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It’s easy to fill several days touring Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. The ‘sunshine city by the river’ offers several museums, cultural events, architectural wonders, and dining throughout the downtown area and surrounding neighbourhoods.

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On one morning, I chose to walk along the South Saskatchewan River making my way to the Mendel Art Gallery.

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Another walk in the opposite direction led me across the Broadway Bridge to the popular Broadway district, filled with cafés, shops, and nightlife.

The Roxy Theatre is located in Riversdale, an area currently getting a revamp. The cinema was built during the Great Depression and has a very unique interior. The ceiling is painted to mimic a twinkling night sky full of stars. Side balconies are ornately decorated and lit for added atmosphere. I felt at once transformed to both Morocco and Andalusian Spain when I visited last week.

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In the lobby, colourful murals and golden moldings add to the charm and character of this landmark theatre.

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Although the Roxy changed names numerous times over the decades, the theatre was purchased and its name restored by the Rainbow and Magic Lantern Cinemas in 2005.

Little Chief Service Station, built by Texaco Oil in 1929 Little Chief Service Station, built by Texaco Oil in 1929 Saskatoon-21 Saskatoon-22

Walk around the Roxy and you’ll find several heritage buildings, a Spanish Colonial style 1929 Texaco filling station (currently the Little Chief Community Station), and outdoor sculptures. Going back into town, the historical landmark Delta Bessborough is reputedly haunted by a gentleman in a grey suit and fedora, smiling at those coming his way.

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[“The Bess”]

This former CP Rail hotel followed in Regina’s footsteps as the Saskatoon business community lobbied for a hotel in their town. “The Bess” was designed to resemble a Bavarian castle and is used for occasions ranging from weddings to serving as a venue for the Saskatel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival.

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Keep your eyes peeled for artwork and sculpture all around the city. Old stone heritage buildings are home to ghost signs as well. I discovered the Travellers Block building sign across the street from Souleio Foods on 3rd.

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If you’re ready to leave the concrete for a day with the animals, the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park and Zoo is a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area as well as its inhabitants.

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On the lazy autumn day of my visit, most of the animals were quietly napping or relaxing in the sunshine. The animals OUTSIDE the enclosures were busy though.

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According to Park and Zoo website, “Today, this National Historic Site boasts carefully crafted garden spaces, restored heritage buildings, a great new naturally-themed playground and Saskatchewan’s only CAZA accredited zoo.” I loved just listening to the birds, ground squirrels, chickens and peacocks go about their day, not paying much attention to the star attractions around the zoo.

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The Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park and Zoo is located at 1903 Forestry Farm Park Drive in Saskatoon.

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