Birthplace of Canada: Gaspé
Discover Canada's origins at Gaspé, where Jacques Cartier landed in 1534. Explore historical buildings, cultural exhibits, and the beautiful Gaspé Bay.
Explore the Birthplace of Canada in Gaspé, Quebec, where Jacques Cartier first claimed the land for France in 1534, marking the beginning of French presence in North America. This historical landmark features reconstructed buildings, exhibits, and cultural events that bring the region's rich maritime history to life.
A brief summary to Birthplace of Canada
- 179, Montée Wakeham, QC-198, Gaspé, Quebec, G4X 1V3, CA
- +1418-368-9423
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit between early June and late October to access all buildings and activities, including guided tours with interpreters in period costume.
- Download the free Birthplace of Canada mobile app for a self-guided heritage trail experience.
- Check the event schedule for special activities and cultural events throughout the summer.
- Explore the heritage trail and outdoor site, which are open at all times and offer scenic views of Gaspé Bay.
- Consider making a voluntary contribution to support the site's conservation and educational initiatives.
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Gaspé, the Birthplace of Canada is approximately a 5 km walk. Head east on QC-198 (Montée Wakeham). The site is located on your right at 179, Montée Wakeham, across the street from the Place Jacques Cartier shopping centre. Allow about one hour for the walk.
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Public Transport
Local bus services (RÉGÎM) operate in the Gaspé Peninsula. Check the RÉGÎM schedule for routes and stops near the Birthplace of Canada. Public transit services are free during the summer for minors (under 18) and seniors (65+) who have a RÉGÎM access card. Otherwise, a single fare will cost around $3.00 CAD.
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Taxi
Taxis are available in Gaspé. A short taxi ride from downtown Gaspé to the Birthplace of Canada will cost approximately $15 - $25 CAD. Taxi rates start at approximately $1.30 CAD per kilometer.
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Car
If driving, follow QC-198 (Montée Wakeham) to 179, Montée Wakeham. The Birthplace of Canada is located across the street from the Place Jacques Cartier shopping centre. Free parking is available in the municipal parking area on Rue Harbour. There is also space for two buses to stop nearby, on Route 198.
Discover more about Birthplace of Canada
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Boom Defense
6.0 km
Discover Boom Defense Beach in Gaspé: a tranquil escape with golden sands, stunning Gulf views, and a serene coastal atmosphere.
Forillon National Park, Visitor Reception Centre of Penouille
6.1 km
Discover Forillon National Park's Penouille Visitor Centre: where history, nature, and outdoor adventures converge on Quebec's Gaspé Peninsula.
Site d'Interprétation Micmac de Gespeg
7.0 km
Explore Mi'gmaq heritage at Gaspé's Micmac Interpretation Site: Discover traditions, a 17th-century village, and cultural workshops.
Haldimand beach
8.7 km
Discover Haldimand Beach in Gaspé: Golden sands, stunning views of Forillon Park, and family-friendly fun await!
Le Domaine Du Centaure
9.5 km
Discover Gaspé's scenic beauty on horseback at Le Domaine Du Centaure, where tranquility meets adventure on picturesque trails.
Auberge internationale Forillon
13.2 km
Explore Gaspé's natural beauty from this budget-friendly hostel near Forillon National Park. Perfect for adventurers and budget travelers!
Dawn on sea
14.1 km
Explore Gaspé's stunning coastline with kayak and canoe rentals at Dawn on Sea. Discover hidden coves, marine life, and unforgettable views.
Auberge et chalets Griffon Aventure
18.6 km
Explore Gaspé's natural beauty from cozy chalets & campsites near Forillon National Park. Eco-friendly lodging for outdoor adventures.
Cap Aventure - Quai de Grande grave
19.4 km
Explore Gaspé's outdoors with Cap Aventure: Kayaking, paddleboarding, and unforgettable wildlife encounters in Forillon National Park.
La maison Dolbel-Roberts
19.5 km
Discover early 20th-century life in Gaspé at La Maison Dolbel-Roberts, a preserved home showcasing local history and culture.
Plateforme Vitrée Suspendue
38.8 km
Experience breathtaking views from a glass platform suspended 200 meters above Percé, Quebec, in the heart of the Gaspésie region.
Cap Mont Joli
39.4 km
Get up close and personal with Percé Rock from Cap Mont Joli, a scenic viewpoint offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cross of Gaspé
0.0 km
Discover the breathtaking views and historical significance of the Cross of Gaspé, a must-visit monument in Quebec's picturesque Gaspé region.
