Discover QC: Top 10 Must-Do’s

Quebec City, or QC as it is commonly known, is the capital city of the Canadian province of Quebec. With a rich history dating back over 400 years, QC is one of the oldest cities in North America. Founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain, the city has a unique blend of European charm and Canadian hospitality.

QC is located on the banks of the St. Lawrence River and is known for its stunning architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic sites. The city’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-see for visitors. With its narrow streets, stone buildings, and charming cafes, Old Quebec feels like stepping back in time.

In addition to its historical significance, QC is also a vibrant and modern city with a thriving arts and culture scene. From museums and galleries to festivals and live performances, there is always something happening in QC. The city also offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and kayaking.

Key Takeaways

• QC is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture.
• Top 10 must-see attractions include Chateau Frontenac, Old Quebec, and Montmorency Falls.
• Top 10 must-try foods and drinks include poutine, maple syrup, and ice cider.
• Top 10 must-visit museums and galleries include the Museum of Civilization and the National Museum of Fine Arts.
• Top 10 must-experience parks and gardens include the Plains of Abraham and the Botanical Garden.

Discovering the Best of Quebec City: Top 10 Must-See Attractions

1. Chateau Frontenac: Perched on a hill overlooking the St. Lawrence River, the Chateau Frontenac is one of the most iconic landmarks in QC. This grand hotel has been welcoming guests since 1893 and offers stunning views of the city.

2. Old Quebec: Explore the narrow streets and charming squares of Old Quebec, where you’ll find historic buildings, boutique shops, and quaint cafes. Don’t miss Place Royale, the birthplace of French civilization in North America.

3. Plains of Abraham: This historic park is the site of the famous battle between the French and British armies in 1759. Today, it is a peaceful green space where locals and visitors can enjoy picnics, walks, and outdoor concerts.

4. Montmorency Falls: Just outside of QC, Montmorency Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder. The falls are taller than Niagara Falls and can be viewed from a suspension bridge or by taking a cable car to the top.

5. Citadelle of Quebec: This star-shaped fortress is the largest military fortification in North America. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

6. Parliament Building: Located in the heart of QC, the Parliament Building is an impressive example of Second Empire architecture. Take a guided tour to learn about the province’s political history.

7. Place Royale: This historic square is the birthplace of French civilization in North America. Explore the cobblestone streets, visit the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church, and learn about the city’s early settlers.

8. Quebec City Ferry: Take a scenic ferry ride across the St. Lawrence River to Lévis, a charming town with its own historic sites and beautiful views of QC.

9. Observatoire de la Capitale: Located on the 31st floor of the Marie-Guyart Building, the Observatoire de la Capitale offers panoramic views of QC. Learn about the city’s history and geography through interactive exhibits.

10. Musée de la Civilisation: This museum explores the history and culture of Quebec through interactive exhibits and artifacts. From ancient civilizations to modern-day Quebec, there is something for everyone to discover.

Savoring the Flavors of QC: Top 10 Must-Try Foods and Drinks

1. Poutine: A quintessential Canadian dish, poutine consists of french fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in gravy. It’s a delicious and indulgent treat that you must try while in QC.

2. Tourtière: This traditional meat pie is a staple of Quebec cuisine. Made with ground pork, beef, or veal, tourtière is often enjoyed during the holiday season.

3. Maple Syrup: Quebec is the largest producer of maple syrup in the world, and no visit to QC is complete without trying this sweet treat. Drizzle it over pancakes, waffles, or ice cream for a true taste of Quebec.

4. Cider: Quebec is also known for its apple orchards and cider production. Visit a local cidery to sample a variety of ciders, from dry and crisp to sweet and sparkling.

5. Ice Cider: Made from apples that have been frozen on the tree, ice cider is a unique and delicious dessert wine. It’s the perfect way to end a meal or enjoy a leisurely afternoon.

6. Bagels: While Montreal is famous for its bagels, QC also has its own version of this beloved treat. QC-style bagels are smaller and sweeter than their New York counterparts, and are often topped with sesame seeds.

7. Smoked Meat: Similar to pastrami, smoked meat is a popular deli meat in QC. Enjoy it on rye bread with mustard for a classic Quebec sandwich.

8. Cretons: This traditional Quebecois spread is made from ground pork, onions, and spices. It’s typically enjoyed on toast or as a filling for pastries.

9. Tarte au Sucre: Also known as sugar pie, tarte au sucre is a rich and sweet dessert made with brown sugar, butter, and cream. It’s a must-try for those with a sweet tooth.

10. Beer: Quebec has a thriving craft beer scene, with breweries producing a wide range of styles and flavors. Sample local brews at one of QC’s many microbreweries or beer bars.

