NEIGHBOURHOOD

Riversdale

Saskatoon

Introduction

Saskatoon’s Riversdale neighbourhood is bordered by Idylwyld Drive and 22 Street. The area has been given new life over the last five years, and has even been called Canada’s “next great neighbourhood” by Air Canada. Efforts from the city, as well as private investors, have turned this area into a vibrant place full of unique shops and restaurants.

Lifestyle

Riversdale feels full of life. The ambition and excitement of young business owners who see the potential of this rejuvenated neighbourhood spreads infectiously across the area, creating a lively atmosphere. The farmers’ market is a reflection of the neighbourhood’s taste for natural foods and products, coupled with the province’s farming history. 20 Street is where area residents’ enterprising visions are realized, offering hip restaurants and boutique shops.

The Vibe

Riversdale has a great vibe. As a neighbourhood in the middle of great changes, there are areas that are wonderfully artistic and vibrant, but others that haven’t yet experienced this rejuvenation and remain somewhat rundown. The trend of revamping old buildings with cool new establishments shows no sign of slowing. It won’t be long until the whole neighbourhood catches up to its trendiest streets.

Meet the Neighbours

Riversdale is a low-income neighbourhood, which makes it accessible for new families looking for budget housing as well as prospective entrepreneurs. The recent boom has led to upcoming condo developments that will increase the already huge appeal that this neighbourhood has to the artistic crowd. Currently, Riversdale is home to an older, less wealthy resident base, but big changes are happening here, so a demographic shift is expected.

In the Area

20 Street has an abundance of restaurants and shops –?everything ranging from trendy fusion like The Grazing Goat to home-style cooking at the quaint Park Café. Riversdale Pool offers relief from the hot Saskatoon summers, and if swimming isn’t for you, you can just relax in Victoria Park. Princess Alexandra Community School is the local elementary school, and several high schools are located nearby.

Distance from City Hall

2.1 km

Planes, Trains & Automobiles

The neighbourhood is located near the city centre, which makes getting around a lot easier. But like all of Saskatoon, it is generally best to have a car. The area’s close proximity to the central bus terminal means that you can get anywhere by bus without much hassle. Walking is great in Riversdale, as the shops are close together and the streets are narrower than in the city’s newer areas.

The Good, the Bad & the Rest

Because the rapid renovation of Riversdale hasn’t worked its way through the entire neighbourhood, some areas still look rundown. It is a low-income area located near the city centre, so residents are expected to be watchful for criminal activity. The best part about Riversdale is the rate at which it is improving. If the next five years look like the last five, this will be Saskatoon’s place to be.

Dollars & Sense

While some expensive shops do exist, this is generally a very reasonably priced area. Many of the restaurants offer great food at a good price and even the fancier options are cheaper than their city centre competitors. Homes and rent are cheaper than the rest of the city, but with the influx of new businesses, prices are expected to rise.

Neighbourhood Hotspots

Farmers’ Market

Fresh vegetables and artisan products are here year-round. The farmers’ market offers indoor and outdoor spaces for local farmers to sell their products. This market draws people from all over Saskatoon.

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Victoria Park

This is a beautiful riverside park that houses Riversdale pool as well as the huge Victoria Skate Park. Riversdale pool has a large waterslide and is a great place to cool down in the summer.

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Village Guitar and Amp Co.

This small vintage guitar shop is more than meets the eye. Not only does it have some of the best music equipment, it is also a fantastic venue for live shows and other events.

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Park Café

This small and cozy diner offers a nostalgic feel. The food is hearty and reminds you of home, and the service is excellent. Stop by and find out why it is always filled with regulars.

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Grazing Goat

This place has a warm and hip atmosphere. The food is excellent and unique in taste. It has a wide range of flavours that you can be sure you will find nowhere else.

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Roxy Theatre

The Historic Roxy theatre is a great place to catch a flick. This building was restored and reopened under its original name in 2005 and has regained its popularity since.

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Street Corner

Demographic Data

Riversdale
Housing
Neighbours
Habits
Cheers!
Wheels
Commute