The Aquarium du Québec is one of the city’s most family-friendly attractions. Home to over 10,000 animals across more than 300 species, it combines indoor and outdoor exhibits, fun interactive areas, and unforgettable encounters with marine mammals. Whether you’re visiting with kids, friends, or just curious about nature, this aquarium offers a unique mix of education and entertainment right by the St. Lawrence River.
Getting There
- By Car: The aquarium is about 15 minutes from Old Québec by car. Take Autoroute 73 or Autoroute 540 toward Avenue des Hôtels. There is free on-site parking, but during busy summer weekends, it can fill up quickly.
- By Public Transit: The RTC (Réseau de transport de la Capitale) runs several bus routes that stop near the aquarium. From downtown, buses on routes 25, 35, or 80 connect toward the Sainte-Foy area, where you can walk a short distance to the entrance. Always check the RTC’s website or app for current schedules.
- By Taxi / Rideshare: Taxis and Uber are widely available in Québec City. A ride from Old Québec takes around 15–20 minutes, depending on traffic.
- On Foot: The aquarium is located outside central Old Québec, so walking is not practical. It’s best to drive or take transit.
Tips: You can also check the Translink Website for Skytrain schedules.
First Impressions
- Address: 1675 Avenue des Hôtels, Québec, QC G1W 4S3
- Operator: Managed by Sépaq (Société des établissements de plein air du Québec)
First impression: The grounds feel more like a marine park than just an aquarium. Expect open skies, fresh air, and big outdoor enclosures alongside modern indoor tanks.
What You’ll See
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Marine Mammals Outdoors – Polar bears, walruses, and seals in naturalistic habitats with underwater viewing windows.
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The Great Ocean Tank – A 350,000-litre aquarium filled with Pacific species.
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Interactive Family Zones – In summer, kids can enjoy water games, play areas, and a ropes / tree-adventure circuit.
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Seasonal Trails & Lookouts – Outdoor paths lead to scenic views of the St. Lawrence River.
Hours & Tickets
Opening Hours:
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Open year-round.
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Monday to Friday: 9 am to 4 pm
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Saturday to Sunday: 9 am to 10 pm
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Always check the official site before visiting, as renovations sometimes affect hours.
Tickets:
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Tickets are sold online through the official Sépaq reservation system.
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Children under 2 enter free.
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Family and group pricing are available.
Visitor Tips
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Plan 2–3 hours to explore without rushing.
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Arrive early on weekends to avoid the biggest crowds.
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Summer visits: Don’t miss the outdoor mammal habitats and play zones.
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Dress for the weather: Outdoor areas can be chilly in winter or sunny in summer.
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Comfortable shoes are a must for walking between pavilions.
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Accessibility: Wheelchairs are available at the ticket office, and most areas are accessible.
Highlights Not to Miss
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Watching polar bears or seals through underwater glass tunnels.
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The glowing jellyfish room in the Depths Pavilion.
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The St. Lawrence River viewpoints — great for photos.
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Letting kids enjoy the water games and tree-ropes adventure course in summer.
Getting Back & Nearby Options
- Parking: Free outdoor parking on site.
- Transit: Accessible by city bus routes; check RTC for the best connection.
- Nearby Attractions: After your visit, you can head toward Old Québec for museums like the Musée de la Civilisation, or simply enjoy a scenic drive along the St. Lawrence.
Final Note
The Aquarium du Québec is more than an aquarium — it’s a blend of marine life, outdoor fun, and Québec’s natural beauty. From polar bears and walruses to glowing jellyfish and adventure courses for kids, it offers something for all ages. Plan your visit, check the schedule in advance, and be ready for a few hours of discovery and fun.