When my kids were small, I used to eagerly anticipate opportunities to head out on a solo vacation. A hotel room to myself, room service, exploring a city on my own terms – all without worrying about where I could buy kid-friendly snacks or change a diaper. Dreamy, right?
Now that my kids are older, when I travel alone I frequently find myself thinking, “I wish the kids were here – they would love this!”
Quebec City is rich in history and architecture, and not somewhere I imagined would be particularly appealing to kids. However, on a recent solo cycling trip to the province’s capital city, I often found myself wishing I had brought my kids there for the fun. Here are my four favourite kid-friendly all-season adventures in Quebec City:
Le Centre d’Amusements Carie Factory
A multi-level ball pit complete with thousands of balls fired from cannons is worth the price of admission alone at Le Centre d’Amusements Carie Factory, but there’s much more to do at this indoor play place. Kids can climb and slide into a giant maze, watch a 4D movie, jump on trampolines, drive in air-filled bumper cars, play in the arcade or laser room. Before you head home, be sure to stop by their candy shop.
Aquarium du Québec
Kids and adults alike will love the experience at Aquarium du Québec. The aquarium is home to more than 10,000 marine animals and covers a vast 16 hectares with outdoor and indoor activities such as a walrus show, seal training, a touch basin and much more. Watch animal trainers work with polar bears, seals and walruses, and take a stroll through the incredible Grand Océan, a tunnel through a 350,000-litre saltwater tank.
credit photo SHUTTERSTOCK Sepaq
Galeries de la Capitale’s Méga Parc
You don’t need nice weather to enjoy the day at Galeries de la Capitale’s Méga Parc, one of North America’s largest indoor recreational parks. Check out the more than 20 rides, including a roller coaster and Ferris wheel, rope apparatus, climbing wall, miniature golf, bowling, and a regulation-size skating rink.
Musée de la civilisation
The imaginative and interactive Musée de la civilisation has numerous components geared towards kids. Travelling exhibits change frequently, and permanent activities (such as their costume workshop and play space) will leave your kids begging to stay for just a few more minutes. Best of all, kids under 12 are free!
