Kiwanis Memorial Park

On the picturesque banks of the South Saskatchewan River lies Kiwanis Memorial Park—a green oasis and one of the most iconic landmarks gracing Saskatoon. Spanning 14 acres, this urban park harmoniously blends natural beauty with a deep historical legacy, serving as an essential part of the extensive Meewasin Valley park system in Canada.

The park serves as a magnificent setting for the majestic historic Bessborough Hotel, reminiscent of classical European gardens. It is more than just a place to relax; it is a true open-air memorial complex where the history of the city and the province comes to life through numerous sculptures, plaques, and fountains. here, you can find the statue of Gabriel Dumont and the famous time capsule waiting for its moment.

With its downtown location and proximity to walking trails, the park has become a favorite spot for both locals' morning runs and tourists' thoughtful strolls. The serene atmosphere, views of passing riverboats, and historic bridges make it a must-see on any traveler’s itinerary.

You can contact the park administration or find out about upcoming events using the following contact details:

Everyone will find something to enjoy in this park, whether it is active recreation or peaceful contemplation. One of the main highlights is access to the famous Meewasin Valley Trail, which is perfect for walking, running, or cycling with constant views of the South Saskatchewan River. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the stunning angles of the castle-like Bessborough Hotel and the elegant curves of the bridges.

For those interested in culture and history, the park offers a unique memorial scavenger hunt. Be sure to find the "Spirit of Youth" sculpture and the fountain dedicated to veterans. If you find yourself here in the summer, you might catch one of the vibrant festivals, such as the Taste of Saskatchewan food festival or the Children's Festival, when the space fills with music and the aromas of street food.

In winter, the park transforms into a hub for skating enthusiasts. Right beneath the walls of the historic hotel, the Cameco Meewasin Skating Rink opens, widely considered one of the most atmospheric rinks in Canada. After skating, you can relax by the fire and enjoy the winter scenery, making your stay in Saskatoon truly magical.

The scenic Kiwanis Memorial Park is located at 500 Spadina Crescent E, in the heart of the city. It stretches along the west bank of the South Saskatchewan River, nestled between two major city bridges—the Broadway Bridge and the University Bridge.

Getting here from downtown Saskatoon is easiest on foot—a walk from the main shopping streets or the famous Bessborough Hotel takes just a few minutes. If you prefer public transport, use the bus routes that pass through Downtown; most stops are within walking distance of the park. For those arriving by taxi or private car, Spadina Crescent serves as a landmark, with street parking available along the road.

Active travelers can reach the park by bike. The park is a key link in the Meewasin Valley Trail system, making it a convenient stop during a bike ride along the river. Its central location makes it one of the most accessible green spaces in the city.

The history of this area is remarkable: it is hard to believe that in the early 20th century, from 1907 to 1930, the site of the modern park was a city dump where ash from the power plant and surplus soil from construction sites were brought. The transformation began in 1935 when, with financial support from the Canadian National Railway (CNR), the wasteland was turned into a manicured urban park. It was named after the local Kiwanis club, which played an active role in its development.

Over time, the park evolved into a true open-air museum. It features plaques commemorating important historical events, including a memorial plaque for the Second Boer War and the Memorial Fountain of Youth, dedicated to the heroes of World War II. One of the most notable features is the Vimy Memorial Band Stand—a bandstand erected in 1937 to commemorate the Battle of Vimy Ridge.

In 1982, for the city's centennial, the Century 100 Capsule was buried in the park, set to be opened in 2032. Additionally, you can see a monument to Ramon John Hnatyshyn, the former Governor General of Canada, and the Clock Tower, installed to commemorate the 1989 Canada Games. Every path and monument here carefully preserves the memory of Saskatchewan's past.

For a leisurely stroll along the main paths, viewing the memorial sculptures, and relaxing by the river, 1–2 hours is sufficient for most visitors. This is enough time to take beautiful photos with the Bessborough Hotel in the background and explore the information displays.

However, if your visit coincides with one of the city's festivals or if you plan to spend time at the skating rink in winter, you should set aside half a day. The park is part of a long route along the Meewasin Valley, so long-distance walking enthusiasts can spend much more time here by following the trails further along the riverbank.

Kiwanis Memorial Park is welcomingly open to visitors 24 hours a day. You can enjoy a stroll through its alleys at any convenient time, whether it is early morning or late evening.

Schedule by day of the week:

• Monday: Open 24 hours
• Tuesday: Open 24 hours
• Wednesday: Open 24 hours
• Thursday: Open 24 hours
• Friday: Open 24 hours
• Saturday: Open 24 hours
• Sunday: Open 24 hours

The park's central location allows tourists to easily combine a riverside stroll with visits to other iconic sites. The surrounding area is rich in both historical monuments and modern entertainment venues.

Exploring nearby sites will help you get a deeper feel for the city's atmosphere and learn more about its cultural heritage.