Spring Fling

Our Local Expert Says:

While this street is always bustling, it takes on a life of its own during celebrations such as the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day (June 23/24) when it becomes a pedestrian-only street and takes on a block party atmosphere.

Description:

The Grande-Allée runs parallel to the Plains of Abraham and is lined with the best that Quebec City has to offer. Nicknamed the "Champs Élysées" of Quebec City, you can rub elbows with politicians grabbing lunch from the nearby Parliament building or the numerous tourists strolling about. Depending on what you want, there is no wrong time to visit Grande-Allée. Days are filled with people bustling or strolling up and down the street, and the nights are filled with exuberant party goers. There is something for everyone.

Description:

Facing the Château Frontenac, this pleasantly landscaped promenade and boardwalk, Dufferin Terrace, offers the city's best view of the Saint Lawrence River and Old Quebec. Full of vendors, street performers and scores of visitors in the summer, the boardwalk is also an excellent starting point for touring the rest of the city. Those in search of some exercise can descend the staircase to the Lower Town, others ride the precipitous funicular railway. The spectacular Promenade des Gouverneurs leaves the Terrace to the south, runs beneath the Citadel, and emerges at the Plains of Abraham.

Our Local Expert Says:

This famous boardwalk is most enjoyable in the summer when it takes on a summer resort feel with street performers and food stalls. Try the “beaver tails,” you won’t regret it!

Description:

The Promenade des Gouverneurs is a pleasant boardwalk that starts at Château Frontenac and follows the St-Lawrence River, ending up at the Plains of Abraham. It's also where you can see some of the best views of the river and the city. Early mornings are best for serious hikes, and evenings can't be beat for a view of Quebec City at night!

Description:

This well-known restaurant is located in the beautiful Maison Jacquet, a 1675 building that was once home to novelist Philippe-Aubert de Gaspé- his novel gives its name to the restaurant. The table d'hôte offers an entrée, soup, choice of main course, desert and coffee or tea starting at very reasonable prices. Traditional Canadian offerings include Duck Cutlet braised in maple syrup sauce. The wine list includes a Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Village and, appropriately, a fine selection of Canadian vintages.

Our Local Expert Says:

This is a fast, safe and convenient way to get from Chateau Frontenac and Quartier Petit Champlain. If you don’t want to pay the $1.75 for the ride, you can always walk up or down the Escalier Casse-cou.

Description:

Saving tired legs since 1879, the Québec Funicular is still the best way to get from Château Frontenac to Quartier Petit Champlain. This double-track railway cable car, built against Quebec's 210-foot cliff, offers pedestrians a quick way get between Lower and Upper Town. Whether you are going up or down, you will appreciate the splendid panoramic views of the Quartier Petit Champlain that much more while protected from the chilly winds blowing off the Saint Laurence River. Make sure to visit the Funicular gift shop housed in a colonial-style house at the foot of the cliff.

Our Local Expert Says:

Despite its name as “break-neck” stairs, the stairs shouldn’t be a problem if you’re in reasonably good health. If not, take the Québec Funicular for a safe and convenient way to get up and down Lower and Upper Town.

Description:

While the Escalier Casse-Cou or the breakneck stairs has been around since the 17th century, there has never been a known incident of anyone actually breaking their neck on these stairs. However Escalier Casse-Cou got its name, it attracts as many visitors for the same reason that Lombard Street, the most crooked street in America, attracts so many people: curiosity. The best time to visit is in the morning when there are fewer people "breaking their necks" trying to go up the stairs. Taking the Quebec Funicular to get to and from between the Château Frontenac and the Quartier Petit Champlain is strongly recommended for anyone suffering from vertigo.

Our Local Expert Says:

This neighbourhood has more to offer than the typical tourist ware, offering traditional Quebec artisan craft as well as Indian art and goods.

Description:

The Quartier Petit Champlain, located under the Chateau Frontenac, is one of those magical places that makes you feel like you're in a different world. Blocked off by the St-Lawrence River, a large cliff, and a large hill, its insular quality adds to that otherworldly feeling. It can be accessed by the Escalier Casse-Cou or the Quebec Funicular. Quaint, historical, and touristy, all at the same time, it's what all tourist spots should aspire to be!

Our Local Expert Says:

Excellent selection of beer and scotch.

Description:

This unique stone and wood bar is decorated with stain glass windows and has a beautiful and quiet courtyard for drinking a pint with your friends. It's one of those great neighborhood bars where everyone from the tough-looking biker to the university kids mingles in a convivial environment.

Our Local Expert Says:

A self-serve espresso and cappuccino maker can be found in the lounge. A delicious perk!

