L'Îlot des Palais are two palaces from the 14th Century which are now an archaeological museum, in Quebec City. The two palaces are over 300 years old and during olden times served as the administrative office of New- France. It also houses prison cells and stores from that era. A trip to this museum is a unique experience for the whole family. The tour includes almost real archaeological digs, games and treasure hunts. It's a great way for kids and adults to learn about the history of these colonies, interactively.
One of the most popular modes of transportation between Quebec City and Levis is a scenic ferry ride operated by the Societe des Travierses. At 10 to 15 minutes, the 1 kilometer (0.62 mile) ride is short, but gives ample opportunities to appreciate the beauty of the cities from the Saint Lawrence River. Passengers ride aboard the MV Alphonse-Desjardins or the MV Lomer-Gouin featuring spacious decks and capability to accommodate vehicles. Spectacular vistas abound; don't forget your camera.
A shopping oasis as spectacular as Galeries de Capitale deserves a fitting amusement option, and Méga Parc certainly lives up to its name. With a whopping 18 rides for children of all ages, it's easy to forget that the park is an indoor facility. From the classic Ferris wheel and bumper cars to the stomach-churning G-Force and Roller Coaster, the park has something for everyone. Besides the rides, the facility offers a large ice-skating rink as well. Additionally, the facility makes provisions for birthday parties and private events.
This extraordinary national park, Cartier-Brébeuf National Historic Site, located just north of Quebec City on the St Charles River, is run by the federal government as a record of explorer Jacques Cartier's interaction with the Iroquois natives in 1535. Visit the interpretive centre to sample cedar tea, view the Iroquois longhouse and functioning garden, take an educational tour of the entire site, or just amble through the beautiful grounds by bike or on foot. The staff is fluent in both French and English, but be sure to call ahead for specific activity information.
Artillery Park National Historic Site was both a French and British barracks, and was functioning as a munitions factory as recently as the early 1960s. Visitors can tour the fully-restored dining room, kitchen and drawing room, as well as the officers' mess hall and industrial buildings. The interpretive center offers a fascinating multimedia journey through the history of the site and Quebec City itself.
This popular museum presents Quebec's military history in an immersive show centered around an enormous and meticulously-researched scale model of the city. The displays document the many battles and sieges, involving at various points the British, French and Americans. The presentation intrigues children and adults alike. Located across the street from the Château Frontenac, this is an essential stop on any historically-inclined tour of Quebec. The presentation is given in both French and English. Call ahead for varying dates and times.