Photo credit: Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean © GouvQc, Gaëlle Leroyer

5 little-known museums and historic sites to explore in any weather

Quebec’s museums offer fantastic opportunities to immerse yourself in culture and discover the province’s historical, artistic and architectural richness — all while escaping the whims of Mother Nature or taking a break from the heat or cold. No matter the weather, these museums invite you to dive into captivating stories and fascinating collections. Here are five museums and historic sites to visit this season!

01 Discover the experience
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Discover the experience

Musée ilnu de Mashteuiatsh
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Did you know that in 2026, it will be possible to observe 13 full moons in a single year (including two in May, on the 1st and the 31st)?

This inspired local artist Patricia Langevin in the creation of her works, presented until October 18, 2026 at the Musée ilnu de Mashteuiatsh (website available in French only) as part of a brand-new temporary exhibition, 13 pleines lunes (13 Full Moons). Flashlight in hand, explore this blown-glass installation from different angles, integrated into caribou, moose and deer antlers, as well as driftwood. Light reveals its subtle nuances and brings unexpected details to life.

Take advantage of your visit to discover the museum’s other permanent and temporary exhibitions, too!

Musée Bon Père Frédéric in Trois-Rivières
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Immerse yourself in the history and heritage of Trois-Rivières at the Musée Bon Père Frédéric by discovering the inspiring journey of Frederic Janssoone, a Franciscan missionary priest beatified in 1988. Through a rich collection of objects, artworks, reproductions and historical documents, the museum highlights his influence on the region in the early 20th century.

The permanent exhibition explores his life in the land of his childhood, France, his chosen home, Palestine, and his adopted country, Canada, while a temporary exhibition focuses on his spiritual journey.

A meaningful experience that sheds light on a collective memory that remains very much alive today.

Centre Marie-Léonie Paradis in Sherbrooke
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Visit Sherbrooke’s Saint-Michel Cathedral Basilica (website in French only) and stop by the Centre Marie-Léonie Paradis. Immerse yourself in the inspiring story of this charismatic woman, canonized in October 2024 – the third Quebec woman in history to be declared a saint.

Founder of the Little Sisters of the Holy Family, Marie-Léonie Paradis devoted her life to supporting her community. Take a self-guided tour and discover four themed alcoves that retrace her journey through personal objects, photographs and texts that speak of her unwavering devotion.

The Marguerite-Bourgeoys Historic Site in Montréal
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To dive into the history of the metropolis, head to the Marguerite-Bourgeoys Historic Site, where the Bonsecours Experience offers two self-guided audio tours blending art, history, heritage and music to help you explore this iconic Montréal landmark at your own pace.

The Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel tour introduces you to key figures from the history of Montréal’s oldest chapel while highlighting its architecture and artwork. You might even hear the melodies of the Casavant organ!

Meanwhile, the Marguerite-Bourgeoys Museum tour immerses you in the life of Montréal’s first teacher and the history of the neighbourhood through a captivating narration filled with stories and first-hand accounts.

Keep an eye out for events and concerts happening on site!

The Centre Catherine de Saint-Augustin in Québec City
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Located in the heart of the Monastère des Augustines in Old Québec, the Centre Catherine de Saint-Augustin is dedicated to preserving the memory of this Augustinian Hospitaller nun, who left a profound mark on New France and played a pivotal role in founding the Hôtel-Dieu de Québec hospital.

In addition to guided tours, the Centre presents exhibitions and cultural events that highlight the legacy of the Augustinian sisters and their relationship with the community. The historic Church of the Augustines-de-l’Hôtel-Dieu-de-Québec, where her relics are kept, is also home to a remarkable art collection, including several works by European masters.

Photo credit: Marie-Anne Gaudreault
Photo credit: Jean-Sébastien Veilleux