Last Updated on March 15, 2024 by Pamela MacNaughtan
There is a delightful amount of things to do in Quebec City in summer, which is helpful since it’s the busiest time of the year (heh!). Summer is a glorious season in Quebec, a time when restaurant and bar patios are in full swing, art installations take over the streets of Lower Town, and scores of people are clamouring for the perfect Quebec vacation experience.
While perfection is unattainable, in all aspects of life, dreaming of one’s idea of perfection can be a fun escape at times – along with a dash of romanticism. When it comes to travelling to Quebec City, the idea of historic buildings and cobblestoned streets, as well as a foreign language, act as kindling to one’s romanticized vacation dreams.
Planning things to do in Quebec City in summer sparks the kindling, and soon a crackling fire licks at your vacation fantasies, setting a vacation mood. Whether you’re interested in the great outdoors or historic sites; monuments, local cuisine, art, or military history, there is something for everyone in Quebec City.
Here are 99+ things to do in Quebec City in summer!
**All prices are in Canadian dollars (CAD). Pricing was correct at the time of publishing, however, pricing may change at any time.**
Festivals + Events
Wendake International Pow Wow – (June/July) • If you’re in Quebec City at the end of June then you MUST see the Wendake International Pow Wow. An incredible event that has you falling in love with the Wendake culture and people. Admission is $15 CAD for Adults.
Festival d’été de Québec – (July) • Festival d’été de Québec is one of the largest and BEST music festivals in Canada. Some killer acts performed from previous years, including Twenty One Pilots, Kygo, Metallica, Lady Gaga, Mariah Carey, and Blink-182! An 11-day pass is about $140 CAD.
Plein Art – (August) • Kicking off the month of August is Plein Art, an annual fine handicrafts event, which started in 1980. Around 140 artists participate in the event, which is set up inside large white tents at Espace 400e in Old Port. The event is free to attend, until, of course, you buy something. Learn more here.
Fêtes de la Nouvelle France (New France Festival) – (August) • Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France (New France Festival) usually takes place in the lower town, Petit-Champlain, and Place-Royale, however, this year most of the festivities will take place in the upper town. Wander the streets and admire locals dressed in period costumes, try traditional Québécois foods, shop for Quebec terroir, and more. You can buy medallions on their website.
Les Grands Feux Loto-Québec – (August) • Les Grands Feux Loto-Québec is a fireworks show set to music that should not be missed. Every Wednesday night plant yourself above on Terrasse Pierre-Dugua-de-Mons to watch the fireworks explode over Château Frontenac and the Saint-Lawrence River. The real party, though, is near the ferry dock! Check their website for the schedule.
ComediHa! Festival – (August) • Each year, locals and tourists alike look forward to ComediHa!, a 12-day comedy festival featuring 350 shows. Venues are spread throughout Old Quebec City, as well as other neighbourhoods. You can buy tickets on their website (en français).
Cigale – (August) • Taking place in Baie de Beauport, Cigale is a two-day beachside music festival. They aim to channel California vibes, with 20 artists performing on two stages, and Portland with its food trucks and BBQ. There is also a climbing wall, sailboat tours, and windsurfing. Visit the website to buy tickets.
Le Festibière Québec – (August) • Festibière de Quebec is your chance to experience some of the best craft beers produced in Quebec, as well as ciders and other tasty local products. This delightful beer festival takes place at Quais de l’Espace 400e, near the marina. Best to leave your car at home or the hotel and stumble back.
