The side of our gallery that focuses on Diefenbaker's life and legacy.
1 / 10

Diefenbaker Canada Centre

4.5
·63 reviews·Saskatoon, Canada

Explore the life of Canada's 13th Prime Minister, John Diefenbaker, at this free museum on the USask campus.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Loading map...
The side of our gallery that focuses on Diefenbaker's life and legacy.

Diefenbaker Canada Centre

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the life of Canada's 13th Prime Minister, John Diefenbaker, at this free museum on the USask campus.

4.5
(63 reviews)

"A great little museum about Prime Minister Diefenbaker's life in politics. Very interesting!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Peace of Mind

The Diefenbaker Centre parking lot near the river is a surprisingly good spot for a quiet moment or cathartic cry.

👻 Spooky Campus Tours

Don't miss the popular Campus Ghost Tours for a spooky, educational history of USask's haunted buildings!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

John Diefenbaker's Legacy

John Diefenbaker's Legacy

Main Exhibit Hall

Explore the life and political career of Canada's 13th Prime Minister, John Diefenbaker.

Replica Office and Cabinet Room

Replica Office and Cabinet Room

Exhibit Hall

Step into a replica of Diefenbaker's office and the cabinet room during his premiership.

JFK and Diefenbaker Conversation

JFK and Diefenbaker Conversation

Audio Exhibit

Listen to the famous, often sarcastic, phone conversation between Diefenbaker and John F. Kennedy.

Micro Gallery Exhibits

Micro Gallery Exhibits

Micro Gallery

Discover rotating exhibits, such as 'Saskatchewan Votes: A History of Enfranchisement' .

Instagram
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for a Smoother Visit

While admission is free, the Diefenbaker Canada Centre can get busy, especially during special events like the popular Campus Ghost Tours.Instagram+2 Consider visiting on weekdays outside of peak tourist seasons for a more relaxed experience. Check their website for event schedules to avoid or plan for crowds.

Free Admission, But Donations Welcome

Entry to the Diefenbaker Canada Centre is free, making it an accessible attraction.Reddit However, donations to the University of Saskatchewan are encouraged. Some visitors found the donation process a bit complex, so be prepared for a few extra steps if you wish to contribute.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
During special events
Why
Unique experiences like ghost tours
Crowd
High
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Easy parking available
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This one’s for you Saskatoon 🥰 #discoversaskatoon #saskatooning #visitsaskatoon #saskatoon #exploresaskatchewan #exploresask #explorecanada #canada
@thesandeep29
9.3K likes • 195.3K views

🚗 Parking Peace of Mind

The Diefenbaker Centre parking lot near the river is a surprisingly good spot for a quiet moment or cathartic cry. Reddit

👻 Spooky Campus Tours

Don't miss the popular Campus Ghost Tours for a spooky, educational history of USask's haunted buildings! Instagram+2

Follow @mustbesaskatoon for more Saskatoon content! DM us your videos/photos to be featured on the page!🇨🇦 Did you know: Sask edition! Credit: @CBC Saskatchewan #saskatoon #thisissaskatoon #canada #saskatchewan
@mustbesaskatoon
5.9K likes • 123.1K views
Welcome back to our 5th Edition of #FilmFriday. The Diefenbaker Canada Centre is having plenty of fun getting into the Halloween spirit leading our Campus Ghost Tours. Registration is still open on our website with limited spots available! We hope to see you there!
diefcentre
6 likes • 235 views

🎧 Listen to History

Experience the fascinating, sarcastic phone call between Diefenbaker and JFK – a must-hear! Reddit

📚 Sign the Visitor Book

Leave your mark by signing the visitor book; they love seeing messages from guests! Instagram

The University of Saskatchewan is putting its collection of rare instruments on display in a series of noon-hour concerts.⁠ •⁠ The Diefenbaker Canada Centre is hosting Amati Quartet: The Legacy of the University of Saskatchewan.⁠ •⁠ The Centre’s website says the Amati family were considered pioneers in making bowed stringed instruments, and have crafted some of the world’s most sought-after instru...
cbcsask
404 likes • 22.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Peace of Mind

The Diefenbaker Centre parking lot near the river is a surprisingly good spot for a quiet moment or cathartic cry. Reddit

👻 Spooky Campus Tours

Don't miss the popular Campus Ghost Tours for a spooky, educational history of USask's haunted buildings! Instagram+2

🎧 Listen to History

Experience the fascinating, sarcastic phone call between Diefenbaker and JFK – a must-hear! Reddit

📚 Sign the Visitor Book

Leave your mark by signing the visitor book; they love seeing messages from guests! Instagram

🎶 Rare Instrument Concerts

Check for noon-hour concerts featuring rare instruments, a unique cultural experience. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(63 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors often find the Diefenbaker Canada Centre an unexpected and delightful historical gem, particularly for its free admission and engaging exhibits on Prime Minister John Diefenbaker. The replica rooms and the JFK conversation are frequently highlighted as fascinating. However, some wish for better maintenance of related historical sites and a more streamlined donation process.

