Are you planning a visit to the beautiful city of Quebec and wondering what are the fun things to do in Quebec City with kids?
Quebec City is one of North America’s most beautiful cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. I was lucky enough to grow up there and explore the city with my kids, as a local and tourist. Of course, you’ll want to visit Old Quebec City with its iconic Château Frontenac, but there is much more to see.
In this article, you’ll discover unique places to visit in Quebec City that are not all targeted to tourists but places even locals go. I’ve visited all those places with my kids and each one of them is worth a visit, whether you’re traveling with your kids or not.
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GETTING READY FOR YOUR QUEBEC CITY TRIP?
✈️ BOOK YOUR FLIGHTS: Jean Lesage International Airport (YGB) is the closest airport. Find cheap flights using Google Flights or Skyscanner, where you can compare airline tickets.
🚗 RENT YOUR CAR: You can rent a car directly from Quebec Airport. I recommend you compare pricing on DiscoverCars or Expedia.
🛏️ BOOK YOUR HOTEL: Booking.com is an excellent search engine for hotels and guesthouses in Quebec City. You can look at Entourage-sur-le-Lac outside the city. It has a cool features and activities for families..
23 Cool Things to Do in Quebec City with Kids
Below is a list of 23 cool things to do in Quebec City with your kids, a little more unique than the typical must-see lists. But here are our TOP 3 to help you plan your perfect family vacation to Quebec City:
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Fun Outdoor Things to Do with Kids in Quebec City
1. Parc de la Chute-Montmorency
One place that I love is the Parc de la Chute-Montmorency and its impressive waterfall. The waterfall is even taller than Niagara Falls!
To get there, it’s better to use your own car. It’s a little complicated to reach with public transportation. But, if you feel like making it a day trip, you could also bike from downtown to the Parc de la Chute Montmorency.
There are many things to do in the park:
- you can walk up some stairs to see the waterfall from a new perspective,
- you can take the cable car to go up, which I did for the first time this summer.
- you can cross the suspension bridge. It’s a bit scary but worth it.
- you can do a via Ferrata and the Tyrolienne if you want an adrenaline boost
We didn’t do the latter, but we did spend a few minutes watching the people going on the Tyrolienne. It looked so fun. Maybe another time.
Kids will also love spending time at the playground near the Montmorency Manoir.
▶️ More information on the Montmorency cable car ride here! Tickets & Availabilities
2. Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec
The Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec is a special elevator that links Quebec’s Upper Town at Terrasse Dufferin to the Lower Town in the Quartier Petit Champlain.
I think everyone should try the Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec. It’s not just a ride. It’s a way to see the city from a different view. And it’s part of Quebec City’s history. If you go, try to ride it in the daytime. You’ll see more things.
PRO-TIP: Make sure you have cash with you. They don’t take credit cards on the funicular.
3. Citadelle de Québec
The Citadelle de Quebec is an impressive fortress in Old Quebec City. It’s on the Cap Diamant hill. This place is unique because it’s the largest British fortress in North America.
When you visit, you can see old cannons, walls, and buildings that soldiers used long ago and still nowadays. Today, it’s also a working military base for the Royal 22e Régiment, the only French-speaking regiment in Canada.
PRO-TIP: Visit the Citadelle de Quebec in the morning. From Wednesday to Sunday during the summer, at 10:00 a.m., you can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony. It’s like a parade with soldiers in red uniforms and a goat mascot named Batisse.
Inside the Citadelle, there’s a museum where you can learn more about the history and see cool stuff like old weapons and uniforms.
If you wish to visit the inside of the Citadelle, you’ll need to go on a guided tour where people will tell you stories about the fortress and its past. It’s included in the entrance fees.
The Citadelle de Quebec is a mix of history and fun. It’s a must-visit if you’re in Quebec City. And one of the best parts of the visit is the VIEW. I could see the city, the impressive Château Frontenac and the Saint Lawrence River.
4. Martello Towers
The Martello Towers in Quebec City are old defense towers. There are four of them, and they were built in the 1800s to protect the city from attacks.
These towers are round and robust, made to stop cannonballs.
Out of the 4 Martello Tower in Quebec City, only one can be visited: the Martello Tower 1. It’s in the Plains of Abraham Park. When you go inside, it’s like stepping back in time. The tower has three floors, each showing how soldiers lived and worked. There are displays with old guns, tools, and even a kitchen.
You can see how soldiers slept, cooked, and watched for enemies. The top of the tower gives a great view of the park and the city.
One of the cool parts of the visit is the interactive games and activities offered on an iPad. It can be more fun for children.
