Family outings in Chicoutimi

Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean · Updated August 7, 2026

Chicoutimi is the heart of Saguenay: a river and fjord city where you go from a waterfront walk to forest in a few minutes. Families find a lively old port, industrial heritage you can visit and nice parks downtown. The fjord is a short drive away for cruises and bigger hikes. Summer is ideal for biking and strolling, autumn for colours, and winter for skating and sledding. Some streets are steep, so pack good shoes and a sturdy stroller. A day or two in the city, plus a fjord outing, makes an easy family stay.

Must-do activities

5+

La Pulperie de Chicoutimi

A former industrial site turned regional museum, with exhibits and outdoor spaces. The Petite Maison blanche, which survived the 1996 flood, is also worth seeing.

All ages

Old Port of Chicoutimi

A walk along the Saguenay River, marina, boats and green spaces. A simple place to stroll, picnic and watch the ships go by. Free.

All ages

Parc de la Rivière-du-Moulin

An urban park with trails and waterfalls, in the heart of town. Walk in summer; snowshoe and cross-country ski in winter. Free.

6+

Cathédrale Saint-François-Xavier

A downtown landmark with bold lines and a calm, bright interior. A short visit for a cultural pause.

4+

Saguenay Fjord Cruises

Cruises leave from La Baie, about 25 minutes from Chicoutimi, to see the fjord from the water. Dress kids warmly: it is cool on deck.

5+

Saguenay Fjord National Park

About an hour away, trails and viewpoints above the fjord. Families mostly choose short trails with great views.

Free parks and playgrounds near Chicoutimi

Making the most of Chicoutimi as a family

Whether you live in Chicoutimi or are just visiting for the weekend, there is no shortage of family outings: parks, playgrounds, libraries, museums and seasonal events are often free or low cost. FamiSwipe gathers these ideas in one place so you can stop searching.

To choose well, think about your children's ages, the weather and the travel time. A park with a splash pad suits hot days, while a library or community centre saves rainy or freezing ones. Pack a snack, water and a change of clothes.

Tip: swipe through the suggestions in the app, keep your favourites and share the shortlist with the other parent. Free activities are perfect for trying something new without pressure, and short trips close to home spare everyone a long car ride.

Bookable activities in Chicoutimi

Tours, attractions and tickets in and around Chicoutimi, often with free cancellation.

See activities on GetYourGuide →See experiences on Viator →

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Family outings not to miss

Open the FamiSwipe app for Chicoutimi. Swipe through family activities matched to your kids' age, filter by what you feel like, and find a perfect outing near Chicoutimi in 30 seconds.

→ Discover activities in Chicoutimi on FamiSwipe

FAQ

What can kids do in Chicoutimi when it rains?

La Pulperie de Chicoutimi and its indoor spaces, the cathedral and libraries are good choices. The city's shopping centres also let you stretch your legs out of the rain.

What are the free family activities in Chicoutimi?

The Old Port, Parc de la Rivière-du-Moulin and neighbourhood parks. FamiSwipe shows parks and playgrounds around you with the real distance.

Is Chicoutimi stroller-friendly?

The Old Port is flat and pleasant, but downtown has hills. A baby carrier makes outings in the parks easier.

What is the best season to visit Chicoutimi with a family?

Summer is ideal for outdoor activities and cruises, and autumn for colours. Winter appeals to families who like snow, with skating, sledding and cross-country skiing.

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