"From our Saskatchewan trip of 2013. Diefenbaker is one of our most interesting and influential prime ministers and the inspiration of great art. This museum was an unexpected treat. Of course, the Fafard sculpture is at the McKenzie Gallery"

Daniel Cunningham

"A must stop for any Dief fan. Loved the whole exhibit. Please do a better job maintaining Mr Diefenbaker's grave site. Weeds should not growing on this great man!"

Happy Truck

"A great little museum about Prime Minister Diefenbakers life in politics. Very interesting with some little known facts about how he and JFK got along, and how they didn’t! It was so interesting. Lots of neat artifacts and information. Admission is free. Staff are super friendly! Definitely worth visiting!"

Stephen Maryland

What People Like

Free admission
Engaging Diefenbaker exhibits
JFK conversation audio

What People Dislike

Maintenance of Diefenbaker's grave
Donation process complexity

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Diefenbaker Canada Centre is located on the University of Saskatchewan campus in Saskatoon.Reddit You can reach it by car, and parking is often available nearby, especially during summer afternoons.Reddit Public transport options to the university campus are also available.

Yes, parking is generally available near the Diefenbaker Canada Centre. Visitors have noted no trouble finding parking immediately outside the building, particularly in July.Reddit The parking lot nearest the river is also mentioned as a peaceful spot.Reddit

Absolutely! The Diefenbaker Canada Centre is a great addition to a day trip in Saskatoon, offering a concentrated dose of history and culture within the University of Saskatchewan campus.Instagram

Exploring the University of Saskatchewan campus can be done on foot. The Diefenbaker Canada Centre is a key point of interest, and the campus itself offers beautiful architecture and green spaces. Guided tours, like the Campus Ghost Tours, can also enhance your exploration.Instagram

While specific routes may vary, the University of Saskatchewan campus is generally accessible by Saskatoon's public transit system. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information on routes and stops near the Diefenbaker Canada Centre.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to the Diefenbaker Canada Centre is free! Reddit While there's no charge, donations to the University of Saskatchewan are encouraged and appreciated.

For general admission, advance booking is not typically required as entry is free. However, for special events like the Campus Ghost Tours, registration is necessary due to limited spots.Instagram+1

Operating hours can vary, especially around holidays.Instagram It's best to check the official Diefenbaker Canada Centre website for the most current hours of operation before your visit.

Yes, the Centre hosts special events such as the popular Campus Ghost Tours Instagram+2 and sometimes features concerts with rare instruments.Instagram They also curate rotating exhibits in their micro gallery.Instagram

Donations to the University of Saskatchewan are welcome. While a QR code and website are available, some visitors found the donation process to be a bit involved compared to other institutions.Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore exhibits on Prime Minister John Diefenbaker's life, see a replica of his office and the cabinet room, and listen to the famous JFK conversation.Reddit They also feature rotating micro gallery exhibits Instagram and host special events like ghost tours.Instagram

While the primary focus is historical, some exhibits, like the one on 'rotten food' mentioned by a reviewer, might appeal to children.Reddit Special events like the Campus Ghost Tours can also be engaging for families.Instagram

The 'Saskatchewan Votes: A History of Enfranchisement' exhibit, curated by Erika Warkentin, delves into significant developments in voting rights in Saskatchewan during the 20th century, emphasizing civic participation.Instagram

Generally, photography for personal use is permitted in museums and galleries, but it's always best to check for any specific signage or ask staff regarding photo policies within the Diefenbaker Canada Centre.

Its unique location on the University of Saskatchewan campus and its appeal to a diverse audience of all ages make it special.Instagram It preserves and interprets the core collections related to John Diefenbaker's legacy.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Diefenbaker Canada Centre itself does not appear to have a dedicated cafe or restaurant. However, being located on the University of Saskatchewan campus, there are likely dining facilities available within the university grounds.

The University of Saskatchewan campus and the surrounding areas of Saskatoon offer a variety of dining options. You can find everything from casual cafes to more formal restaurants depending on your preference.

Typically, most museums and galleries discourage bringing outside food and drinks into exhibit areas to protect the artifacts. It's advisable to consume any food or beverages outside the exhibition spaces.

Exploring the areas around the University of Saskatchewan campus, you might find student-friendly cafes or delis that offer more affordable meal options. Checking local listings or asking staff for recommendations could be helpful.

