Québec City and its nearby towns make up an authentically four-season destination, from its legendary fall foliage to the Christmas holidays, annual Winter Carnival (launched in 1894) to many spring and summer cultural events and festivals. While its most iconic historic sites are in plain view from the roads and Saint Lawrence River (particularly the Plains of Abraham, the Chateâu Frontenac Hotel and the Musée de la Civilisation) others take more effort to find but will reward connoisseurs of history, pop culture, architecture, art and even archaeology.
The Saint-Louis Forts and Chateâux National Historic Site
A treasure trove of Québec City history sat beneath the Terrace Dufferin for more than 300 years until an archaeological dig uncovered several iterations of the governor’s house. The fascinating discovery revealed the house increased in size with every governor (from the French governor of New France to the British governor of Québec to governor-general of British North America to lieutenant-governor of Lower Canada). It opened as a museum in 2008, coinciding with Québec City’s 400th anniversary. Rather than transport coins, buckles, plates and other personal effects to another building, they are maintained within the carefully preserved underground rooms making up the only archaeological crypt in North America. Guided tours and signage tracing the evolution of the governor’s house and the city bring depth to the site.
![University](https://www.globaltravelerusa.com/wp-content/uploads/1010-originalunivsrsitelavel-1024x736.jpeg)
© Elyse Glickman
The Literary and Historical Society of Québec
Built in 1712 as military barracks, this imposing building was repurposed as the Québec City Common Gaol and, later, as part of Morrin College, the city’s first English-language college. Now the city’s English-language library, it is a destination for those interested in exploring documents and books lining the walls of the main area of the former prison, offering insight into the contributions and history of English-speakers in Québec.
Huron Traditional Site Onhoüa Chetek8e
In Wendake, 20 minutes from Québec City’s downtown, visitors can immerse themselves in the traditions, culture and day-to-day life of the Huron-Wendat Nation through its history. The village making up this dynamic learning environment consists of a longhouse, shaman’s hut, tepee, sweat lodge, smoke room, dryer and a hut with some canoes. In addition to storytelling sessions and tours offered (reservations required), seasonal activities include tomahawk throwing, archery and crafts.
![Musee Pop](https://www.globaltravelerusa.com/wp-content/uploads/1010-lemuseepopmusicroomquietrevolution-1024x745.jpg)
© Elyse Glickman
Musée POP
Exploring quebecois popular culture offers another route to a greater understanding of the political and social dynamics between French Canada and the rest of the country. This colorful museum in Trois Rivières (90 minutes by car southwest of Québec City) features temporary art exhibits as well as permanent rooms dedicated to pop music; the evolution of day-to-day life during the 20th century through furniture; and the province’s cultural shift during the Quiet Revolution of the 1960’s, transforming from a conservative, religious society to a more open and progressive one.
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FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
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May 15, 2024Martinhal Lisbon Chiado Review
Those who have basked in the beach-side luxuries of Martinhal Sagres Family Resort in the Algarve can enjoy a more urban travel experience without losing the warmth and family-centric ambiance of Martinhal’s brand of hospitality. In the heart of Lisbon, Martihal Lisbon Chiado Luxury Hotel & Apartments is a haven of luxury with amenities designed to welcome guests of all ages, a full-service family resort in the middle of the city.
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This November, Windstar Cruises celebrates more than 36 years in Tahiti with an itinerary taking guests to the clear waters of Tahiti and The Tuamotu Islands on a journey exploring Tahitian culture, the ecosystems of Fakarava, and the sunsets of Raiatea and Bora Bora. The 10-day sailing aboard Star Breeze, Nov. 18–28, departs from Papeete and ends in Papeete.
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May 15, 2024Qatar Airways, Cardless Debut U.S. Credit Cards
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Hit the High Notes in Nashville
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May 15, 2024Virgin Limited Edition Launches New Property in Kenya
Virgin Limited Edition officially debuted the award-winning Finch Hattons Luxury Safari Camp in Kenya, the latest addition to the brand’s collection of unique retreats. The tented safari camp offers guests an incredible luxury safari experience in one of the greatest biodiversity regions in the world. The camp marks the second property in Kenya for the collection.
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May 13, 20246 Reasons to Put Guayaquil, Ecuador, on Your Travel List
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L’Ermitage Beverly Hills: A Discreet Hideaway Awaits
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May 10, 2024Enjoy a Private Island Retreat, Accessible Only by Cruise Ship
Setting sail on a cruise is, for the most part, an all-inclusive experience, providing myriad opportunities for traveling someplace new and exotic. More than a dozen cruise lines sweeten tropical itineraries by calling upon their own private islands, giving guests exclusive access to uninterrupted stretches of sandy beaches and calm waters. Here we take a look at some of the private islands to which it’s worth charting a course.
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