The Plains of Abraham (Plaines d’Abraham) are one of the most important historic and cultural sites in Québec City. They form part of the Battlefields Park. This is where the famous 1759 battle between the French and British armies took place, shaping the future of North America.
Today, the Plains are not only a historic landmark but also a huge green space where visitors can enjoy museums, gardens, trails, and seasonal activities.
Quebec City Tourism: Plains of Abraham
Step 1: Getting Here
The Plains of Abraham are located in the heart of Québec City.
-
Address: 835 Avenue Wilfrid-Laurier, Québec, QC G1R 2L3
You can get here in several ways:
-
By public transit – The RTC bus network has multiple routes that stop near the park. Use the RTC Trip Planner to find the best option.
-
On foot – The Plains are a short and beautiful walk from Old Québec. You can reach them by strolling along Terrasse Dufferin and the Promenade des Gouverneurs, which lead directly into the park.
-
By car – Paid parking is available at the Plains of Abraham Museum and in nearby lots. Street parking is limited but can sometimes be found in the surrounding neighbourhoods.
Step 2: Admission & Hours
The outdoor park grounds are always free and open to the public year-round, which makes them one of the best budget-friendly activities in Québec City.
The Plains of Abraham Museum has regular visiting hours and admission fees:
-
Typical opening hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily (seasonal changes may apply).
-
Admission fees: Adults are about $13.75, youth and seniors are about $11.50, and children under 12 are often free or receive discounts.
Step 3: What to See and Do
-
The Plains of Abraham Museum: This museum explains the history of the battles of 1759 and 1760 with permanent exhibitions, interactive displays, and even immersive multimedia experiences. Temporary exhibitions also rotate throughout the year, such as Québec 1775: Blizzards and Battle.
-
The Joan of Arc Garden: A peaceful and colourful spot, the Joan of Arc Garden is a formal French-style garden decorated with statues and seasonal flower beds. It is a favourite place for quiet walks and photography.
-
Martello Towers: These defensive stone towers were built by the British in the early 1800s to protect the city. In summer, some towers are open to the public and feature small exhibitions inside.
-
The Outdoor Park: With nearly 100 hectares of lawns, forests, and trails, the Plains are a perfect place for jogging, cycling, picnicking, or simply lying on the grass to enjoy the views.
-
Monuments and Scenic Views: Scattered throughout the park are statues and monuments that commemorate historic figures and events. From many areas, you can also enjoy panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River and Québec City.
Step 4: Activities and Events
The Plains of Abraham are not just a historic site; they are also one of the city’s main cultural and recreational hubs.
-
In summer, outdoor concerts are held at the Edwin Bélanger Bandstand, and visitors can take part in guided tours, reenactments, and family-friendly activities.
-
In autumn, the park’s trees turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, making it a favourite place for photographers and nature lovers.
-
In winter, the Plains transform into a snow-covered playground, offering cross-country skiing trails, snowshoe paths, and skating opportunities.
-
Year-round, the park offers themed treasure hunts, escape games, and special programs for families.
Step 5: Tips Before You Go
-
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the park is large and trails can be long. In winter, paths may be slippery.
-
Bring snacks and water, especially if you plan to spend several hours exploring. Cafés are available nearby, but the park itself is very spread out.
-
If you want to visit both the museum and the gardens, plan at least half a day.
-
Check the weather forecast before your visit, as seasonal activities and events may change depending on conditions.
Getting Back
Leaving the Plains of Abraham is easy because of its central location.
-
If you came by public transit, you can catch an RTC bus from stops close to the park.
-
If you prefer walking, Old Québec, the Citadel, Grande Allée, and Parliament Hill are all within a short distance.
-
If you park by car, the museum parking lot offers quick access back to the main city roads.
-
Many visitors also choose to continue their day by exploring nearby neighbourhoods such as Grande Allée for restaurants or Vieux-Québec for shopping and sightseeing.
Final Note
The Plains of Abraham are a unique combination of history, culture, and nature. This is the place where the history of Canada was shaped in the 18th century, but it is also where locals and visitors gather today for festivals, sports, and relaxation. Whether you want to walk through peaceful gardens, visit the museum, enjoy a concert, or simply admire the view of the St. Lawrence River, the Plains offer something for every type of traveller.