Saskatoon – also known as The City of Bridges – has something exciting and enjoyable to offer everyone, even in the middle of a Prairie winter.

Whatever your tastes, Saskatoon offers fantastic entertainment and amenities to enhance your CAAR Conference experience. You may even want to book your stay a little longer before or after the conference, to truly enjoy this charming city.

Active Attractions

In Saskatoon for the conference but can’t stop dreaming about fresh air or the roar of the crowd? Try one of these exciting activities.

• Cross-Country Skiing – Rent a pair of cross-country skis, and spend a beautiful afternoon taking in the crisp air and striking scenery along the South Saskatchewan River, or on one of the many city-maintained trails. Visit the Escape Sports website to book your equipment in advance, and check the City of Saskatoon website for a listing of trail locations.
• Take in a Lacrosse Game – Did you know that Saskatoon is home to the Saskatchewan Rush, winners of the 2015 Canadian Lacrosse Championships? Seven players from the Rush also competed on the winning Canadian team in the 2015 World Lacrosse Championships, making the Saskatoon team one of the best ranked in the world. The Rush play New York’s Rochester Knighthawks on Friday, Feb. 19 at the Sasktel Centre. Visit the SaskRush website for more information.

Cultural Destinations

Take in a bit of local history, culture and creativity at one of these fascinating establishments.

• Western Development Museum – Learn the deep and detailed history of the Prairies at the WDM, which was named TripAdvisor’s Number One Thing to Do in Saskatchewan for 2015. Featured exhibits include The Steam Calliope, The Agricultural Hall of Fame, One Hundred Years of Farming and the Transportation Gallery. Visit the WDM website for more information.
• Art Placement Gallery – Visit the gallery to view creations from modern Saskatchewan and Western Canadian artists. Their website has information on current exhibits and upcoming collections.

Team Building on the Go

If you’ve got your staff with you, your conference trip can double as a chance to bond, or even test your teamwork skills.

• A Group Escape – Book a team outing at one of Saskatoon’s escape rooms and challenge your group’s collaboration and problem-solving abilities. Try Room Escape or Deadlock Escape.
• Laugh Together – Treat your staff to a night out and make sure everyone leaves smiling by booking a table at a comedy club, such as Yuk Yuks or The Laugh Shop.
• Take in an Amazing View – Your motivational speeches will become doubly powerful when paired with a spectacular view of Saskatoon. Book a dinner at Drift Vista Lounge or Scarlet for your breathtaking brainstorm session.

Specialty Shopping

If you’ve got family and friends waiting at home for a Saskatchewan souvenir, don’t disappoint them with the ubiquitous t-shirt. Visit one of these premiere shopping destinations for high-quality treats and mementos that are truly unique.

• SaskMade Market – The name says it all. This market is chock full of locally made, handcrafted items that capture the spirit of Saskatchewan. Visit their website for more information.
• Luna + Hill – For gifts guaranteed to please the most discerning critic, visit Luna + Hill. Their assortment of trendy clothing, unique jewellery, personal care products and curiosities will provide something for everyone. Visit their website for directions, brands and product information.
• Ingredients – Craving gourmet cheese, meats, coffee and spirits? Visit Ingredients for a vast selection of delicious delicacies that will deliver a memorable taste of Saskatoon. Visit www.ingredientsartisanmarket.com

Get Away from it All

For those who would just like a break from the hustle and bustle of a business trip, head to one of these destinations to help take your mind off things.

• Let Your Worries Drift Away – Book a visit to one of Saskatoon’s spas, and take an afternoon just for yourself and your thoughts. Try Damara Day Spa (in the Delta Bessborough), Just for You or Edgewater Spa.
• Blow off Some Steam at the Slots – The Dakota Dunes Casino offers shuttle transportation from the STC Terminal (one block from TCU Place). More information at www.dakotadunescasino.com

For the Lovebirds

Bringing your partner to the conference? Book your flight a few days early and surprise them with a romantic Valentine’s Day trip!

• Savour a Candlelit Dinner – Many of the top local restaurants offer a special Valentine’s Day menu, and will be sure to have limited seating. Book your table early to secure a worry-free date. For an intimate meal, try Truffles Bistro or Capanna Pizzeria.
• Enjoy some Vibrant Show Tunes – The Jazz Singer Series: Broadway in Love 2 features local singers paying homage to some of Broadway’s classic melodies. Feb. 13 at The Bassment. Visit www.saskatoonjazzsociety.com for more information.
• Take in the Symphony – The Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra hosts a special afternoon presentation of Vivaldi’s Gloria on Feb. 14. Visit their website for ticket information.
• Find the Perfect Gift – Saskatoon chocolatiers Harden & Huyse will have the perfect sweet treat to complement a romantic night out. Visit www.greatchocolate.com.