Things to Do in Québec City in Winter

Life in Québec City completely changes once winter hits. And though it might seem like the perfect season to hibernate, the mounting snow isn’t enough to keep the locals indoors. Whether you’re in the city or the country, there’s a variety of things to do when the mercury drops.

Slide in front of Chateau Frontenac
Winter sledding down the Glissades de la Terrasse Dufferin. Photo © Vlad Ghiea/Dreamstime.

Fun Outdoor Activities

  • Drive an hour north to Le Massif, the highest ski mountain in the province. The ski runs offer 49 different trails and have the most breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River.
  • Bundle up and head to Château Frontenac for some serious winter sledding down the Glissades de la Terrasse Dufferin.
  • Indulge in the sweet treat known as tire sur la neige (maple syrup frozen on snow), which can be found at just about every corner come winter.
  • Head to Carnaval de Québec, which takes place between the end of January and early February, and features two weeks of outdoor fun, from snow sculpture competitions and outdoor dance parties to dog-sled races and canoe races over the icy St. Lawrence River.
a chef scrapes cheese from a raclette wheel with a hot knife
The hearty and warming raclette will warm you up in winter. Photo © Andrea Izzotti/iStock.

Cozy Indoor Pursuits

Don’t want to brave the frosty temperatures? Don’t worry—there’s plenty to do inside as well.

  • Get bookish at the library at the Morrin Centre, which is both well-stocked and cozy.
  • Peruse the best in contemporary Québec art at Galerie Michel Guimont or visit Méduse, a hub for all things cultural from photography galleries to multidisciplinary acts.
  • Catch a show at Théâtre Petit Champlain. With its 140-seat capacity, you’re practically in on the act.
  • Enjoy the arts at Grand Théâtre de Québec, home of the opera, the orchestra, the ballet, and theater company Théâtre du Trident.
  • A typical après-ski meal of raclette is the perfect end-of-the-day fare. It can be procured in the cozy confines of restaurant Le Petit Coin Latin.

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