Historic + Religious
Batterie-Royale – Tucked in a corner of Place-Royale, Batterie Royale was one of the colony’s defence posts. Built after Phip’s attack in 1690, the battery was used up until 1763 when it was turned into a pier. It was eventually covered and rediscovered in 1977. Today, the cannons are still on display, and the square acts as a peaceful refuge from city exploration. • rue Saint-Pierre & rue Sous le Fort
Cartier-Brébeuf National Historic Site – Located on the north shore of the Saint-Charles River, Cartier-Brébeuf National Historic Site was the site of Jacques Cartier’s winter camp in 1535 and was later the arrival point of Jesuit missionaries, including Jean de Brébeuf. Today, it’s a beautiful urban park. Take a self-guided tour of the interactive displays, spend an afternoon biking, or have a picnic. • 175, rue de l’Espinay
Cathedral of the Holy Trinity – The first Anglican church established outside the British Isles, the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity was built 1800-1804. The cathedral has 8 bells in its bell tower, all from Whitechapel in London, and the communion silver was a gift by King George III. Consider taking a 30-minute guided tour with an incredibly knowledgeable guide and historian. • 31, rue des Jardins
Cross of Sacrifice – Located near the main entrance to the Plains of Abraham, the Cross of Sacrifice was erected on July 1, 1924, to pay tribute to the 60,000 Canadians (219 Québecers) who were killed during the Great War. Each year on November 11th, Remembrance Day, a ceremony is held to honour the fallen who have served our country. • Plains of Abraham entrance
La Citadelle de Québec – Home to the 22e Regiment, La Citadelle is a favourite in summer. Visit the museum, watch the changing of the guard, and walk along the path at the top of the walls for a postcard view of Old Quebec City. This is a stop on the open-top bus tour. • 1, cote de la Citadelle
Fortifications of Quebec – Quebec City is the oldest fortified city in North America, north of Mexico. Walk along the ramparts of fortification walls of Old Quebec, visit Artillery Park, climb the stairs for views from the top of the gates, and count the cannons – there are a lot! If you have time, take the walking tour. • 2, rue d’Auteuil
Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial National Historic Site – A small island that can be accessed from the other side of the Saint-Lawrence River. Learn about the history of the island which was a quarantine station from 1832 to 1937. A ferry to the island leaves from Berthier-sur-mer. Learn more here. • Lévis
Henry Stuart House – At Henry-Stuart House you will capture a glimpse into the bourgeois lifestyle of early 20th-century Quebec. Erected in 1849 for Mary Curry Henry, the house was later owned by the Stuart sisters who worked to retain the cottage’s heritage charm. Take a tour, then enjoy some tea and lemon cake. • 82, Grand-Allée Ouest
Maison Ephraïm-Bédard – Maison Ephraïm-Bédard is a fine example of an 18th-century farmhouse popular in Charlesbourg. The house has been completely restored, it’s a fascinating look into 18th-century life in Quebec. Learn more here. • 7655, chemin Samuel
Maison Girardin – Maison Girardin is a charming house dating back to the early 1800s. The house is an example of classic French architecture and resides in the Beauport Heritage Site. Learn more here. • 600, avenue Royale
Monastère des Augustines – Founded by the Augustine sisters, who arrived in New France in 1639 to provide medical care for the colonists, Monastère des Augustines is rated as one of the best wellness retreats in North America. Take a guided museum tour, or dine on healthy eats in their restaurant. • 77, rue des Remparts
Morrin Centre – Once a military barracks, then a jail (the site of the last public hanging), and college, the Morrin Centre is now a gorgeous Victorian library and home to the Literary and Historical Society of Quebec. Explore the library on your own, or take a guided tour through parts of the old jail, college, and library. • 44, chaussée des Écossais
Moulin des Jésuites de Charlesbourg – Moulin des Jésuites is a historic site, as well as an interpretation and tourism centre. Take a walking tour of the Charlesbourg Heritage Site to learn more about the village’s history. Learn more here. • 7960, boulevard Henri-Bourassa
Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral – Home to the Holy Door, Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese in Québec. A gorgeous church. Open most days, a visit is highly recommended! • 16, rue de Buade
Notre-Dame des victoires – You may recognize Notre-Dame-des-Victoires as being the church at the end of the movie Catch Me If You Can. One of the oldest churches in North America, the church stands on what was once the home and trading post of Samuel de Champlain. • 32, rue Sous le Fort
Parliament Hill – Quebec City is home to the government of Quebec, and the parliament buildings are located just outside the old city walls, at boulevard Honoré-Mercier and Grand-Allée Est. Visit the grounds to enjoy the gardens and various sculptures and busts. Most walking tours visit the grounds.
