No matter the season, there’s plenty to keep the family busy when traveling to the Canadian city of Quebec City with kids. Here are some suggestions for activities in and around the capital that will make you the coolest parents in the world!
From Château frontenac historical tours to the cobblestone streets of the old town, and from thrilling kayak rides on the St. Lawrence River to the suspension bridge of Montmorency Falls, there’s plenty to choose from.
Is Québec City worth visiting kids?
In winter, there’s the Carnival, snow tubing and the Ice Hotel.
In summer, enjoy the many festivals within the walled city, Valcartier’s water games, the powerful Montmorency Falls and mountain sports. You can even hop on the Québec-Lévis crossing for a waterfront view of the city.
In the fall, have a picnic and admire the colors of the forest!
And in spring, kids of all ages love to walk around Île d’Orléans to see the rural landscapes of this gourmet garden come to life.
Fun things in Quebec City with kids: Village Vacances Valcartier
In both summer and winter, the outdoor slides at Village Vacances Valcartier provide a good dose of thrills. But the star of the resort is Bora Parc, an indoor water park where you can have fun whatever the weather. Our 10-year-old pals loved it!
Top tip: Stay at the adjacent hotel, designed for those who travel to Quebec City with kids. There are also several restaurants on site. Note that the spa is open on Sunday mornings from 9 a.m. to noon for children aged 5 to 14.
Quebec City Aquarium
Open every day, the Aquarium is always a safe bet with kids. It’s home to around 10,000 sea creatures and an abundance of marine life! Whether you prefer fish, amphibians, reptiles or even polar bears, there’s something for you. There are many fun experiences on offer, such as a walrus encounter in the summer. There are even special activities organized for certain occasions throughout the year, such as Halloween.
A guided tour of Old Quebec and Château Frontenac for kids with a historical figure
Step back in time on a guided tour that’s more fun than educational. It’s a wonderful way to immerse yourself (and your kids!) in the history of the old town of Quebec City, Canada and even North America. And one of the top UNESCO World Heritage sites this side of the pond! You’ll see the stories of the Siege of Quebec and the famous battles of Sault Montmorency and the Plains of Abraham told like never before.
If you’ve always wanted to see Dufferin Terrace and the inside of Château Frontenac, sign up for a themed tour led by a historical figure. You’ll discover the many secrets of one of the most iconic buildings in Canada!
Take part in one of the many events and things to do in Quebec City with kids
A show at the Festival d’été de Québec, a meeting with Bonhomme at the Carnaval de Québec or a trip back in time at the Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France? Summer or winter, Quebec City is alive with major events.
Check out the Tourist Office’s calendar of events!
Must do in Quebec City with kids: First Nations storytelling at Wendake
The First Nations Hotel and Museum in Wendake has a lot to offer. In addition to the comfort of the rooms and the contemporary yet traditional design, the facility offers a number of exceptional experiences, including an evening of storytelling in the Ekionkiestha’ National Longhouse, which has been recreated according to ancestral models. If you want to take the experience a step further, you can even sleep there! A wonderful way to learn more about Huron-Wendate culture as part of a trip to Quebec City with kids of all ages.
In fact, it’s one of the most transformative and memorable activities of a family trip to Canada.
And while you’re in the area, enjoy the luminous installations of Onhwa’ Lumina, a 1.2-kilometre trail celebrating the life and values of the great Huron-Wendat Nation. A creation in the heart of the forest, by Moment Factory!
Quebec family vacation in Jacques-Cartier National Park
Jacques-Cartier Valley, less than 30 minutes from Quebec City, is a paradise for families seeking a mix of adventure and serenity. Known for its stunning landscapes, the park offers a variety of family-friendly activities.
Canoeing is a popular activity with kids, with options to rent for a day or half-day. Paddle through the Marais du Nord and marvel at the diverse plant and animal life. Hiking is another great way to explore the park. Trails like the Valley Trail and Éperon Trail are suitable for families, offering breathtaking views. Wildlife viewing is a favorite for kids as the park is home to a wide range of creatures, from salmon and trout to moose and the Great Blue Heron.
For an unforgettable experience, try a rabaska canoe ride on the Jacques-Cartier River. The park also offers various accommodation options to fit different budgets, from yurts to cabins.
Parc de la Chute-Montmorency
Did you know that Montmorency Falls is 100 feet taller than Niagara Falls? Not only can you see it up close, but you can also do a number of activities at the site. Would you prefer to walk to the top or ride the cable car?
Until October, the via ferrata is a real treat for thrill-seekers over the age of 8. In the winter, ice climbing may give you the chills…and not just because of the cold!
Whatever the season, Montmorency Falls is an absolute must-do activities in Québec City with kids, both young and young at heart.
Sainte-Anne Canyon
How can you spice up your visit to Canyon Sainte-Anne? By immersing yourself in the world of the Petraminis, a game available on your smartphone or tablet. How have these legendary creatures left their mark on the history of the Canyon? Where can you find the colors of the rainbow shattered by the giants? Parents will love it too!
Quebec city indoor activities: museums!
With its captivating exhibits and warm atmosphere, the Musée des beaux-arts du Québec (the Museum of Fine Arts) promises moments of artistic discovery that will leave a lasting impression on your family trip to Quebec City. Many family activities are offered throughout the summer and spring holidays, as well as at certain times of the year. Plus, it’s one of the most modern and strikingly beautiful buildings in Quebec City!
Located in the heart of Quebec City, the Musée de la civilisation invites you on a fascinating journey through the centuries. Discover interactive exhibits , fascinating artefacts and fun activities. Especially for the younger ones – this museum is a favorite among local families for its top-tier top-tier installations for kids of all ages.
More fun activities for kids in and around Quebec City
- Watch the changing of the guard at the Citadelle
- Thrills on the rides and bumper cars at the Galeries de la Capitale’s Mega Parc indoor amusement park
- Venture into an amusement centre: iSaute Québec, RécréOFUN, Arcade Carie Factory
- Take on the challenge of the Labyrinth Inukshuk
- Enjoy a high-altitude meal at Ciel!, a rotating bistro-bar with views of Quebec City
- Climb from tree to tree in Arbraska Chauveau
- Be a racer on the K.C.R. Karting go-kart track
- Enjoy a typical Quebec experience in a sugar shack
- Enter the world of Benjo, a fantastic toy store
- Visit the city’s parks, especially the one at the Domaine de Maizerets
Cover photo credit: Jean-François Frenette/Bonjour Québec