Gaspesie Museum
1.2 km
Explore the Gaspésie Museum for an immersive journey into the local history, culture, and heritage of Quebec's stunning Gaspé Peninsula.
La Taïga
4.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of La Taïga, Gaspé's premier hiking area, where nature's majesty unfolds at every turn.
Peninsula Fort
7.0 km
Explore the historical Peninsula Fort in Gaspé, Quebec, where Canada's military past meets stunning coastal beauty.
Parc national Forillon
11.3 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage at Parc National Forillon, a must-see destination for nature lovers in Quebec.
Forillon National Park
15.6 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich history of Forillon National Park on the stunning Gaspé Peninsula in Quebec.
Sentier des Chutes
16.2 km
Experience the stunning trails and breathtaking waterfalls at Sentier des Chutes in Gaspé, Quebec - a hiker's paradise.
Petit-Gaspé Campground
16.9 km
Discover the beauty of nature at Petit-Gaspé Campground, a tranquil escape in Forillon National Park with stunning views and abundant wildlife.
Centre récréatif Petit-Gaspé - Parc national Forillon
17.3 km
Explore the stunning Petit-Gaspé Recreational Center in Forillon National Park, a perfect destination for adventure and relaxation amidst breathtaking nature.
Manoir Le Boutillier
17.7 km
Explore the rich history of Quebec at Manoir Le Boutillier, a captivating museum in Gaspé that showcases the region's heritage and stunning architecture.
Mont Saint-Alban
18.2 km
Discover the stunning panoramic views at Mont Saint-Alban in La Côte-de-Gaspé, a breathtaking mountain peak perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Belvédère du Mont-Saint-Alban
18.9 km
Experience the stunning landscapes of Gaspé from the Belvédère du Mont-Saint-Alban, an observation deck offering breathtaking views and natural beauty.
Lookout
19.2 km
Discover unparalleled views and natural beauty at the Lookout in Gaspé, a premier hiking area within the stunning landscapes of Forillon National Park.
Forillon Baleines
19.4 km
Experience the thrill of whale watching at Forillon Baleines, where nature's wonders unfold against the stunning backdrop of Gaspé, Quebec.
Cap-Bon-Ami Vantage Point
19.5 km
Experience the stunning views and serene atmosphere at Cap-Bon-Ami Vantage Point in Quebec's breathtaking coastal landscape.
Essential places to dine
McDonald's
0.1 km
Discover affordable American fast food in Gaspé at McDonald's - A perfect stop for hungry travelers seeking quick comfort meals.
TÉTÛ Taverne Gaspésienne
0.2 km
Discover TÉTÛ Taverne Gaspésienne in Gaspé – where local flavors meet family-friendly dining and sports excitement.
Baker Hotel
0.2 km
Discover unparalleled comfort at Baker Hotel in Gaspé, Quebec—a perfect blend of local charm and modern amenities awaits you.
Brise Bise
0.2 km
Discover Brise Bise in Gaspé: where exquisite cuisine meets vibrant live music for an unforgettable dining experience.
Auberge sous les arbres
0.2 km
Discover tranquility at Auberge sous les arbres in Gaspé – your gateway to nature's wonders and cozy comfort.
Maison William Wakeham
0.3 km
Experience authentic Quebec cuisine at Maison William Wakeham in Gaspé - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Le Seaflower
0.3 km
Discover exquisite local cuisine at Le Seaflower in Gaspé - where every dish is a celebration of flavor and creativity.
Cafe Des Artistes
0.3 km
Discover Café Des Artistes in Gaspé - where exceptional coffee meets local artistry in a cozy setting perfect for every traveler.
Sarcelle (Marina de Gaspé)
0.4 km
Experience exquisite dining at Sarcelle (Marina de Gaspé), where local flavors meet stunning marina views in a serene atmosphere.
Restaurant et bar St-Hubert
0.5 km
Experience the best of Quebec's cuisine at St-Hubert Restaurant in Gaspé—famous for its rotisserie chicken and welcoming atmosphere.
Bar Le Castor
0.5 km
Discover the heart of Gaspé at Bar Le Castor—your go-to spot for great food, local drinks, and cozy accommodations.
Mastro Pizzeria
0.6 km
Discover Mastro Pizzeria in Gaspé: where delicious pizza meets fresh local seafood for an unforgettable dining experience.
Dixie Lee Take-Out
0.6 km
Experience delicious fast food at Dixie Lee Take-Out in Gaspé—famous for its fried chicken and poutine amidst stunning coastal scenery.