Shrine of Saint-Anne de Beaupré – For over 350 years pilgrims have been visiting this important religious shrine on the Beaupré Coast. Admire the intricate architectural details inside, as well as the beautiful paintings, and artefacts. If you don’t have a car, you can take the water shuttle during summer, or take a half-day tour to Montmorency Falls and Ste-Anne-Beaupré. • 10018, avenue Royale, Saint-Anne-de-Beaupré
Saint-Louis Forts and Châteaux National Historic Site – Discover the ruins under Dufferin Terrace! Saint-Louis Forts and Châteaux National Historic Site take you back to the days of Saint-Louis Fort, which once overlooked the Saint-Lawrence River. A fun and interesting activity for families (and everyone else!). • Dufferin Terrace
Arts + Entertainment
Le Diamant – This gorgeous performing arts centre is located across from Palais Montcalm in Place D’Youville. The façade of the original structure remains, with a beautiful modern glass structure built around it. The programming includes theatre productions, comedians, music, and dance. • 966, rue Saint-Jean
Espace Félix Leclerc – Sitting at the entrance to Île d’Orléans, EspaceFélix-Leclerc is a tribute to famous Quebec author and composer, Félix Leclerc. Buy CDS and DVDs, walk the trail down by the river, and enjoy the exhibits. • 1214, chemin Royale, Île d’Orléans
Fountaine de Tourny – A gift to the city for the city’s 400th anniversary by the owner of Simons department store, Tourny Fountain stands in front of Parliament. The fountain was created by French sculptor Mathurin Moreau and resided in Paris for 100 years before coming to Quebec City. In spring, hundreds of tulips are planted around the fountain and the Parliament building. • boulevard Honoré-Mercier
La Fresque de Québécois – Created by Quebec artists, Marie-Chantal Lachance and Nathaly Lessard of SautOzieux, this impressive (full-size) mural depicts Québec City’s most important figures such as Samuel de Champlain and Félix Leclerc, as well as cultural references. Admire this impressive mural while exploring Place-Royale and see if you can spot and name the various historical figures found within. • rue Notre-Dame, near Notre-Dame des victoiries
Grand Théâtre de Québec – A truly grand theatre in Montcalm, take the time to enjoy the opera at Grand Théâtre de Québec during your stay in Quebec. Sure, it is in French, but it’s still beautiful. They also have symphony performances and other art shows. • 269, boulevard René-Lévesque
Maison de la littérature – a French-language library in Old Quebec. The library was built inside a 19th-century church and renovated to convert the inside into a library with a modern feel. Visit the library in the middle of the day to admire its beauty and relax. • 40, rue Saint-Stanislas
Monument Samuel de Champlain – Standing tall on Dufferin Terrace, next to Château Frontenac, this monument is dedicated to the founder of Quebec, Samuel de Champlain. Sculpted by Paul Chevré, the monument was erected in 1898. Beautiful from afar, it’s best to take a closer look to admire the details that are hidden in plain sight. • Dufferin Terrace
Monument Montcalm – Not to be confused with the Wolfe-Montcalm Monument near Château Frontenac (which is also worth a visit), Monument to Montcalm is located on Grande Allée beside the Hôtel Le Concorde Quebec. Unveiled Oct 16th, 1911, it is a replica of the monument which stands near Nimes, France where General Montcalm was born. • Place Montcalm and Grand-Allée
Monument Wolfe-Montcalm – This obelisk monument is the oldest in Quebec City, dating back to 1827. The monument commemorates two great generals, Wolfe (British), and Montcalm (French), who fought bravely (and died) during the Battle of the Plains of Abraham in 1759. • Parc des Gouverneurs
Monument to Women in Politics – Located at the Parliament building, facing Grande Allée, the Monument to Women in Politics honours three women who were advocates for the women’s right-to-vote movement in Quebec: Marie Lacoste-Gérin-Lajoie, Idola Saint-Jean, and Thérèse Casgrain. • Parliament Hill, Grand-Allée
Palais Montcalm – Take time from exploring the city to enjoy a concert at Palais Montcalm in Place D’Youville. There are several performances this summer, many worth seeing! Learn more here. • 995, rue D’Youville
