15 Affordable and Fun Activities to Explore in the Quebec Region

15 Affordable Activities in the Quebec Region: Yes, the cost of living has increased, and, unfortunately, vacations and leisure are suffering!

But there are still free or affordable activities for great getaways away from everyday life.

1. THE BRAND NEW BEACH IN QUEBEC

Inaugurated in July 2023 in the Sillery district, it is already a must. There you will find a fine-sand beach by the river and a large infinity pool for swimming. You can get there by bike path, by bus (summer service 400), or by car. There is free parking on site (spaces are limited).

2. OLD QUEBEC

An activity that goes without saying, since Old Quebec is an open-air museum! Don’t miss the Dufferin terrace for the view of the river; the Petit-Champlain district for the cobbled streets and the Passages Insolites exhibition; and the Plains of Abraham for a picnic break.

3. A GUIDED TOUR OF PARLIAMENT

To discover the Quebec Parliament, take a 60-minute guided tour of the National Assembly or its gardens. If you prefer to discover for yourself this place where the deputies sit, there is also the option of a self-guided tour. Everything is free, but reservations are required.

4. THE GRAND HALL OF CHÂTEAU FRONTENAC

Sleeping there is not cheap, nor is eating there, but discovering its large entrance hall is free and permitted! Inaugurated in 1893, Château Frontenac is an icon of the city, and passersby can discover artifacts and photos from yesteryear to learn more about its history and that of Quebec.

5. THE FLIP-FABRICATED TRAVELLING CIRCUS

The Flip Fabrique troupe is offering a new show in the city’s parks this summer. There are several dates in August across Quebec. On the programme: juggling, trampolining, aerial straps, and carrying under the theme of a 70s holiday camp.

6. THE QUEBEC NAVAL MUSEUM

Welcome to one of the 73 official museums of the Canadian Armed Forces. The collection includes 9,000 artefacts relating mainly to the history of the Canadian Naval Reserve and the participation of the Royal Canadian Navy in the Second World War. You will be able to see an exhibition focused on the descendants and relatives of the sailors who experienced this war. Allow 30 to 60 minutes for the visit.

7. THE GOVERNORS’ WALK

This stepped path connects the Dufferin Terrace to the Plains of Abraham along the Citadel. It allows for a peaceful stroll of around 20 minutes. They say it’s still a pretty well-kept secret!

8. THE WATER GAMES AT PLACE DES CANOTIERS

Big boats and water features: 19th-century wooden docks served as the inspiration for this public square close to the cruise terminal. Children will be happy to cool off in the water games, and the whole family will be able to observe the ships and the Château Frontenac seen from below.

9. THE (SMALL) ÉRICO CHOCOLATE MUSEUM

Érico is an artisanal chocolate factory on rue Saint-Jean with a small museum on the history of chocolate. The visit takes between 15 and 20 minutes, and you can also see the chocolatiers’ workshop. Free entry. On the other hand, spending time in the store and at the ice cream counter may be difficult to avoid if you set foot there.

10. THE PARK OF CHUTES-DE-LA-CHAUDIÈRE

In Lévis, this free park (with free parking) allows you to admire magnificent falls and hike on 5 km of trails. You can also cycle there for 2 km. It’s a 25-minute drive from Old Quebec

11. A HIKE TO JEAN-LAROSE FALL

Near Mont Sainte-Anne, about 45 minutes from Old Quebec, a loop trail of about 5 km leads to the beautiful Jean-Larose Falls. It is located near the long Mestachibo trail and is also free but only recommended for experienced hikers.

12. THE RIVIÈRE-SAINT-CHARLES CORRIDOR MULTIFUNCTIONAL TRACK

If you have bikes, you will have many options for bike paths in Quebec, including the Corridor de la Rivière-Saint-Charles, which runs along both banks of the Saint-Charles River. No cars are on your route. Departure can be from the Old Port.

13. THE BAY OF BEAUPORT

Baie de Beauport is a lively sandy beach where you can swim in the Saint-Laurent, 5 minutes from downtown Quebec. For around fifteen dollars, a family of two adults and two children can spend a day in the sun. Unavoidable.

Adults: $2
Children under 15: free
Parking: $10
Please note that if you have a boat and want to use the reserved launching areas, there are additional costs.

Lakes, a river, 70 km of hiking trails, a former hydroelectric power station… There is plenty to do in this regional park divided into different sectors, 1 hour from Old Quebec. In the Sainte-Anne River Gorges sector, you will find a small beach and can sail on the river. Camping on site.

Free admission
Parking fees: $10.50 per car

14. THE REGIONAL NATURAL PARK OF PORTNEUF

Lakes, a river, 70 km of hiking trails, a former hydroelectric power station… There is plenty to do in this regional park divided into different sectors, 1 hour from Old Quebec. In the Sainte-Anne River Gorges sector, you will find a small beach and can sail on the river. Camping on site.

Free admission
Parking fees: $10.50 per car

15. THE JACQUES-CARTIER NATIONAL PARK

45 minutes from Old Quebec, this Sépaq park is particularly grandiose with its glacial valley. On-site, in summer, you can enjoy 100 km of hiking trails. If you have your own paddleboards or boats, you can sail on the beautiful Jacques-Cartier River at no additional cost.

$9.55 per adult, taxes included
Children 17 and under are free

Also Read: Empower Your Journeys: 16 Dynamic Gifts for Travel Enthusiasts