Fun Friday
Good Morning we have made it through another week and now it's time to go on our weekly Friday adventure. Today we are going to go on another adventure to our next country. Can you guess where we are going? We are going to visit the lovely country of Canada and our very first stop is going to be the province of Quebec
1.) Old Quebec if you want to visit France without the long plane ride. Come visit all the amazing buildings, great food and amazing people.
2.) Parc de la Chute-Montmorency located in Quebec City These 275-foot falls on the Montmorency River tower are higher than even the legendary Niagara Falls. The 2013 season promises to be exhilarating for people who will visit Parc de la Chute-Montmorency – Montmorency Falls, the second most visited site of the provincial capital after Old Quebec. The highlight of all the new summer activities is certainly the opening of two via ferrata routes built in the Boischatel fault near the waterfalls. Via ferrata – this is Italian for “iron roads” - is an activity accessible to everyone over 12 years old that combines hiking and rock climbing. The two paths are built on the rock face on the eastern side of the waterfall. The less adventurous will also be able to get stunning views of the 83-meter high waterfall aboard the cable car which now runs with sparkling new cabins. History buffs will be glad to know that guided tours are now offered each weekend in the company of Sir Frederick Haldimand, who served as Governor of Quebec from 1778 to 1786 and Mathilde Robin, best known as the Lady in White, who lost her fiance during the Montmorency Battle in 1759. Guided tours are offered in French or English until Labour Day weekend.
3.) Terrasse Dufferin This elevated area offers panoramic views of Old Quebec and the St. Lawrence River. Winter adrenalin junkies line up by the thousands at Les Glissades de la Terrasse to experience the rush of zooming downhill from 270 feet high (82 meters) in a toboggan speeding up to 60 mph (90 kilometers per hour) to the bottom 500 feet (152 meters) away. Located on the Dufferin Terrace overlooking the St. Lawrence River behind Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, the ride is open from mid-December through late March.
4.) La Citadelle de Québec hours of operation are 10-4pm National Historic Site and active military base, the Citadelle welcomes you with its guided tours and access to the Musée Royal 22e Régiment. Located on the highest natural point in Quebec City, the Citadelle allows you to enjoy spectacular views on the town and the Saint Lawrence River. Discover the fortress of Old Quebec, home of the Royal 22e Régiment, the only French-speaking regiment within the Canadian Armed Forces. Tickets include an hour-long guided tour of the Citadelle, mostly outside, and the access to the Musée Royal 22e Régiment. In order to protect the health and safety of our visitors and employees, we have adopted the guidelines by the Québec Ministry of Public Health, including social distancing standards and applicable health measures.
5.) Plains of Abraham Site of major battles, the Battlefields Park includes the Plains of Abraham and Des Braves Park. Apart from its historical past, the Park is to Québec what Central Park and Hyde Park are to New York and London: a city park of outstanding value, the lungs of the city. The Plains of Abraham Museum is the gateway to the Park, offering exhibitions, activities, services and all information for your visit. Year-round, dive into history with an interactive exhibition on the battles of Québec and an exhibition on artefacts from the Park's archeological collection. From July to the end of October, explore the Plains of Abraham with the Escape Bag Rally or a family treasure hunt. Discover also the dark side of the Plains with fun and terrifying activities for all ages during Halloween and the Month of the Dead. In winter, enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or ice skating! Equipment rental on site ($).
6.) Quebec City Ferry One of Québec’s best-kept secrets and one of the most spectacular views of the Old Town. Located at the heart of Old Québec City, the ride (one-way) takes about 12 minutes. During summertime, discover the marked bike paths located on both sides of the shore: Corridor du Littoral (Quebec City) and Parcours des Anses (Lévis). In winter, the movement of the ice on the St. Lawrence River is truly impressive.
7.) Morrin Centre Discover the secrets of our National Historic Site. Step back in time while walking through the sinister jail cells and decipher the graffiti carved into the floor by former inmates. Visit the intriguing chemistry Lab hidden upstairs, as well as the other classrooms of the Morrin College open from 1868 - 1902. Then, let yourself be spellbound by the haunting stories surrounding the Victorian Library, home to a collection of literary gems, some of which date back to the 16th century. The Morrin Centre offers: Experiences for groups and people of all ages, cultural activities, or consider renting one of our spaces as the perfect place to hold your event!
8.) Musee de la civilisation hours of operations are Tues-Sun 10-5pm This museum is characterized by its innovative and daring outlook. It defines itself as a seat of knowledge and ideas, a museum endowed with valuable collections, an education centre and a living memory. It is located in the region's capital, Quebec City, in the heart of an historic district and close to Place Royale.
9.) Observatoire de la Capitale hours of operations are Tue- Fri 10-5pm Located on the 31st (and top) floor of the Marie-Guyart Building, the Observatory is the highest point in Québec City, offering a spectacular 360 degree view. It offers a new multimedia interpretation display that takes visitors on a fantastic journey through time. State-of-the-art technology in the form of interactive touch screen terminals, soundscapes, and 3D images takes travelers back through Québec City’s rich past.
