What Things to Do and See in Quebec City for Families
Quebec City feels like stepping into a storybook, offering a rare blend of Old World charm and modern family friendly attractions. With its cobblestone streets, fortified walls, and deep French Canadian roots, the city delivers an experience that is both enriching and exciting for visitors of all ages. In this guide, you’ll discover the very best things to do and see in Quebec City for families, from outdoor adventures to cultural landmarks, helping you plan a trip that feels effortless, engaging, and memorable.
Top 10 Things to Do and See in Quebec City
Whether your family prefers nature, history, or hands on fun, Quebec City offers a balanced mix of attractions that work beautifully across age groups. These ten highlights represent the city’s most rewarding experiences and are well worth building your itinerary around.
1. Montmorency Falls Park
Located just minutes from downtown, Montmorency Falls rises an impressive 30 metres higher than Niagara Falls, making it one of the most dramatic natural sights in the region. Families can ride the cable car, cross the suspension bridge, or take in sweeping views from the boardwalks while listening to the roar of rushing water.
Family tip: Best suited for children aged five and up. Plan for 1.5 to 2 hours, and note that several stair sections are challenging for strollers.
2. Aquarium du Québec
The Aquarium du Quebec is a favourite with younger children, offering both indoor exhibits and expansive outdoor habitats. Kids can watch seals and walruses up close, spot polar bears playing in the water, and burn off energy in the shaded splash zones during warmer months.
Family tip: Ideal for toddlers and preschoolers. Allow 2-3 hours, and bring a stroller for the wide, easy to navigate outdoor paths.
3. Village Vacances Valcartier
Village Vacances Valcartier is a true year-round family playground. In summer, it becomes one of Canada’s largest waterparks, while winter transforms it into a snowy adventure zone filled with towering ice slides and tubing runs that thrill kids and adults alike.
Family tip: Best for school age children and teens aged six and up. Plan at least half a day, or longer if visiting during peak seasons.
4. The Citadelle of Quebec
Perched above the city, the Citadelle is the largest British fortress ever built in North America and still an active military installation. Guided tours bring history to life, and the summer Changing of the Guard ceremony adds a colourful, ceremonial highlight that children often find fascinating.
Family tip: Most engaging for children aged seven and older. Guided tours help keep younger visitors focused and entertained.
5. The Plains of Abraham
Once the site of a pivotal historical battle, the Plains of Abraham now function as a massive urban park where families can relax and roam freely. In summer, it’s perfect for picnics and cycling, while winter brings cross country skiing and snowshoeing across open, scenic terrain.
Family tip: Suitable for all ages. Visit briefly for photos or stay several hours to unwind outdoors.
6. Quartier Petit Champlain
Quartier Petit Champlain feels straight out of a fairy tale, with narrow streets, colourful buildings, and local artisan shops. Families enjoy wandering the area and stopping for classic treats like a warm queue de castor (BeaverTail), especially during colder months.
Family tip: Best with children aged four and up. Cobblestones make baby carriers more practical than strollers.
7. Île d'Orléans
A short drive across the bridge brings you to Île d'Orleans, where rural Quebec charm takes centre stage. Seasonal farms, cider houses, and roadside stands offer an easygoing pace that’s ideal for families looking to slow down and sample local flavours. For those who enjoy outdoor adventures, camping in Quebec adds an extra layer of fun and exploration to the experience.
Family tip: Best explored with a rental car. A half-day allows time for relaxed stops and scenic drives.
8. Méga Parc at Galeries de la Capitale
When winter weather or rain sets in, Mega Parc offers a welcome indoor escape. This climate controlled amusement park features a Ferris wheel, skating loop, and rides designed for a wide range of ages, making it easy to entertain everyone in one place.
Family tip: Perfect for winter or rainy days. Suitable for ages three to fourteen, with 2-4 hours easily filled.
9. Jacques-Cartier National Park
Nature loving families will appreciate Jacques-Cartier National Park’s dramatic glacial valley landscapes. Gentle hiking trails, canoe rentals, and wildlife sightings provide an accessible introduction to Quebec’s wilderness without requiring advanced outdoor skills.
Family tip: Best for active families with children aged six and up. Choose shorter trails for younger hikers.
10. Lévis Ferry Ride
For a small fare, the Levis ferry offers one of the most impressive views of Quebec City’s skyline. The short crossing across the St. Lawrence River feels like a mini adventure and gives kids a chance to rest while still sightseeing.
Family tip: Ideal for all ages. The 10-15 minute ride works well as a low-effort break between activities.
Best Things to Do in Quebec City with Kids (All Ages)
Beyond the headline attractions, Quebec City offers a collection of experiences that feel tailor made for children of different ages. These spots blend light learning with play, allowing kids to stay engaged while parents enjoy the city’s history and scenery at a relaxed pace.
1. Old Quebec Historic Gates
Walking through the stone gates of Old Quebec is genuinely exciting for children, as it feels like stepping into a medieval storybook. As the only fortified city north of Mexico, the thick walls and ramparts spark imagination, making kids feel like knights or explorers while parents enjoy elevated photo views over the city streets.
