The Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec (MNBAQ) is one of the city’s most inspiring cultural spots. With more than 42,000 works dating from the 17th century to today, it’s more than an art museum — it’s a journey through history, creativity, and Québec’s identity.
From Inuit art to decorative design, from big-name exhibitions to local gems, MNBAQ offers something for everyone.
Getting There
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By Foot: The MNBAQ is located in Battlefields Park, about a 15–20 minute walk from Old Québec (Château Frontenac area). The walk is scenic, especially through Grande Allée.
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By Public Transit: RTC buses 11, 25, 800, and 801 all stop near the museum. Closest stop: Parc des Champs-de-Bataille / MNBAQ.
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By Car: The museum has a paid parking lot behind the Charles-Baillairgé Pavilion (with EV charging). Nearby street parking is limited.
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By Bike: Bicycle racks are available near the main entrance. Riding through the Plains of Abraham is popular in warmer months.
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By Taxi / Rideshare: Drop-off is directly at the Pierre Lassonde Pavilion entrance on Grande Allée.
Tips: You can also check the Translink Website for the Skytrain schedules.
First Impressions
Address: 179 Grande Allée Ouest, Québec City, QC (main entrance at the Pierre Lassonde Pavilion).
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The museum is located right inside Battlefields Park (Plains of Abraham), so you can easily combine a visit with a stroll outdoors.
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The complex includes several pavilions:
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Pierre Lassonde Pavilion – stunning glass architecture, contemporary art.
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Gérard Morisset Pavilion – historical and classical collections. (currently undergoing renovation.)
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Charles-Baillairgé Pavilion – a former prison, currently undergoing renovations (not always accessible).
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First impression: the Pierre Lassonde Pavilion’s glass façade is breathtaking — modern and airy, yet in harmony with the park around it.
Hours & Admission
Opening Hours:
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Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday → 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
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Wednesday → 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
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Monday → Closed (except some holiday openings)
Admission (2025 rates, exhibitions & collections):
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Adults (31–64): $25
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Seniors (65+): $24
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Ages 18–30: $18
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Ages 13–17: $8
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Children 12 & under: Free
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Family package (2 adults + up to 5 children under 17): $50
Special Offers:
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Wednesday evenings (5–9 PM) → half-price entry.
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First Sunday of every month → free for Québec residents aged 19 & under.
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Free admission for Indigenous communities (First Nations, Inuit, Métis) with a status card.
What You’ll See & Do
Permanent Collections
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Us – explores identity, society, and personal experience.
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Decorative Arts & Design in Québec – furniture, crafts, and objects showing Québec’s creativity through time.
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Ilippunga – an impressive Inuit art collection, the Brousseau collection, with sculptures, prints, and carvings.
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Contemporary Art in Québec – from the 1960s to today, vibrant and diverse voices.
Special Programs
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Guided tours in French/English.
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Family workshops and art discovery sessions.
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Film screenings, wellness activities, and special evening events.
Practical Info & Visitor Tips
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Tickets: Buy online to save up to $3 on some exhibitions.
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Parking: Paid lot behind the Charles-Baillairgé Pavilion (with EV charging).
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Accessibility: Ramps, elevators, and accessible washrooms are available.
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Food & Drink:
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On-site restaurant and café (great for a mid-visit pause).
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Gift shop/bookstore with art-inspired souvenirs.
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Best Times to Visit:
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Weekday mornings or afternoons for fewer crowds.
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Wednesday evenings for a quieter, atmospheric visit (plus half price).
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Suggested Visit Route
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Start in the Pierre Lassonde Pavilion for a modern welcome.
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Explore the “Us” exhibition for a dive into identity and society.
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Visit the Ilippunga Inuit collection for culture and tradition.
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Stroll through Decorative Arts & Design — beautiful everyday objects.
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Don’t miss major works like Jean Paul Riopelle’s large-scale pieces.
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Take a coffee break at the café.
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If time allows, return in the evening to enjoy the museum under lights.
Getting Back & Nearby Attractions
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The museum sits inside Battlefields Park — perfect for a relaxing walk afterwards.
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Stroll along Grande Allée for restaurants and cafés.
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Public transit: Buses 11, 800, 801 stop nearby.
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Taxis and rideshare pickups are available right at the entrance.
Final Note
The MNBAQ isn’t just a museum — it’s a meeting place of art, history, and Québec’s culture. From modern exhibitions to centuries-old treasures, every room tells a story. Whether you’re an art lover or just curious, you’ll leave with new perspectives and a deeper sense of Québec’s creative spirit.