This tiny 'city of bridges' is one of Canada's most charming and underrated hidden gems
If you're dreaming of a summer road trip or getaway to one of Canada's most beautiful small towns or cities — listen up! This sunny, charming spot is one of Canada's most underrated cities, and it's a genuine hidden gem.
The cozy city of Saskatoon doesn't necessarily top the list when people talk about Canada's must-see cities, but maybe it should.
We recently asked Canadians to share what they think are Canada's most underrated cities, and Saskatoon was an answer that came up multiple times. Narcity readers praised the city's trickling streams, friendly communities, and, of course, its bountiful bridges.
Saskatoon has the nickname "City of Bridges," and for good reason. According to the City, Saskatoon has ten major bridges crossing the South Saskatchewan River, many of which played a key role in shaping the community.
The first traffic bridge, completed in 1907, helped transform Saskatoon from a small prairie town into a growing economic hub.
Since then, bridges like the University Bridge and the newer Chief Mistawasis Bridge have only given more context to the nickname.
In fact, the City of Bridges maintains 80 bridge-related structures in total, including eight vehicle bridges, 49 overpasses, 24 pedestrian crossings and 28 kilometres of sound walls.
It's the same reason the city has another nickname — Paris of the Prairies. With its scenic, river-rich surroundings and its romantic, artsy energy, Saskatoon has big small-town energy, like a prairie version of a quaint European getaway.
What's more, the city gets more sunshine than almost anywhere else in Canada, with over 2,300 hours a year. Summer temperatures can reach the mid-30s, and the long, bright days are ideal for exploring.
Unlike some of Canada's major cities, Saskatoon isn't packed with visitors or splashed all over TikTok, which makes its cozy cafes, patios, and walking trails feel like undiscovered hidden gems.
If you want to explore some of Saskatoon's neighbourhoods, head to Broadway for its shops, restaurants and walkable streets. If you're looking for historic buildings with modern galleries and cafes, add Riversdale to your list.
Downtown, you'll find a mix of office towers and riverfront parks, plus public art and plenty of green space.
Saskatoon is also home to Wanuskewin Heritage Park — a national historic site that highlights the region's Indigenous history through archaeological sites, exhibits and cultural programming.
In winter, the city shifts gears but doesn't slow down. The annual Nutrien Wintershines Festival includes ice sculptures, food events and stargazing.
It's not just Narcity readers who are obsessed with the City of Bridges, either. It was previously described by Vogue as a "must-visit" destination, and has ranked among the best destinations in Canada in the past by U.S.A Today and by travellers on TikTok.
As well as Saskatoon, Narcity readers also listed spots like Saint John, Winnipeg, Halifax, Victoria and Sarnia among Canada's most underrated destinations.
Whatever your summer plans, add these hidden gems to your bucket list (just don't tell anybody else!).
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
