and wealth of Art Nouveau architecture. That, together with the river and its bridges, gives it the nickname of "Paris of the Prairies".

Roads which run generally east-west are usually named "street"; those running generally north-south are usually named "avenue". The major north-south road called Idylwyld Drive, Louis Riel Trail, and Highway 11 marks the division between "east" and "west" streets. 22nd Street (west of the river) and Aird Street (east of the river) mark the division between "north" and "south" avenues. The Meewasin Park along the river, from just past University Bridge in the northeast to just past Idylwyld bridge in the southwest, is the heart of the traveler's beat. It is a beautiful, peaceful place to stroll, ride bikes, or skate.

Getting around

This is a car-oriented city. There is plentiful street parking downtown ($2/hour typically). Outside the central business district, driving may be your most convenient option. The best choice of rental cars is at the airport. There are few rental car offices in the Central Business District or Nutana. Walking is a great way to get around the compact and pedestrian-friendly tourist haunts of the Meewasin park, Central Business District, Broadway Avenue, and Nutana. Saskatoon Transit serves most of the city. Both regular and express (DART) service is provided.

Wikivoyage contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0; excerpted.