Description:

This impeccably appointed property offers spacious, luxurious guest rooms in an atmosphere of cutting-edge interior design. Housed in the former Dominion Fish and Fruit Building, which dates from 1912, the nine stories offer incredible views over Place Royale, the Vieux Port and the St Lawrence River. Guests enjoy breakfast in the charming courtyard, relaxing with a nightcap by the fireplace or slaving away in comfort in Quebec's most attractive meeting room. Business travelers will also enjoy data ports, ergonomic chairs and desks in each room.

Our Local Expert Says:

Each summer from late July to early August, an international fireworks competition is held here. The view of the waterfalls and the fireworks against the summer night sky is unbeatable!

Description:

This park offers a multitude of activities for the entire family. In the summer, walk across one of two suspension bridges or through miles of parkland trails before enjoying a gourmet meal at the Manoir Montmorency. Winter can be just as relaxing, though daredevils can take an ice climbing course on the frozen waterfall wall of ice and snow. The park is located just east of Quebec City along Avenue Royale. Admission to the park is free.

Our Local Expert Says:

Make sure to get seated by the windows to take advantage of the great view.

Description:

Proudly standing atop a hill overlooking Montmorency Falls, the St Lawrence River, and Île d'Orléans, this famous restaurant offers fine dining in breathtaking surroundings. Lamb Fillet with braised vegetables and tomato fondue, Rolled Smoked Salmon and herb cream sauce with oregano oil and grilled pine nuts, Conserve of Duck Lasagna and caramelized onions, and other creative dishes make for a memorable menu, which is accompanied by an interesting and diverse wine list.

Description:

This island was once known as Bacchus Island in honor of the god of wine for its abundant wild grapes. Now, Orleans Island is a popular destination for day trips. It takes about 20 minutes to drive there from Quebec City, and it is famous for its agricultural tourism. For those less interested in agricultural tourism, it is also a great spot for biking or driving around on its major road that circles the entire island. On weekends try arriving and leaving in the middle of the day to avoid the traffic jam that inevitably builds up on the only bridge connecting Orleans Island and Quebec City.

Description:

This welcoming sugar shack is located on Île d'Orléans, in a large log house. Guests may discover and enjoy traditional Quebec cuisine with dishes like pea soup, ham and eggs cooked in maple syrup, and maple crêpes at Cabane à Sucre L'Entailleur. After a generous meal, everyone goes outside to taste warm, sweet maple taffy snow which is warm maple syrup poured across clean snow to form a thick, sweet mixture. Then, guests can go for a walk in the sugar bush and tour the sugar shack's modern installation for making maple syrup.

Description:

Maurice Duplessis ruled Quebec with an iron fist throughout the 1950s; one can only imagine what he would think of this pulsating nightclub named, sarcastically, in his honor. With an audio-visual assault occurring throughout, the club offers several themed rooms: the Oriental Sake Bar, the VIP cigar lounge, the Library and the enormous main dance floor. Theme nights include Archie Night, held every Thursday, where knowing the password gets you a free beer and the guys get ten "Archie bucks" to spend on the girl of his choice before midnight.

Our Local Expert Says:

A self-serve espresso and cappuccino maker can be found in the lounge. A delicious perk!

Description:

This impeccably appointed property offers spacious, luxurious guest rooms in an atmosphere of cutting-edge interior design. Housed in the former Dominion Fish and Fruit Building, which dates from 1912, the nine stories offer incredible views over Place Royale, the Vieux Port and the St Lawrence River. Guests enjoy breakfast in the charming courtyard, relaxing with a nightcap by the fireplace or slaving away in comfort in Quebec's most attractive meeting room. Business travelers will also enjoy data ports, ergonomic chairs and desks in each room.

Description:

Better known as the Plains of Abraham, this is one of Quebec City's most popular parks and historical attractions. Commemorating the daring 1759 attack in which Quebec fell to the British under the leadership of General Wolfe, Battlefields National Park features two striking Martello Towers offering rotating displays and great views over the St Lawrence River. The interpretive center is housed in the Musée du Québec.

Description:

Artillery Park National Historic Site was both a French and British barracks, and was functioning as a munitions factory as recently as the early 1960s. Visitors can tour the fully-restored dining room, kitchen and drawing room, as well as the officers' mess hall and industrial buildings. The interpretive center offers a fascinating multimedia journey through the history of the site and Quebec City itself.

Description:

Located in the Quartier Petit Champlain, a short stroll away from the Vieux-Port, 5 Nations Indian art Gallery (Galerie d'art Indien 5 Nations) is a mandatory stop for anyone interested in Native art and history. The works of Native artists from ten different nations are shown here, and the objects in the gallery are representative of the Natives' history in Canada. Most of them are objects that Natives used in day-to-day life, such as incense burners, caribou bone jewelery, masks, and dream-catchers. The shop is a great place to buy a unique gift or souvenir. Call to check the gallery timings.

