Family outings in Québec
Quebec City is a human-scale city where history is best explored on foot: the ramparts, Dufferin Terrace and the lanes of Old Quebec fascinate kids. Open spaces are close by, from the Plains of Abraham to Montmorency Falls, and winter is a true season of play. With an aquarium, interactive museums and a giant water park 25 minutes away, there is enough to fill several days with the family, summer or winter.
Must-do activities
Aquarium du Québec
Polar bears, seals and walruses, outdoor trails and indoor pavilions. Plan on half a day.
Montmorency Falls Park
A waterfall taller than Niagara, a suspension bridge, a cable car and panoramic stairs.
Plains of Abraham
A huge urban park for running, picnicking and, in winter, sliding or cross-country skiing. Free access.
Musée de la civilisation
Exhibits designed for families, with hands-on areas, in the heart of the Old Port.
Village Vacances Valcartier
About 25 minutes away: water slides in summer, tube slides in winter. A full day of thrills.
Dufferin Terrace and Old Quebec
A stroll along the river in front of the Château Frontenac; in winter, the terrace toboggan slide is a tradition.
Free parks and playgrounds near Québec
- 🛝 Jeux d'eau
- 🌳 Parc de l'Esplanade
- 📚 Morrin Centre
- 🏖️ Plage Samuel de Champlain
- 🌲 Parc régional de la Pointe-de-la-Martinière
- 🛝 Ecole Marguerite-Bourgeoys Playgroud
- 🌳 Place de l'Assemblée-Nationale
- 📚 Maison de la littérature
- 🏖️ Battures de Beauport
- 🌲 Site historique de la Chute-Montmorency
- 🛝 Jeux en fontaine d'eau
- 🌳 Parc du Cavalier-du-Moulin
Making the most of Québec as a family
Whether you live in Québec 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 Québec
Tours, attractions and tickets in and around Québec, often with free cancellation.
See activities on GetYourGuide →See experiences on Viator →
Partner links: FamiSwipe may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Family outings not to miss
→ Discover activities in Québec on FamiSwipe
Combine with this trip
For a weekend outside Quebec: Burlington and Plattsburgh, just south of the border. Toward the Maritimes: Moncton, Shediac, Fredericton and Saint John in New Brunswick, Charlottetown and Cavendish in Prince Edward Island.
FAQ
What can kids do in Quebec City when it rains?
The Aquarium du Québec (indoor pavilions), the Musée de la civilisation and the city libraries are good options. The shopping galleries in Sainte-Foy also let you stretch your legs indoors.
What are the free family activities in Quebec City?
The Plains of Abraham, the Samuel-De Champlain Promenade, Dufferin Terrace and neighbourhood parks. FamiSwipe shows the playgrounds and parks closest to you.
What can families do in Quebec City in winter?
Sliding on Dufferin Terrace, skating, tube slides at Valcartier and, in February, the Quebec Winter Carnival. Pack warm clothes and plan frequent warm-up breaks.
How many days should we plan in Quebec City with kids?
Two to three days are enough to see Old Quebec, the Aquarium and Montmorency Falls, and to enjoy a park. Add one more day if you include Valcartier or Île d'Orléans.