2. Dufferin Terrace & Château Frontenac
Dufferin Terrace is one of the most recognizable spots in Quebec City and an easy win for families. In winter, the historic “Au 1884” toboggan slide becomes the highlight, sending riders down an icy track at thrilling speeds, all with the Château Frontenac towering dramatically in the background. In warmer months, the boardwalk itself is perfect for strolling, people watching, and river views. With plenty of photo opportunities, a power bank will come in handy to ensure your phone’s battery lasts through the day.
3. Old Quebec Funicular Ride
When little legs start to tire, the Old Quebec Funicular is both practical and fun. This short cable car ride connects the Lower Town (Basse Ville) to the Upper Town (Haute Ville), offering children a mini adventure and parents a break, along with sweeping views of the St. Lawrence River and historic rooftops below.
4. Musée de la Civilisation
Unlike traditional museums that require quiet patience, the Musee de la Civilisation is designed with families in mind. Interactive exhibits encourage children to touch, explore, and ask questions, covering everything from Quebec’s history to global cultures. It’s an excellent option for colder days or when kids need a change of pace from outdoor sightseeing.
5. Family-Friendly Dining in Quebec City
One of the joys of visiting Quebec City with children is how welcoming the food scene is for families. Restaurants here rarely treat kids as an inconvenience, and many spots balance authentic Quebec flavours with relaxed, practical dining that works for all ages.
Casse-Crêpe Bretonne
Tucked into the heart of Old Quebec, Casse Crêpe Bretonne is a reliable favourite for families exploring the historic district. Kids are immediately drawn to watching crepes being prepared fresh on the griddle, while parents appreciate the mix of savoury and sweet options that satisfy everyone at the table. The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, high chairs are available, and portions are filling enough to keep young explorers energized for an afternoon of sightseeing.
Le Chic Shack
Steps away from the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, Le Chic Shack is ideal for a relaxed “treat night” that still feels distinctly local. Families love the approachable menu of gourmet burgers and some of the city’s most talked about poutine, made with smashed potatoes instead of traditional fries. House made sodas and thick milkshakes are a hit with kids, while the upbeat atmosphere, quick service, and colouring sheets make waiting time feel effortless.
Paillard
Paillard is a classic French bakery that works surprisingly well for families needing a quick, no-stress meal. Located on Rue Saint Jean, its large, bustling interior with long communal tables makes it easy to pop in without a reservation. Giant croissants, fresh sandwiches, and pastries come out quickly, making it a practical option for lunch between attractions or a warm stop during colder months when kids need a break.
Unique Things to Do in Quebec City for Young Adults
If you’re travelling with teens or young adults, they often look for experiences that feel a little more immersive, atmospheric, or adrenaline driven than standard sightseeing. Quebec City delivers plenty of options that balance history, mystery, and modern Canadian adventure culture.
1. Ghost Tours of Old Quebec
Exploring Old Quebec after dark reveals a completely different side of the city. Lantern lit ghost tours wind through narrow cobblestone streets and hidden courtyards while guides share stories of fires, sieges, plagues, and long forgotten residents. These tours strike the right balance between history and storytelling, making them especially appealing to teens and young adults who enjoy local legends, eerie atmospheres, and learning about the city beyond textbook facts.
2. Benjo Toy Store Experience
While technically a toy store, Benjo feels more like a cultural landmark. The iconic blue door, multi level layout, and the famous Benjo Train running overhead create a nostalgic experience that resonates even with older teens and young adults. It’s a fun, low pressure stop that often sparks childhood memories for parents and curiosity for older kids, making it a surprisingly enjoyable intergenerational visit.
3. Adventure Sports for Young Adults
For families with thrill seekers, Quebec City is surrounded by serious outdoor adventure. White water rafting on the Jacques Cartier River delivers fast rapids and dramatic scenery just minutes from the city, while winter visitors can try ice climbing near Montmorency Falls. These activities reflect Quebec’s strong outdoor culture and give young adults a chance to experience the province’s wilderness in an active, memorable way.
4. Strom Nordic Spa (Family Thermal Cycle)
Nordic spa culture is deeply rooted in Canada, and Strom Nordic Spa offers a rare opportunity for families to experience it together. During designated Family Mornings, teens and young adults can enjoy hot pools, cold plunges, and relaxation zones in a calm, riverside setting. It’s an ideal contrast to busy sightseeing days and a refreshing way to slow down while still sharing a uniquely Canadian tradition.
Essential Gear for Your Quebec Family Adventure
Good preparation makes all the difference when travelling as a family in Quebec, especially with long walking days, shifting weather, and cold temperatures that can test everyone’s patience. The right gear keeps the focus on enjoying the city rather than managing discomfort.
1. Season-Specific Clothing and Layering Essentials
Quebec’s weather has a mind of its own, and winter visits from January to February demand smart layering rather than bulky outfits. The goal is warmth without overheating once you step indoors.
