10 Reasons to Go to Québec City This Summer

The only walled city north of Mexico, Old Québec City is more than a living museum; it’s a vibrant lively place for family travelers to visit and, for kids, it can seem like a mini vacation in Europe. The architecture is distinctly Old World, and French is the predominant language. But, don’t worry, most people also speak at least some English.

Chateau Frotenac

The whole city is walkable, and a charming funicular replaces the long stairways from the riverside Old Town to the upper streets. Get your bearings and spectacular views from the Dufferin Terrace, alongside the imposing walls of Chateau Frontenac, the city’s premier hotel.

Forts-et-Châteaux-Saint-Louis

While strolling along the terrace or enjoying the view from a bench, savor ice cream cones from the kiosk next to The Frontenac, then dive deep into the archaeological crypt with the remains of Forts-et-Châteaux-Saint-Louis. The residence of the French governors from 1620 to 1834 has been excavated to reveal its chambers, artifacts and exhibits revealing details about life in early Québec and relations between Europeans and First Nations people.

Rue du Petit-Champlain

Below Dufferin Terrace, Old Québec is a warren of little streets and small squares, lined with cafés and independent shops selling the works of local artisans. Directly under the terrace, colorful Rue du Petit‑Champlain is a narrow lane of small shops, and the city’s most photographed street.

Les Promenades fantômes

Wander on your own through the old town or follow a costumed guide on a walking tour to hear stories and learn a little history. Teens will enjoy the spine-tingling Ghost Tours of Québec or Les Promenades fantômes by lantern light, both filled with tales of murder, mystery and hauntings.

Old Québec Bike Tour

Or explore Old Quebec on a guided bicycle tour of the narrow, winding streets and hidden corners with Cyclo Services or Echo Sports Tours; both companies also offer guided tours on electric scooters. To explore the city on your own using the network of bike paths leading from Old Port and throughout the city and suburbs, download the cycling paths map.

Cruise or Ferry of St. Lawrence River

Admire Quebec from the water on a 90-minute cruise with Croisières AML, with views of the city, Île d’Orléans and Montmorency Falls as you learn about the St. Lawrence River. For a shorter, budget-friendly family boat ride with great views, cross the river aboard the Québec‑Lévis ferry. Take your bikes along to explore the opposite shore.

Aquarium du Québec

Be among the first to meet the sea otters and seals in their new environment at Aquarium du Québec, where expansive glass viewing areas allow visitors to watch the animals both above and below the water. In the aquarium’s immersive Artika projection, kids can see life-like images of polar bears, narwhals, walruses, Arctic foxes and other species, then play in little igloos in the Base Camp.

Montmorency Falls

Hike above, below and beside 272-foot Montmorency Falls, a short bike or bus ride north of Québec. Take the cable car to the top for great photos or soar past the face of the falls on a zip line.

Summer Festivals

Celebrate Canada Day and summer festivals with the Quebecois. On July 1, the Plains of Abraham are filled with families enjoying a carnival atmosphere with games, rides and food. Later in July, Festival d’été‘s four main stages in the heart of the city host local and international performers and musicians. Les Fêtes de la Nouvelle-France (New France Festival) in early August celebrates Quebec as it was during the French Regime in the 17^th and 18^th centuries. Shows, performers, traditional music, storytelling and re-enactments enliven the city for four days.

Place des Canotiers

Every Tuesday and Thursday evening in August, fireworks light up the sky during the Grands Feux Loto-Québec. Before the pyrotechnic show, join locals in the festive atmosphere at Place des Canotiers. Dufferin Terrace is a good spot for watching the fireworks.