Exploring the History and Culture of QC: Top 10 Must-Visit Museums and Galleries

Museum/Gallery Name	Location	Admission Fee	Opening Hours	Special Exhibitions
Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec	Québec City	20 CAD	Tuesday to Sunday: 10am-5pm	Current exhibitions: “The Automatistes and Beyond: Works from the Collection” and “The Art of Horizon: Contemporary Landscapes”
Musée de la civilisation	Québec City	17 CAD	Tuesday to Sunday: 10am-5pm	Current exhibitions: “Egyptian Mummies: Exploring Ancient Lives” and “People of Québec… Then and Now”
Musée de la place Royale	Québec City	5 CAD	Monday to Sunday: 10am-5pm	Permanent exhibition: “The Founding of Québec”
Musée Huron-Wendat	Wendake	12 CAD	Monday to Sunday: 10am-5pm	Permanent exhibition: “The Huron-Wendat Nation: Our Territory, Our Stories”
Musée de la défense aérienne de Québec	Québec City	10 CAD	Monday to Sunday: 10am-5pm	Permanent exhibition: “The Cold War”
Musée naval de Québec	Québec City	10 CAD	Monday to Sunday: 10am-5pm	Permanent exhibition: “The Naval History of Québec”
Musée des Ursulines de Québec	Québec City	10 CAD	Tuesday to Sunday: 10am-5pm	Permanent exhibition: “The Ursulines of Québec: 400 Years of History and Education”
Musée de la francophonie canadienne	Québec City	10 CAD	Tuesday to Sunday: 10am-5pm	Permanent exhibition: “The Francophonie in Canada: A Living History”
Musée de la place d’Armes	Québec City	5 CAD	Monday to Sunday: 10am-5pm	Permanent exhibition: “The History of Place d’Armes”
Galerie d’art du Parc	Québec City	Free	Tuesday to Sunday: 12pm-5pm	Current exhibition: “The Art of Horizon: Contemporary Landscapes”

1. Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec: This museum showcases a wide range of artwork, from traditional Quebecois paintings to contemporary installations. Don’t miss the impressive collection of Inuit art.

2. Musée de la Place Royale: Located in the heart of Old Quebec, this museum explores the history of the city’s oldest neighborhood. Learn about the early settlers and the role they played in shaping Quebec’s culture.

3. Musée de la Civilisation: As mentioned earlier, this museum offers a fascinating look at the history and culture of Quebec. From ancient civilizations to modern-day Quebec, there is something for everyone to discover.

4. Musée de la Gaspésie: This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the Gaspé Peninsula, a region known for its stunning landscapes and rich maritime heritage.

5. Musée de la Francophonie: Learn about the French language and its influence around the world at this unique museum. Interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations make for an engaging experience.

6. Musée de la Corriveau: This small museum is dedicated to the legend of Marie-Josephte Corriveau, a notorious figure in Quebec folklore. Explore the story of this infamous woman and learn about life in 18th-century Quebec.

7. Musée de la Monnaie: Discover the history of money at this museum, which showcases a collection of coins and banknotes from around the world. Learn about the evolution of currency and its role in society.

8. Musée de l’Amérique francophone: Located in a historic building in Old Quebec, this museum explores the history and culture of French-speaking North America. From early explorers to modern-day Quebecois, there is much to learn here.

9. Musée de la Huronie: Learn about the history and culture of the Huron-Wendat people at this museum located just outside of QC. Explore exhibits on traditional crafts, spirituality, and daily life.

10. Musée de la Première Nation: Located in Wendake, a Huron-Wendat community near QC, this museum offers a comprehensive look at the history and culture of the First Nations people of Quebec.

Enjoying the Outdoors in QC: Top 10 Must-Experience Parks and Gardens

1. Battlefields Park: This historic park is the site of the famous battle between the French and British armies in 1759. Today, it is a peaceful green space where locals and visitors can enjoy picnics, walks, and outdoor concerts.

2. Parc de la Chute-Montmorency: Just outside of QC, Montmorency Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder. The falls are taller than Niagara Falls and can be viewed from a suspension bridge or by taking a cable car to the top.

3. Parc des Moulins: Located in the heart of Old Quebec, this park offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city streets. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the river or relax on one of the park’s benches.

4. Parc de la Plage-Jacques-Cartier: This beachfront park is the perfect place to soak up the sun and enjoy a swim in the St. Lawrence River. Pack a picnic and spend the day relaxing by the water.

5. Parc de la Falaise et de la Chute Kabir Kouba: This park offers stunning views of the St. Lawrence River and is home to a beautiful waterfall. Explore the hiking trails or simply sit back and enjoy the scenery.

6. Parc de la Pointe-aux-Lièvres: Located in the Saint-Roch neighborhood, this urban park offers a variety of recreational activities, including biking, rollerblading, and picnicking.

7. Jardin Botanique Roger-Van den Hende: This botanical garden is located on the campus of Laval University and features a wide variety of plants and flowers. Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

8. Jardin Jeanne-d’Arc: Located near the Plains of Abraham, this park is a popular spot for picnics and outdoor concerts. It also features a statue of Joan of Arc, a gift from France.

9. Jardin Saint-Roch: This community garden is located in the Saint-Roch neighborhood and offers a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Take a break from exploring and relax among the flowers and greenery.

