Things to Do in Québec City In The Summer With Kids
From wandering Old Québec after dark to cooling off at one of Canada's biggest waterparks, here's how to plan a family-friendly summer getaway in Québec City.
Photo: Croisière AML
What springs to mind when you think of a Québec City vacation? For most, it’s snow-covered streets and the world-famous Winter Carnival. But summer brings its own appeal, from wandering the cobblestone streets of Old Québec to cooling off at one of Canada's biggest waterparks.
Here’s what to do and where to stay in Québec City in the summer with kids.
Things to do
Guided Cruise on the St. Lawrence
A sightseeing cruise on the St. Lawrence River is an easy way to see Québec City from a different perspective without tiring out little legs. Croisieres AML’s 90-minute cruise departs from Old Québec and passes Île d'Orléans and Montmorency Falls, with great views of the Château Frontenac along the way. There are indoor and outdoor decks to explore, and food and drinks are available to purchase onboard.
Museum of Civilization
Not every kid gets excited about spending part of a vacation in a museum, but the Museum of Civilization makes a pretty good case for it. Expect exhibits on Québec culture, Indigenous history and the province's colonial past. If you're visiting with kids ages three to eight, head to My Place/Ma Maison for a hands-on exhibit designed for little ones.
Old Québec at night
Old Québec takes on a different feel after dark. If the kids still have some energy to burn before bedtime, spend some time wandering the streets, window shopping the art galleries and popping into little shops that stay open later during the summer. It’s safe, walkable and well lit. Just keep in mind that the cobblestone streets and steep hills can feel a lot longer at the end of a busy day. If everyone's running out of steam, hop on the Funiculaire for a quick ride between the upper and lower parts of town.
Montmorency Falls
Just 15 minutes from Old Québec, Montmorency Falls stands 30 metres taller than Niagara Falls. Ride the cable car to the top, walk across the suspension bridge for spectacular views, then make the return trip via the panoramic staircase—or take the cable car both ways if you're visiting with younger kids.
Wendake
A short drive from Old Québec, Wendake is an Indigenous community that welcomes visitors to learn about its history and culture. Start at the Huron-Wendat Museum, then browse local shops or stop for lunch. If you're visiting in the evening, don’t miss Onhwa' Lumina, an immersive nighttime walk through the forest that's a hit with older kids.
Valcartier Vacation Village outdoor waterpark
A 20-minute drive from Old Québec City, Valcartier Vacation Village is home to one of Canada's largest outdoor waterparks, with more than 35 waterslides, two themed rivers, a massive wave pool and splash areas for younger kids. The park is cash-free and lockers are available to rent.
Galeries de la Capitale mall
It may not be the most traditional vacation stop, but when you're travelling with teens, a trip to the mall can be a welcome break from sightseeing. Galeries de la Capitale has lots of good brands, not to mention Mega Parc, an amusement park inside the mall with an impressive Ferris wheel and an indoor ice-skating track (skate rentals available).
Ghost Tours of Québec
It’s not for the littlest of kids, but older ones will enjoy this 90-minute lantern-lit evening walk through Old Québec, where costumed guides share 400 years of tales about murders, ghost sightings, crimes, mysteries, and historic hauntings.
Where to stay
Especially for a first visit, many families stay inside Old Québec's walls so they can walk to the city's many shops and restaurants, then take a taxi or drive to family favourites like Montmorency Falls, Wendake and Village Vacances Valcartier.
The city’s most iconic hotel is unarguably Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, the castle-like landmark overlooking the St. Lawrence River. Beyond its famous history, families will appreciate the indoor pool, and staying here means many of the city's top attractions are right outside the front door.
Apartment hotels are an underrated option for families, giving everyone a little more room to spread out while providing the option to make meals and snacks between sightseeing. Les Lofts St-Paul is a great option, with modern suites in the heart of the city. You’ll find units with multiple bedrooms, air conditioning, a full kitchen and in-suite laundry (a game-changer in the world of family travel).
Some of the writer’s costs were covered by Destination Québec cité.
Kim is a freelance writer, editor and content director in the greater Toronto area. She is currently a content editor for Korn Ferry. Her work can also be found in MSN Canada, Tinybeans, Allergic Living Magazine and Cottage Life.