Swift Current Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Swift Current, with tips on local culture, customs, safety, and logistics.


Introduction to Swift Current

Swift Current is a charming city located in Southwestern Saskatchewan, in Prairies, Canada. It is named after a nearby river, which was known for its fast currents. Swift Current has a population of roughly 18,000, making it the fifth-largest city in Saskatchewan.

Swift Current is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and culture lovers. The city offers a variety of attractions, from museums and historical sites to natural parks and outdoor adventures. With its friendly locals, beautiful landscapes, and rich history, Swift Current is a must-visit destination in Saskatchewan.

List of Places to Visit in Swift Current

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Swift Current is home to several museums and historical sites that offer a glimpse into the area’s rich history and culture. Here are a few places that you should add to your itinerary:

  • Doc’s Town Heritage Village: This living museum transports visitors back in time to the early 1900s. It features a collection of restored buildings, including a church, schoolhouse, and general store.
  • Art Gallery of Swift Current: This gallery is dedicated to showcasing local and regional artists. It features a variety of art forms, from paintings and sculptures to textiles and photography.
  • Saskatchewan Hockey Hall of Fame: This museum pays tribute to Saskatchewan’s rich hockey history. It features exhibits on famous players, coaches, and teams, as well as interactive displays and memorabilia.
  • Swift Current Museum: This museum offers a comprehensive look at the city’s history, from its Indigenous roots to modern-day life.

Natural Attractions of Swift Current: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Swift Current is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, rolling hills, and pristine wilderness. There are plenty of outdoor activities to do in the city and surrounding areas. Here are a few highlights:

  • Swift Current Creek: This natural park offers hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and rabbits.
  • Chinook Parkway: This scenic parkway follows the South Saskatchewan River and offers beautiful views of the countryside.
  • Elmwood Park: This park features an outdoor pool, playground, and picnic areas. It is a great place to spend a hot summer day.
  • Swift Current Aquatic Centre: With its waterslides, hot tub, and lazy river, this aquatic centre is a popular destination for families.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Swift Current

Swift Current has several hiking and biking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Here are a few of the best routes to explore:

  • Swift Current Creek Trail: This 3-km trail runs along the Swift Current Creek and offers beautiful views of the city. It is a popular spot for jogging, biking, and dog walking.
  • Chinook Parkway Trail: This 5-km trail follows the South Saskatchewan River and offers scenic views of the surrounding hills and countryside.
  • Flats Trail: This 10-km trail winds through the river valley and offers a variety of terrain, from forests and meadows to open grasslands.
  • Narrow Hills Trail: This 15-km trail runs through the Narrow Hills Provincial Park and offers stunning views of the Saskatchewan wilderness.

Best Things to Do in Swift Current: Activities and Tours

Swift Current offers a variety of activities and tours for visitors. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few highlights:

  • Swift Current Sights and Sound Tour: This guided tour takes visitors through the city’s most historic neighborhoods, including Downtown Swift Current and Riverside Park. Learn about the area’s history and culture while enjoying scenic views of the countryside.
  • Skyline Drive-In Theatre: This classic drive-in theater offers a unique movie-going experience. Visitors can watch the latest movies from the comfort of their car. Don’t forget the popcorn!
  • Great Southwest Saskatchewan Adventure Tour: This multi-day tour takes visitors through the best of Southwest Saskatchewan, including Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park, Grasslands National Park, and the Great Sandhills.
  • Swift Current Hiking and Biking Tour: This self-guided tour takes visitors through the city’s best hiking and biking trails, including the Flats Trail and Chinook Parkway.

Week-Long Itinerary for Swift Current

Here’s a suggestion for a week-long itinerary in Swift Current:

  • Day 1: Explore Downtown Swift Current and visit the Art Gallery of Swift Current.
  • Day 2: Visit Doc’s Town Heritage Village and learn about life in the early 1900s.
  • Day 3: Take the Great Southwest Saskatchewan Adventure Tour and explore Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park.
  • Day 4: Visit the Saskatchewan Hockey Hall of Fame and learn about the province’s rich hockey history.
  • Day 5: Spend a day at Elmwood Park and cool off at the outdoor pool.
  • Day 6: Take the Skyline Drive-In Theatre and enjoy a movie under the stars.
  • Day 7: Hike the Swift Current Creek Trail and enjoy the beautiful views of the city.