Based on visitor feedback, there isn't a prominent gift shop mentioned. One reviewer expressed a desire to purchase Diefenbaker's memoir on-site, suggesting a potential area for expansion.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

While specific rules can vary, personal photography is often permitted in museum exhibits. However, it's always best to look for signage or ask staff if flash photography or tripods are allowed to ensure you don't disrupt other visitors or damage exhibits.

The replica office and cabinet room offer unique photographic opportunities. The exhibits themselves, showcasing historical artifacts and information, also provide interesting subjects. Don't forget to capture the exterior of the building on the beautiful USask campus.

Generally, personal social media sharing is encouraged, especially if it highlights the Centre's offerings. However, commercial photography or use of professional equipment might require prior permission. Always adhere to any posted guidelines.

A standard camera or smartphone is perfectly adequate for capturing memories. If you're interested in detailed shots of artifacts, a camera with good zoom capabilities or a macro lens might be useful, but avoid flash photography in exhibit areas.

Photography during the Campus Ghost Tours is likely allowed for personal memories, but be mindful of the tour guide's instructions and the spooky atmosphere. Flash photography might be discouraged to maintain the ambiance or for the safety of participants.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Diefenbaker Canada Centre's core exhibits focus on political history, families can find engaging elements. The Campus Ghost Tours offer a thrilling adventure for older children and teens.Instagram+1 Reviewers have also noted exhibits that might pique younger interests, such as one on 'rotten food'.Reddit The free admission makes it an accessible outing for families looking to explore Saskatoon's cultural offerings.

🏛️ History Buffs

For those passionate about Canadian history, the Diefenbaker Canada Centre is a must-visit. It provides an in-depth look at the life and political career of Prime Minister John Diefenbaker, a significant figure in 20th-century Canadian politics.Reddit The replica office and cabinet room offer an immersive experience, and the audio of the JFK conversation is a unique historical artifact.

👻 Thrill-Seekers & Halloween Enthusiasts

If you're looking for a bit of a scare, the Diefenbaker Canada Centre's Campus Ghost Tours are highly recommended.Instagram+2 These guided tours explore the alleged haunted buildings on the University of Saskatchewan campus, sharing eerie tales and historical anecdotes. It's a perfect activity for those who enjoy a good ghost story, especially around Halloween.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of John Diefenbaker

John Diefenbaker served as Canada's 13th Prime Minister from 1957 to 1963. His tenure was marked by significant social reforms, including the establishment of the Canadian Bill of Rights. He was also a strong advocate for Western Canada and championed the "Northern Vision" for the country. The Diefenbaker Canada Centre is dedicated to preserving and interpreting his life and political career, offering visitors a comprehensive look at his impact on Canadian history.Reddit

Visitors can explore exhibits detailing his journey from his Saskatchewan roots to national leadership. Key displays include a replica of his office and the cabinet room, providing a tangible sense of his working environment. The Centre also highlights his relationships with other world leaders, most notably his famously sarcastic phone conversation with U.S. President John F. Kennedy, which is a popular audio exhibit.Reddit

Exploring the University of Saskatchewan Campus

The Diefenbaker Canada Centre is situated on the picturesque University of Saskatchewan campus, a hub of academic and cultural activity in Saskatoon.Instagram The campus itself is worth exploring, featuring a blend of historic and modern architecture, beautiful green spaces, and public art installations. It's a vibrant environment that complements the historical significance of the Centre.

Beyond the Diefenbaker Centre, the university campus hosts other points of interest. For instance, the University of Saskatchewan is known for its collection of rare instruments, which are sometimes showcased in concerts hosted at the Diefenbaker Centre.Instagram The campus also serves as the backdrop for the popular Campus Ghost Tours, offering a unique, spooky perspective on its history.Instagram+2 The Meewasin Trail, a popular urban parkway, is also accessible from the campus, offering scenic views of the river valley.

Special Events and Rotating Exhibits

The Diefenbaker Canada Centre frequently hosts engaging special events and rotating exhibits that add dynamic layers to the visitor experience. The Campus Ghost Tours are a particularly popular seasonal offering, drawing crowds interested in the university's more eerie tales and haunted locations.Instagram+2 These tours provide a fun, albeit spooky, way to learn about the campus's history.

In addition to these larger events, the Centre features a micro gallery that showcases curated exhibits on various historical and social topics. One such exhibit, 'Saskatchewan Votes: A History of Enfranchisement,' highlights pivotal moments in the province's voting rights history.Instagram These rotating displays ensure that there's always something new to discover, making repeat visits worthwhile for those interested in Saskatchewan's past and civic engagement.