What to Do in Québec City in May

Some you can drive right up to, while others come as a reward after a pleasant hike. No matter which ones you decide to visit, you’ll see the waterfalls at their spectacular best in the spring. A stop at Montmorency Falls Park is always a must, but to get off the beaten path, head to Canyon Sainte-Anne (which opens May 11 this year) or to Wendake, where there’s a lovely trail to Kabir Kouba Falls.

Snack shacks are a venerable French Canadian tradition, and the Québec City area is no exception. Some stick to down-home staples like fries and poutine, while others, like Chez Mag on Île d’Orléans, are all about reinventing old favourites.

The parks are usually in bloom by mid-May, turning any stroll into a glorious nature bath. Admire the greenery on the Plains of Abraham or the footpath that runs along both sides of the St. Charles River. Insider tip: swing by Le Grand Marché and fill a basket with gourmet goodies for a picnic in the park.

Québec City boasts an impressive 400 km of bike paths that stretch out in all directions from the city centre. By May they’re swept clean and are ready for you to roll, so get out there and enjoy! Favourites include Promenade Samuel De Champlain, which takes you along the St. Lawrence River out to the city’s twin bridges, and Corridor du Littoral, which runs all the way to Montmorency Falls. Go where the wind takes you!

Carrefour international de théâtre is an international theatre festival with innovative shows at indoor and outdoor venues. The signature event, “Où tu vas quand tu dors en marchant...?” is a series of weird and wonderful outdoor tableaux.