Walking back toward Grande-Allée, near the Jeanne d’Arc garden, you can see another Martello Tower, the Martello Tower 2. This tower is only open to the public on special occasions like Halloween.
Also, don’t miss the opportunity to take a picture on the large green Adirondack chair near the Martello Tower.
PRO-TIP: Visit the Martello Tower after you visit the Plains of Abraham museum. You’ll get a discount when showing your museum ticket.
5. La Cale du Port de Québec
La Cale du Port de Québec is a cool place in Quebec City. It’s located in the marina, near the cruise boat arrival. It used to be the La cours arrière du Festibière, but they made some changes.
This place is unique because you’ll get a beach vibe right in the city. It’s a beautiful patio bar with a wading pool.
It’s perfect for families and even remote workers. Imagine working outside, your feet in the water with a delicious drink.
Everyone can relax and have fun.
They offer a light food menu, including:
- Tacos
- Poutine
- Nachos
But if you want, you can bring your own food for a picnic. Just remember, you can’t bring your own drinks with alcohol.
La Cale du Port de Québec is open from June to September. And guess what? It’s FREE!
6. La Station de la Plage
La Station de la Plage is a brand-new attraction in Quebec City. In fact, its inauguration was in July 2023. And we had the chance to visit in August 2023.
It’s located between Old Quebec and the bridge along the Promenade Champlain. You’ll find a sandy beach and an infinity pool overlooking the Saint Lawrence River. It’s safe and has lifeguards watching.
Here is a quick video of our visit:
There are chairs, tables, and umbrellas for relaxing. And if you get hungry, there’s a snack place called Fastoche! They have ice cream, too.
The view of the river is fantastic. There’s also a big room in the pavilion with a covered terrace. It’s a good spot to sit and enjoy the view.
PRO-TIP: A parking lot is nearby, but it can fill up quickly. You’ll want to arrive early or park your car further and bike on the Promenade de Champlain multi-use path.
La Station de la Plage is a must-visit attraction in Quebec City in the summertime. It’s a place to relax, swim, and enjoy the river view.
7. Cassis Monna & filles
No visit to Quebec City is complete without a trip to Ile d’Orléans. This island, located in front of the Montmorency Falls on the other side of the river, is famous for its fruit picking and wine-tasting activities.
And Cassis Monna & Filles is one of my favorite stops on the island. It’s a family-run business that makes products from black currants.
One of their best products is black currant wine (or Cassis). It’s sweet and different from regular grape wine. They also make syrups, jams, and even ice cream with black currant flavor.
You can also participate in a guided tour. They’ll show you how they make the wine and let you taste different products.
There’s also a small shop where you can buy their products to take home. And if you get hungry, there’s a bistro that serves delicious food.
Their cassis ice cream is also delicious. The kids will love it.
8. Les Marais du Nord
Les Marais du Nord is located in Stoneham-et-Tewkesbury, just slightly outside the city. It’s the perfect place for nature lovers.
You’ll find walking trails that wind through beautiful marshes and wetlands. One of the highlights is the opportunity for birdwatching, or “ornithologie” as they call it.
For those who love water activities, they offer boat rentals, including kayaks and canoes. It’s a unique way to see the marshlands and get closer to nature.
Or you can bring your paddle board and paddle through the wetlands.
PRO-TIP: Bring your insect repellent. The area can be busy with mosquitos.
9. Quartier Petit-Champlain & Place Royale
At the foot of Cap Diamant beneath the Château Frontenac, Petit-Champlain is a historic neighborhood that kept the New France heritage alive. It has cobblestone streets and old-world charm. A little further, you’ll find Place Royal and its iconic Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Catholic Church.
Fun Fact: The movie Catch Me if You Can was filmed at Place Royale, not in France.
Every corner of this district has been lovingly preserved.
But what truly sets Quartier Petit-Champlain apart, especially in winter, is its magical ambiance. It’s like stepping into a fairy tale. The alley of umbrellas and the various events, such as “Les Passages Insolites,” add to the charm.
While there, don’t forget to stop at “La Petite Cabane à sucre de Québec“, to try some maple taffy, a regional specialty.
10. Chute Kabir Kouba
The Kabir Kouba waterfalls are a hidden gem in Quebec. Located in Wendake, these waterfalls are unique because of their beauty and history. “Kabir Kouba” means “river of a thousand bends” in the Huron-Wendat language.
The waterfalls are about 28 meters high and flow into a deep canyon with over 42 meters tall walls. Around the falls, there’s a forest with walking trails.
