Museum of Civilization plays host to a wide variety of locally and internationally themed exhibitions. In a building that effortlessly combines ancient colonial architecture with ultramodern additions, visitors feast on bilingual exhibitions ranging from Xi'an, Eternal Capital, a multimedia exploration of the ancient Chinese city, to Encounter with the First Nations, which focuses on Quebec's Native Peoples. Guided tours are also available.
Constructed in the late 19th Century in an atypical Second Empire style, this preeminent landmark oversees Quebec's parliamentary proceedings in the province's capital city. Every bit as impressive as its counterparts in other provinces, Quebec City's Parliament Building bears a striking resemblance to another North American monument - the Philadelphia City Hall. The building comprises of four distinct wings that forge a square spanning nearly 100 meters (328 feet) on each side. While the building is home to the revered National Assembly Chamber and the National Assembly Library, hours can be spent admiring the remarkable edifice itself, which has more than 25 statues of notable figures built into its facade. The immaculately landscaped grounds of the structure are another marvelous feature, replete with fountains and well-maintained gardens.
The grand Palais Montcalm Theatre, erected at Place d'Youville, has entertained Quebec for almost 70 years. With a diverse lineup of classical, contemporary and specialty musical acts, the stone structure allows magnificent sightlines and superior acoustics in stately surroundings. A smaller performance space, the Café-Spectacles du Palais Montcalm, showcases blues and jazz acts in a cozy atmosphere. Though superseded by the Grand Théâtre in stature, the Palais Montcalm remains one of the city's true artistic and architectural landmarks. Ticket prices vary.
There may be no better view of the city than that from 725 feet (221 meters) above sea level, which is why this observatory is a great place to discover Quebec City. Located on top of the Marie-Guyart Building, the Observatoire de la Capitale has an interesting interpretation center where visitors can learn about the history of Quebec City on urban, industrial, maritime, architectural, political and geographical levels. Guided visits are offered daily.
The Port of Quebec is more than 150 years old. This was a place where once ancient European ships docked and so, the post has a fascinating connection to the history of Quebec City. The port organizes mini-cruise excursions for tourists and locals. During the tour, tourists navigate through the waters of St. Lawrence River, giving them a panoramic view of Quebec City. The tour also entertains people on-board through multimedia shows and videos talking about Canadian culture.
The Théâtre Capitole inside the Capitole du Quebec has been in existence since 1992. It was formerly an arts and cultural events center but today it is used as a concert hall. Majestically decorated, the theater has comfortable seating accompanied by an excellent acoustic audio systems. The theater is divided into the Balcony and Orchestra Levels, check the seating map on their website. Some of the biggest names in the business have all performed here. Today the Theatre Capitole attracts thousands of screaming fans who come to see their favorite acts do what they do best.