Food and Drink Scene of Swift Current

Swift Current has a diverse food and drink scene, with options ranging from fast food to fine dining. Here are a few must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Prairie Feast Buffet: This all-you-can-eat buffet offers a variety of Saskatchewan favorites, including perogies, cabbage rolls, and borscht soup.
  • Wheatland Cafe: This cozy cafe offers homemade soups, sandwiches, and pies. They’re famous for their apple fritters and cinnamon rolls.
  • The Star Cafe and Grill: This historic diner has been serving up burgers and milkshakes since 1921. Don’t leave without trying their famous Star Burger.

Local Beverages

  • Great Plains Beer: This local brewery offers a variety of craft beers, from pale ales to stouts.
  • Prairie Bee Meadery: This meadery specializes in honey wines made from local ingredients. Try their popular Strawberry Rhubarb Mead.
  • Saskatchewan Wine: This winery produces a variety of wines from local fruits, including berries and apples.

Where to Stay in Swift Current: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Swift Current has a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are a few top choices:

  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites Swift Current: This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms with plenty of amenities, including a pool and fitness center.
  • Home Inn & Suites Swift Current: This budget-friendly hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi and breakfast.
  • Country Lane Bed & Breakfast: This cozy B&B offers a relaxing and homely environment, with cozy rooms and a home-cooked breakfast.

What to Buy in Swift Current: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Swift Current has a variety of unique and locally made products that make great souvenirs. Here are a few options:

  • Saskatchewan Made Products: This store offers a variety of locally made products from across Saskatchewan. From handmade pottery to beeswax candles, you’ll find something for everyone.
  • Prairie Bee Meadery: Take home a bottle of honey wine made from local ingredients.
  • Swift Current Aquatic Centre: Take home a commemorative towel or t-shirt from this popular destination.

Local Culture and Customs of Swift Current

Swift Current is a welcoming and friendly city with a rich cultural heritage. Here are a few customs to keep in mind when visiting:

  • Respect the Land: Saskatchewan has a rich history and connection to the land. Treat it with respect and gratitude.
  • Be Prepared for Weather: Saskatchewan’s weather can be unpredictable. Dress in layers and be prepared for anything, from hot summer days to cold winter nights.
  • Acknowledge Indigenous Heritage: The area has a deep history of Indigenous heritage and culture. Take time to learn about and acknowledge this culture.

Best Time to Visit Swift Current

The best time to visit Swift Current is from May to September. Summers are warm and sunny, with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Winters are cold and snowy, but there are still plenty of indoor activities to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Swift Current

Do:

  • Do try some local cuisine and craft beer.
  • Do explore the natural parks and hiking trails.
  • Do take a guided tour to learn about the city’s history and culture.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or disrespect the land.
  • Don’t ignore the area’s Indigenous heritage.
  • Don’t forget to pack appropriate clothing for the weather.

Safety and Health

Safety in Swift Current

Swift Current is generally a safe destination, with low levels of crime. However, like any city, visitors should take basic safety precautions such as locking their cars and staying in well-lit areas at night.

Health in Swift Current

Medical services are available in Swift Current, including a hospital and several clinics. Visitors should make sure they have adequate travel insurance before visiting.

Getting to Swift Current: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Swift Current

Swift Current has its airport, the Swift Current Airport (YYN). Flights to and from Calgary operate daily.

Bus Stations Near Swift Current

Greyhound provides service to Swift Current. Swift Current has a Greyhound station and a depot office.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Swift Current by car. The city is located on the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) and is roughly a three-hour drive west of Regina.

How to Get Around in Swift Current

The best way to get around Swift Current is by car. There are several car rental agencies located in the city, and most hotels offer free parking. Taxis and public transportation are also available for visitors who prefer not to drive.

Where to Go Next from Swift Current: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Swift Current is located in the heart of Saskatchewan, making it a great starting point for exploring the province. Here are a few nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park: This park is located just over two hours southwest of Swift Current and offers a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to fishing and boating.
  • Grasslands National Park: This park is located roughly three hours southwest of Swift Current and offers a unique and fascinating look at the flatlands of Saskatchewan.
  • The Great Sandhills: These incredible sand dunes are located just over two hours west of Swift Current and offer a surreal and otherworldly landscape.

Conclusion

Swift Current offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors. With its rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant community, Swift Current is a must-visit destination in Saskatchewan. Whether you’re interested in hiking, history, or local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this charming city.

Lyric Theatre Lyric Theatre