Promenade des Premiers-Minitres – Promenade des Premiers-Ministres is located on René-Lévesque between Honoré-Mercier Avenue and De La Chevrotière Street. The promenade features 14 interpretive panels, as well as statues of Quebec Premiers from 1867 to 2014. • boulevard René-Lévesque & Parliament Hill
Museums + Galleries
Musée de la Civilisation – Located in Old Port (Vieux-Port), on rue Saint-Pierre (doors on rue Dalhousie as well), the Museum of Civilisation has exhibits on the Indigenous Peoples of Quebec, as well as the history of New France and modern Quebec. This is a stop on the open-top bus tour. • 85, rue Dalhousie
Musée du Fort – Discover a little about Québec’s military history at Musée du Fort. There is an impressive model of the colony of New France and its defences. A good activity for children and adults. Learn more here. • 10, rue Sainte-Anne
Musé National des Beaux-Arts de Québec – A dazzling museum and art gallery surrounded by the National Battlefields Park, MNBAQ is home to works of art from Quebec artists from several periods and styles. The Pierre Lassonde Pavilion is breathtaking and houses post-1960s art. A must-see! • 179, rue Grand-Allée Ouest
Musée des Ursulines – The Ursuline sisters arrived in 1639 with a mission to educate the colony of New France, as well as the First Nations people. Musée des Ursulines is a lovely little museum featuring artifacts from their 370+ years in the city. Learn more here. • 12, rue Donnaconna
Musée Naval de Québec – Tucked into a corner of Old Port, the naval museum is small but interesting. Listen to stories of sailors who served in WWII, and admire naval artefacts. The museum is open from early June to early September, and admission is free. Learn more here.
Tours
Animated Crime Tour of Old Québec – Get spooked, or just delve into some of the scandalous crimes in Quebec’s history. This fun and interesting walking tour starts after dark and, is led by costumed guides holding a glowing lantern. It’s perfect for kids and adults. Wear good walking shoes, and bring a light jacket in case of cool evening winds. Book your tour here.
Assemblée Nationale du Québec – Newly renovated on the outside, the Parliament Building is just as beautiful on the inside. On a rainy day or any day really, take a FREE guided tour of the National Assembly. The tour lasts about 45 minutes and focuses on Quebec’s history as well as the building’s Second Empire-style architecture. Tours are offered in French and English.
Beer Tour in Saint-Roch – Saint-Roch is a neighbourhood that is booming with restaurants, boutiques, and brewpubs. Take a beer tour through the neighbourhood and discover some delicious eats as well! Book a beer tour here.
Bike Tour to Montmorency Falls – Start in Old Quebec and cycle your way to Montmorency Falls! It is a long ride, but a lovely way to spend a few hours. Plus, you’ll learn some interesting historical details. Bring water and snacks. Book a bike tour here.
Château Frontenac Walking Tour – Let’s be honest, seeing Fairmont Château Frontenac in person is probably one of the main reasons why you’re planning a trip to Quebec City. Spend time admiring this treasured North American castle from every angle, then venture inside to drool over its historical details and Art Deco décor. If you want to learn more about the château’s history, consider taking a walking tour.
Hire a Private Tour Guide – One of the best ways to experience Old Quebec City and its surrounding areas is with a private tour guide. The biggest difference between a group tour and a private tour is the ability to explore at your own pace, as well as choose the type of attractions you would like to see. These private tour guides are among some of the best in Quebec City.
an insider’s guide to île d’orléans
this interactive digital guide on île d’orléans features everything I love about the island, including things to see and do, artisanal shops, wineries, food, and more!
Historical Walking Tour of Old Quebec – Quebec City is more than 400 years old, making it one of the oldest cities in Canada. One of the best ways to understand the city is to take a historical walking tour. Our favourite company for this type of tour is Cicerone Walking Tours. Book a tour!
Île d’Orléans Food Tour – Île d’Orléans is one of the best day trips from Quebec City and a foodie paradise. Discover the island on this food tour which visits popular producers such as Cassis Monna & Filles, and Chocolaterie de l’Île d’Orléans. Learn more here.
