Dubbed the “Friendly City” and “Canada’s Most Notorious City,” Moose Jaw boasts welcoming residents and an easygoing vibe. With its historic buildings, and trendy shops and eateries, this Saskatchewan city is a picturesque weekend destination bursting with character.
WHAT TO DO
Eat: Hopkins Dining Parlour, located in a charming 1905 house furnished with Victorian antiques, offers a mouth-watering menu boasting bacon-wrapped scallops and steelhead trout. 65 Athabasca St. W.
See: Take a trip back in time at the Sukanen Ship Pioneer Village & Museum, which recreates early prairie life using historic buildings relocated from surrounding communities. SK-2, Moose Jaw No. 161
Move: A serene natural haven, Wakamow Valley has trails for walking and biking, clear waters for canoeing and kayaking, and facilities for a leisurely afternoon picnic along the river valley. 276 Home St. E.
Create: The Moose Jaw Museum and Art Gallery showcases both heritage artifacts and rotating art exhibits. For family fun, try a creative workshop, like basket-making or flower arranging. 461 Langdon Cres.
MAIN STREET 101
A bustling and vibrant place, Main Street is lined with historic buildings, many of which feature the Murals of Moose Jaw, a series of 47 scenes depicting the city’s early history. You’ll also find the Tunnels of Moose Jaw, one of the area’s most popular attractions.
1 As Saskatchewan’s first craft meadery, Prairie Bee makes delicious honey wine, including strawberry, haskap and rhubarb. Pop in for complimentary tastings. 23B Main St. N.
2 Located in the Walter Scott Heritage Building, Chrysalis Coffee serves organic fair-trade coffee, light lunches and tasty baked goods. 203 Main St. N.
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3 Get your fashion fix at Clothes Encounter, a one-stop shop for the latest fashions and an incredible selection of shoes. 237 Main St. N.
4 At The Perfect Find, the name says it all: a shop stocking home decor, gifts, trinkets and treasures, perfect for afternoon browsing. 321 Main St. N.
5 Built in 1927, the Grant Hall Hotel combines original architectural details with luxe amenities and classic decor. Spend a night in an elegant room, or wine and dine at the gourmet restaurant. 401 Main St. N.
JAW-DROPPING JAUNT
Yvette Moore moved to Moose Jaw in 1986 to complete her education, but the student promptly fell in love with the area and she’s never left. Working as an artist for more than four decades, Moore acquired the former 1910 Land Titles Building in 1999. The historic building now houses her namesake Yvette Moore Gallery & Café. Here, Moore tells us about the artistic appeal of her adopted town.
Tell us about your gallery and café.
We display my artwork—paintings, pillows, scarves and more—as well as works by artisans from across Western Canada, including pottery, jewellery, metalwork and wood sculptures. The gallery café has become a popular eating destin-ation that draws locals and tourists alike. Every morning, our chefs make fresh homemade soups and baked goods.
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What sets Moose Jaw apart from other cities?
It’s just so unique with a really wonderful vibe. I always say that Moose Jaw is big enough and small enough, so it’s just the right size. We have one of the most beautiful, compact downtowns in Western Canada—it’s been so fun to see it evolve over the years.
What are some summer highlights?
We have several festivals, such as Sidewalk Days (July 4–6) and an air show this summer that we’re very excited about (July 6 & 7). Downtown is full of things to see and do: boutiques, restaurants, the beautiful Crescent Park, Mae Wilson Theatre and the Moose Jaw Cultural Centre. We also have three golf courses. Something we hear often is that visitors don’t give themselves enough time to see everything when they come to Moose Jaw.
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