Moose Jaw turned out to be an unexpected gem on our trip across Canada. Sitting in the middle of the prairies, halfway between Calgary and Winnipeg, it isn’t a typical tourist destination. But don’t let that fool you, there are plenty of neat things to do in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.
We visited to see some of my husband’s family, and were pleasantly surprised by what the city had to offer.
Moose Jaw Hotels
There are a good range of hotels to choose from, and something for every budget.
At the top end of the budget, but still very reasonable, is the Grant Hall Hotel on Main Street. The Grant Hall fell in to disrepair many years ago, but was resurrected to its former 1920s glory by the current owners. With a beautiful lobby, spa facilities, and a bar with chesterfields and chandeliers, Grant Hall Hotel is now a luxurious and central hotel.
If you are interested in the geothermal pools in, then the Temple Gardens Hotel & Spa is for you.
For mid-range options, you can try the Best Western Plus or Ramada by Wyndham out near the Trans-Canada Highway. For the lower budgets, some central options include the Travelodge or Capone’s Hideaway Motel.
Things to do in Moose Jaw
Moose Jaw Attractions
The Tunnels of Moose Jaw
The Tunnels are one of the most popular attractions in Moose Jaw. Two stories help to bring the tunnels alive. One that tells the history of Chinese Immigrants to Canada, and one that tells of bootlegging during the prohibition.
These days, it’s hard to believe that prohibition even happened, let alone with such tales of bootlegging and bravery.
Mac the Moose
Mac is a gigantic fibreglass Moose that lives near the Tourism Office. He is now behind fencing after several incidents of graffiti and damage. He can be seen from the Trans-Canada Highway and is a sitting alongside a replica of the Canadian Snowbird squadron show jet. The Snowbirds are a Canadian Forces aerobatics show squadron based out of Moose Jaw.
Self-Guided Mural Walk
There are beautiful murals around Moose Jaw that depict important events and historic moments in the history of the city. You can print off a pdf map of the murals from the City of Moose Jaw website and guide yourself around these wonderful pieces of street art.
Moose Jaw Thermal Springs
The thermal springs beneath the city were discovered by accident by miners in 1910. Fast forward to 1980 and the city paid to bore down to them permanently and have the mineral-rich spring water pumped up. Staying at a steady 45°C (113°F), and rich in Epsom and Glauber’s Salts, a day at the thermal springs is true rejuvenation.
Historical Buildings
There are a number of historical buildings in Moose Jaw that have been renewed or repurposed. One of my favourites is the Railway Station, which has been turned into a liquor store. However, never fear, this is one of the most sympathetic and endearing renovations I have ever seen.
The architecture of the inside has been preserved, from the tile detailing, the ticket booths, and entrance ways. They have even created displays to show the glory days of train travel and the hey day of the railway station and the Canadian Pacific Railway. Because of the importance of the railway to Moose Jaw, these preservations are appreciated.
Is architecture a passion of yours too?Check out my Architectural Tour of Prague to learn more about the classical styles seen here.
Moose Jaw Trolley Tour
The Moose Jaw Trolley Tour leaves from the Visitor Information Center (Diefenbaker Drive). Pop in to grab your tourist map and buy some souvenirs, then buy yourself a ticket for a trolley tour. This beautifully restored trolley hosts various tours between May – September, and really helps you orientate yourself in the city.
I loved learning about the history of the city and seeing how it evolved into the place it is today.
Where to eat in Moose Jaw
There are a good range of restaurant options in Moose Jaw, but here are our top picks. By far our favourite relaxed dining was at Bobby’s Place – Olde World Tavern (High Street East). Serving hearty portions of pub classics, with a sway towards English, Irish and Scottish-influenced comfort food, Bobby’s is a great option if you are with family and want a relaxed dining option.
For something more exotic, try Mitsu Sweet Cafe & Sushi on Main Street. If you want a fine dining experience, I would recommend combining a trip to Temple Gardens Mineral Spa with a visit to their restaurant, Harwood’s.
Moose Jaw Tourism
What started as a trip to visit family turned into a surprising visit to a delightful Saskatchewan city. Moose Jaw has a very cute main street, some authentic old buildings, a fascinating history, and all the amenities you could need for a stop off here. There are so many reasons to promote Moose Jaw attractions, tourism and businesses, because this city really does deserve to have more people stopping by.
Planning a road trip across Canada? Why not road trip through the Okanagan Valley and Banff!
All photos & content © Hannah Henderson and may not be used without permission (sharing this blog post is fine, though!). Images shot with an iPhoneX.
Moose Jaw? Didn’t know what to expect but looks like fun!
It was way cuter than I expected!