Its unique urban attractions and proximity to nature make Laval, Quebec, an exciting must-visit destination this summer. It’s a playground for the eco-curious, urban explorers and adventurous foodies. Experience French Canadian culture like never before during this unforgettable vacation! 

WHERE TO STAY 

There are so many perks to booking your stay at the Sheraton Laval Hotel. On top of the comfy, well-appointed rooms, this hotel has a decked-out gym with all the equipment you could need, a full-service spa with a variety of massage and facial services, a convenient restaurant for breakfast, lunch or dinner, and an indoor pool. (We all know the kids need a pool!) Best of all, Sheraton Laval Hotel is located just steps from Laval’s top attractions. 

WHAT TO EAT 

If you’re in a hurry (or can’t get everyone to agree on what to eat!), Espace Montmorency is the ideal destination for dinner. There are burgers, pizza, souvlaki and sushi options to go, or you can book a table at one of the crowd-pleasing restaurants. This vibrant, bustling area is also known for its pop-up shows and sunny patios. It’s the perfect spot for unwinding between activities and sightseeing. 

If that doesn’t leave you feeling fully refreshed, how about stopping for a cold one at Le Festival des Bières de Laval? It’s the meeting place for epicureans and microbrewery enthusiasts alike, from July 11 through 13. Stay for tasting workshops, beer-and-food pairings, games, live music and so much more. 

Photo by Camille Gladu

WHAT TO DO 

Head to Parc de la Rivière-des-Mille-Iles if you love the outdoors and animals. It’s the largest protected wildlife area in this part of Quebec and boasts wildlife reserve status. The area, situated on a scenic archipelago, is home to many birds, animals and insects, including bald eagles and giant snapping turtles. Budding entomologists can grab their nets and binoculars and join a bug exploration walk. You can also rent canoes, kayaks or rowboats to explore the marshes and waterways. (The money from watercraft rentals is used for conservation efforts!) Or head to the Exploration Centre for an environmental and cultural exhibition full of amazing local facts. For example, did you know that famous jazz performers, including Frank Sinatra, played on the riverbanks in the 1950s to entertain tourists? 

Photo by Sébastien St-Jean

A trip to the Centre d’interprétation de l’Eau de Laval (C.I.EAU) will be an eye-opening experience for even the most eco-conscious family. C.I.EAU is a charitable organization founded in 2002 to inform and inspire people about the importance of taking care of our water. Inside the museum, you can learn about the urban water cycle, how wastewater is treated, and what we can all do to protect our drinking water. 

Families will have a truly out-of-this-world experience at the Cosmodôme. Curious kids and adventurous adults can board simulated space missions to experience weightlessness, join a flight to the moon in the 4D theatre, and see a real lunar rock in the museum (it’s one of only five in Canada!). 

 

You’ll want to check out Ferme Marineau. This 100- year-old family-run farm is a destination for freshly picked produce, baked goods, homemade preserves and, yes, the best soft serve around. But it’s not only the delicious food and pick-your own produce that will draw you in, it’s also the attractions—enjoy getting lost in a corn maze (solving puzzles along the way!), meeting cute goats, playing in the landscaped park, snapping pictures at one of the photo stations and even seeing a concert. The activities here are great fun for the whole family!

 

 

Tourisme Laval's mission is to guide and drive the growth of the regional tourism industry and actively contribute to its economic prosperity.