It is 106 kilometres (66 mi) east of Saskatoon and has an economy that is based on agriculture and tourism because of its proximity to Manitou Beach, home of the Mineral Spa and Danceland dance Hall (known as the "Home of the World Famous Dance Floor Built on Horsehair").

Watrous is notable for being the location of the transmitter of CBK, CBC Radio One's primary station in Saskatchewan.

The Watrous transmitter is still considered the station's primary signal, even though both of the larger urban areas are now served by separate FM rebroadcasters.

The Jubilee Drive-In Theatre in Manitou Beach is open from the Victoria Day weekend until October.

[9] Watrous also has a curling rink, bowling, golfing, swimming, ball diamonds, and a soccer pitch.