Explore Downtown

Photo by Valerie Horner

Downtown Prince Albert is a hub where culture, history and business meet. Home to over 300 businesses, it offers a distinctive feel with shopping, dining, attractions and service businesses. Carolyn Carleton, Executive Director of the Prince Albert Downtown Improvement District (PADBID), sees the downtown as a community full of experiences, “It’s a destination and meeting place. You can find unique shops with local goods, great customer service and a personalized feel in the shops downtown.” PADBID was established in 2004 to create a vibrant and prosperous downtown district. Today, Carleton is working to build on downtown events and experiences to continue this vision. “We’re creating things for people to do. Come out and enjoy them, explore downtown,” she encourages. She is optimistic about the recent growth of events in the downtown as well as recent announcements that may reshape its core and image.

UNIVERSITY OF SASKATCHEWAN OPENING DOWNTOWN CAMPUS

The University of Saskatchewan announced in March 2018 that they will be opening a campus in downtown Prince Albert in the fall of 2020.

The campus will offer classes in a variety of specialties including Dentistry, Nursing, Arts & Science and more. The campus will bring together students already studying in the city at other locations and will allow the U of S to grow its offerings in Prince Albert. The recent announcement has created excitement and potential for downtown. According to Carleton, more businesses are looking to open downtown due to the number of students expected at the campus. There has also been a renewed interest in creating livable spaces for working professionals and students. She also anticipates the campus and influx of students will change the vibe of downtown; with added foot traffic day and night, it will help create an inviting environment and sense of community.

Forest Centre, Future home of the U of S Campus

Photo by Linda Carter

CENTRAL AVENUE REDESIGN

The City of Prince Albert has also started working on a Central Avenue redesign. Residents were presented four streetscape options in a 2018 public feedback survey by the City, for a redesign of the downtown corridor. Of the options presented, the most popular features angled parking on one side of the street, one lane of traffic and wider sidewalks for pedestrians, patios and events. Carleton anticipates that the redesign will invite people to come downtown, “it creates more of a community feel, an environment to walk around and explore,” she adds.

The downtown will still be accessible and welcoming during construction, as work will be done in stages. This will be the first major update to Central Avenue since the early 1980s. Although it will likely be a few more years before the makeover gets underway due to planning and budget processes, the announcement offers optimism and excitement for a newer, more modern and inviting space to shop, dine, work and play.

Memorial Square

Photo by All My Relations

The downtown core offers a wide variety of places to dine, shop and explore. You can find everything from florists, home décor, cafés & restaurants to doctor’s offices, galleries, clothing shops and more. Experience what Downtown Prince Albert has to offer!

TARTAN TABLE – One of the newest downtown establishments, The Tartan Table opened in 2018 by owners Niall and Lana Kerr as an homage to their Scottish roots. You can expect great food including British & Scottish inspired dishes and daily specials, a casual dining environment and exceptional service. The Tartan Table is also a hot nightspot, hosting a variety of events including comedy, music and special events.

BISON CAFE – A cozy and inviting atmosphere welcome you, along with the smell of freshly brewed coffee and delicious baked goods. Enjoy lunch or a treat before exploring the café and admiring local art in the Red Door Gallery.

Photo courtesy Bison Cafe

CALYPSO BAY CLOTHING – Owner Shannyn Galloway and staff offer second to none personalized service to help make your shopping trip a breeze. Open since 2007, Calypso Bay offers on trend, contemporary clothing for women of all ages. The intimate boutique, stylish pieces and customer service make this a “must shop” in Prince Albert.

JOHN M. CUELENAERE PUBLIC LIBRARY – The public library has played an important role in the history of the community and was formally established in 1913, over a century ago. Today, the library offers a wealth of programming for all ages including movie nights, book clubs, computer classes, writer’s groups, board game nights and much more. The Grace Campbell Gallery featuring exhibits by local and national artists, is housed in the library.

TED MATHESON MEN'S WEAR – This family business, rich in history opened its doors in Prince Albert in 1929, 90 years ago. As one of Saskatchewan’s premier destinations for quality men’s wear, the staff at Ted Matheson Men’s Wear offer an unmatched customer experience and will ensure you leave well dressed.

GP CARLSON ART GALLERY – Gail Carlson is a recognized Saskatchewan potter specializing in both functional pottery and one-of-a-kind pieces. Her studio and gallery showcase unique ceramic pieces and gift ideas including tea sets, mugs, serving dishes, vases and more.

GP Carlson Art Gallery

Photo by Linda Carter

STREET FAIR JUNE 15, 2019 from 10am – 6pm

This free, fun, family festival features sidewalk sales, bouncy castles, food trucks, a Farmer’s Market, live entertainment, face painting, free entrance to the Historical Museum, cars and much more.

Street Fair is one of the fastest growing events in Prince Albert with over 18 000 people attending in 2018. It brings people together and showcases the beautiful downtown core. The event encourages residents and visitors to spend time downtown and explore the many local shops and restaurants. It is an all-ages event with music, food, shopping and activities, spread out over Central Avenue and the Riverbank.

Street Fair

Photo by iheartphotos

SUMMER ON THE SQUARE

Every Wednesday morning in July and August, Memorial Square is the place to be. Enjoy local produce, baking and local goods from the Farmer’s Market plus take part in children’s activities, games and crafts. New for 2019, you can expect more activities for all ages and special weekly features.

DOWNTOWN ART WALK

The first Thursday of each month from June through September, take part in the Downtown Art Walk. Visit art galleries, shops, and businesses downtown during your self-guided tour. In addition, enjoy activities and live music in Memorial Square, historical tours by horse drawn wagons and for your shopping convenience, participating shops are open late.

Stay tuned for other downtown events and experiences including the Urban Art Tour in September, Santa Claus Parade on November 29, Crokicurl this winter and more.