The St. Lawrence River is a huge waterway with rivers and estuaries which traverses the provinces of Quebec and Ontario. Originating at Lake Ontario, the river migrates North East along the cities of Kingston, Montreal and Quebec City to the Atlantic Ocean. The river crosses through forests, freshwater expanses and maritime estuaries with a myriad of stunning views and wildlife. With so much to see and do, why not take the whole family on a St. Lawrence tour for a perfect riverside holiday? Here are four family-friendly things to do for an outdoor holiday in the sun.
Whale watching
Take the kids to see one of the world’s greatest animals at the mouth of the Atlantic Ocean. Travel from Quebec’s Quebec City eastward along to river to Gaspe Bay, a whale watchers paradise. Spring and fall are the best times to see these giants play and swim up and down the river. Humpback, Fin, White and Beluga Whales are just some of the species that like to visit the area which swim playfully around the whale-watching boats.
Granby Zoo, Montreal
If you travel west from Quebec, you will reach the popular city of Montreal with all the fun and activities of a large cosmopolitan city. Head to the Granby Zoo, one of the largest zoos in the country, which is home to more than 1000 animals. From elephants and giraffes to tigers and gorillas, this family day out will tick all the right boxes. The zoo also has amusement rides and a water park which is included in the entry price. After long day of nature and excitement, grab a bite to eat with the kids in the Granby’s restaurant.
Niagara Falls
This spectacular landmark can be found on the border between the province of Ontario and the state of New York in the USA. Niagara Falls is made up of three stunning waterfalls – the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. The combination of all three falls forms the highest water flow rate of any waterfall in the world. Many tourists like to jump on board a cruise boat just beside the falling water for an awe inspiring site and a soaking!
Prince Edward Island National Park
If you are looking up Kingston hotels as part of your trip, just offshore is the idyllic island of Prince Edward, home to maritime history, unspoilt routes of coastline and lush agricultural landscape. The Prince Edward National Park covers wetlands, sand dunes, forest and Prince Edward’s signature sandstone cliffs. The park was named Best Canadian National Park, 2013, by About.com readers and provides vital conservation for the Piping Plover, a delicate endangered sea bird.
