Things to Do in Quebec City in the Summer

Quebec City is one of my favourite places to visit, no matter the season—but summer might just be the best time to go. When the weather warms up, the city feels full of life — patios spill onto the sidewalks, streets get busier, and there’s plenty to do with kids.

Yes, it’s busier in summer, but that just adds to the energy. Walking through Old Quebec feels like stepping into Europe, with its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and charming cafés. But beyond the history, there are so many ways to enjoy summer in Quebec City, from relaxing at a riverside beach to exploring waterfalls just outside the city.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to see it in a new season, here are 21 of the best things to do in Quebec City in the summer.

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As always, we only recommend products and experiences we truly believe in.

One of the best things about visiting Quebec City in the summer is how much there is to do outside. From historic streets and scenic riverfront paths to green spaces and parks, here are the best outdoor activities to do in Quebec City this summer.

1. Walk the Historic Streets of Old Quebec

Exploring Old Quebec is the best way to experience the city’s charm and history. Cobblestone streets, centuries-old architecture, and lively outdoor cafés make it an unforgettable place to wander.

Stroll through Petit-Champlain, a pedestrian-only street lined with boutique shops and restaurants that’s often called the prettiest street in North America. As one of the oldest shopping streets in North America, it’s a great spot for families—kids can explore freely without worrying about traffic. Nearby, Place Royale is a must-see, marking the spot where Samuel de Champlain founded the city in 1608.

Street performers, horse-drawn carriages, and scenic patios add to the lively atmosphere. For a deeper look into Quebec’s past, a guided walking tour is a great option, or you can explore at your own pace and take in the sights.

2. Visit Château Frontenac

Perched on a hill overlooking the St. Lawrence River, Château Frontenac is the most photographed hotel in the world—and for good reason. This grand, castle-like building dominates the Quebec City skyline and is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, it’s worth stopping by. Walk around the outside for incredible views, or head to Dufferin Terrace for some of the best photo spots. If you want to see inside, guided tours are available, offering a look at the hotel’s rich history, elegant interiors, and famous guests who have stayed there.

For the best view of Château Frontenac, head to Lower Town at Rue Notre-Dame & Rue Dalhousie, where you can capture the hotel rising above the historic streets.

3. Stroll Along Dufferin Terrace

This scenic boardwalk stretches along the front of Château Frontenac, and has some of the best views in the city. Overlooking the St. Lawrence River, it’s a great place for people-watching, a leisurely walk or just taking in the historic surroundings.

For families, Dufferin Terrace is a fun spot for kids to watch the boats and ferries moving through the harbour. You’ll often see street performers, and there are even old cannons along the boardwalk that kids love to climb on – or maybe that’s just my kids?

In the summer, this is also the starting point for the funicular, which connects Upper and Lower Town—an easy (and fun) way to avoid the steep stairs down to Petit-Champlain.

But in the winter, this is where you’ll find the iconic Toboggan Run—and it’s seriously fun.
We finally tried it this past winter, and I’m not sure why it took us so long. You zip down a wooden track that’s been around for over a hundred years, and it goes surprisingly fast! Even the adults were laughing the whole way down. It’s a great mix of history and fun, and definitely worth adding to your winter itinerary.

4. Swim and Play at Baie de Beauport

Just five minutes from downtown Quebec City, Baie de Beauport is the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day. With its sandy beach, calm waters, and lifeguarded swimming area, it feels like a hidden oasis right on the St. Lawrence River.

The shallow water is great for kids to swim, or you can try paddleboarding, kayaking, or even sailing. There’s also a snack bar, picnic areas, and beach volleyball courts, so it’s easy to spend a few hours here.

After a morning of exploring Old Quebec, this is a great spot to relax and let kids run around, and a perfect way to spend a summer day in Quebec City. 

5. Explore the Plains of Abraham

One of Quebec City’s most famous parks, the Plains of Abraham is both a historic battlefield and a massive green space perfect for summer exploring. Visit the Plains of Abraham Museum to learn about the 1759 battle between the French and British, or explore the park and take a break from sightseeing.

With wide-open fields, walking trails, and picnic areas, it’s a perfect spot to let kids run around or relax in the shade. In the summer, you’ll often find outdoor concerts, festivals, and even free yoga classes happening here. 

Visiting in winter? This park turns into a top spot for skating, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. Check out our guide to Quebec City in the winter for more cold-weather activities.

6. Explore the Promenade Samuel-De Champlain

Stretching along the St. Lawrence River, the Promenade Samuel-De Champlain is a 4.5 km waterfront boardwalk that’s perfect for walking, biking, or just enjoying the views. The promenade also has green spaces, picnic areas, and century-old trees, with plenty of spots to stop and take in the scenery.

It’s a great spot to get some exercise, relax by the water, or find a quiet spot for a picnic and enjoy Quebec City in the summer. 

7. Relax at Domaine Maizerets

If you’re looking for a break from the busy streets of Old Quebec, Domaine Maizerets is a great spot to slow down and enjoy nature. This large urban park has walking trails, ponds, gardens, and plenty of green space, but the real highlight—especially for kids—is the hedge maze.

My kids loved trying to find their way  through the maze, and we climbed the small lookout tower afterward to see the whole layout from above. It was such a fun and different experience from the usual city sightseeing that we easily spent an hour there and added it to our list for next time.

Domaine Maizerets is free to visit and located just outside downtown, making it an easy and worthwhile stop.

While Quebec City is known for its history and culture—there’s also plenty of fun things to do with kids. Whether you’re looking for interactive museums, animal encounters, or just fun ways to explore the city, these activities are perfect for the whole family.

8. Visit Aquarium du Québec

One of the top things to do in Quebec City with kids is a visit to the Aquarium. While it was a bit smaller than we expected, my kids absolutely loved it, and we still spent over 2 hours exploring. The aquarium is home to over 10,000 marine animals, including polar bears, seals, and jellyfish—which, fun fact, are actually immortal (something I learned while visiting with my boys!).

There are both indoor and outdoor exhibits, plus touch tanks where kids can get hands-on with sea creatures, like stingrays and starfish. In the summer, the splash pad and outdoor play area make it a great spot for families to spend the day. Check out our guide to the Quebec Aquarium for more info and details. 

9. Ride the Funicular

Quebec City’s funicular is a practical way to get around but also a really fun experience for kids – or at least it was for mine! Connecting Dufferin Terrace in Upper Town to Petit-Champlain in Lower Town, this short but steep ride saves you from climbing (or descending) dozens of stairs.

The ride takes just under a minute and offers amazing views of the St. Lawrence River and the historic buildings below. 

When you’re exploring Old Quebec, taking the funicular at least once is a must—especially if you’re traveling with kids or just want to give your legs a break!

My kids thought it was one of the coolest ways to see the city.

10. Cool Off at the City Hall Splash Pad

Right in the heart of Old Quebec, the City Hall Splash Pad is the perfect spot to take a break on a hot summer day. With shaded benches and plenty of space for kids to run through the water jets, it’s a great way to cool off while exploring the city. 

Located in Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville, this splash pad is just steps from Dufferin Terrace, Château Frontenac, and plenty of cafés—so it’s easy to work into your day while exploring the city.

11. Have a Water Adventure at Valcartier Vacation Village

If you’re looking for a full day of summer fun, Valcartier Vacation Village is the place to go. Located about 30 minutes from Quebec City, this massive outdoor water park has everything from high-speed water slides to a lazy river and a giant wave pool. There’s also splash zones and smaller slides, which are perfect for younger kids. 

If you need a break from the sun, the indoor Bora Parc offers year-round water fun, making it a great backup plan for rainy days.

With so many attractions, it’s easy to spend the whole day here. But if you’re looking to stay overnight, Hôtel Valcartier is one of Quebec City’s best family hotels, with direct access to the water park.

Food & Drink Experiences

Quebec City has some of the best food in Canada, and summer is the perfect time to enjoy it. Whether you’re dining on an outdoor patio, cooling off with ice cream or trying classic local dishes, these are the best things to try in Quebec City this summer.

12. Enjoy Patio Season in Old Quebec

Summer in Quebec City means patio season, and there are plenty of great spots to sit outside and enjoy a snack or meal with the family. Many restaurants in Old Quebec have large terraces or streetside patios, making it easy to enjoy the warm weather while watching the city’s historic streets come to life.

For a casual, family-friendly meal, Cochon Dingue is a great choice, serving up comfort food with a fun atmosphere. Le Lapin Sauté on rue Petit-Champlain is another favourite, known for its cozy terrace and delicious Quebec-inspired dishes. If you’re looking for a spot with a view, Bistro 1640, right near Château Frontenac, has a patio where you can soak in the scenery while enjoying a meal.

And if you’re looking for a quicker option, there are plenty of cafés and bakeries with patios where you can grab a coffee, a snack, or a cold drink in the afternoon while taking a break from sightseeing. La Maison Smith in Place Royale is perfect for a coffee and pastry, and many spots also serve local craft beer and cider, which is refreshing on a warm summer day. 

13. Try Local Ice Cream & Treats

Speaking of refreshing, nothing beats a cold treat on a warm summer day, and Quebec City has some fantastic spots for ice cream and sorbet. Chocolats Favoris is a must-visit, known for its decadent dipped ice cream cones coated in thick, chocolatey layers.

For something a little different, Cassis Monna & Filles on Île d’Orléans specializes in blackcurrant sorbet and gelato, made with fruit grown right on the island.

And while it’s not exactly local to Quebec, Cows—an East Coast staple—is my kids’ all-time favourite. It’s known for its fun flavour names, and is right on Rue Saint-Jean in Old Quebec. 

14. Visit a Sugar Shack (Yes, Even in Summer!)

Quebec is known for its maple syrup, producing over 90% of Canada’s supply and about 72% of the world’s production.

La Sucrerie Blouin, located on Île d’Orléans, is one of the spots that stays open in the summer. Here you can sample fresh maple taffy, explore the property, and pick up maple products to take home. 

15. Try Classic Poutine 

Poutine is Quebec’s most famous dish, and no visit to Quebec City is complete without trying it. The traditional version is simple but delicious—crispy fries, cheese curds, and hot gravy that melts everything together.

But if you’re feeling adventurous, many restaurants offer creative takes on poutine, adding toppings like bacon, eggs, smoked meat, steak, pulled pork, or even Greek-inspired ingredients. You’ll find everything from classic diner-style poutine to gourmet versions with rich sauces and premium toppings.

Our recommendation? Try the original first—there’s a reason it’s a classic. If you want the real deal, Chez Ashton is a local favourite, known for its no-frills, traditional poutine. For generous portions and late-night cravings, Snack Bar Saint-Jean is a solid choice. And if you’re looking for something a little more elevated, La Buche serves a Quebec-inspired take on poutine in a cozy setting. No matter where you try it, one thing is certain—poutine is a must when visiting Quebec City.

Beyond the well-known landmarks, Quebec City has plenty of unique spots worth discovering. From hidden historical sites to lesser-known local experiences, these gems offer a different way to explore the city.

16. Explore the Morrin Centre

The Morrin Centre is one of Quebec City’s hidden gems—a historic building that has been a military barracks, a jail, and now an English-language library. It’s a fascinating spot for book lovers and history buffs, offering a glimpse into the city’s past through its preserved jail cells and stunning Victorian reading room.

But there’s also more to do here than just browsing books. There’s some fun kids programming, but be sure to check the schedule for events, and for something unique, you can even book a traditional tea time experience in the historic setting.

Even if you’re just stopping by, the beautiful library alone is worth a visit.

17. Visit the Wendake Indigenous Community

Just outside Quebec City, Wendake offers a chance to learn about Huron-Wendat culture and traditions. This Indigenous community is home to the Onhoüa Chetek8e Traditional Site, where you can explore a reconstructed longhouse, hear stories about Wendat history, and take part in cultural demonstrations.

For a deeper experience, consider staying at Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations, which combines modern comfort with Indigenous art and history. There’s also La Traite, a highly-rated restaurant serving dishes inspired by First Nations cuisine.

Whether you visit for a few hours or an overnight stay, Wendake is a unique cultural experience that adds a different perspective to a trip to Quebec City.

18. Take the Ferry to Lévis

For one of the best views of Quebec City’s skyline, hop on the Quebec-Lévis ferry and cross the historic St. Lawrence River. This short ride takes about 15 minutes and runs every hour, offering a stunning perspective of the city, and a relaxing break from exploring the city. 

Once in Lévis, you can stroll along the waterfront path, head up to the terrace for a panoramic view, or simply turn around and enjoy the return trip. Lévis is quieter than Quebec City, making it a nice escape if you want to explore beyond the main tourist areas.

While the ferry is great any time of day, it’s especially beautiful in the evening when Quebec City lights up. Round-trip tickets (allez-retour) are $4.05 for adults, $2.80 for kids (6-15), and $3.45 for seniors.

Quebec City is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and small towns, making it easy to escape the city for a few hours or a full day. Whether you’re looking for waterfalls, island getaways, or outdoor adventures, these nearby spots are worth the trip.

19. Visit Montmorency Falls

Taller than Niagara Falls, Montmorency Falls is one of the most impressive sights near Quebec City, Located just 10 minutes drive from downtown, it’s an easy half-day trip and one of the most popular spots to visit in Quebec.   

There are several ways to see the falls – walk across the suspension bridge, take the cable car, or climb the staircase for incredible views. Montmorency Falls is stunning to see year-round (we’ve been in the summer, fall and winter), but we think it’s best to see in the summer! Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Montmorency Falls.

20. Take a Scenic Drive Around Île d’Orléans

Just a 20-minute drive from Quebec City, Île d’Orléans feels like a step back in time. This picturesque island is known for its centuries-old villages, farmland, and local food producers, and is a great spot for a summer drive.

Along the way, you can stop at roadside farm stands for fresh berries, visit cider houses and chocolatiers, or sample locally made cheese and maple products. It’s the perfect place to escape the city for a few hours, and since it’s just minutes from Montmorency Falls, it’s easy to visit both in the same day.

21. Explore Chutes de la Chaudière

Less crowded than Montmorency Falls but just as impressive, Chutes de la Chaudière is one of our favourite spots near Quebec City. Located about 25 minutes from downtown, and just across the river from the Aquarium, this waterfall offers more room to explore, and it’s free!

Walk across the suspension bridge for incredible views or take the trail down to the river, where you can walk along the rocks and get closer to the falls. With plenty of walking trails, picnic areas, and scenic viewpoints, it’s a great place to spend a few hours away from the busyness of the city.

• Parking: Parking in and near the Old Town is limited. There are paid public lots available just outside of Old Quebec, or there’s also underground parking inside Old Quebec, including City Hall. We usually park just outside the city walls at Place d’Youville or Hôtel Palace Royale (which you can access even if you’re not a guest) as both are easy to access, and from there it’s a short walk to see the sights in Old Quebec. Here’s a full list of parking lots.
• Language: The official language in Quebec is French, but many people, especially in tourist areas, hotels and restaurants will speak English. A few basic phrases in French will go a long way, but you generally won’t have any trouble getting by in English.
• Book early: Quebec City is a popular place to visit, especially in the summer. Book accommodations ahead and if you can, visit through the week instead of on the weekends. 
• Shoes: Wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestones and hilly terrain can be tough on your feet! 

Where to Stay in Quebec City

Quebec City has so many great family hotels, whether you’re looking for luxury, convenience, or family-friendly stays. Here are a few top choices:

• Château Frontenac – The city’s most iconic hotel, offering historic charm and unbeatable views.
• Hilton Quebec – A modern hotel with a rooftop pool and panoramic city views, located just outside the Old Town walls.
• Hôtel Palace Royal – A great mid-range option with an indoor atrium pool, just one block from Place d’Youville and one of the Old Quebec gates. It also has underground parking, making it a convenient choice for those driving.
• L’Hôtel Québec – A bit of a drive from Old Quebec, but a fantastic place to stay with kids, featuring a huge indoor play area, pool, and family-friendly entertainment.

Our Take on Things to Do in Quebec City

Quebec City in the summer is the perfect mix of history, culture and outdoor activities. Whether you’re exploring the streets of Old Quebec, chasing waterfalls or relaxing on a patio, there’s no shortage of things to do. With long days and warm weather, it’s the best time to expereince everything that this beautiful city has to offer.

Looking for more inspiration?

Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, Montmorency Falls and the Aquarium du Québec are two fun spots that are open year-round and great for families.If you’re planning a winter visit, don’t miss our guide to the best things to do in Quebec City in winter, plus a 3-day winter itinerary to help you make the most of your time. And if you’re still deciding where to stay, check out our top picks for the best family hotels in Quebec City.