Québec City’s Ultimate Spring Bucket List

As sunny days return, the city’s green spaces gradually come back to life. People start walking through Domaine de Maizerets, Parc du Bois de Coulonge, and the Plains of Abraham, taking the time to admire the trees in bloom, spot the year’s first tulips, and delight in the colours slowly brightening up the gardens and flowerbeds. Take a seat on a bench and bask in the sunshine, bring a picnic as soon as the weather allows, and savour the joy of the great outdoors.

The ski season continues through March and often even into April, much to the delight of skiers and snowboarders. We love zipping down the slopes under the bright sun and enjoying milder temperatures. And of course, après-ski is an integral part of the spring experience, whether it’s sipping a drink or hitting the dance floor, ski boots still on. There’s no better way to wrap up the ski season!

Nothing makes us want to dust off our bikes like the first days of spring. In Québec City and the surrounding area, there’s no shortage of bike paths for getting outside and seeing the scenery from a new perspective. Favourites include the Vélopiste Jacques-Cartier/Portneuf for a 60-kilometre ride through the countryside and the Corridor du Littoral for magnificent views of the St. Lawrence River. It’s the perfect combination of physical activity, fresh air, and springtime views—and we can each go at our own pace.

Springtime in Québec City wouldn’t be complete without the traditional sugar shack visit. The classic meals, maple-flavoured everything, and festive atmosphere of maple syrup season draw in people of all ages to indulge in an iconic Canadian experience. Head to Érablière du Lac-Beauport or the Relais des Pins on Île d’Orléans to enjoy a hearty meal with family or friends and celebrate the arrival of spring like a true Quebecer.

As the weather warms back up, bar and restaurant patios gradually start reopening and locals rediscover a national pastime: eating and drinking outside. Starting in May, the first patios come to life and only get more popular as the days get warmer. From Old Québec to Grande Allée and in every neighbourhood beyond, patios are a go-to for fully enjoying the warm weather together.

As the snow melts, water levels rise and the region’s many waterfalls become a sight that stops us in our tracks. Some of the best views can be found at Montmorency Falls Park, a classic destination for witnessing the power of water, and Jean-Larose Falls, a hidden gem near Mont-Sainte-Anne, just 45 minutes from downtown Québec City. 

Many of our favourite roadside food stops close for winter, so we eagerly await their reopening and the chance to relish their greasy fare once again. We look forward to enjoying our beloved rest stop classics and reconnecting with a tradition that’s deeply rooted in our everyday lives. Can’t-miss spots include Ti-Oui in Saint-Raymond, Le Vieux-Moulin in Pont-Rouge, and L’Usine à frites in Wendake. Whether we’re craving a massive poutine or need to grab a quick on-the-go snack, roadside snack bars are an integral part of spring in Québec.

After the long winter, spring is the perfect time for a relaxing getaway at one of the region’s Nordic spas. Alternate between outdoor hot tubs, saunas, and rest areas to unwind from the daily grind. For a riverside experience, Strøm Spa Nordique is a captivating setting that invites contemplation, while Le Nordique Spa Stoneham offers immersion in nature, nestled in the woods.

Every spring, the streets of Québec City host Où tu vas quand tu dors en marchant...? (Where Do You Go When You Sleepwalk...?), an extraordinary artistic event that invites the public to experience original theatre performances in unexpected places. Go with the flow from place to place, carried along by scenes that make the city’s spaces feel like another world. An immersive cultural experience that’s not to be missed.

Tasting the first ice cream cone of the season is definitely one of spring’s great joys! As the days grow warmer, we can’t wait to visit our favourite spots again. Head to the nearest Chocolats Favoris location or discover unique frozen treats at La Folle Tablée or Fendel & Lilo. There’s just something about ice cream that perfectly caps off a springtime outing.