The University of Saskatchewan (USask), founded in 1907, is one of Canada’s most historic and beautiful campuses. Known for its collegiate gothic architecture, rich cultural offerings, and green spaces along the South Saskatchewan River, the campus offers much more than academics. Visitors can explore art galleries, museums, the Observatory, and heritage buildings, all within walking distance of each other.
Check the official website here.
Getting There
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Address: 105 Administration Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A2
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By Car: The campus is located just east of downtown Saskatoon. Main vehicle access routes are via College Drive (Highway 5) and Preston Avenue. Paid visitor parking is available at several lots and parkades, including Stadium Parkade, Education Building lot, and Health Sciences lot.
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By Transit: Saskatoon Transit serves the university directly, with major bus routes stopping at the Place Riel Student Centre (main hub). This is the most convenient entry point if you’re arriving by bus.
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By Bike/On Foot: The campus connects directly with the Meewasin Valley Trail along the river, making it accessible for cyclists and walkers.
You can also check the Translink Website for the current Skytrain schedules.
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Campus Grounds: Open daily, year-round.
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Campus Tours: Guided tours are offered through USask Admissions (book online in advance). Self-guided tours can also be done using downloadable maps.
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Specific Attractions:
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Museum of Natural Sciences: Open year-round during campus hours (free admission).
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USask Observatory: Open to the public Saturday nights (seasonal, check schedule).
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Kenderdine Art Gallery & College Art Galleries: Monday to Friday: 10 am to 4 pm.
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Things to See & Do
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Historic Buildings: Admire the stone Collegiate Gothic-style buildings such as the College Building, Thorvaldson, and Peter MacKinnon Building.
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Kenderdine Art Gallery & College Art Galleries: Explore contemporary and historical art exhibitions featuring regional, national, and international artists.
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Museum of Natural Sciences: Family-friendly exhibits featuring dinosaur skeletons, rocks, fossils, and geological displays.
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Observatory: Visit on a Saturday evening to view the night sky through telescopes and enjoy astronomy talks by university staff.
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Campus Green Spaces: Stroll through The Bowl, the heart of the campus, and enjoy walking paths that connect to the Meewasin Valley Trail.
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Self-Guided Tour: Use USask’s official map to follow your own walking route of historic and cultural landmarks.
Visitor Tips
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Book guided campus tours in advance if you want a structured visit.
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Wear comfortable shoes—the campus is large and walkable.
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Parking is pay-only; have change or a credit card for meters.
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Check seasonal hours before planning your visit to specific sites (especially the Observatory).
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Combine your visit with a walk on the Meewasin Valley Trail, which runs right past campus.
Getting Back
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If using Saskatoon Transit, buses from Place Riel connect you back to downtown Saskatoon and other city areas.
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Drivers can exit via College Drive to reach major city routes, or take Circle Drive for connections to highways.
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Walking or cycling? Simply reconnect with the Meewasin Valley Trail to return downtown along the river.
Final Note
The University of Saskatchewan is more than a place of learning—it’s a cultural and historic hub for Saskatoon. Whether you’re drawn by art, science, history, or simply the charm of its architecture and riverfront setting, the campus offers a rewarding visit. Take your time, explore the galleries, museums, and outdoor spaces, and enjoy one of Canada’s most beautiful university campuses.