Temple Gardens Mineral Spa is the reason many people choose Moose Jaw for a weekend instead of simply driving past on the Trans-Canada Highway. The spa draws its water from a deep geothermal source under the city, a warm, mineral-rich supply that has been known to locals for generations and that was developed into a modern spa resort on Fairford Street East in the downtown. Visitors soak in a series of pools, some indoors and some open to the sky, and a soak in steaming water while snow falls or stars come out is one of the most distinctive pleasures on the prairies. The spa is attached to Temple Gardens Hotel and Spa, and day visitors can also use the pools, so you do not have to be staying overnight to try it. It works for couples seeking a romantic break, families with children who like to splash, and travellers who simply want to relax after a day in the car.
The mineral water is the draw, and it is worth understanding what it is. The source is a deep underground aquifer, and the water that reaches the surface is naturally warm and rich in dissolved minerals. The spa treats and tempers it for pool use, and many visitors find the soak relaxing, though no one should treat it as a medical cure.
People with heart conditions, pregnancy, high blood pressure or other health concerns should check with their doctor before spending long periods in hot water, and everyone should drink water, take breaks and listen to their body.
The pools usually include a range of temperatures, with some warmer soaking areas and some cooler places for swimming and play, and the layout often includes a mix of indoor and outdoor space. Check the current facilities, hours and age rules with the spa before you go, because details such as the waterslide, the quiet adult areas and the family times can change.
Timing is part of the experience. Summer evenings are lovely for outdoor soaking, but winter is the spa's season of glory, when the contrast between cold air and hot water makes the experience feel almost theatrical. Weekends and school holidays are busiest, so go on a weekday if you want a quieter soak.
Bring a swimsuit and a towel or check whether rentals are available, take flip-flops for walking between areas and leave valuables in your room or a locker. Many guests combine a soak with a massage or other treatment at one of the spas in town, and with dinner at the hotel or on Main Street.
The location is convenient. Temple Gardens sits right in the downtown, a short walk from Main Street, the tunnels ticket office and many restaurants. If you stay at the hotel, the pools are a few steps from your room, which makes it easy to soak before breakfast or late in the evening.
If you stay elsewhere, a day pass or a package that includes entry is a flexible alternative. Either way, the spa pairs naturally with a trolley ride, a tunnels tour and a Main Street dinner for a complete weekend. The Visitor Centre can advise on current packages if you want to compare options.
What to expect
The experience
A spa resort with warm geothermal mineral pools, indoors and out, open to hotel guests and day visitors.
Best time
Year-round. Winter evenings are especially memorable, and weekdays are quieter than weekends.
How long
Most visitors soak for two to four hours; some make it a half day with treatments.
Tips
Bring a swimsuit, drink water between soaks, check pool age rules and avoid long soaks if you have health concerns.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Couples, families and road-trippers who want a warm, relaxing break.
- Families
- Children can enjoy the pools, but check current age rules, family hours and any waterslide or play-area details.
- Couples
- One of the best romantic activities in the region, especially in winter.
- Pair with
- A Main Street dinner, a trolley ride or a massage at a downtown spa.
- Time needed
- Two to four hours, or a full evening.
Good questions
Do I have to stay at the hotel to use the spa?+
No. Day visitors can generally use the pools, though it is wise to check current admission options and hours before you go.
Is the water really natural?+
Yes. It comes from a deep geothermal source beneath the city and is treated for pool use. Mineral content and temperature vary by pool.
Is it good for children?+
Often yes, but pool areas, age limits and family times change. Ask the spa about current rules before you bring young children.
When is the best time to go?+
Winter evenings are famously atmospheric, summer evenings are lovely outdoors and weekdays are quieter than weekends.
Are there health precautions?+
Yes. People who are pregnant or have heart, blood pressure or other health conditions should consult a doctor, take breaks and stay hydrated.