Mito Sushi
0.8 km
Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Mito Sushi in Gaspé, where fresh ingredients meet traditional techniques for an unforgettable takeaway experience.
Casse-croute Jo-Ann
1.1 km
Discover delicious fast food at Casse-croute Jo-Ann in Gaspé - where local flavors meet affordability!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Birth place of canada boutique souvenir
0.0 km
Discover unique Canadian souvenirs at the Birthplace of Canada Boutique Souvenir in Gaspé – where heritage meets charm.
Jacques Cartier Shopping Mall
0.1 km
Discover the Jacques Cartier Shopping Mall in Gaspé - a shopping haven offering diverse stores, dining, and local events for an unforgettable experience.
Maxi Gaspé Reine
0.1 km
Discover fresh produce, delightful baked goods, and local delicacies at Maxi Gaspé Reine in Gaspé, Quebec.
Boutique Bond
0.3 km
Explore Boutique Bond in Gaspé, Quebec, for unique local gifts that capture the charm and culture of the region.
Hart
0.8 km
Explore the diverse offerings of Hart Department Store in Gaspé, where local charm meets shopping convenience.
Studio Mode
0.8 km
Explore the artistry of Gaspé at Studio Mode, a boutique showcasing unique crafts and local treasures that embody Quebec's vibrant culture.
Le Grenier
0.8 km
Explore the chic offerings at Le Grenier, Gaspé's premier boutique for women's fashion and accessories, where style meets local flair.
Boutique Le Pentagone Inc | Magasin de vêtements | Gaspé
0.8 km
Discover local fashion and unique clothing at Boutique Le Pentagone in Gaspé, offering stylish options for everyone.
Carrefour Gaspe
0.8 km
Explore Carrefour Gaspe: Your go-to shopping mall in Gaspé, Quebec, blending retail therapy with local flavor and culture.
Cottages Park
4.6 km
Discover the natural beauty of Gaspé at Cottages Park, your perfect cottage rental near Forillon National Park, where adventure and comfort meet.
Chalet D'accueil Du Parc Forillon
6.1 km
Explore the natural wonders of Gaspé at Chalet D'accueil Du Parc Forillon, your gateway to adventure and education in Forillon National Park.
Camping Gaspé
7.2 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at Camping Gaspé, a top campground destination in Quebec's stunning Gaspé Peninsula.
Centre Culturel Le Griffon
17.7 km
Experience the vibrant culture and culinary delights of Gaspé at Centre Culturel Le Griffon, where art and flavor intertwine in beautiful Quebec.
Galerie d'art Claude Côté
17.7 km
Explore the vibrant local art scene at Galerie d'art Claude Côté in Gaspé, showcasing the beauty and creativity of Quebec's artists.
Croisières Baie de Gaspé
19.4 km
Discover the breathtaking marine life of Gaspé Bay with unforgettable whale watching tours at Croisières Baie de Gaspé.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Taverne BAKER
0.0 km
Discover the vibrant ambiance of Taverne BAKER in Gaspé, where local flavors and friendly faces create an unforgettable bar experience.
Bar La Voute
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Gaspé at Bar La Voute, where good drinks and great company await.
bar de la marina
0.4 km
Experience the charm of Gaspé at Bar de la Marina, where local flavors meet stunning waterfront views in a cozy setting.
Rodeway Inn
0.4 km
Experience the warmth of Gaspé at Rodeway Inn, your cozy retreat in Quebec's stunning natural landscape.
Bar Apollo
19.8 km
Discover the cozy charm of Bar Apollo in Gaspé, where great drinks and friendly vibes create unforgettable moments.
Bar Laitier Casse Croute La Molliere
20.9 km
Discover the delicious flavors of Gaspé at Bar Laitier Casse Croute La Molliere, a must-visit restaurant for ice cream lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
Pub Pit Caribou Percé
39.4 km
Discover the flavors of Quebec at Pub Pit Caribou in Percé, a must-visit brewpub offering local craft beers and exquisite cuisine.
Pub Aire Salin
39.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Pub Aire Salin, the perfect bar in Percé for tourists seeking local flavors and relaxation.
Microbrasserie Pit Caribou
41.6 km
Experience the essence of Quebec craft brewing at Microbrasserie Pit Caribou, where artisanal beers and local flavors unite in a cozy atmosphere.
Brett & Sauvage - Nano-Brasserie
42.7 km
Experience the best craft beers at Brett & Sauvage - a scenic nano-brewery in Sainte-Thérèse-de-Gaspé, Quebec, where flavor meets innovation.