Follow the three layer system: Start with a moisture wicking base layer like merino wool, add an insulating mid layer such as fleece or lightweight down, and finish with a windproof, waterproof outer shell to block icy gusts along the St. Lawrence River.
Pack disposable hand and toe warmers: Essential during deep winter, especially at outdoor events like Carnaval de Quebec or long walks through Old Quebec when temperatures drop below -20°C. Choose insulated, waterproof winter boots to handle snow, slush, and refreezing meltwater common on city streets and sidewalks.
Bring ice cleats or boot grips: Old Quebec’s cobblestone streets and steep hills become slick quickly after snowfall. Slip on cleats add stability, especially when carrying children or bags.
2. Family Travel Gear and Comfort Must-Haves
Quebec City rewards walking, but its uneven streets demand comfortable footwear with proper support. Waterproof shoes are especially useful during shoulder seasons when snow melts during the day and refreezes overnight. For families with younger children, choosing between a stroller and a child carrier can make or break a day. Narrow sidewalks and staircases in the Old City often favour carriers, while sturdier strollers work well in flatter areas like the Plains of Abraham or along the river paths. Packing a small backpack with snacks, mittens, and spare socks also helps avoid unnecessary detours back to the hotel.
3. Portable Power for Navigation and Tech Safety
Cold weather drains phone batteries far faster than most people expect, particularly during outdoor activities like sledding, skating, or winter walking tours. When your phone handles navigation, tickets, photos, and emergency contact, reliable power becomes a safety consideration rather than a convenience.
For families bringing cameras, drones, or multiple devices, the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus Portable Power Station works well as a mobile “home base.” It allows you to recharge phones and gear between stops, whether you’re spending the day near Montmorency Falls or exploring snowy trails just outside the city.
If travelling lighter is a priority, the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Portable Power Station offers a more compact option that still keeps essential devices running. It’s easy to carry while walking along the St. Lawrence waterfront or through Old Quebec, ensuring maps, photos, and messaging apps stay available throughout the day without constantly searching for indoor outlets.
Conclusion
From the historic heights of the Citadelle to the misty spray rising from Montmorency Falls, Quebec City leaves a lasting impression long after the trip ends. By thoughtfully blending hands on history, outdoor adventure, and the right seasonal preparation, families can move through the city with confidence and comfort. Whether you’re wandering cobblestone streets, warming up between winter activities, or sharing a quiet moment overlooking the St. Lawrence River, Quebec City offers an experience that feels both enriching and genuinely memorable for travellers of every age.
FAQ
1. What is the best time of year to visit Quebec City with a family?
The ideal time really depends on what kind of trip your family enjoys most. For warm weather festivals, patio dining, and relaxed walks through the historic streets of Quebec City, June through August is the most comfortable and family friendly window. If you’re after a truly iconic Canadian winter experience, late January to mid-February is unforgettable thanks to the Quebec Winter Carnival, where families can admire massive ice sculptures, meet Bonhomme, and enjoy maple taffy poured fresh onto snow. For quieter sightseeing and stunning scenery, late September through October delivers crisp air, fewer crowds, and vibrant autumn colours along the river.
2. Is Quebec City worth visiting with kids?
Absolutely. Quebec City often feels like a living storybook, which makes it especially engaging for children. The Old City is compact, walkable, and full of visual surprises, from cannonballs embedded in trees to street performers animating Place Royale. Kids usually love the funicular ride between Upper and Lower Town, while families looking for high energy attractions can balance history with modern fun at places like Village Vacances Valcartier and the Aquarium du Quebec. It’s a destination that keeps children entertained while parents enjoy culture, architecture, and food.
3. How many days do you need to see the main attractions in Quebec City?
For most families, three to four days is the sweet spot. This gives you enough time to explore both the Upper and Lower Towns at a comfortable pace, including landmarks like the Citadelle and Dufferin Terrace, without rushing kids. It also leaves room for half- or full-day excursions to nearby highlights, such as Montmorency Falls, Île d'Orléans, or Jacques-Cartier National Park. During winter trips, adding an extra day helps accommodate snow slides, skating, and warm up breaks.
4. What is Quebec well known for?
Quebec City is internationally recognized for its UNESCO World Heritage status as the only fortified city in North America north of Mexico. It’s instantly associated with the skyline dominating Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, often cited as the most photographed hotel in the world. Beyond landmarks, the city is celebrated for its French Canadian cuisine, centuries old history dating back to 1608, and access to dramatic natural scenery, from the St. Lawrence River to the rolling forests of the Laurentian Mountains.
5. What is a good souvenir from Quebec?
Classic Quebec souvenirs almost always involve maple. Grade A maple syrup, maple butter, or maple candies are easy wins that travel well and feel distinctly local. For something more meaningful, many families look for Indigenous made crafts such as beadwork, dreamcatchers, or moccasins. A visit to Île d’Orleans is a great opportunity to pick up a bottle of ice cider, made from apples frozen on the tree. For kids, small keepsakes from shops in Quartier Petit Champlain, like wooden toys or Bonhomme plush figures, make fun reminders of their Quebec adventure.