If you are heading to Quebec City for the TIAC Annual Conference August 19-22, it only makes sense to come early or stay late (or both!) to discover what makes Quebec City an incredible and memorable destination. Here are just a few ideas to get you started.
Old Quebec
Take in the European charm of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure, rich with more than 400 years of history in the birthplace of French North America. Wander the only fortified city north of Mexico, travel back in time on an aweinspiring journey through architectural treasures, visit Petit-Champlain—one of the oldest shopping streets in North America—and soak in the atmosphere of the Plains of Abraham and Parliament Hill.
Learn more: quebec-cite.com/en/old-quebec-city
Montmorency Falls Park
Montmorency Falls are a spectacular, 83-meter/272.3-foot natural wonder, even taller than Niagara Falls. The St. Lawrence River stretches out not far from the base of the cliffs, a sight you won’t want to miss. Zoom over the plunge pool on a zipline 300 metres in the air or take a cable car to the top of the cliff to admire the view. Guided tours are also available.
Learn more: quebec-cite.com/en/businesses/parc-de-la-chute-montmorency
Parc National de la Jacques Cartier
Hike, paddle, fish, mountain bike, or find your inner peace—Parc national de la Jacques Cartier, has it all. This 670 km2 glacial valley boasts 100 km of hiking trails and a river renowned for its unforgettable whitewater rafting. The enchanting scenery and endless opportunities to explore make this national treasure the perfect setting for getting away from it all.
Learn more: quebec-cite.com/fr/entreprises/parc-national-de-la-jacques-cartier-sepaq
Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec
“A lively exchange between amateurs and connoisseurs,” the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec has a simple mission: Bringing people together through art by offering creative experiences shaped by excellence. Over 42,000 works, representing 4,600 artists, tell the story of Québec art, past and present.
Learn more: mnbaq.org
Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre Shrine
Discover one of Quebec’s most important treasures—the Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Shrine, a sanctuary dedicated to Saint Anne, mother of Mary and the grandmother of Jesus.
Stunning architecture invites quiet reverence, and the entire ceiling mosaic of the Basilica describes the life of Saint Anne, the life of a Jewish woman of that era, her virtues, and her glorification.
Learn more: sanctuairesainteanne.org
Aquarium du Quebec
Bringing the family to Quebec City? Be sure to visit if Aquarium, where 10,000 animals from about 300 species are waiting to be discovered. Learn hands-on about the St. Lawrence River ecosystems, Canadian waters, and northern fauna and flora. Observe exotic fish, amphibians, invertebrates, and marine mammals including polar bears, seals, and much more.
Learn more: quebec-cite.com/fr/entreprises/aquarium-du-quebec
Village vacances vacartier
Next stop for the family: Village Vacances Valcartier. The rain-or-shine Bora Parc – Indoor Water Park is an exhilarating world of speed and adventure with a large wave pool, 14 water slides, a multi-activity adventure river, and a double surf wave. Adults who need a break from the excitement can lavish in the Aroma Spa, where relaxing or therapeutic massage, personalized skin care treatments, and a complete thermal experience await.
Learn more: valcartier.com
Ile d’Orleans
Another of Quebec’s absolute treasures is Île d’Orléans, an island located in the Saint Lawrence River about 5 kilometres east of downtown Quebec City. Home to nearly 7,000 permanent residents, Île d’Orléans comprises six villages to explore. Discover the history and attractions of each area, and embark on a journey to discover nature, flavors, people, and yourself.
Learn more: tourisme.iledorleans.com
Musee de la civilisation
The Musee de la civilisation is a journey through the evolution of the human experience. Discover musical performances, themed festivals, studies in African civilization, rare diseases, revolution that has marked history, world-changing lifestyle evolution, and contemporary game-changers like AI, propaganda, and money. This is your chance to see the world, your world, with new eyes.
Learn more: boutique.mcq.org
Wendake
Wendake is a unique journey into the knowledge, traditions, history, and modernity of the Huron-Wendat Indigenous People. Visit a crafting station to make a talking stick—a tool that was and sometimes still is used in tribal councils to help regulate speech; discover Myths and Legends in the national longhouse Ekionkiestha, near a fire, with an Aboriginal storyteller who will share cultural stories from Time Immemorial; and so much more.
Learn more: tourismewendake.ca ▪
