Estevan Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Estevan with this all-inclusive travel guide featuring top attractions, hiking/biking routes, activities, food scene, local culture, transportation options, and more.


Introduction to Estevan

Located in Southeastern Saskatchewan, Estevan is a vibrant city with a rich history and numerous attractions that appeal to tourists of all ages. From historical landmarks to natural wonders and outdoor activities, Estevan offers something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Estevan

  • Souris Valley Aquatic and Leisure Centre
  • Woodlawn Regional Park
  • Estevan Art Gallery and Museum
  • Western Star All Suites Hotel
  • Coalfields Expressway
  • Affinity Place
  • The Power Dodge Ice Centre
  • Woodlawn Cemetery
  • The Estevan Motor Speedway
  • Estevan Curling Club

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Estevan has a rich history that is preserved in its numerous museums and historical places. Some of the must-visit attractions in this category include:

  • Estevan Art Gallery and Museum: This museum showcases local arts and culture, as well as various artifacts that highlight the history of Estevan and the surrounding region.

  • Souris Valley Museum: Located inside a historic school building, this museum features exhibits on the settlement of the area, the coal mining industry, and the ranching heritage of the region.

  • St. Paul’s United Church: Built in 1895, this church is one of the oldest buildings in Estevan and is a designated heritage site.

Natural Attractions of Estevan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Estevan is surrounded by natural beauty, and visitors can explore these outdoor wonders through various activities. Some of the top natural attractions in Estevan include:

  • Woodlawn Regional Park: This park offers visitors the chance to hike, picnic, and camp amidst beautiful scenery. There are also playgrounds, a swimming pool, and a golf course.

  • Rafferty Reservoir: This reservoir is one of the largest in Saskatchewan and is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and camping.

  • Estevan Coal Mines: The coal mines provide a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the underground workings of the mines.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Estevan

Estevan offers many opportunities for biking and hiking enthusiasts. Some of the top routes to explore include:

  • The Souris Valley Trail: This trail extends 22 kilometers from Estevan to the nearby community of Roche Percee. Bikers and hikers can enjoy scenic views of the river valley and the surrounding prairies.

  • The Woodlawn Park Trail System: This trail system offers visitors a chance to explore the park’s many features, including its waterways and wetlands.

Best Things to Do in Estevan: Activities and Tours

From cultural experiences to outdoor adventures, Estevan offers many things to do. Some of the top activities and tours to consider during your visit include:

  • The Power Dodge Ice Centre: This state-of-the-art facility offers skating opportunities for all ages, from public skating to hockey leagues.

  • The Estevan Motor Speedway: This racetrack features various events, from stock car racing to demolition derbies.

  • House tours: Several historic homes in Estevan are open for tours, including the Fyfe House and the Souris Valley Museum.

Week-Long Itinerary for Estevan

Day 1: Visit the Souris Valley Museum, Estevan Art Gallery and Museum, and St. Paul’s United Church.

Day 2: Explore the Woodlawn Regional Park, hike the Woodlawn Park Trail System, and camp overnight.

Day 3: Take a guided tour of the historic coal mines, and visit the Western Star All Suites Hotel.

Day 4: Go fishing and boating at Rafferty Reservoir.

Day 5: Tour local ranches and farms, and visit the Estevan Curling Club.

Day 6: Go on a house tour of historic homes, and visit the Power Dodge Ice Centre.

Day 7: Enjoy the local food and drink scene and purchase souvenirs before departing.

Food and Drink Scene of Estevan

Estevan has a vibrant food and drink scene with many local cafes, restaurants, and bars. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Perogies: Made with a combination of potatoes and cheese, perogies are a popular dish in Saskatoon, and several restaurants in Estevan serve them.

  • Tourtiére: This French-Canadian meat pie is a must-try dish in Estevan.

Local Beverages

  • Saskatchewan craft beer: There are several local breweries, such as Black Bridge Brewery in Swift Current, that offer refreshing craft beer.

Where to Stay in Estevan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Estevan offers various accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some top options:

  • Western Star All Suites Hotel: This hotel offers spacious suites with kitchenettes and is located near many attractions, including the Estevan Art Gallery and Museum.

  • Days Inn: This hotel offers traditional hotel rooms and is conveniently located near the Power Dodge Ice Centre.

What to Buy in Estevan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting Estevan, consider taking home some locally made products. Here are some of the top souvenirs to purchase:

  • Handmade woolen products: Several local shops, including the Prairie Station and the Grain Bin, offer locally made woolen products.

Local Culture and Customs of Estevan

Estevan has a rich cultural heritage that visitors can experience through its various museums and historical sites. The city also hosts several events throughout the year, including music festivals and rodeos, that celebrate its local culture and customs.

Best Time to Visit Estevan

The spring and summer months are the best times to visit Estevan, as the weather is mild, and there are many outdoor activities to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Estevan

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Estevan:

Do:

  • Explore the natural beauty of the area by hiking or biking.

  • Try the local cuisine, especially the Perogies and Tourtiére.

Don’t:

  • Litter in the natural areas surrounding Estevan.

Safety and Health

Safety in Estevan

Estevan is a generally safe city with low crime rates. Visitors should exercise usual caution and take standard safety precautions.

Health in Estevan

Estevan has several medical clinics and hospitals, including St. Joseph’s Hospital and the Estevan Regional Nursing Home.

Getting to Estevan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Estevan is accessible by road, air, and bus services.

Airports Near Estevan

The Estevan Regional Airport provides daily flights between Regina and Estevan.

Bus Stations Near Estevan

Greyhound and STC provides daily bus schedules from Regina and other nearby cities.

Other Options

Visitors can explore passable areas of Estevan through car rentals.

How to Get Around in Estevan

Tourists can hire car rentals, and taxis and public transport systems are easily available in the city.

Where to Go Next from Estevan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider after your visit to Estevan:

  • Regina, the capital city of Saskatchewan, is two hours northwest of Estevan.

  • Weyburn, a historic city that is famous for its art and culture, is approximately 50 minutes west of Estevan.

Conclusion

Estevan has something for every visitor, from natural attractions and outdoor activities to museums and historical sites. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to plan your trip effectively and enjoy your visit to Estevan to the fullest.