Île d’Orléans Wine Tour – Home to several wineries and cideries, Île d’Orléans is a lovely spot to discover Québec wines, some of which are award winners. The tour bus picks up near Château Frontenac and makes 4-6 stops. A nice way to spend a summer day. Learn more here.
Old Quebec City Food Tour – Offered by the lovely folks at Local Quebec City Food Tours, the Old Quebec City Food Tour is a delicious way to discover the old city and learn a little about Québécois food as well. Be sure to wear comfy pants and embrace the possible food coma to come afterward!
Old Quebec Walking Tour (Free) – If you’re looking for an overview of the history and culture of Old Quebec City, then a free walking tour with Sam is highly recommended. Tours begin at the Parliament building and end down in Petit-Champlain and Place-Royale. While this tour is free, tipping Sam is highly recommended! Learn more here.
Old Quebec City Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour – Operated by Tours Vieux Québec, this double-decker open-top bus tour allows you to hop on and hop off wherever you wish along the route. The bus starts each day at 9:30 am and ends at 4:00 pm, and makes 12 stops in total. A great way to get to know the layout of a new city. Book your tickets here.
Quebec City Photo Tour – Old Quebec City is charming and beautiful all year round (it is true!), and annoyingly photogenic. If you’re a photography lover, take a Quebec City photo tour with Nomad Tours Quebec to discover the history and culture of Quebec City, as well as the best spot for taking gorgeous photos.
Sunset Sea Kayaking Excursion – Experience the beauty of the Saint-Lawrence River and Île d’Orléans during a sunset sea kayak excursion. Truly magical. Book a sunset sea kayak excursion here.
Train de Charlevoix – Explore the rustic beauty of Charlevoix with a scenic train ride from Quebec City into Charlevoix, and back! Travel to Baie-Saint-Paul and La Malbaie. Make it a day trip, or spend the night and return to the city the following day. Learn more here.
Whale Watching Tour in Baie Sainte-Catherine – A whale-watching excursion to Baie-Sainte-Catherine is a full-day activity. The best experience is on a zodiac tour as you can get quite close to the whales (if they show up). If you’re doing this as a family activity you may want to book on the bigger boat. Book a whale-watching tour here.
Parks, Beaches, and Waterfalls
Jardin Botanique Roger Van der Hende – Located at the University of Laval, Jardin Botanique Roger-Van der Hende is open to students, as well as the public. It’s a 6-hectare educational garden, with around 4,000 species of plants.
Kabir Kouba Falls – Learn about plants and herbs used by the Amerindians, take a guided tour, or simply admire the falls and surrounding nature. Kabir Kouba Falls in Wendake is simply gorgeous. Learn more here.
Marina Saint-Roch – In summer, Marina Saint-Roch is a hub of activity. There is an outdoor public pool and plenty of places to relax and gather with friends. There are yoga classes, too. It’s a beloved community gathering place and a great way to meet some locals.
Chutes Montmorency (Montmorency Falls) – Located about 12 km (7.5 miles) from Quebec City, Montmorency Falls is a MUST for anyone visiting the city. Take bus #800 or drive. Alternatively, you can opt to take a half-day tour to Montmorency Falls and Ste-Anne-Beaupré.
Parc du Bois-de-Coulonge – Parc du Bois-de-Coulonge is a relaxing park with lovely horticulture and fauna. Walk the footpaths, play on the playground, and enjoy a picnic. Close to restaurants on Grand-Allée, as well as the Plains of Abraham.
Parc de l’Esplanade – This park along the Fortifications of Quebec, near rue Saint-Louis, is small. It’s a popular venue for various festivals and events such as Fêtes de la Nouvelle France. In winter, this park has a large skating rink – but that’s for the winter post.
Parc de la Francophonie – This is a small park near the Parliament Building and a favourite spot among locals on a warm sunny day – it’s an ideal spot for a picnic in the heart of the city. During FEQ, the park is transformed into a concert venue.
Parc Nautique de Cap-Rouge – Visit Parc Nautique de Cap-Rouge and spend some time canoeing, kayaking, or sailing the Saint-Lawrence and Cap-Rouge rivers. Learn more here.
Plage Jacques Cartier (beach) – This is probably one of the most popular beaches in Quebec City. It’s also one of the only ones. There’s a large park here, and plenty of sand to lay on and catch some rays.