You can walk on the Jean-Roger Durand Parc Trail to explore more of Wendake and see the Kabir Kouba Falls.
▶️ More information on the Jean-Roger Durand Parc trail on AllTrails
11. Chutes de la Chaudière
Chutes de la Chaudière is a stunning spot near Quebec City. The falls are just a little past the Pierre Laport bridge on the South shore of the Saint Lawrence River.
The waterfall is about 35 meters high, making it one of the biggest in the province. Around the falls, there’s a park with walking paths and bridges. One of the coolest things is the suspension bridge that goes right over the falls. Walking on it, you can feel the mist from the water and get a great view from the top.
I recommend walking on the La Passerelle, Le Boisé et La Presqu’Île loop. It’s a 2.1-km loop. It’s not a stroller or wheelchair-friendly trail, but little kids can still do it.
▶️ More information on the La Paserelle hiking trail on AllTrails
12. Domaine de Maizerets
Domaine de Maizerets is a lovely park in Quebec City. It’s a place where locals and visitors relax, play, and explore. It’s a great spot to take a walk, picnic, or just sit and enjoy the beauty.
For kids, there’s a big playground with slides, swings, and climbing structures. There is even a public pool in the park.
Domaine de Maizerets also has a historic side. There’s an old manor house that’s been turned into a visitor center.
It’s also a great place to park your car and bike. An easy biking path, a Corridor du Littoral bike trail section, leads to the Montmorency Falls.
13. Bois-de-Coulonge Park
Bois-de-Coulonge Park is a peaceful spot between Old Quebec and the University district in Quebec City.
Some of the highlights of Bois-de-Coulonge Park are:
- beautiful gardens,
- the old manor house, and
- the breathtaking views of the Saint-Lawrence River.
It feels like stepping foot in a French garden.
For families, the park has a playground for kids and lots of space to run around.
The park also has a historic side. The old manor house, even though it was damaged by fire, still stands as a reminder of the past. Some signs and displays tell the story of the people who lived there and the park’s history.
When we visited in the summer of 2022, the park was hosting the beautiful Mosaiculture exhibit, where we could see a lot of living sculptures.
It was pretty cool.
14. Baie de Beauport
Baie de Beauport is like a beach in the heart of Quebec City. It’s just a few minutes from downtown by the Saint Lawrence River.
It’s a fantastic spot for outdoor lovers. If you’re into water activities, you can swim or try paddleboarding. If you’d rather stay on the sand, it’s perfect for picnicking or playing volleyball.
There are also areas for picnics and spots for kids to have fun. Kids will love the splash pad if the river water is too cold. Plus, during the summer, there are often events and concerts happening.
Don’t forget your sunscreen, towels and bathing suits!
15. Ferry to Lévis
On this quick ferry trip from Old Quebec to Levis, you’ll get a unique perspective of the city’s historic architecture and the river. You’ll have some of the best views of Quebec City’s iconic skyline, including the majestic Château Frontenac.
Once you reach Levis, you’ll want to go to the Fontaine du Quai Paquet. This impressive fountain, with its 160 water jets, is one of Canada’s largest of its kind. It’s a spectacle to watch, especially during the evenings when it’s illuminated with colorful lights.
Fun Indoor Activities for Kids in Quebec City
16. Aquarium du Québec
Aquariums are not that unique, but I promise you the Aquarium du Québec is one of the unique things to do in Quebec City. It has large indoor and outdoor sections.
You can see native Saint Lawrence River fish but also polar bears, walrus and my favorite: colorful jellyfish.
In the Deep Sea Pavilion, you can see many different types of jellyfish. You’ll see all the colorful and growing jellyfish in a dark room. It’s pretty cool.
Outside, you’ll find a few marine animals, such as seals, walruses and even polar bears (though the polar bears’ habitat is not as nice as the one at the Assiniboine Zoo in Winnipeg.
You can plan for an entire day visiting the Aquarium. There is even a kids’ playground and splash pad for families to relax.
17. Le Grand Marché de Québec
Le Grand Marché de Québec is a vibrant hub in Quebec City. Walking through, you’re greeted with the colors and scents of fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and baked goods, all sourced from local farmers and artisans.
One of its standout features is the outdoor playground. It’s a safe space where they can run around and enjoy themselves while parents take a break or enjoy a fresh meal from one of the many food stalls.
The market also hosts various events and workshops throughout the year, from cooking classes to seasonal festivals.
18. Musée de la civilisation (and the My Place exhibit)
Musée de la Civilisation is a big museum in the heart of Old Quebec City. The museum offers a unique blend of permanent and temporary exhibitions about the history, culture, and civilizations worldwide. For example, we visited the Beatles exhibits a few years ago, showing the band’s influence in the world.
