Discover Simpson: Heritage, history and lakes

Simpson combines places of remembrance and community history with natural attractions in the surrounding area. Historic buildings and a war memorial give the town its distinctive character; nearby lakes and a protected area add opportunities to enjoy nature. When planning your trip, you can focus on different interests and combine local history with outdoor experiences in the region.

Places of Remembrance and Architectural History

The Simpson Memorial Crypt was built in 1985 in memory of the First and Second World Wars and the Korean War. Its interior is lined with commemorative plaques honoring various groups and individuals. The memorial thus brings together a clear historical purpose and a wide range of tributes. For anyone interested in local history, it is a tangible landmark in Simpson.

The Rural Municipality Office in Simpson was built in 1911 and features Boomtown architecture. In 1982, the Office property was converted into the local museum; its collection offers a link to the community’s past. The architecture and collection provide different ways to explore local history: one draws attention to the building, the other to the community’s history. Simpson’s grain elevators are also part of its architectural heritage and rank among the most beautifully restored examples in Saskatchewan. The Simpson Hotel was built in 1910, a year before the Office. The two construction dates offer a brief timeline comparison of two local buildings.

Lakes, Trails and Birdwatching

Little Manitou Lake and Last Mountain Lake are near Simpson. The lakes offer opportunities for swimming, boating, hiking and birdwatching. This gives you different options for planning your day: activities on the water, exercise on the trails or time spent observing nature. These interests complement the town’s architectural and commemorative history with another way to experience the surrounding area.

The Last Mountain Lake National Wildlife Area is a special destination for birdwatching. Simpson is 15 minutes from North America’s oldest bird sanctuary, which is located within this protected area. Visitors will find three main trails there, differing in length and ecology. This lets you compare two aspects when choosing a route: its length and its particular ecological character. These differences offer practical guidance when deciding whether to include the protected area in your travel plans.

Choose the Right Focus for Your Trip

Simpson is located on Highway 2. When looking for a vacation rental or vacation home, consider whether you want your stay to focus mainly on local history or also on natural attractions in the surrounding area. In the first case, historic buildings and remembrance take center stage; if you also want to make time for water activities, trails or birdwatching, consider the lakes and protected area. The kind of trip you want can therefore be a helpful starting point for choosing your destination and accommodation.

Discover More Destinations

Watrous, Langham, Bradwell, Manitou Beach, Martensville, Warman, Lanigan, Outlook

For the broader travel overview: Division No. 11.