Plains of Abraham – The Plains of Abraham is the site of a 15-minute battle in 1759, which forever changed life in Quebec. The battle was fought between the French and the British, and when it was over both generals were mortally wounded, and Britain was the victor. Now, the plains are a huge park, popular with cyclists, picnic lovers, and hikers. In winter, locals come here for skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
Promenade Samuel de Champlain – Promenade Samuel-de-Champlain is a 4.3 kilometre boardwalk that runs along the Saint-Lawrence River. In summer, the promenade is ideal for walkers, joggers, and cyclists. On one side of the promenade is the Saint-Lawrence River, on the other side, is a lush green lawn, picnic tables, sculptures, art installations, and several shady places for relaxing on a hot day.
Seigneurie de l’Île d’Orléans – Spend an afternoon exploring the lush lavender fields of La Seigneurie de l’Île d’Orléans. With over 75,000 plants, it is a spectacular site! Plan your visit by checking out their website first.
Sports + Outdoor Adventures
Caving at Grotte le Trou du Diable – Adventure lovers will want to explore the caves at Grotte le Trou du Diable. The course/tour is open to ages 6 and up and includes a guide, helmet, and headlamp. Learn more here. Located at Parc natural régional de portneuf.
Hiking in Canyon Sainte-Anne – Canyon Sainte-Anne is lush and green and an ideal location for a day exploring outdoors. Follow the trails and cross the canyon’s three suspension bridges along the way! Learn more here.
Mountain Biking – Venture out to Mont-Sainte-Anne to mountain bike the nearly 140 km worth of cross-country and downhill ski runs. Some of the best mountain biking in Québec. Learn more here.
Rent a Bike – One of the more popular things to do in Quebec City in summer is to rent a bike and ride through Old Quebec or along the Saint-Lawrence River. Vélo sets up e-bikes which can be rented on-site using an app and used to get around the city. There are also a couple of bike tours of the city and surrounding areas.
Whitewater Rafting – Spend a morning (or afternoon) rafting through class 3 and 4 rapids, go whitewater swimming and cliff jumping. Wetsuit rental is available. Learn more here.
Zipling at Parc de la Chute Montmorency – After gazing at the beauty of Montmorency Falls, and walking the trails, it is time for a little adventure. Zip lining across the falls is an absolute thrill. Learn more here.
Food + Drink
Brewery Crawl (Self-Guided) – Quebec City is home to several microbreweries, and if you’re a beer-lover, then this is the ideal place for a crawl. Go to Noctem and Korrigane, then La Barberie and La Souche. Griendel is good, too. To buy other Quebec beers to try, go to La Place, Supérette, or La Duchesse d’Aiguillon.
Chocolate-dipped Ice Cream – There are some amazing chocolatiers in Quebec City, and a couple sells chocolate-dipped ice cream cones that are almost orgasmic. Go to au1884 on Dufferin Terrace or Érico’s in Saint-Jean-Baptiste.
Croissants – As a self-professed croissant snob, I take pride in eating croissants whenever I can find them. Which is not hard in Quebec City. The best of the best is in Chateau-Richer (if you have a car, go!), but there are yummy croissants at Paillard and Épicerie Européenne.
Poutine – While many think of poutine as the national dish of Canada, its origins are strictly Québécois. So, if you have not tried poutine, it’s best to do it in Quebec. A traditional poutine is fries topped with fresh squeaky cheese curds and hot brown sauce (aka gravy). Here are a few great places to eat poutine.
Québécois cuisine – it has French roots and developed over time using ingredients indigenous to the lands here, as well as foodstuffs imported from France. Try dishes like tourtière (meat pie), Cretons (pork spread), Pâté Chinois, and more. The best restaurants for traditional Québécois foods are Aux Anciens Canadiens, La Buche, and Buffet de l’Antiquaire.
Beautiful Viewpoints
Dufferin Terrace – Running along the top of Cap Diamant, in front of Château Frontenac, Dufferin Terrace is a go-to boardwalk for relaxing and taking in the views of the city, Saint-Lawrence River and Lévis. It’s a popular spot for photos, and there’s insanely good chocolate-covered cones at au1884. The open-top bus tour begins here.
