My hometown – Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada, and the travel guide no one asked for. Which makes me think maybe a few people are actually asking and there’s nothing out there for them. This city has few tourists, but that’s what I think is so great about it. It’s underrated with a lot to offer if you look for it and I am proud to be from here.
What to Do
Walk around Wascana Lake – Situated in front of the legislative building is a beautiful man-made lake. It takes about 45-60 minutes to walk the path around it, but if you want to extend your time stop at Bar Willow patio for a drink.
Visit the Science Centre – Cool for children and adults alike with plenty of interactive and educational activities and hosts travelling exhibits. Grab something to eat at Skye Bistro (below) while you’re there.
Hop Circuit— A self-guided tour of craft breweries near the warehouse district. If you get a pint and stamp at all six (Rebellion, Bushwakkers, Regina Brewing, Pile O Bones, District Brewing, and Malty National) you get a free glass. If you don’t want to visit them all, any one of them is a good choice to enjoy a pint at.
Go to a Rider Game – Known for having crazy fans that “bleed green” a Saskatchewan Roughrider football game is a lively way to spend an evening or afternoon in the city if there’s a game while you’re here.
See a show at the Globe Theatre – If you’re into arts and live theatre check out what’s playing at the Globe Theatre.
RCMP Heritage Centre – I haven’t done this myself but the building looks cool and it’s a great way for foreigners to learn more about the iconic Royal Canadian Mounted Police as this is the training centre for the country. They also do a Sunset Retreat Ceremony on Tuesday evenings in the summer.
Where to Eat and Drink
Leopold’s Tavern OG – This little pub started in Regina and is so good it has now expanded to several other cities and provinces. All locations are great and will serve the same menu but the original location is my favourite.
Homestead Bar a Vin – The best restaurant in the city in my opinion. An organic wine bar with small and large plates intended to enjoy family style. Reservations recommended.
Orange Izakaya – A Japanese Korean Fusion restaurant in the cathedral area. My favourites are the kimchi dolsot bibimbap, gyoza, crispy roll, and japchae.
Dessart Sweets Ice Cream and Candy Store – Also in the cathedral neighbourhood is an ice cream and old-school candy shop where you’ll find an assortment of nostalgic treats you might not be able to find at a regular store.
Skye Bistro – Best for brunch on weekends but they serve lunch as well. It’s a lovely space located at the Science Centre with plenty of plants, stained glass windows, and of course great food.
Circa 27 – The cocktails and location are the main draw here. Their food is good too and they serve brunch on weekends. It’s downtown and located in the lobby of the Hotel Sask so if you’re not staying there at least you can see it.
Brewed Awakening – A local cafe with multiple locations around the city. I like their matcha and the grilled greek wrap.
Honorable Mentions – Dandys Artisan Ice Cream, Everyday Kitchen, Fireside Bistro, Cafe Francais, Fresh and Sweet/Fresh Carnival, Wann Izakaya, The Cure.
Out of the City
Lumsden Valley – the town at the bottom of the valley is about 30 minutes from the city and it has some shops and restaurants as well as other things to do in the area:
Wascana Trails – if you want to do some physical activity in nature
Over the Hill Orchards – visit this winery overlooking the valley for a glass of wine and dessert any ime. They also have picnics, special dinners, and other events that can be booked. Look on their website to see what’s on.
Freebird – a restaurant with great food
Regina Beach – a bustling beach town about 40 minutes from the city. Grab some fish and chips at Blue Birds, get some ice cream, and most importantly hit the beach!
White City Golf Course – about 10 minutes east of the city is a town with a golf course. I honestly don’t golf so if it sucks don’t come for me. There are other ones in the area so if you are big into golf I’d say do some research first.
See the fields and watch a sunset – You can do this from the city too, but getting out of the city will help you to get that Wide Open Spaces feeling and understand why the license plates here say “The Land of the Living Skies.”
Where to Shop
Home Decor/Accents and Essentials: Crocus & Ivy Interiors, The Flower Shop on Hill Avenue, Dutch Growers, Kitchen Gear
Eco Friendly and Second Hand: Mortis and Tenon, The Alternative, Encore Market, YQR Vintage Market, T+A Vintage, Loom and Magpie
Clothing: Bella Chic, Havik, Uforia Muse
Miscellaneous: Paper Umbrella, The Local Market, Little Kinfolk Boutique (Baby to Big Kid)
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