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Dufferin Terrace: A Stroll Through History
Experience breathtaking views and rich history on Quebec City's iconic boardwalk, a vibrant destination for locals and tourists alike.
Dufferin Terrace, a prominent boardwalk in Quebec City, offers stunning views of the St. Lawrence River and the iconic Château Frontenac. Named after Governor General Lord Dufferin, this historic site has been a favorite gathering place for locals and tourists since its public inauguration in 1838.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Dufferin Terrace
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Rue des Carrières, Québec City, La Cité-Limoilou, Quebec, G1R 5J5, CA
Monday
9:30 am-5 pm
Tuesday
9:30 am-5 pm
Wednesday
9:30 am-5 pm
Thursday
9:30 am-5 pm
Friday
9:30 am-5 pm
Saturday
9 am-5 pm
Sunday
9:30 am-5 pm
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Getting There
Walking
If you're already in Old Quebec, walking to Dufferin Terrace is a delightful option. From the iconic Château Frontenac, simply head down Rue des Carrières. The terrace is located directly in front of the Fairmont Château Frontenac, making it easily accessible on foot. This is a scenic stroll filled with historic architecture.
Public Transport
To reach Dufferin Terrace via public transportation, you can take the RTC (Réseau de transport de la Capitale) bus. Routes 1, 11, and 21 will take you close to Old Quebec. For instance, take bus 21 from the Gare du Palais or the Central Station and get off at the 'Château Frontenac' stop. From there, it's a 2-minute walk to Dufferin Terrace, located on Rue des Carrières. A single fare is approximately CAD $3.50.
Driving
If you're driving to Dufferin Terrace, head towards the Old Quebec area. From Autoroute 440, merge onto Boulevard Charest Est (Route 138) and continue until you reach Rue des Carrières. Look for parking options nearby, as street parking can be limited. The nearest parking garage is the 'Château Frontenac' parking, which typically costs around CAD 3-5 per hour. Once parked, it's just a short 5-minute walk to Dufferin Terrace.
Local tips
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Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
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Don't miss the nearby historic sites, including the Château Frontenac and the Plains of Abraham.
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Check the schedule for local performances or events that often take place on the terrace.
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Bring a light jacket, as it can get breezy along the waterfront, even in warmer months.
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Take a moment to enjoy a snack or drink from one of the nearby cafés while soaking in the views.
Discover more about Dufferin Terrace
Dufferin Terrace is a historic boardwalk that wraps around the Château Frontenac in Quebec City, offering breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River. This iconic promenade has been a central part of Quebec City's heritage and a popular destination for visitors for centuries.The terrace's history dates back to 1620 when Champlain, the founder of Quebec City, built the St. Louis Fort on this site. Over the years, it served as the governor's official residence and was later transformed into a public boardwalk in 1838 by Lord Durham. In 1872, Lord Dufferin expanded the terrace, solidifying its place as a must-see attraction.Today, Dufferin Terrace is a lively spot where visitors can stroll, relax, and admire the scenery. The boardwalk features six gazebos named after historical figures, benches, and informative plaques detailing Quebec City's rich heritage. In the summer, street performers entertain the crowds, while in the winter, a thrilling toboggan run attracts thrill-seekers.Beneath the terrace lie the remains of the Saint-Louis Forts and Châteaux, the former residences of French and British governors. Visitors can explore these ruins and learn about the site's fascinating history. The terrace also provides access to the Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec, a cable railway that descends to the Lower Town.
A brief summary to Dufferin Terrace
Use Dufferin Terrace as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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