Quebec was founded by explorers. Samuel de Champlain, cartographer and navigator, chose this site precisely for its exceptional strategic and geographic qualities. This exploratory spirit remains embedded in the city’s DNA: Quebec has always had a desire to understand the world around it.

Today, this scientific tradition is expressed through a constellation of remarkable institutions: museums, research centers, renowned universities, an aquarium, and observatories that make Quebec a leading scientific and cultural destination in Canada.

For families as well as curious individuals, Quebec's science museums offer immersive and educational experiences of exceptional quality. You don’t just go there to learn: you go to be amazed, to question, and to leave with the feeling that the world is bigger and more fascinating than you thought when you arrived.

The Observatory of the Capital, located at the top of the Marie-Guyart building on Grande-Allée, is the highest public lookout in Quebec. At 221 meters altitude, the panoramic view encompasses Old Quebec, the Saint Lawrence, Orléans Island, the Laurentians to the north, and the Appalachians to the south. A living geographical map within sight.

Telescopes and binoculars are available for visitors who wish to explore the details of the landscape. Informational panels identify the geographical and historical landmarks visible from the platform, turning the simple view into a true lesson in geography and the history of Quebec territory.

At sunset, the Observatory is one of the most magical places in Quebec. The sky turns red, gold, and purple over the river, the city gradually lights up, and the stars appear above the Laurentians. The great visual circuit of Quebec from the air.

Designed by architect Moshe Safdie, the Museum of Civilization building is itself a work of art. Its integration into the historic fabric of the Old Port, with glass facades and concrete volumes that dialogue with neighboring old houses, makes it a masterpiece of contemporary architecture in the heart of the historic city.

The museum's permanent exhibitions, including the famous exhibition on the First Nations, trace human history with rich documentation and staging that rival the world's greatest museums. The often spectacular temporary exhibitions regularly attract visitors from all over North America.

The French Regime Museum and the Francophone America Museum, also managed within the network of civilization museums, complement the museum offerings in the Old Port area with exhibitions on colonial history and Francophone culture in America.

The Aquarium of Quebec offers educational programs for school groups and families that turn the visit into a true scientific adventure. Naturalist guides accompany visitors in discovering species and their behaviors with remarkable pedagogy.

The Museum of Civilization has developed an exemplary family offer: educational play areas, creative workshops, storytelling visits, and exhibitions designed for young visitors from 3 years old. Every visit, even for the little ones, is an opportunity to awaken curiosity and a love of knowledge.

After a day of scientific discoveries, Carrera Café is the ideal gourmet stop: our Petit-Champlain terrace welcomes tired but amazed families with local boards, fresh juices, and exceptional coffees for parents who need to recharge their own batteries before answering the inevitable question: "Why?"