Unlike traditional museums, the Musée de la Civilisation is known for its interactive and immersive displays. It’s thus engaging visitors of all ages, even for kids.
Our family’s favorite exhibit was the “Once Upon a Time” costume exhibit. Kids could go in and get dressed as fairy tale characters. But sadly, this exhibit is over.
It was replaced by another great one targeted to young children (3 to 8 years old): My Place. Kids can discover each room of a house where there are:
- secret passages,
- a photo booth,
- oversized furniture,
- and more.
▶️ More information on the Musée de la Civilisation here! Tickets & Availabilities
19. Observatoire de la Capitale
The Observatoire de la Capitale offers the highest view over Quebec. It’s located on the 31st floor of the Marie-Guyart building near the Grande-Allée street.
You’ll go up the elevator and ride to the 31st floor. There, you’ll walk around the building walls with full-size windows and have beautiful 360 city views.
But you don’t go there only for the views. All around the floor, you’ll find interpretive signs explaining the history of Quebec City.
▶️ More information on the Observatoire de la Capitale here! Tickets & Availabilities
20. Plains of Abraham Museum
The Plains of Abraham Museum is located near the Grande-Allées road at the entrance of the Plains of Abraham. This place is important for the history of Quebec and Canada. It’s where a famous battle happened in 1759 between the British and French armies.
The museum tells the story of this battle and the park’s history. In the museum, you can see cool displays with old weapons, uniforms, and maps. There are also videos and interactive exhibits that make learning fun.
You can even try on soldier uniforms and feel what it was like back then! My boys loved that part.
Outside the museum, the park is a great place to walk, picnic, or play. In the winter, people go sledding and skiing there. In the summer, there are concerts and events.
The museum also offers guided tours of the park. Guides will take you around and tell interesting stories about what happened on the Plains of Abraham. It was raining when we visited so we didn’t get the chance to participate in the guided tour.
21. Saint-Louis Forts and Châteaux National Historic Site
The Saint-Louis Forts and Châteaux National Historic Site is a hidden treasure right beneath the Dufferin Terrace, next to the Château Frontenac.
This historic site tells the story of power from 1620 to 1834. It was the seat of power for both French and British governors. The remains of Château Saint-Louis show how important this place was.
It’s amazing to think about all the history right under our feet!
In addition to the self-guided tour, you can jump on a guided tour. The kids can also participate in the Saint-Louis Forts and Châteaux National Historic Site Xplorer program. Once they complete the booklet, they can return to the visitor center and receive their badge.
▶️ More information on the Fort Saint-Louis guided tours here! Tickets & Availabilities
My boys love this program and collecting the badges. They now have some from Banff National Parks, the Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Site in Victoria, Jasper National Park and many other places across Canada.
PRO-TIP: If you have a Parks’ Canada Discovery Pass, don’t forget to bring it. You’ll have free entrance when showing your pass.
22. Méga Parc – Galerie de la Capitale
Méga Parc is a super fun indoor amusement park in Quebec City. It’s located inside the Galeries de la Capitale mall. This park is perfect for families.
With 18 cool rides and attractions, there’s something for everyone. Kids can enjoy:
- a carousel
- a mini roller coaster: the Electro
- a Ferris wheel: the Zenith
There is also an indoor ice rink. It’s a unique skating path that winds through the Méga Park.
You can rent skates and glide or bring your own equipment. It’s an amazing indoor thing to do with kids in Quebec City.
23. Imaginarius Fun Center
Imaginarius Fun Center is a magical indoor spot for families in Quebec City. This place is all about fun and imagination.
The center is designed for kids of all ages, but I would recommend for 6 years old and under. Little ones can explore soft play areas with a colorful ball pit and soft climbing structures. Older kids will enjoy the different station that represents activities of our daily lives such as:
- a hospital
- a restaurant
- a grocery store
- a construction site
- a hair salon
- and such much more.
So, if you’re in Quebec City on a rainy or cool day and looking for a place where your kids can burn off some energy and have a blast, Imaginarius Fun Center is a must-visit.
Final Thoughts: Unique Things to Do in Quebec City
There is so many unique things to do in Quebec City with the kids. You can explore and experience the city in a special way. From historic sites to beautiful parks, your family won’t be bored in Quebec.
These places are not just tourist spots; they are hidden gems in Quebec City that give you a deeper understanding of its culture, history, and beauty. So, next time you’re in town, check out these unique spots and see a different side of Quebec City.