Funiculaire de Vieux-Quebec – Enjoy a ride on the Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec from Dufferin Terrace, down to Petit-Champlain, and enjoy views of the river and neighbourhoods below. Rides are 5 CAD each way.
Observatoire de la Capitale – Located on the 31st floor of the Marie-Guyart Building, Observatoire de la Capitale is one of the best places to get a panoramic view of Quebec City. Visit their website to check the webcams before you go. • 1037, rue de la Chevrotière
Petit-Champlain – Petit-Champlain is one of the oldest shopping streets in North America. In summer, the cobble-stone street lined with 18th and 19th-century architecture is often bursting with activity. Local musicians perform street-side, boutique doors are opened to welcome the fresh summer air, and visitors from around the world fall deeper in love with the Historic District of Old Quebec.
Quebec-Lévis Ferry – Take the Quebec-Lévis ferry from Quebec City to Lévis and back! A one-way trip is only 15 minutes, but the view of Quebec City in summer is spectacular from the Lévis side. It’s stunning day or night, but especially during the fireworks in August. It’s one of the best things to do in Quebec City in summer, hands down!
Terrasse Pierre-Dugua-de-mons – a postcard-perfect viewpoint of Fairmont Château Frontenac, Dufferin Terrace, and the Saint-Lawrence River. It can be busy from late afternoon to early evening. A fantastic experience in Quebec City in summer when one can linger and have a picnic as well.
Great Activities for Kids
Adventurex – An outdoor rock climbing (ages 6+), as well as an indoor climbing centre. A great choice for first-time climbers, as well as families. All equipment is included in the admission price. Learn more here.
Aquarium de Québec – Aquarium du Québec is a fun activity for families and everyone else. Admire the animals and wander through the park to participate in other activities. A half-day is needed (at minimum). Learn more here. • 1675, avenue des Hôtels
Georally at l’îlot des Palais – Located down in Vieux-Port, close to the Gare du Palais train station, L’ilot des Palais sits on the site of the first brewery in Quebec City – operated by Jean-Talon. It’s an intriguing site, and they offer a fun GeoRally in Old Quebec, with 12 virtual caches. A fun family activity. Learn more here. • 8, rue Vallière
iSaute Trampolines – Escape the outdoors (sometimes it can be rainy or chill or way too hot) and venture to iSaute an indoor trampoline centre. We’re talking wall-to-wall trampolines. So much fun! Learn more here. • 185, rue Fortin
Labyrinth at Domaine de Maizerets – On a summy day, Domaine de Maizerets is a must. Wander around a labyrinth made of 750 Cedars. If you get lost, there are granite blocks strewn throughout, just climb up and take a peak at the labyrinth layout. • 2000, boulevard Montmorency
Méga Parc – Galeries de la Capitale is, believe it or not, bigger and better than West Edmonton Mall. Spend a day playing, trying rides, and stuffing your face with delicious junky eats. Méga Parc is a fab option on a rainy day. • 5401, boulevard des Galeries
Parc Maritime de Saint-Laurent – A delightful maritime park with exhibits and activities for everyone. As you’re already at the park, why not take a sunset sea kayak excursion? Book a sunset sea kayak excursion here.
Site Traditionnel Huron Onhoüa Chetek8e – A visit to the Huron Traditional Site is a good starting point when exploring Wendake. Learn about the Aboriginal people who lived on the land before the arrival of Jacques Cartier and Samuel de Champlain. Indigenous-owned. Taking the guided tour is highly recommended, and be sure to pop into the handicraft boutique as well. • 575, rue Chef Stanislas Koska, Wendake
Tree-top Course at Arbraska Duchesnay – Explore the treetops with a view of Lac-Saint-Joseph. Courses available for children 7-11 years old, as well as 12+. If you have a fear of heights, this may not be the activity for you! Learn more here.
Village Vacances Valcartier – In the summer, Village Vacances Valcartier changes from a tubing winter wonderland to a dreamy waterpark with slides and tubing rivers. They also have a massive indoor waterpark! Learn more here.
