Saskatoon’s Haunted History Itinerary
From haunted hotels to historical cemeteries, the city’s rich history is steeped in stories of the supernatural. Join me on this spine-chilling two-day itinerary that combines both spooky sites and serene historical cemeteries, offering a unique glimpse into Saskatoon’s haunted past.
Day 1: Ghostly Encounters and Haunting Tales
Morning: Delta Bessborough Hotel
Start your day with breakfast at the iconic Delta Bessborough Hotel, one of Saskatoon's most haunted locations. Nestled along the riverbank, this castle-like structure boasts not only stunning views but also a history filled with ghostly apparitions.
While you enjoy your meal, consider the stories of the hotel’s past:
● Guests have reported seeing a man in a grey suit and fedora wandering the ballroom—a spirit said to be the ghost of an employee who died while investigating a noise complaint. Unlike his tragic end, his presence is known to be harmless.
● On the hotel’s notoriously haunted third floor, another apparition—a woman in tattered clothes—has been frequently spotted. Her appearance is just one of many eerie encounters awaiting those who explore these haunted halls.
After breakfast, take a moment to explore the hotel’s beautiful gardens before heading out for the rest of your haunted journey.
Day 1: Continued
Afternoon: Western Development Museum – Ghosts of the Boomtown
Spend your afternoon at the Western Development Museum, home to the famous Boomtown exhibit—a life-sized recreation of a 1910 prairie town. While it’s a favourite spot for history buffs, it’s also well-known for its ghostly activity. As you stroll through the vintage streets, you’ll find more than just historical relics. Eerie encounters have left visitors and staff wondering if Boomtown is haunted by the spirits of Saskatoon’s past.
While you explore, keep these stories in mind:
● Visitors have often heard footsteps echoing through the quiet streets and buildings of Boomtown, even when no one else is around. The sound of boots on old wooden floors is a frequent occurrence.
● Staff members have reported doors creaking open and closing on their own, with no explanation. Some say they’ve seen it happen firsthand, while others feel a sudden draft in rooms that seem otherwise sealed.
● Many people describe the sensation of being watched as they wander through the exhibits. It’s as if the spirits of early settlers are still roaming the streets of Boomtown, curious about the modern-day visitors who pass through.
The Western Development Museum offers a fascinating, and possibly haunted, glimpse into Saskatoon’s past. Whether you're seeking a historical tour or a ghostly encounter, Boomtown provides a memorable stop on your haunted history itinerary.
Day 1: Continued
Evening: E.A. Davies Building, Sask. Polytech Campus
End your day with a visit to the E.A. Davies Building at Saskatchewan Polytechnic, known for its ghostly sightings and unexplained happenings.
As you explore, keep these eerie tales in mind:
● A “woman in white” has been spotted wandering the hallways in a long 1930s-style dress. Some have seen her walk straight through solid walls.
● People have reported hearing typewriter noises in empty rooms and faint conversations when no one else is around.
● There's even a tale of a young man in a dark suit quietly roaming the building's corridors.
A perfect final stop to end the first day of your haunted tour on a spine-chilling note.
Day 2: Tranquil Strolls through Historical Cemeteries
Morning: Nutana Pioneer Cemetery
Begin your second day by visiting Nutana Pioneer Cemetery, one of the oldest burial sites in Saskatoon. This historic cemetery is home to the graves of the city’s early pioneers, nestled beneath a colorful canopy of fall leaves.
As you wander the paths, consider the poignant stories behind the headstones:
● Many of the graves date back to the late 1800s, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who settled in the area.
● The cemetery's serene atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for reflection on the passage of time and the legacies left behind.
Nutana Pioneer Cemetery has a rich history and an air of mystery that adds to its charm. It’s not uncommon for visitors to feel a connection to those who rest here, leading to contemplative moments amidst the gravestones.
Day 2: Continued
Afternoon: Woodlawn Cemetery
Continue your day with a walk through Woodlawn Cemetery, another one of Saskatoon's oldest and most storied burial grounds. Established in 1905, this cemetery is the final resting place for many of the city's pioneers. While it offers a peaceful and reflective atmosphere, it’s also home to some unsettling tales that have kept locals talking for generations.
As you explore, keep an eye out for these eerie occurrences:
● Several people claim to have seen the apparition of an old woman floating between the graves after dark. She moves silently, her form barely visible as she drifts through the headstones, before vanishing as quickly as she appears.
● Far more sinister is the spirit of a man known for his glowing eyes—reported to be either green or red. Those who encounter him describe a feeling of dread, and his presence is said to be deeply unsettling, giving off a hostile energy.
Woodlawn Cemetery is a mix of history and hauntings, making it an intriguing point of interest on your haunted history tour. Whether you're drawn by its historical significance or curious about the ghostly figures said to linger here, Woodlawn offers a chilling stop to your day.
As your spooky itinerary comes to an end, take some time to reflect on the ghostly tales and historical insights you’ve uncovered over the past two days. Consider sharing your experiences and photographs with friends, allowing them to join you in your exploration of Saskatoon’s haunted history.
This two-day itinerary combines the eerie allure of ghost stories with the serene beauty of historical cemeteries, creating a memorable exploration of Saskatoon’s haunted past. So grab your friends, don your most comfortable walking shoes, and get ready for a weekend filled with spine-chilling tales and autumnal beauty. Happy haunting!
Andrew Christoffel
Andrew has always had a way with words. From writing his first novel at 13 to his current role as a freelance creative director and copywriter, imagination and creativity have always been a part of his life. You can usually find him writing in a coffee shop, taking photos and videos around town, or travelling the world. @ajchristoffel