Description:

Open since 2000, the development of this unpretentious neighborhood bistro parallels the polishing up the overall neighborhood has seen during the same period. With its caramel-toned woods, tall ceilings, and walls serving as gallery space for local artists, Clocher Penché maintains a laid-back European sophistication. A huge wine list features nearly 200 choices, with three quarters of the bottles organic or "biodynamic"; about a dozen wines are sold by the glass. The short menu changes regularly and can include duck confit and wild boar. A terrific rich blood sausage (boudin noir) is served on a delicate pastry bed with caramelized onions and yellow beets. The menu touts that nearly everything is sourced locally. Service reflects the food -- amiable and without flourishes.

Description:

The hottest club so far in trendy St-Roch (and the bar of choice for much of the city's restaurant staff), Boudoir has DJs working sound systems Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 10pm to 3am, though the bar is open daily from noon to 3am. The Boudoir martini, by the way, features vodka, triple sec, ice wine, champagne, and peach syrup.

Our Local Expert Says:

A self-serve espresso and cappuccino maker can be found in the lounge. A delicious perk!

Description:

This impeccably appointed property offers spacious, luxurious guest rooms in an atmosphere of cutting-edge interior design. Housed in the former Dominion Fish and Fruit Building, which dates from 1912, the nine stories offer incredible views over Place Royale, the Vieux Port and the St Lawrence River. Guests enjoy breakfast in the charming courtyard, relaxing with a nightcap by the fireplace or slaving away in comfort in Quebec's most attractive meeting room. Business travelers will also enjoy data ports, ergonomic chairs and desks in each room.

Our Local Expert Says:

This museum often offers rotating exhibits that will appeal to most everyone. Families take note: there is always at least one interactive and children-oriented exhibit.

Description:

The Museum of Civilization, located near Place Royale, is astonishing in its mission to link the past, present and the future. It is also a wonderful reflection of Quebec City as an historical site and a vibrant, modern city. Permanent and temporary exhibitions ensure that one visit is never enough. The most interesting permanent exhibition for any tourist would be the "People of Quebec…then and Now" exhibition, which does a wonderful job of explaining Quebec's history and its people.

Our Local Expert Says:

Tours are very educational with tons of behind the action tidbits about the inner workings of the Quebec government.

Description:

The Parliament Building is a striking building, located near Grande-Allée, and Old Quebec, is the center of all political life in Quebec. This is where the National Assembly meets and is open to the public. Guided tours are available from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Weekdays are the best time to take advantage of the action, and eat at the famous Parliament restaurant open to the public.

Description:

Le Parlementaire is the National Assembly's restaurant. Located inside the Parliament Building, it shares their fascinating architecture and serves elegant meals. The cuisine utilizes local ingredients in order to honor the city's cuisine. Among other tempting dishes are Mixed Greens with an orange vinaigrette, Game Pâté and Chutney, and various lamb and duck dishes. A tour of the National Assembly would complete the meal and provide an authentic taste of Quebec politics and culture.

Our Local Expert Says:

Walking along the walls of this ancient city is a great idea, but don’t forget to wear appropriate footwear. It can be pretty slippery on the walls, especially in the winter months!

Description:

There's something fascinating about walking the length of this wall surrounding the city. Perhaps it's the wonderful view that it offers of passersby on top of St. John's Gate or the panoramic views of Lower Town, but the sense of history as the only remaining fortified city in North America certainly doesn't hurt either. Whether you take a guided tour or walk it alone, the Fortifications of Quebec is a must see!

Our Local Expert Says:

During the winter, rent some ice skates and skate around eating taffy on a stick from the street vendors or watch an impromptu hockey game. In the summer, watch street performers or browse the stalls selling their exotic wares.

Description:

Place d'Youville, located right at St. John's Gate, is the heart of Quebec City. This square buzzes with concerts in the summer, open-air markets on weekends, intentional and unintentional street performers, and an ice skating rink in the winter. Place d'Youville is also Quebec City's transportation hub, where you can transfer to almost any bus to any destination in the City with every major artery leading here. And if home is where the heart is, then this is where all of Quebec feels right at home!

Description:

This charming museum chronicles the arrival and work of the Ursuline nuns in Quebec. Arriving in New France in 1639, the Ursulines sought to spread their religious message to the Natives, and pioneered education for girls in Canada. The museum houses an impressive selection of religious art, including embroideries and sculpture. Rooms have been restored to their spartan 17th-century decorations in order to give visitors an idea of the lifestyle led by these women missionaries of frontier times. The Ursuline Chapel is located next door.

