Regina, Saskatchewan is best known to outsiders as the flat lands of Canada, boasting harsh winters and surrounding wheat fields. The casual atmosphere and hidden gems of the Queen City works her charm on visitors arriving from near and far.
This century old capital city of Saskatchewan is founded in a spot where the Canadian Pacific Railway meets the muddy banks of Pile o’ Bones creek. In the past, the settlement of Regina was once named after these heaps of buffalo remains, now the lush urban spread of Regina’s parks and man-made lake feels worlds away.
Truth be told, Regina has undergone many changes over the years; from dinosaur bones displayed at the Royal Saskatchewan Museum to the Royal Canadian Mountain Police (RCMP) training grounds. It is inevitable anywhere you look, local attractions continue to celebrate the area’s rich history.
Not sure where to start your Regina vacation? Here’s some popular attractions that offer unique experience for visitors.
1. Shop the Village
If you are visiting Regina and love to shop-until-you-drop make sure to visit the Cathedral Village. This busy beehive of a shopping strip is easily one of the best retail hubs in the city. Located just a short walk from downtown Regina, Cathedral Village hosts a plethora of eclectic styles and gifts for everyone. The cluster of local boutiques and eco-conscious shops can be found primarily along 13th Avenue between Albert and Elphinstone Street.
Looking for something to fill your tummy? The Village also has a hodgepodge of cafe’s and restaurants to tickle anybody’s taste buds. If you have a sweet tooth, check out Kim and Ashlee’s for some freshly baked cupcakes. Popular flavours include Death by Chocolate or Peanut Butter Fudge. If you’re looking for something more than a sweet snack, rest up at the 13th Avenue Coffee House. On top of fuelling your soul, this cafe is best known for it’s flavourful vegetarian rice bowls.
2. Visit the Local Museums and Galleries for Free
The city of Regina not only has impeccable shopping, but also has museums and galleries aplenty. Strap down and spend the afternoon becoming a regional history and culture buff, you won’t be disappointed. The best news; most of these cultural experiences are FREE.
Take a step back in time at the Royal Saskatchewan Museum and marvel at the 3 billion years of evolution that is on display. Glimpse into the past as you take in geological specimens, dinosaur fossils and a fascinating collections of lifelike wildlife native to the region. If art galleries are more up your alley take the time to visit the nearby MacKenzie Art Gallery and its outdoor sculpture garden. The main draw to this exhibit and the various works from Canadian and international artists.
A fan of football? The Saskatchewan Sport Hall of Fame has a whopping display on the history of the Roughriders. Football fan’s should pencil in the museum and make sure to check out the souvenir shop for local artifacts and memorabilia
3. Try Seasonal Goods and the Regina Farmer’s Market
Every city, big or small, has flea or farmers markets, and Regina is no different. Farmers and local craftsmen come together at these markets to display and sell fresh or home crafted local bounty. Between the months of May to October, the Regina Farmer’s Market is open twice a week; on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9:30AM to 1:30PM. Fresh vegetables, meats, cultivated flowers, going green has never been easier!
The Regina Farmer’s Market is located in front of the municipal City Hall. Just follow the crowd! If you plan on visiting in the winter months don’t despair. The market continues to be available indoors until mid-December on Saturday mornings at the Cathedral Neighbourhood Centre
4. Walk Wascana
Wascana Lake is a 2,300-acre park in Regina’s city centre. A beautiful patch of green space in the middle of an urban metropolis, this man-made lake is the focal point of it all. On the Wascana trails you will find a steady stream of people out for a midday stroll, on an early morning jog or spending quality family time. It’s the perfect spot for walking, biking, canoeing and even rollerblading.
Many of Regina’s main attractions and landmarks are built around Wascana Lake, the most notable being the Saskatchewan’s Provincial Legislative Building. This small piece of forested heaven is the perfect earthy getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.
5. Festivals and Culture
As spring turns to summer Regina truly comes to life with its festival and cultural season. Immerse yourself in the art, theater and music festivals that roll into town almost every weekend in the warm months. Every year Regina has something new and exciting in store for it’s residents. Block parties, concerts, workshops, international food vendors, the festivals that take over this city will leave you wanting more.
The capital city of Regina offers a wide variety of attractions and activities for any newcomers looking to move to this city. From farmers markets to theater productions, there is something here that will suit everyone. Canada’s prairie land is yours to discover!