The provincial capital of Saskatchewan is the second biggest city in the Canadian province and an ideal place to get a feel for life at the heart of the prairie. The landscape around Regina is flat for miles and miles, but the city planners were creative, flooding Wascana Lake and creating an extraordinary number of parks, trails and open spaces in the city. This is where to discover all about the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, explore the politics of the area and find out all about life in Canada with the plethora of museums, not to mention some of the best restaurants in the country.
Areas & Neighbourhoods in Regina
Downtown — The grid-shaped heart of the city shows few signs of the Regina Cyclone that devastated the city in 1912. This is where Reginans go to find the big shopping malls and larger than life entertainment. The Globe theatre, situated in the Old Post Office, is an impressive sight and there are more restaurants and pubs here than even locals could ever have time to sample.
West End — Also known as the Cathedral area, the West End of Regina is where to find some of the most refined residences of Regina. The Holy Rosary Roman Catholic Cathedral is the biggest landmark, and there are also several Presbyterian churches. Wascana Creek runs through this part of town and offers great natural views in the heart of the city.
Germantown — The eastern side of the city was known as Germantown due to the settlers from central and eastern Europe who congregated here. You’ll find Lutheran churches, Orthodox churches and some great Ukrainian food.
Warehouse District — Just to the north of the city centre, the old Warehouse District was once the place that truckers and railways converged to store goods on their way around Canada and the USA. Now, the warehouses have been turned into fantastic loft apartments, restaurants and some of Regina’s liveliest night spots.
Things to See in Regina
The Provincial Legislative building is a fine example of early 20th century beaux-arts architecture and design, with marble carvings and an excellent lawn. It lies next to the Wascana Centre, a heavenly nature reserve with the pristine Wascana Lake, a bird sanctuary and the home of mink, beavers and moose. Visit Willow Island in the centre of the lake and enjoy a night out at the Globe theatre or a day spent at the special events held by the city’s many museums.
Things to Do in Regina
Renting a bike and cycling around Wascana Park is ideal in summer, or you can hire a canoe, kayak or pedal boat to breeze around the lake. The Trial of Louis Riel is Canada’s longest running play, telling the story of the famous 19th century rebel, and can be seen every summer. The great Irish-themed pubs are well worth an evening’s entertainment, and if you want to sample some Canadian football, head to a Saskatchewan Roughriders game at the Mosaic Stadium. Don’t forget to visit the Royal Saskatchewan Museum, Deep South Pioneer Museum and the Ukrainian museum of Canada.
