5 Best Things to Do in Wascana Park
Wascana Park, located in the heart of Regina, Saskatchewan, is a captivating urban oasis that blends natural beauty with culture. Spanning over 2,300 acres, this sprawling park is the largest urban park in Canada. This beautifully landscaped park displays an enchanting scene adorned with lush greenery, cascading trees, and bird-filled waterways. Your travel to Regina must include a visit to Wascana Park, one of our most beautiful places! With so many things to see and do, here are my top 5 activities that won’t break the bank!
With its diverse range of attractions, including the Royal Saskatchewan Museum, the Saskatchewan Legislative Building, the Conexus Arts Centre, the MacKenzie Art Gallery, recreational facilities, and walking trails, Wascana Park serves as a vibrant hub where nature, history, and leisure converge. Whether you’re seeking a serene retreat, an educational outing, or an active adventure, Wascana Park offers an ideal setting that captures the essence of Regina’s natural and cultural heritage. Fortunately, our home is on the edge of the park, and my family spends a lot of time here!
1. Willow Island
Willow Island, an enchanting gem nestled within the sprawling expanse of Wascana Park offers a serene retreat from city life. Situated off the shores of Wascana Lake, this lovely little island is renowned for its lush willow trees, which lend the island its name. As you meander along this tiny island, you’ll find inviting benches, and open green spaces perfect for relaxation and contemplation.
The island also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding lake, with its shimmering waters and abundant birdlife. Willow Island at Wascana Park is a cherished destination for nature lovers, artists, and anyone seeking solace in the beauty of the natural world.
2. Picnic and Paddle
A perfect day at Wascana Park often includes the delightful combination of a picnic and paddle tour on the lake. As you paddle the water, you may encounter playful ducks or graceful swans, adding to the enchantment of the experience. Wascana Centre has partnered with Wascana Canoe and Kayak Club, and Skye Café & Bistro to offer Picnic and Paddle.
Participants have the choice of paddling from the Marina to Willow Island in a single kayak, double kayak, or canoe. The cost is $60 and includes boat rental and meals for 2. Extra meals can be added to suit the size of your family. Lunch includes a choice of sandwich, in-house-made potato chips, beverages, and fruit. Gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options are all available. Children under the age of 16 require a guardian, and children under the age of 1 are not recommended.
A picnic and paddle tour on Wascana Lake is a cherished activity that immerses you in nature. All while creating lasting memories with your family during your visit to Wascana Park.
3. View Wildlife
While exploring the shores during your visit to Wascana Lake, you’ll encounter an array of creatures that call this home. Waterfowl are particularly abundant, with various species of ducks, geese, pelicans, and swans gracefully gliding across the lake’s surface. The iconic Canada goose is a common sight, often seen in large flocks throughout the year. Springtime is my favourite because of all the baby geese and ducks! Birdwatchers will also delight in spotting elegant herons, cormorants, and gulls soaring above the water or perched around.
Wascana Lake is also home to a variety of fish species, including northern pike, walleye, and yellow perch. Please note that fishing is prohibited. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a muskrat or beaver busy at work, swimming gracefully along the shoreline.
The park’s lush vegetation and trees provide a habitat for numerous songbirds and small mammals, such as rabbits and squirrels. Wascana Lake’s vibrant ecosystem offers an opportunity to observe and appreciate the wonders of wildlife in the heart of Regina.
4. Boat Tours
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Wascana Lake with a private boat tour that allows you to explore its scenic wonders from a different perspective. A popular choice is the guided sightseeing tour, where a guide provides commentary about the lake’s history, flora, fauna, and landmarks including the Legislative Building. Life jackets are provided and tours are wheelchair accessible. Private half-hour ferry boat tours can accommodate up to 8 passengers and are available from late May to mid-September for a fee of $75.
If you’re looking for a more active adventure, canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards can be rented. Rentals provide you the opportunity to navigate the waters at your own pace. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, the boat tours at Wascana Lake provide an enchanting experience, allowing you to connect with the beauty and tranquility of this urban oasis.
5. Parks and Play Areas
Families, children, and outdoor enthusiasts alike can immerse themselves in the park’s diverse recreational offerings. One of the highlights is our new Wascana Pool! Complete with 2 waterslides, a large swimming pool, a lazy river, and a hot tub, this park is sure to bring joy to each member of your family! For those seeking more active pursuits, there are extensive walking trails and biking paths that wind through the park, offering opportunities for leisurely strolls, jogging, or cycling with monuments and memorials throughout. The vast open spaces throughout Wascana Park also provide ample room for games, sports, and kite flying.
Located east of the main lake area, near the Saskatchewan Science Centre is Candy Cane Park, where colourful and whimsical candy-themed structures ignite children’s creativity and provide hours of entertainment. Across the road from Candy Cane Park is Skateboard Plaza. This area includes urban terrain elements such as benches, rails, and ledges, and is suitable for skateboards, bikes, and scooters. With its varied parks and play areas, Wascana Park ensures that visitors of all ages can engage in outdoor recreation, fostering a sense of joy, togetherness, and appreciation for nature.
In conclusion…
A visit to Wascana Park is a truly enriching experience that offers a diverse range of activities and attractions for all ages. If you are traveling with a baby, don’t miss out on The Ultimate Guide to Baby Travel Essentials by my friend Emily! Whether you want to ride a ferry to Willow Island, explore the park’s wildlife, embark on a boat tour, or immerse yourself in the joyous atmosphere of the parks and play areas, a visit to Wascana Park promises a wonderful experience that celebrates the magnificence of nature and the joys of outdoor exploration.
After a summer day in the park, be sure to hop over to one of the best ice cream shops in town!