10. Jardin des Gouverneurs: Located within the walls of Old Quebec, this garden offers stunning views of the city and the St. Lawrence River. Take a leisurely stroll through the manicured lawns and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Shopping in QC: Top 10 Must-Visit Markets and Boutiques

1. Quartier Petit Champlain: Located in Old Quebec, this charming neighborhood is home to a variety of boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. Explore the narrow streets and discover unique gifts and souvenirs.

2. Rue Saint-Jean: This bustling street is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. From clothing boutiques to specialty food stores, you’ll find something for everyone on Rue Saint-Jean.

3. Marché du Vieux-Port: Located near the Old Port, this market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, local products, and artisanal crafts. Sample Quebecois delicacies and pick up some souvenirs to take home.

4. Marché Jean-Talon: Located in Montreal, about three hours from QC, this market is worth the trip for food lovers. With over 300 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to gourmet treats, it’s a foodie’s paradise.

5. Marché Atwater: Another must-visit market in Montreal, Marché Atwater offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods. Don’t miss the famous bagels from St-Viateur Bagel.

6. La Maison Simons: This iconic Quebec department store offers a wide range of clothing, accessories, and home goods. With its modern design and unique selection, it’s a must-visit for fashion lovers.

7. La Boutique de Noël de Québec: Located in Old Quebec, this year-round Christmas store is a magical place to visit. Browse through a wide selection of ornaments, decorations, and gifts.

8. La Boutique de la Fabrique: Located in the Saint-Roch neighborhood, this boutique offers a curated selection of locally made products, including clothing, accessories, and home goods.

9. La Boutique de la Société des alcools du Québec: If you’re looking to bring home some Quebecois spirits, this is the place to go. Choose from a wide selection of wines, beers, and spirits produced in the province.

10. La Boutique de la Brasserie Artisanale La Korrigane: Located in the Saint-Roch neighborhood, this boutique offers a variety of craft beers from the local brewery. Pick up a few bottles to enjoy during your stay or take home as souvenirs.

Nightlife in QC: Top 10 Must-Do Activities after Dark

1. Le Cercle: This multi-purpose venue hosts live music performances, comedy shows, and art exhibitions. Check their schedule for upcoming events and enjoy a night out on the town.

2. Le Drague Cabaret Club: This popular LGBTQ+ nightclub offers drag shows, dancing, and themed parties. It’s a lively and inclusive place to dance the night away.

3. Le Dagobert: Known for its energetic atmosphere and live music performances, Le Dagobert is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Dance to the latest hits or enjoy a game of pool.

4. Le Maurice Nightclub: Located in the heart of Old Quebec, this nightclub offers a mix of live music, DJs, and themed parties. Dance the night away in this historic building.

5. Le Boudoir Lounge: This trendy lounge offers a sophisticated atmosphere and a wide selection of cocktails. Enjoy live music or DJ sets while sipping on your favorite drink.

6. Le Fou-Bar: This cozy bar is known for its live jazz and blues performances. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the music while sipping on a craft cocktail or local beer.

7. Le Sacrilège: Located in the Saint-Roch neighborhood, this bar offers a laid-back atmosphere and a wide selection of craft beers. Enjoy a game of pool or catch a live music performance.

8. Le Pub Saint-Alexandre: This historic pub has been serving drinks since 1902 and offers a cozy atmosphere and a wide selection of beers on tap. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.

9. Le Pub du Parvis: Located near the Parliament Building, this pub offers a lively atmosphere and a wide selection of beers and cocktails. Enjoy live music or catch a game on one of the big screens.

10. Le Pub Nelligan’s: This Irish pub offers a friendly atmosphere and a wide selection of beers and whiskeys. Enjoy live music or catch a sports game on one of the TVs scattered throughout the pub. The cozy interior is adorned with traditional Irish decor, creating an authentic and inviting ambiance. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day or meet up with friends for a night out, Le Pub Nelligan’s is the perfect spot. Their knowledgeable staff is always ready to recommend a new brew or pour you a smooth glass of whiskey. With regular live music performances, you can groove to the tunes of talented local artists while sipping on your favorite drink. And for sports enthusiasts, the pub’s multiple TVs ensure that you won’t miss a single moment of the game. Le Pub Nelligan’s truly offers something for everyone, making it a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike.

FAQs

What is QC?

QC stands for Quebec City, which is the capital city of the Canadian province of Quebec.

What are some popular tourist attractions in QC?

Some popular tourist attractions in QC include the Chateau Frontenac, Old Quebec, the Plains of Abraham, the Citadelle of Quebec, and the Montmorency Falls.

What are some outdoor activities to do in QC?

Some outdoor activities to do in QC include hiking in the Jacques-Cartier National Park, skiing at Mont-Sainte-Anne, snowshoeing in the Parc de la Chute-Montmorency, and kayaking on the St. Lawrence River.

What are some cultural activities to do in QC?

Some cultural activities to do in QC include visiting the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec, attending a performance at the Grand Théâtre de Québec, and exploring the Quartier Petit Champlain.

What is the best time of year to visit QC?

The best time of year to visit QC depends on personal preference. Summer is the most popular time to visit due to the warm weather and numerous festivals, but winter also has its charm with the Quebec Winter Carnival and winter sports activities.