Preston Crossing

When planning a shopping trip in a place like Saskatoon, it is impossible to overlook Preston Crossing. It is one of the largest and most popular open-air shopping complexes in the province of Saskatchewan, located in the picturesque country of Canada. Spanning over 28 hectares, this "big box power centre" has become a true magnet for locals and tourists alike due to its convenient format and impressive selection of brands.

One of the unique features of this place is its close connection to science: the land on which the center is located belongs to the University of Saskatchewan. Attentive visitors will notice that the architecture of the buildings partially echoes the Gothic motifs of the university campus, creating a more refined atmosphere than in typical shopping areas. Here, flagship hypermarkets and cozy specialty stores sit side-by-side under the open sky.

For the northeastern part of the city, this complex serves as the primary shopping hub. It houses more than 40 stores and service centers, offering everything from electronics and home goods to the latest fashion trends. The thoughtful layout and abundance of parking spaces make a visit to Preston Crossing as comfortable as possible for those who value their time and a variety of choices.

If you need to check the availability of a specific brand or have questions for the administration, you can always use the official communication channels. Below are the current contact details for Preston Crossing for your convenience when planning your visit.

What is there to do in this massive retail space? First and foremost, Preston Crossing is a paradise for serious shoppers. It hosts retail giants like Walmart, Canadian Tire, Rona, and Cabela’s. In these stores, you can find literally everything: from household appliances and groceries to specialized gear for hunting, fishing, and outdoor activities in the Canadian wilderness.

The Preston West zone deserves special attention, designed in the format of a cozy "pedestrian village." It’s pleasant to simply stroll between the small boutiques, browse the pet stores, or visit beauty salons. Unlike the busier zones with large retailers, this part of the center offers a quieter atmosphere perfect for a relaxed pace.

When your shopping energy runs low, it's worth stopping by one of the local restaurants. A popular spot for lunch or dinner is Olive Garden, which serves classic Italian cuisine. Thanks to the well-developed infrastructure and designated rest areas, a visit to the center turns into a complete leisure experience for the whole family, where everyone can find something to enjoy.

Getting to Preston Crossing is easy, as it is located at the strategic intersection of Preston Avenue North and Circle Drive. If you are traveling by car, it is most convenient to use the exits from the Yellowhead Highway. For drivers, there is a massive free parking lot with over 1,800 spaces, which eliminates the hassle of finding a spot even during peak hours.

For those who prefer public transport, there are regular Saskatoon Transit routes. Buses stop in the immediate vicinity of the shopping area, running along the city's key thoroughfares connecting the northern part of the city with the center. If you are in the central districts, a taxi ride will take only a few minutes, given the proximity to the University of Saskatchewan.

The history of Preston Crossing began in the spring of 2002 when construction of the first retail facilities started on lands belonging to the University of Saskatchewan. The project was developed by Rencor Developments Inc. in collaboration with local firms. The main goal was to create not just a commercial zone, but a sustainable source of income for the educational institution.

Interestingly, the university took on the costs of creating the primary infrastructure—roads, water, and sewage systems. This partnership has proven to be extremely successful: lease revenues go directly into a student support fund. To date, the project has generated millions of dollars for scholarships and the development of academic programs, making every purchase here a small contribution to science.

The complex was developed in five phases. While the first anchor stores, such as Canadian Tire and Walmart, opened in the early 2000s, the final phase—the Preston West zone—was completed by 2017. Architects sought to maintain a visual link with the campus, so many buildings feature elements reminiscent of the University's Gothic architectural traditions, setting this center apart from typical Canadian "power centres."

When planning your visit to Preston Crossing, you should consider how extensive your shopping needs are. If your goal is to pop into a specific store for a few items, you can easily be done in one hour, thanks to the center's convenient navigation and open-air format.

However, for a full exploration of the major hypermarkets and a stroll through the pedestrian-friendly Preston West area, it is recommended to set aside 2 to 4 hours. This will give you enough time to browse the offerings of numerous retailers, enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants, and leisurely walk around this expansive complex.

The shopping center operates on a very convenient schedule that remains consistent throughout the week. From Monday to Sunday, the complex is open to visitors from 09:00 to 22:00. This schedule allows for shopping both early in the morning and late in the evening after the workday.

It is important to keep in mind that individual stores or restaurants may have their own schedules, which sometimes differ from the center's general operating hours. It is recommended to check the opening times of a specific boutique on the official Preston Crossing website or directly before your visit to ensure your shopping trip goes as smoothly as possible.

A visit to the shopping center can easily be combined with exploring other interesting places in the city to make your day as full as possible. Saskatoon is famous for its park areas and historical monuments, many of which are just a few minutes' drive from Preston Crossing.

Exploring the immediate surroundings will help you better feel the atmosphere of the region, learn about its history, or simply relax by the river after shopping. Below is a list of popular sites located nearby: