Things to Do in Quebec City in the Summer

Looking for things to do in Quebec City with kids? The city has a reputation for history and culture, but after several visits across every season, I can tell you there’s far more here for families than most people expect.

Quebec City is one of my favourite places to visit, no matter the season, but summer might just be the best time to go.

Yes, it’s busier in summer, but that just adds to the atmosphere. Walking through Old Quebec feels like stepping into Europe, with its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and streetside 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 the best things to do in Quebec City in the summer.

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From historic streets and riverside beaches to waterfalls and the best aquarium in the province, here’s how to make the most of summer in Quebec City with kids.

1. Walk the Historic Streets of Old Quebec

Old Quebec is the heart of any trip here, and exploring it on foot is the best way to take it in. The cobblestone streets, stone buildings, and open squares are genuinely fun to wander — even for kids who’d normally roll their eyes at a “historic walk.”

Start with Petit-Champlain, a pedestrian-only street in the Lower Town that’s often called the prettiest street in North America. It’s lined with boutique shops and restaurant patios, and it’s easy for kids to explore freely without worrying about traffic. From there, Place Royale is just a short walk away — this is where Samuel de Champlain founded the city in 1608, and there’s usually something happening in the square in summer.

Keep an eye out for street performers and horse-drawn carriages along the way. My kids get a kick out of both every time.

2. Visit Château Frontenac

Perched on a hill above the St. Lawrence, you can’t miss Chateau Frontenac. This grand, castle-like hotel dominates the Quebec City skyline. It’s the most photographed hotel in the world, and in person, it’s even more impressive than the pictures suggest.

And you don’t need to stay here to enjoy it. Walk around the outside, stop at Dufferin Terrace for photos, or book a guided tour if you want to see the elegant interiors and hear the history. For the best view of the château itself, head down to the Lower Town near the Quebec-Lévis ferry terminal — that’s the shot you’ve seen in every travel photo (and pictured below), with the castle rising above the colourful stone buildings below.

3. Stroll Along Dufferin Terrace

This wide wooden boardwalk stretches along the front of the château and offers some of the best views in the city — the St. Lawrence spread out below, boats moving through the harbour, and the old town at your back.

4. Swim and Play at Baie de Beauport

Just five minutes from Old Quebec, Baie de Beauport is the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day. This supervised sandy beach on the St. Lawrence River has shallow water that’s calm enough for younger kids to swim, and if you’re looking to add more activity, you can also rent kayaks, paddleboards, or sailboats.

There’s a snack bar, picnic areas, and beach volleyball courts, and it’s easy to spend a few hours here after a morning in the old town. It feels like a bit of a local secret given how close it is to the city — but once you discover it, you’ll be glad you did.

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. 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. 

6. Explore the Promenade Samuel-De Champlain

This 4.5 km riverside boardwalk stretches along the St. Lawrence and is a great option if you want some exercise without the hills of Old Quebec. There are green spaces, picnic areas, and old-growth trees along the way, with plenty of places to stop and enjoy the views.

We’ve used this as a wind-down walk at the end of a busy day — it’s quieter than the old town and gives everyone a chance to breathe.

7. Relax at Domaine Maizerets

This one’s a bit off the radar, which is part of what makes it worth adding to your list. Domaine Maizerets is a large urban park with gardens, ponds, and walking trails — but the highlight 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 again for next time.

Domaine Maizerets is free to visit and located just outside downtown, perfect if you have a car.

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

This one is a must with kids. The Aquarium du Québec is home to over 10,000 animals, including polar bears, walruses, seals, and jellyfish, which, fun fact, which, fun fact, are actually immortal (something I learned while visiting with my boys).

My boys loved every part of it, but the polar bear viewing area was the clear favourite. We got there early enough to catch them active and swimming, and could have stayed at that window for another hour. There are also touch tanks where kids can interact with sea creatures like stingrays and starfish, and in the summer, the outdoor splash pad and play area mean you can easily stretch the visit into a half-day.

We have a full review of the Quebec Aquarium if you want more detail before you go.

Tip: The aquarium is located on the western edge of the city, close to the Chutes de la Chaudière. It’s easy to combine both into the same outing.

9. Ride the Funicular

The funicular connects Dufferin Terrace in Upper Town to Petit-Champlain in Lower Town, dropping steeply down the cliffside in just under a minute. It’s a practical way to avoid the stairs between the two levels — but for kids, it’s also just genuinely fun.

Mine thought it was one of the coolest things we did in the city. The views of the St. Lawrence and the Lower Town buildings from the cable car are great, and it’s worth riding at least once in each direction if your kids are into it.

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. 

There’s also Bora Parc, an indoor water park on the same property, which is handy if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

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.

We haven’t stayed overnight at Valcartier ourselves, but after a few different recommendations from friends, it’s on our plans for this summer.

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, which is 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!)

Most people don’t realize you can visit a sugar shack outside of maple season, but La Sucrerie Blouin on Île d’Orléans is one spot that stays open in summer. You can sample maple taffy, explore the property, and stock up on maple products to take home.

Quebec produces over 70% of the world’s maple syrup — trying some in person, at the source, is a different experience from a jar off a grocery shelf.

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

This one tends to fly under the radar. The Morrin Centre is a historic building that has been, at different points in its history, a military barracks, a prison, and now an English-language library. The preserved jail cells and the stunning Victorian reading room make it an interesting stop, even if you’re just popping in to look around.

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.

17. Visit the Wendake Indigenous Community

About 20 minutes outside the city, Wendake is the home of the Huron-Wendat Nation and offers a chance to learn about the culture and history of this community in a meaningful way. The Onhoüa Chetek8e Traditional Site has a reconstructed longhouse, cultural demonstrations, and guided storytelling.

We haven’t done a full visit here ourselves, but it’s been on our list for a while. For families who want to go deeper, Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations combines accommodation with Indigenous art and history, and La Traite restaurant is well-regarded for its First Nations-inspired menu.

18. Take the Ferry to Lévis

One of the most underrated things to do in Quebec City costs just a few dollars and takes 15 minutes. The Quebec-Lévis ferry crosses the St. Lawrence and gives you one of the best views of the city skyline and the château — which looks completely different from the water.

Once you’re in Lévis, you can walk the waterfront, head up to the terrace for a panoramic view, or just enjoy the quieter pace before taking the return trip.

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 island in the St. Lawrence is known for its centuries-old villages, farmland, and local food producers.

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 popular 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 step away from the busyness of the city, and a spot that we stop at every time we visit.

Parking: Parking in and near Old Quebec is limited. We usually park just outside the city walls at Place d’Youville or near Hôtel Palace Royale (accessible even if you’re not a guest) and walk in from there. There’s also underground parking inside Old Quebec at City Hall.

Language: French is the official language, but in tourist areas, restaurants, and hotels, you’ll generally be fine in English. A few basic French phrases go a long way and are always appreciated.

Book ahead in summer: Quebec City is popular in summer. Book accommodation early, and if possible, visit midweek to avoid peak weekend crowds at the main attractions.

Wear comfortable shoes: The cobblestones and hills in Old Quebec are beautiful but tough on feet. Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable — and if you’re bringing a stroller, a model that handles uneven terrain will make your life much easier.

Where to Stay in Quebec City

A few family-friendly options worth checking out:

• 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.

For more details and info, check out our full guide to the best family hotels in Quebec City.

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 experience everything that this beautiful city has to offer.

It’s also one of the easier cities to navigate with kids. Old Quebec is compact and walkable, the food scene accommodates picky eaters, and the energy in summer is exactly what you want on a family trip: busy and buzzing, but never overwhelming.

Whether it’s your first visit or you’ve been before, Quebec City in summer is worth every minute.

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.