Regina, Canada, holds the title of the capital of Saskatchewan. The most interesting aspect of the city is it’s history, seen in the RCMP Heritage Centre and Government House Museum and Heritage Property. Staying at the Radisson Plaza Hotel Saskatchewan will round out the historic experience.
RCMP Heritage Centre
5907 Dewdney Avenue, 1-866-567-7267
If you plan you’re visit for mid-day during the week, then you’ll catch the Sergeant Major’s Parade at 12:45pm. Different levels of cadets march through Parade Square to a marching band, while the Regimental Sergeant Major inspects the troops. They’re the only academy in Canada that still does the formations as if they are cavalry.
Stay afterwards to watch a drill sergeant command the cadets in the Drill Hall, learn about the history of the NWMP (North West Mounted Police), and tour the 1895 chapel; the knowledgeable guides are ready for almost any question. Then head into the museum for interactive CSI-like exhibits in a gorgeously modern space ($12 CDN for an adult).
Government House Museum and Heritage Property
4607 Dewdney Avenue, (306) 787-5773
Nearby, learn about the Lieutenant Governor through the beautifully restored Government House (free admission). Furnishings faithfully represent how the house looked when the Lieutenant Governor of the North West Territories lived in it in 1891. Guided tours run every 30 minutes and last half an hour. Afterwards, head into the interactive displays for more background on Lieutenant Governors throughout Regina’s history.
Local Farmer’s Market
1900 Scarth Street, (306) 581-7408
Located in the centre of downtown Regina, the local farmer’s market takes up a city block every Wednesday and Saturday from 9:30am – 1:30pm from May to October. In the theme of markets around the world, this small version is filled with delightful homemade products like baked goods, jams, arts and crafts, jewellery, and flowers.
Radisson Plaza Hotel Saskatchewan
2125 Victoria Avenue, (1-800-333-3333)
The star of accommodation in downtown Regina is Hotel Saskatchewan. With a centralized location in the heart of the core, an atmosphere of splendour both inside and out, and possibly the friendliest staff in the city, it’s an architectural gem in an alleged non-descript capital.
With the four diamond rating and elegant reputation since 1927, guests are treated to 224 guest rooms ranging from standard to the 1,574 square foot Royal Suite. Make sure to also take advantage of the fitness centre, steam room, whirlpool and massage services. The hotel offers dining options from the more formal Victoria Tea Room, or try the Cortlandt Dining Room, and Monarch’s Lounge, all furnished in decadent style.
To make reservations, find out more about the above attractions or to get advice on daytrips from Regina, contact Tourism Saskatchewan (1-877-237-2273).
Lori Henry - A travel writer, Lori flits between exploring the world with incessant curiosity and huddling over her laptop writing.
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