Last Updated on April 12, 2024 by Pamela MacNaughtan
Parks Canada is celebrating 110 years in 2021, and we are excited about exploring several of its parks and historic sites this summer, especially the Parks Canada Sites here in Quebec City! Perfect whether you’re travelling solo, or looking for some fun things to do in Quebec City with kids this summer/fall. All Parks Canada sites are LGBTQIA2S+ safe spaces.
Are you ready to experience some of Québec City’s living history?
parks canada sites in quebec city
fortifications of quebec
neighbourhood: old quebec (vieux-quebec) • cost: $7.90 Adult, $6.60 Seniors, Free Youth 17 & under
Extending over 4.6 km, the ramparts, and fortifications of Quebec were an integral part of the city’s defensive system for hundreds of years. Cap Diamant, a massive cliff atop which we can now see Château Frontenac, offered natural protection, but the colony of New France needed more than that.
The only fortified city north of Mexico, Quebec City’s stone walls and heavy cannons still stand guard, even if they are now more decorative than functional. Take time to walk along the ramparts and fortification walls and soak in the beauty of Old Quebec. Visit Artillery Park and take a guided tour. Go on a mini scavenger hunt to see if you can find the cannon which is different from all the rest!
cartier-brébeuf national historic site
neighbourhood: limoilou • cost: Free
Lose yourself at Cartier-Brébeuf, a National Historic Site located within a sprawling 6.8-hectare park, Parc Anse-à-Cartier. Sitting on the banks of the Saint-Charles and Lairet Rivers, this National Historic Site is the perfect place to enjoy nature, explore, and relax.
Rent bikes and discover the site’s bike path, stopping to enjoy the views of Quebec City, or explore on foot. Bring some food and settle down for a picnic on a warm summer day. Explore historical markers using interactive tablets. Whatever you chose, Cartier-Brébeuf National Historic Site is a lovely little escape within the city.
saint-louis forts and châteaux national historic site
neighbourhood: old quebec (vieux-québec) • cost: $3.90 adult, $3.40 senior, free youth 17 & under
A hidden gem, literally, in Old Quebec City, Saint-Louis Forts & Châteaux National Historic Site is an important piece of Quebec City’s history. The remains of a fort and châteaux, which played an integral role in defense of the colony of New France and housed governors, are a fascinating archaeological crypt.
The Saint-Louis Forts and Châteaux National Historic Site has over 120 artifacts on site, as well as interactive displays which tell of its importance in shaping Quebec City as we know it today.
Take a self-guided tour, or pay a little extra and join a 45-minute guided tour.
