When you think about Québec, what first comes to mind? For many, it’s the sound of French floating through the streets, the charming cobblestones that line Old Québec, Montréal’s vibrant food and arts scene, or their favourite French-Canadian traditions passed down through the generations.
There are countless reasons to set out to discover Montréal and Québec City, but the rest of the province has even more to offer! To help you make the most of your next adventure in Québec, we put together this list of engaging day trip add-ons to spice up your student tour with some history, art, nature, and adventure.
For the history lovers: Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial National Historic Site
This island once served as the main quarantine station for tens of thousands of immigrants arriving in Canada, including many Irish fleeing the Potato Famine. History buffs will delight in discovering the deeply moving stories of immigration and public health at the island’s immersive museum and paying their respects at the Celtic Cross memorial, which honours the memory of the more than 5,000 people who died on Grosse Île during the 1847 typhus epidemic.
The legacy of Grosse Île reaches far beyond its shores. Thousands of Irish children were adopted by French-Canadian families, reshaping Québec’s cultural identity for generations to come. Today, it’s estimated that 10-15% of Quebecers have Irish ancestry because of the great migration through Grosse Île.
Suggested activity: Costumed interpreters bring the stories of Grosse Île to life for students. After your guided tour, organize a reflective discussion or journaling activity to help students process Grosse Île’s historical significance.
Learn more about Grosse Île, here.
For the explorers: Charlevoix
The dramatic cliffs, fjords, and valleys of Charlevoix make it the ideal outdoor classroom. Forged by the movement of ancient glaciers and the impact of a massive meteorite, the landscape of Charlevoix offers a rich setting for budding geologists, ecologists, biologists, and astronomers.
Suggested activity: In the morning, hike to the summit of Colline de l’Anse-à-l’Eau for sweeping views of the estuary and fjord. In the afternoon, pay a visit to the Charlevoix Observatory, where your students can discover the wonders of the solar system through massive telescopes and interactive workshops.
Learn more about Charlevoix, here.
For the nature lovers: Tadoussac
This charming village at the junction of the St. Lawrence and Saguenay rivers is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich marine life. Here, your students can embark on a thrilling boat tour to spot belugas, humpback whales, and other marine mammals. Students can also connect with the Innu people who call Tadoussac home, learning about their rich traditions and the deep relationship the Innu have with the land and the water.
Suggested activity: Visit the Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre with your class to learn more about the whales of the St. Lawrence, including how to protect these gentle giants. (This is the perfect activity to do before a whale-watching cruise!)
Learn more about Tadoussac, here.
For the art lovers: Baie-Saint-Paul
Art and the environment come together as one force in this picturesque town, origin of Les Échassiers de Baie-Saint-Paul, the troupe of stilt-walkers, artists, aerialists, and acrobats that would grow into the world-famous Cirque du Soleil. Immerse your students in a true painter’s paradise, with breathtaking landscapes, scenic hiking trails, and colourful local art galleries that are sure to inspire their own next masterpieces.
Suggested activity: Get a taste of Charlevoix’s terroir during a stop at Laiterie Charlevoix, a regional creamery that offers samples of local cheeses and other dairy products.
Learn more about Baie-Saint-Paul, here.
For the adventurers: Mont Tremblant
Whether you’re hitting the slopes or kayaking on the glassy waters of Lac Tremblant, this active destination engages visitors all year round. In addition to adrenaline-pumping activities like fat biking and snowboarding, your class can enjoy a scenic gondola ride to the mountain’s summit, hop on the open-air cabriolet that glides over the pedestrian village, and explore the festive atmosphere of the lively ski town.
Suggested activity: Encourage your students to use their français by organizing an exciting scavenger hunt through the Tremblant village, issuing challenges like ordering a Queue de Castor, finding a local souvenir, or asking for directions in French.
Learn more about Mont Tremblant, here.
Whether your students are history buffs, nature enthusiasts, art aficionados, or thrill-seekers, these destinations offer the perfect complement to a classic Québec City and Montréal itinerary.
P.S. Already falling for Québec? Bring your class on an autumnal adventure! Not only will your students enjoy the picturesque foliage, travelling in autumn often offers smaller crowds and better prices than the spring.
