Gaspé with Family: What to Do During the Construction Holiday?

Laughter on the beach, footsteps on the trails, eyes wide with wonder at the museum… summer in Gaspé is an adventure to experience with family. And during the construction holidays, the region offers a perfect balance of nature, culture, games, and discoveries. Whether you're looking for gentle moments or a place to burn off excess energy, here's a complete guide to creating memorable souvenirs, to the rhythm of the tides, peaks, and salty wind.

Walk, explore, climb: family-friendly hikes

Trails suitable for little legs and curious adventurers of all ages!

The three new trails of Forillon National Park

The Woodpecker, The Stream and The Beaver wind their way through the Gaspé forest. Newly developed, these trails offer more accessible routes, perfect for introducing young hikers to nature.

The Trail of Legends

A unique route in the heart of the city, where each loop is named after a Gaspé legend drawn from the tales of ethnologist Jean-Claude Dupont. Along the way, signs tell you these stories inspired by local folklore, adding a touch of mystery and culture to your hike. And as a bonus, a superb viewpoint of the bay and downtown awaits you.

The Enchanted Forest of L'Anse-à-Valleau

In this magical 2.5 km loop, fantastic characters reveal themselves along the trail. It's a place where imagination takes root, perfect for awakening children's curiosity and rekindling parents' explorer spirit.

The Banc Trail

Walk or cycle along the river, lulled by the salty wind and birdsong. This panoramic trail runs along the coast in a peaceful and bright atmosphere. Perfect for picnicking by the water, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the moment together.

Discover and learn: two cultural experiences to share

When curiosity takes over, we embark on an inner exploration!

The Gaspésie Museum

Dive into the region's history through interactive exhibits, fascinating artifacts, archival photos, and family-friendly spaces.

The Gespeg Mi'kmaq Interpretation Site

Discover the world of the Mi'gmaq through a reconstructed village, demonstrations of traditional craftsmanship, and passionate guides. A vibrant, accessible, and deeply enriching place.

Get active and have fun: the best family playgrounds

Kids and adults alike can let loose in the region's many parks and recreational centers. Here are a few must-see stops:

• L'Anse-à-Valleau: A charming play area in a natural setting.
• Rivière-au-Renard: Le Quai d'Amour offers sea views, games, and a relaxing atmosphere.
• Cap-des-Rosiers: The recreation center welcomes children with play structures and a sports field.
• Forillon National Park: Play areas and facilities at Petit-Gaspé, Penouille (at the end of the La Taïga trail), and at Des-Rosiers campground, the ideal spot to extend your hike with a fun break.
• Cap-aux-Os: Play area at the community center.
• Gaspé: Pumptrack and skatepark next to the rest stop, large play area in Haldimand, accessible play structures, and sea views.
• Douglastown: Recreational area near the community center, perfect for a stop between activities.

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And for more fun: don't forget these bonus activities

When the sun is strong or you feel like slowing down.

The Beaches

Whether sandy or pebbled, the region's beaches are true natural playgrounds. You can build sandcastles, search for seashells, chase waves, or simply lie back and soak up the sun. Haldimand, Cap-aux-Os, Douglastown… each beach has its own unique atmosphere, hidden treasures, and memories waiting to be made with your feet in the water.

Pool, Wading Pool, and Recreational Center

To cool off on hot days (or simply burn off some excess energy), head to the pool at the Petit-Gaspé recreational center in Forillon National Park. Perfect for families camping or just passing through the area!

The Cycling Path Along the Bay

Hop on your bikes for a gentle ride along Gaspé Bay. The trail follows the water, with terrain accessible to children, and several possible stops to observe birds, picnic, or simply admire the scenery. And to reward your efforts: arriving at Haldimand Beach, ideal for a well-deserved break.

Discovering the Region's Lighthouses

Embark on an expedition in the footsteps of the guardians of the sea! The Cap-des-Rosiers lighthouse, the tallest in Canada, is a must-see with its magnificent panorama of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. But other lighthouses and viewpoints dot the Gaspé coastline, making every stop a moment of wonder (and great family photos!).

La Maison Pixel – for gamers of all ages

Looking for an original indoor activity? Head to La Maison Pixel, a fun museum dedicated to the world of video games. You'll find retro consoles, references to the cult universe of Fallout and a unique atmosphere. The bonus: the on-site cafe offers desserts, a cereal bar, and drinks to extend the fun. A guaranteed favorite, for both children and nostalgic adults.

Cap au large – 4D Experience

Embark on an immersive adventure in the heart of Rivière-au-Renard! Cap au large plunges you into the history of fishermen, thanks to a striking 4D experience. Wind, mist, movement: everything is there to experience the daily life of Gaspé fishermen as if you were there. A captivating moment to experience safely indoors… but with your heart at sea!

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The gourmet and eco-friendly snack break, by Beige Farine

Family vacations often mean snack cravings when you're out in nature. What if we used these breaks to do a little something for the planet?

Beige Farine, Gaspé's bulk grocery store, offers simple tips for snacking without generating waste. Their motto: simplicity, pleasure, and eco-consciousness.

Zero-waste essentials: fresh fruit, crunchy vegetables with dip, cheese pieces, yogurt in a reusable container. Nothing complicated, it's all in the preparation!

Smart tip : stop by a bulk grocery store (like Beige Farine!) to fill bags and containers with nuts, dried fruit, candies, or local snacks.

The perfect explorer's kit : water bottle, reusable coffee cup, container, utensils, snack bag. With these, you're ready to hit the trails and eat out without creating waste.

And if you're looking for some ready-made ideas, Beige Farine offers a few favorites to pack:

• Chocolate pretzels,
• Chili lime soy sticks,
• « Nature trail » nut mix.

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Take the opportunity to discover products from Gaspé and bring back a useful (and tasty!) souvenir from your vacation.

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For a summer in Gaspé that will be etched in the whole family's memories

In Gaspé, family summer means adventure, freedom, fun… and lots of sand in your shoes. Whether you're just visiting or rediscovering your home region, the area is brimming with activities to make lasting memories together.

So, let's pack the snacks, swimsuits, binoculars, and go explore!

👉 Want to discover even more about family-friendly activities in Gaspé? Check out our tourist magazine for activity suggestions, accommodation options, and local favorites to enjoy with your family this summer: https://gaspepurplaisir.ca/magazine-pur-plaisir-2025/

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