Regina

Regina, the capital of Saskatchewan, rises from the expansive Canadian prairies, a city that defies easy categorization. Once called 'Pile of Bones'—a reference to the buffalo bones left along Wascana Creek by Indigenous hunters—it was renamed Regina, Latin for 'queen,' in 1882 by Princess Louise, daughter of Queen Victoria. This change in nomenclature marked a pivotal moment, transforming a railway town into a provincial capital with a distinct identity.

At its core lies Wascana Centre, an urban park larger than both Vancouver's Stanley Park and New York City's Central Park combined. This sprawling green space, built around the artificial Wascana Lake, stands as a testament to ambitious urban planning, offering an unexpected sanctuary of recreation, culture, and natural beauty. Regina's wide-open skies and prairie winds are a constant presence, shaping both its climate and its character.

## From Buffalo Bones to Queen City Regina's origins trace back to the early 1880s as a settlement along the Canadian Pacific Railway's transcontinental route. The area was initially called Wascana, a Cree word meaning 'Buffalo Bones,' due to the large quantities of buffalo bones found there. In 1882, the site was chosen as the territorial seat of government, largely due to Lieutenant-Governor Edgar Dewdney's insistence and his reservation of substantial land for himself. It was then that Princess Louise, daughter of Queen Victoria, proposed the name 'Regina' in honor of her mother.

Regina was officially incorporated as a city on June 19, 1903. Just two years later, in 1905, Saskatchewan became a province, and Regina was chosen as its capital. This decision spurred a building boom, leading to the construction of many significant public and private buildings that still stand today. The monumental Saskatchewan Legislative Building, a grand Beaux-Arts structure, was completed in 1912. That same year, on June 30, 1912, the city was struck by Canada's deadliest tornado, the Regina Cyclone, which killed 28 people, injured hundreds, and destroyed over 400 buildings. The estimated $5 million in damages took more than two years to repair and 40 years to pay off.

Regina also played a significant role in Canadian history during the North-West Rebellion of 1885. Louis Riel, a Métis leader, was brought to Regina after his troops were defeated and was subsequently tried and hanged there. The city also became the national training center for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), with every RCMP officer undergoing training at Depot Division in Regina since its inception in 1885.

The development of Wascana Centre began in the 1880s with the damming of Wascana Creek to create a water reservoir. Over time, this evolved into a vast urban park, with a 100-year master plan commissioned in 1961 from architect Minoru Yamasaki, known for designing the original World Trade Center. Today, Regina continues to evolve as a diverse and growing community, balancing its historical roots with modern development.

Begin your exploration at the Wascana Centre, a massive urban park surrounding Wascana Lake. Here, you can rent a boat, cycle the paths, or feed the waterfowl. Within the park's expansive grounds are several key attractions, including the Saskatchewan Legislative Building, an architectural marvel completed in 1912, offering free guided tours of its opulent interior. Also in the park is the Royal Saskatchewan Museum, where you can explore natural history, Indigenous cultures, and observe 'Scotty,' the world's largest T-Rex skeleton. The Saskatchewan Science Centre, with its interactive exhibits and Kramer IMAX Theatre, provides engaging experiences for all ages.

Beyond Wascana Centre, visit the RCMP Heritage Centre, located at the RCMP Academy, Depot Division, the sole training academy for Canada's iconic Mounties. The center illuminates the history and stories of the force through exhibits and ceremonies. Another significant historical site is Government House, a grand building from 1891 that served as the official residence for the Lieutenant-Governor of the North-West Territories. Take a guided tour to see restored rooms and the Edwardian Gardens. For a taste of local culture, explore the Cathedral Village district, known for its distinctive boutiques, craft stores, cafes, and restaurants.

The best time to visit Regina for warm-weather activities is during the summer months, from June to August. Temperatures average between 15°C and 25°C, with mild and sunny weather ideal for outdoor pursuits. The shoulder seasons of spring (May and June) and fall (September and October) also offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds, and many festivals and events take place during these times. For budget travelers, November through March brings lower hotel rates, though temperatures can drop significantly, often below -20°C.

Regina International Airport (YQR) is located west of the city, about 15 minutes from downtown, with direct flights from major Canadian cities and some U.S. destinations. Public transportation within Regina is primarily served by Regina Transit buses, which connect neighborhoods, schools, and shopping centers. Most routes pass through downtown, making connections convenient. You can find schedules and maps at the Transit Information Centre or online. Taxis are also readily available, and car rental agencies operate at the airport. Regina is generally a safe city, with violent crime rates below the national average. However, property crime, such as car break-ins and bike theft, can occur in the central business district and around the university. It's advisable to secure valuables and be aware of your surroundings, especially after dark in bar areas. The most significant danger can be the extreme winter wind chill, which can cause frostbite in minutes. Dress in layers and cover exposed skin during colder months. The currency used is the Canadian Dollar (CAD).