10.) Aquarium du Québec hours of operation are 9-4pm The Quebec Aquarium, a playground bursting with life! Open year-round and unique in Quebec, our site transports you to the heart of the ecosystems of the St. Lawrence River and Canadian waters to discover the northern fauna and flora. Observe close to 10,000 specimens of native and exotic fish, amphibians, invertebrates, as well as marine mammals including polar bears, seals and arctic foxes. Also enjoy the hebertism track and the water games for children in summer. Don't miss: the Deep Sea Pavilion and its contact pool with rays.
11.) Erico - Creative Chocolate Shop and Chocolate Museum hours of operation are Mon-Sat 10:30-6pm and Sun 11-6pm A creative chocolate shop and an informative small chocolate museum where visitors can learn about the history of chocolate. The Chocolate Museum is free, self guided and displays more than 200 artifacts and objects related to chocolate history. All the displays now have their English version. Two videos are presented (Artisan Chocolate Making and the Industrial Chocolate Making Process (French), from the cocoa tree to the chocolate bar). Watch the chocolatiers at work through a window while you try one of our 10 renowned hot chocolates. In the boutique, the chocolate lovers will find a great variety of classic and audacious handmade chocolates (try the Biquette, a chocolate with goat cheese and Bartlett pear puree!). Indulge yourself with one of our chocolate pastries (chocolate brownies, cookies, cupcakes and decadent chocolate cake) and during the summer, let yourself be tempted by one of the 69 homemade ice cream, sorbet, frozen yogourt and tofu offered! Érico is located in the Faubourg Saint-Jean Baptiste, a convivial part of the city, outside the touristic old walls, that is worth the visit.
12.) Lieu Historique National des Forts-et-Châteaux-Saint-Louis You can go on an hour-long guided tour and learn a lot about the history behind Québec and how the “château “ evolved throughout the centuries. The price is reasonable. If you want to know a bit more about the fort, the old residence and the First Nations, this is the right tour.
13.) Residence of the Governor General at the Citadelle hours of operation 10-5pm The Residence of the Governor General at the Citadelle is an exceptional heritage attraction in the heart of Old Québec. Steeped in history, this unique place, overlooking the St. Lawrence River and sitting high atop Cape Diamant, has been the second official residence of Canada's governors general since 1872. Whether you come on your own, with family and friends, or as part of a group, our guides are eager to help you explore the State rooms where the Governor General fulfills her official duties, welcomes dignitaries from here and abroad and honours Canadians. Learn more about the role and responsibilities of the governor general while discovering the history, the architecture and collections of this magnificent residence. The hours of operation vary depending on the time of the year. Free admission.
14.) Musee du Fort hours of operation are Tuesday-Sun from 11-4pm This small museum chronicles the history of the city, including the numerous battles fought for its control.
15.) Domaine de Maizerets hours of operation are 10-7pm Located on a popular bike path, this pretty park contains gardens, an arboretum and other historic buildings.
16.) Literary and Historical Society of Quebec Taking the tour is about more than just visiting a library and prison you are able to find out about the history of the site as a prison and then a University.It is worth checking out the details about joining the Morrin Centre if you are considering a tour - a great deal allowing use of the library online is available.
17.) Three Crow Glass Studio Witness the magic of traditional glass blowing in the heart of Old Quebec. Christina and Jeff draw inspiration from their fertile imagination to create functional and decorative objects that bring beauty and whimsy to your everyday life. THREE CROW GLASS STUDIO HAS MOVED ! Your favorite glassblowing studio is now up the hill, a hop & a skip away from our old location. (behind city hall, a few houses down from Simmons and the german market) Come see the artists at work and visit our shop: 42 Côte de la Fabrique
18.) Musée de l'Amérique Francophone hours of operation are Sat and Sun 10-5pm Just a few steps from the Holy Door, discover Musée de l'Amérique francophone. Admire a chapel filled with history, precious relics, and other treasures of Québec's religious heritage from the séminaire de québec collection. Set in the heart of Old Québec, Musée de l'Amérique francophone is an essential cultural activity for history lovers. The Museum offers exhibitions on the colonial history of America, the evolution of Francophone culture in North America and abroad, and the effervescence of arts and crafts in Québec.
19.) Chevalier House (Maison Chevalier) This structure, built as a home to Jean-Baptiste Chevalier in 1752 from two 17th-century structures, has been restored as a museum focusing on Quebec's history.
20.) Jardin Universitaire Roger-Van den Hende hours of operation are 9-7pm The only public garden of its kind in North America, the Roger-Van den Hende Garden showcases nearly 4,000 species and cultivars arranged by botanical family. The herbaceum, the beating heart of the garden, holds many secrets to be discovered by curious observers and budding botanists. No matter where you look-from the water garden to the broad pergola providing shade to 40-year-old rhododendrons-this vibrant site never ceases to amaze. Quebec's native flora along with North American, Asian and European plants will take you away in an enchanting landscape like no other. Set off from the garden is a demonstration and trial bed for annual plants of all shapes and colours.
