Quebec City & Baie‑Saint‑Paul Adventure (Sept 19‑22, 2025)

Day 1: Arrival & Quebec City Exploration

Morning: Depart Montreal early by car (≈ 3 h). Stop at the Draveur Visitors Centre for a quick introduction to the region’s wildlife and enjoy the interactive exhibits, which are perfect for the kids.

Afternoon: Arrive in Quebec City, check into your hotel, then stroll through Old Québec. Visit the historic Québec Aquarium where the children can marvel at the marine life and the touch‑tank area.

Evening: Dine at a family‑friendly bistro in the Petit‑Champlain district and enjoy a relaxed walk along the Dufferin Boardwalk, taking in the illuminated skyline.

Day 2: Hiking Mont du Dôme & Montmorency Falls

Morning: Drive to the Mont du Dôme trailhead. Follow the moderate loop (≈ 2 h) offering spectacular fall foliage and panoramic views of the St‑Lawrence River – the kids will love the short forested sections.

Afternoon: Head to the iconic Montmorency Falls. Take the cable car up and walk the suspension bridge for breathtaking vistas; the waterfall is higher than Niagara, making it a thrilling stop.

Evening: Return to Quebec City, enjoy a relaxed dinner at a restaurant with a kids’ menu, and unwind with a short evening walk in the Plains of Abraham park.

Day 3: Baie‑Saint‑Paul & SEPAQ Adventures

Morning: Travel to Baie‑Saint‑Paul (≈ 1 h). Begin at the Halt au Béluga SEPAQ nature reserve, exploring the interpretive trails and spotting local wildlife – perfect for a curious family.

Afternoon: Hike to Caribou Waterfall, a gentle 30‑minute walk suitable for little legs, followed by a visit to Chute Jean‑Larose, where you can enjoy a picnic beside the cascading water.

Evening: Check into a cozy inn in Baie‑Saint‑Paul, have dinner featuring regional cuisine, and relax on the porch while watching the sunset over the river.

Day 4: Relaxation & Return to Montreal

Morning: Leisurely breakfast, then stroll through the charming streets of Baie‑Saint‑Paul, browsing local artisan shops and the waterfront.

Afternoon: Begin the drive back to Montreal, stopping for a quick snack and a final look at the scenic countryside.

Evening: Arrive home refreshed, with plenty of photos and memories of a perfect family fall getaway.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Draveur Visitors Centre: 2 hours – $12 adult, $6 child (total $36)
• Québec Aquarium: 3 hours – $30 adult, $15 child (total $105)
• Mont du Dôme hike: 2 hours – free (parking $8) (total $8)
• Montmorency Falls (cable car + bridge): 2 hours – $15 adult, $7 child (total $49)
• Halt au Béluga SEPAQ: 2 hours – free (parking $5) (total $5)
• Caribou Waterfall: 1 hour – free (total $0)
• Chute Jean‑Larose: 1 hour – free (total $0)
• Meals (family of 5): 4 days – approx. $150 per day (total $600)
• Accommodation (3 nights): $180 per night (total $540)
• Fuel & Parking: approx. $120
• Miscellaneous (souvenirs, tips): $100
• Total Estimated Cost: $1,463

Tips

To extend the trip, add an extra day in Baie‑Saint‑Paul to explore the nearby Charlevoix wine route or take a guided kayaking tour on the St‑Lawrence River. If you need to shorten the itinerary, combine Day 2 and Day 3 by visiting Montmorency Falls on the way back from Baie‑Saint‑Paul, and skip the Quebec Aquarium, replacing it with a quick visit to the nearby Plains of Abraham park.