Quebec City with Kids and a Magical Family Getaway
Quebec City offers a charming blend of history and family fun that attracts parents from all over. The city’s historic Old Quebec is a must-see, with its cobbled streets, centuries-old buildings, and European flair. Parents particularly love the family-friendly walking tours that bring the city’s past to life in an engaging way. For an adventure, families can head to the Aquarium du Quebec, where they can explore marine life up close. Winter in Quebec is especially magical, with families enjoying activities like tobogganing and ice skating on outdoor rinks. The city’s vibrant festivals, such as the Winter Carnival, are celebrated by families, with parades and fun events that bring everyone together in a festive atmosphere.
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Located inside Galeries de la Capitale, this indoor amusement park features an ice-skating rink, roller coasters, bumper cars, and a giant Ferris wheel. The steampunk-themed park offers attractions for all ages, including climbing walls, a ninja course, and interactive games. Since it’s inside a shopping mall, families can easily combine a visit with dining or shopping. It’s an excellent place for kids to burn off energy, especially during colder months when outdoor activities are limited.
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This interactive museum makes history and culture fun for kids. Exhibits explore everything from ancient civilizations to Quebec’s indigenous cultures. The “C’est notre histoire” exhibit teaches children about First Nations heritage through hands-on activities. The museum’s kid-friendly Discovery Zone allows young visitors to dress up, play historical games, and explore creative workshops. Special temporary exhibits often include themes like pirates, space exploration, or famous inventors, making each visit unique.
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This outdoor theme park is designed specifically for younger children. It features mini train rides, pedal boats, a splash pad, and interactive play areas with giant animal sculptures. Kids can explore themed zones, including a miniature city where they can pretend to be firefighters, doctors, or shopkeepers. The park also offers storytelling sessions and puppet shows, making it a wonderful destination for preschoolers and early elementary-aged children.
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This picturesque island near Quebec City is perfect for a scenic family road trip. Families can visit strawberry fields for berry picking, stop at chocolatiers for sweet treats, and explore artisan shops selling local crafts. Kids will love visiting small farms to see animals and taste fresh cheeses. The island’s historic villages offer beautiful views of the St. Lawrence River, making it a peaceful and charming destination.
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This observation deck, located on the 31st floor of the Marie-Guyart Building, offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Quebec City. Interactive exhibits teach kids about the city’s history, geography, and landmarks in an engaging way. Digital touchscreens allow visitors to explore Quebec’s evolution through historical photos and maps. It’s a great place to introduce kids to the city’s layout before exploring further. On clear days, families can see all the way to Île d’Orléans and the surrounding mountains.
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A peaceful nature reserve perfect for families who love outdoor exploration. The park features easy walking trails, boardwalks over marshlands, and canoe rentals. Families can spot birds, turtles, and beavers while enjoying the scenic views. Educational signs along the trails teach kids about local wildlife and ecosystems. It’s an ideal place for a quiet nature walk or a picnic away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
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This vast nature park offers outdoor activities for all seasons. Families can enjoy canoeing, paddleboarding, and hiking along the scenic Jacques-Cartier River. Wildlife lovers may spot deer, beavers, and even moose. In winter, the park becomes a wonderland for snowshoeing, tubing, and cross-country skiing. Guided family-friendly activities, like animal tracking and night hikes, provide a deeper connection to nature. It’s a great destination for families who enjoy outdoor adventures.
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This outdoor recreation area offers year-round activities for families. In summer, families can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, hiking trails, and a beach for swimming. In winter, the park transforms into a snowy playground with cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and tubing hills. There are picnic areas and fire pits, making it a great spot for a relaxed family outing. The park is easily accessible from downtown Quebec City, making it an ideal place for a nature escape without leaving the city.
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This large aquarium features over 10,000 marine animals, including polar bears, seals, and jellyfish. Families can explore indoor and outdoor exhibits, watch daily animal feedings, and walk through a tunnel surrounded by colorful fish. The touch tank lets kids get up close with starfish and sea urchins, while the outdoor play area and splash pad provide extra fun. In winter, the aquarium hosts the Festilumières, a magical light festival with illuminated sculptures and winter activities. It’s an exciting and educational experience for kids of all ages.
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A historic park with beautiful gardens, walking trails, and a large playground for kids. In winter, families can enjoy ice skating, tubing, and snowshoeing. The park also features a small outdoor maze, perfect for younger children to explore. Seasonal events like outdoor movie nights and nature workshops make it a dynamic destination throughout the year. It’s a great place for a relaxed family day outdoors.
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A guided or self-paced walk through Old Quebec is like stepping into a fairy tale. Families can explore cobblestone streets, visit the historic Château Frontenac, and watch street performers in Place Royale. Kids will love the cannon-lined Dufferin Terrace, where they can run and play while enjoying river views. In winter, Old Quebec transforms into a Christmas village with festive decorations, an outdoor skating rink, and cozy cafes serving hot chocolate. It’s an enchanting place to learn about history while having fun.
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This stunning canyon features dramatic waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, and suspension bridges that offer breathtaking views. Kids will love the via ferrata (climbing course) and Air Canyon, a thrilling zipline-style ride over the gorge. The park’s family-friendly trails include interactive stations where kids can learn about geology and wildlife. It’s a great spot for families looking for an adventurous outdoor experience just a short drive from Quebec City.
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Just minutes from Quebec City, this breathtaking waterfall is even taller than Niagara Falls. Families can take a cable car to the top for a panoramic view, walk across a suspension bridge over the falls, or hike scenic trails. In winter, the waterfall partially freezes, creating a stunning ice formation called the “Sugarloaf.” There’s also a zipline for adventurous visitors and a funicular for those who prefer a more relaxing ride. It’s a fantastic outdoor destination for families who love nature and adventure.
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This indigenous cultural site offers an immersive experience into Huron-Wendat traditions. Families can visit a reconstructed longhouse, watch traditional dance performances, and participate in hands-on activities like making dream catchers or learning about native hunting techniques. Guided tours provide insight into indigenous history and customs, and the on-site restaurant serves authentic Huron-Wendat cuisine. It’s an educational and enriching activity for families looking to learn about First Nations heritage.
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This massive adventure park is a year-round destination. In summer, it transforms into a water park with slides, a wave pool, and lazy rivers. In winter, it becomes North America’s largest winter playground, featuring tubing hills, snow rafting, and skating paths. The indoor Bora Parc is open year-round, offering a tropical-themed water park with heated pools and slides. Families can also stay at the Hôtel de Glace, a stunning ice hotel built every winter, making it a unique and magical experience.