Description:

Rue de Trésor was once used as an access way to the Royal Treasury, and is now where local artists set up and sell their work. What separates the Rue de Trésor from other artists peddling their wares in the streets is the seriousness and organization behind this open-air street gallery. The best time to visit is during the summer months when artists are out in full force.

Description:

This beautiful museum offers many multidisciplinary insights into the history of North America's French communities. There are two permanent exhibits: The Settling of French America is a multimedia trip from France to the colonies, while The History of the Collections Séminaire de Québec boasts an unmatched assortment of religious art and scientific instruments. Guided tours are available in both French and English.

Description:

Owners Daniel Vézina and Suzanne Gagnon named this popular and upscale restaurant after their two children. The very friendly couple is well-known in Quebec for their warm personalities and for high quality cuisine. The Gourmet Menu allows you to taste some of their best dishes, like Jerusalem Artichoke Blinis with Abitibi sturgeon egg cream, Carefully Smoked Sturgeon, and duck foie gras with chicken broth and Mr Bielier's dried cranberries. The impressive wine cellar includes a broad range of countries. Tables d'hôte offered.

Our Local Expert Says:

A self-serve espresso and cappuccino maker can be found in the lounge. A delicious perk!

Description:

This impeccably appointed property offers spacious, luxurious guest rooms in an atmosphere of cutting-edge interior design. Housed in the former Dominion Fish and Fruit Building, which dates from 1912, the nine stories offer incredible views over Place Royale, the Vieux Port and the St Lawrence River. Guests enjoy breakfast in the charming courtyard, relaxing with a nightcap by the fireplace or slaving away in comfort in Quebec's most attractive meeting room. Business travelers will also enjoy data ports, ergonomic chairs and desks in each room.

Description:

The Plains of Abraham, officially known as Battlefields Park, was the site of one of the most important battles in Canadian history. Today, it's where festivals are held, and people come to ski in the winter and picnic in the summer. This park in the city is also the location of the Musée Nationale des Beaux-Arts du Québec and is steps away from Grande-Allée.

Our Local Expert Says:

Entrance is free to the museum’s permanent collections, but entrance to the temporary exhibitions is paying.

Description:

The Musée Nationale des Beaux-Arts du Québec, located on the Plains of Abraham, is one of the hidden gems of Quebec City. And while today it may offer world-class traveling exhibitions, and impressive permanent collections, the Musée Nationale des Beaux-Arts du Québec was once a prison for some of Quebec City's most hardened criminals. The Musée Nationale des Beaux-Arts du Québec offers prison tours in the prison annexe, which contrasts strongly with the art in the museum wing and the human misery that was once contained within its walls. It is always a great option whenever the weather is not cooperating.

Description:

There may be no better view of the city than that from 725 feet above sea level, which is why this observatory is a great place to discover Quebec City. Located on top of the Marie-Guyart Building, the Observatoire de la Capitale has an interesting interpretation center where visitors can learn about the history of Quebec City on urban, industrial, maritime, architectural, political and geographical levels. Guided visits are offered daily.

Our Local Expert Says:

One of the few places open late on Grand-Allee, so don't be surprised to see long lines at 3 am when the bars and nightclubs are closed. They also serve hamburgers and other fast-food fare.

Description:

This is the place to get "Poutine," the dish that Quebecers have affectionately named "heart attack on a plate." Poutine is a popular dish made up of French fries smothered in gravy and then topped with cheese curds. It's a must-try for any visitor to Quebec!

Description:

This brand new interpretation centre opened on Place Royale itself, and provides information on all area attractions while mounting its own exhibits. The centre is a good place to stop before exploring Place Royale, the Royal Battery, the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church and Maison Chevalier. Armed with historical information, you can then make the most of your visit to this especially historic area of Quebec City. Exhibits include a history of the Interpretation Centre's own buildings, a multimedia history of Place Royale, a history of Quebec commerce, and a Discovery Space in which you can re-enact life in Quebec City in 1800.

Description:

Place Royale is a collection of buildings and narrow streets born in 1608, when explorer Samuel de Champlain established a secure fur trading post. It changed hands between the British and French, surviving fires and battles and eventually became Quebec City's version of "downtown." After a complete restoration, Place Royale is now the city's most picturesque place, sporting restaurants and cafes, as well as many tourist attractions. Be sure to visit the Maison Chevalier, the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church and the Interpretive center.

Our Local Expert Says:

A very impressive site with friendly knowledgeable guides. Don't forget to take your jacket, it gets very windy.

Description:

Quebec Citadel is the best place to find out about Quebec City's military past and present. It is still an active military garrison and the official residence for the Governor General of Canada. Fans of military memorabilia won't be disappointed in its museum. There are no open visits, so make sure to call for guided tour times or reserve in advance.