21.) The Quebec Winter Carnival The Quebec Winter Carnival is the world's largest winter carnival that honors longtime traditions. The first winter carnival was held in 1894. Since the beginning of the carnival, its purpose has been to warm everyone's hearts during the winter's hardships by eating, drinking, and being happy! The carnival continues to lift spirits, and now has an enhanced program with a variety of activities including Bonhomme's Royal Kingdom, Night Parades and Ice canoe races. Next edition: February 7 to 16, 2020.
22.) L'Ilot des Palais hours of operation are Thursday 1-5pm and Fri- Sun10-5pm L’ilot des Palais, major historic and archaeological site of the Capital, opened its doors again to the general public on July 3rd 2014. It will present in its vaulted cellars from the 18th century a quite new immersive exhibition. Through techno-culture (ground mapping, projections, 3D…), families, tourists, both young and old people will be transported in the hectic life of this place, the Jean Talon Brewery, to the Palaces of the Intendant, the prisons and Stores of King in the Boswell brewery … Since 1982, 65 archaeological excavation worksites and more than 500 000 artefacts have made possible the promotion of this place of residence of the New France Intendant, place of the economic, social, judicial power… a visit at The Ilot des Palais is imperative to seize our history from the 14th century to nowadays. Surprising discoveries await you there! Among others, 4 Egyptian amulets found in one stratum of 1710 or still the bones of Samy, a small poodle of the 18th century found in the latrines of the second Palace. Discover our GeoRallies with GPS : This activity was inspired by geocaching. You have to find 15 real or virtual caches linked to Vieux-Quebec's history. Whether you do it alone, with friends or family, you can live this adventure : with your own GPS or with our GPS.
23.) Ghost Tours of Quebec / Les Visites Fantomes de Quebec hours of operation are 9:30-8:30pm Discover the darker side of Quebec City's history during this 90-minute walking tour. You'll hear stories of murders, executions, ghostly tragedies, and hauntings. Visit our website for tour times, rates, and live chat!
You can also visit Les Promenades Fantômes The darkest years of New France are just around the corner with Promenades Fantomes : The Original Ghost Walking Tour. In the very heart of old Quebec City, this unique and interactive experience will offer scares, laughs and history. Our friendly and knowledgeable ghostly guides will gladly uncover the darker side of history of the colony, recounting the stories of worst criminals, sentences and even torture practices of the French or English regimes. Meet some of the colony’s worst scoundrels with our interactive street theatre “Crimes in New-France” Discover local superstitions and legends of yore, and visit scenes where death has left its mark with “Legends and superstitions”. On a lighter note, our jolly ghosts invite you to come relive the old Christmas traditions or experience winter as the French settlers did in our tour “Christmas in New-France”. The executioner Jean Rattier and his wife Marie Riviere summon you, but one question remains: Will you dare to try it?
24.) Cicerone Tours Join a genuine character of the New France period off the beaten paths, he will let you experience 400 years of action-packed history in the heart of Old Quebec!You will be impressed by this UNESCO World Heritage site where fine old buildings and proud monuments line winding streets and picturesque places such as the Chateau Frontenac and Place Royale, the cradle of French civilization in North America.
25.) Canot à glace expérience Ice canoe experience is a dynamic company specializing in winter tourist experiences. With the support of professional guides, it offers guided outings to introduce the general public to ice canoeing, an authentic and historic activity. Departures take place from the Samuel-De Champlain promenade, near Old Quebec.
26.) Project Vertical hours of operation are 9-5pm The company offers different Via Ferrata packages and ziplines at the Canyon Sainte-Anne, a tourist site known worldwide for the beauty and power of its fall. Our Via Ferrata are available for kids, adults, couples, and groups. Projet vertical is proud to be the first Via Ferrata site in Quebec to use a continuous lifeline. A system that allows maximum security. Professionalism, safety and fun are the values that best describe the company. Packages with 1 or 2 or 3 Via Ferrata and 1 Zipline. Beginners or adventurous you will find the perfect package for you!
27.) Boutique de Noel de Quebec hours of operation are 10-10pm Surrounded by thousands of sparkling lights, you can stroll through the aisle surrounded by thousands of ornaments, glass baubles, snow globes, music boxes, nutcrackers, unique souvenirs and many more! Boutique de Noël de Québec is one of the most unique and magical places in Quebec city which made this store one of the most popular and most visited places in the city.
With so much history packed into this providence you are sure to find something around every corner. There are theaters and many other amazing things to check out.
I hope that you have enjoyed this week's tour and come back next week for another amazing adventure. Remember to always be kind as it costs nothing and if you see someone without a smile stop and give them yours a smile is contagious and you never know whose life you could save simply by being kind and when it comes to kindness sprinkle it everywhere the world needs more of it.
Written by: BeautifulChaos318
