03 May History and activities around the St. Lawrence River | Visit Quebec City

The St. Lawrence River is an extraordinary waterway that is an essential part of the Quebecois daily lives. It connects the history and culture of Quebec City and provides countless activities for you to explore.

Some interesting facts about the St. Lawrence River

• The St. Lawrence River is a length of approximately 1197 km from Lake Ontario to flow into the Gulf of St. Lawrence

• The Saint-Laurent River includes 3 river lakes: Lake Saint-Louis, Lake Saint-Pierre and Lake Saint-François

• 80% of the population of Quebec lives on its banks

• The river is made up of 3 sections: the river, the estuary and the gulf

• The river is dotted with 600 islands and archipelagos

• Salty and freshwater mix at the height of Île d’Orléans

History of the Saint Lawrence River | Visit Quebec City

Its history dates back millennia when the first indigenous peoples began to explore its waters. According to archaeological excavations, the presence of the first indigenous peoples is estimated at 9000 BC. AD

With the arrival of Europeans in the 16th century, the river shaped the destiny of the territory and its inhabitants.

The St. Lawrence River became a crucial axis of the fur trade from the first contact with Europeans. French explorers like Jacques Cartier sailed up its waters, paving the way for French colonization in North America.

The first settlements developed along its banks, creating the foundations of modern Quebec culture.

The Saint-Laurent River owes its name to the explorer Jacques Cartier who named it in reference to the saint of the day, Saint-Laurent, where he sailed on the river for the first time on August 10, 1535.

Over time, the St. Lawrence River has become a central element of the Quebec economy, enabling the transport of natural resources to global markets. Cities developed along its banks, from Quebec to Montreal, becoming major cultural and economic centers.

The St. Lawrence River also played a crucial role in the development of the maritime industry and navigation in Canada.

The St. Lawrence River is a true symbol of Quebec’s identity. Its natural beauty has inspired many artists, writers and musicians, who have celebrated its greatness in their works. Traditions and customs linked to the river, such as sport fishing and ice fishing in winter, are deeply rooted in Quebec culture.

The St. Lawrence River is much more than just a watercourse; it is a fundamental element of the history, economy and culture of Quebec.

Taste St. Lawrence products | Visit Quebec City

While you’re in the capital, don’t miss out on the opportunity to taste the delicious fresh seafood of the St. Lawrence River.

Redfish, brook trout, halibut, walleye, scallops, and sea urchins to name a few.

Here are some great places located just a short walk from Manoir D’Auteul where you can enjoy the bounty of the St. Lawrence River:

Albacore Restaurant
Chez Boulay, Bistro Boréal
Ophelia Restaurant
Chez Rioux & Pettigrew
Le Kraken Cru

5 activities to enjoy the St. Lawrence River | Visit Quebec City

Promenade Samuel de Champlain

The Samuel-de Champlain promenade is an outstanding legacy of the Quebec Government for the 400th anniversary that should not be missed when visiting the capital city.This project aimed at redeveloping the banks of the St. Lawrence River and it was carried out in 3 phases with 6 different stations.

Stretching for several kilometers between the Pierre-Laporte bridge and the côte Gilmour, the promenade follows the banks of the river. It provides a breathtaking panorama of the majestic river and the surrounding areas for walkers to enjoy.

The promenade includes an observation tower, an equipped beach swimming pool, a reception pavilion, and an interpretation circuit. It is an excellent place to take a bike ride or go for a walk.

If you’re looking for a great spot for stunning photos, we suggest you visit Quai des Cageux at sunset!

Quebec-Lévis ferry

If you’re looking to capture stunning photos despite having a busy schedule, don’t hesitate to take a ride on the Quebec-Lévis ferry. This round trip takes just about an hour and boasts an incredible panoramic view that you won’t want to miss.

While you’re there, be sure to take a stroll along the Quai Paquet de Lévis, which is absolutely buzzed on during the summer season. Here, you’ll find unique water features with 169 powerful jets that can shoot up to 9 meters high, street food trucks, and sound and light shows that will leave you mesmerized.

Both on board the ferry and at the Quai Paquet you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River and the iconic Château Frontenac. This is also a fantastic photo up looking at the sunset over Old Quebec and the lit fortified city after dark.

This is a must-try short excursion that you simply can’t afford to miss!

Make sure to check the Quebec-Lévis ferry website for the daily boat schedule.

Naval Museum of Quebec

A visit to the Naval Museum of Quebec is a fascinating journey through the maritime history of the region. The museum is situated in the former naval base in Quebec City and showcases exhibits that highlight the strategic significance of the St. Lawrence River and the North Atlantic in Canada’s naval history.

Visitors can explore historical artifacts, ship models, and interactive exhibits with tales of the sailors, explorers, and ships that navigated these turbulent waters.

It’s an immersive experience that transports museum goers through the rich maritime past of Quebec and Canada.

Before visiting the museum, we always recommend confirming the opening hours by visiting the museum’s website.

Tour of the Île d’Orléans

Located near Quebec City, Île d’Orléans is a wonderful destination for visitors who looking for a variety of activities and sites to explore. The Island is home to several charming villages like Sainte-Pétronille, Saint-Laurent and Saint-Pierre where visitors can learn about the region’s history and culture.

If you love fresh local produce, then you can visit the island’s many orchards and vineyards to sample some of the best local delights like ice cider and ice wine.

Île d’Orléans also boasts breathtaking landscapes with panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River and surrounding mountains, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and photography lovers.

Don’t miss the Île d’Oréleans chocolate factory in Sainte-Pétronille, which opens its dairy bar in summer. You can enjoy delicious ice cream on the banks of the St. Lawrence River.

For more information about the best addresses to visit in Île d’Orléans, check out our blog post ‘’Visit to Quebec City | 2-day itinerary”

Swimming on the banks of the St. Lawrence River

During the summer in Quebec City, the weather is pleasantly warm and sunny. As a result, many locals and tourists seek out places to cool off along the banks of the St. Lawrence River. Several beautiful beaches in this area are becoming increasingly popular.

Check out our blog to learn more about these stunning locations and plan your trip accordingly.

This can be a wonderful family outing for all ages, as adults are definitely captivated by the charm of the history, but also gives the younger set the chance to let loose and play.

Cruises on the St. Lawrence River

Cruising the St.Lawrence River with Croisière AML, you will witness the spectacular beauty and grandeur of this majestic river.

Whether you choose to embark on a one-hour cruise or a longer excursion, prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking scenery of the river’s bank that encompasses Quebec City and its surroundings.

Croisière AML provides a range of options, including themed cruises, gourmet cruises, and whale watching cruises, all designed to cater to your specific preferences and budget. Whale watching tours do require one full day, so be sure to plan an extra night’s stay at your Historic Quebec City hotel so that you can get it all in.

A cruise with Croisière AML is a tranquil experience allowing one to discover the St. Lawrence River from a whole new perspective. We suggest bringing a sweater or light jacket as the temperature on the water is a bit cooler than when on the banks.

Book your cruise now on their website.

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