Aquarium of Québec is an indoor and outdoor aquarium in the Sainte-Foy area, about 15 minutes from downtown Québec City. More than 10,000 marine animals live across its exhibits, from St. Lawrence fish and seahorses to polar bears, seals and walruses. Walk through the underwater tunnel, pause by the jellyfish tanks and look for the outdoor marine mammals. Touch pools add a hands-on stop for children. The grounds cover a large area, so bring rain gear if you plan to explore outside in wet weather.
Indoor and outdoor habitats
The aquarium combines indoor galleries with outdoor paths and animal habitats. Its collection includes more than 10,000 marine animals, with fish, amphibians, reptiles, invertebrates and marine mammals. St. Lawrence freshwater and saltwater habitats sit alongside species from boreal and Arctic environments.
Outside, paths pass through a wetlands setting with aquatic plants, birds, amphibians, insects and reptiles. The outdoor area also includes seals and Arctic animals such as polar bears and walruses. Leave time to walk between the buildings and exhibits.
The underwater tunnel and touch pools
In the indoor galleries, an acrylic tunnel runs through a large saltwater tank, giving you a view of fish swimming around and overhead. It is a central stop for seeing the aquarium from below the waterline.
Touch pools offer a closer look at some invertebrates, including starfish, sea urchins and hermit crabs. Stingrays are another hands-on highlight. Follow the exhibit route at your own pace, with time for the jellyfish and seahorse displays.
Planning your visit
The aquarium is in the Sainte-Foy area, about 15 minutes from downtown Québec City. Its indoor exhibits make it an option in poor weather, but the outdoor habitats are part of the experience too. If rain is forecast, bring suitable clothing for the paths and the walk between buildings.
The grounds cover a substantial area, so allow time to move between sections. Summer is a practical time to include both the indoor and outdoor displays. The site has free parking, a café and a gift shop; advance ticket booking is recommended.
Häufige Fragen
How long do you need at Aquarium of Québec?
Plan around 1.5 to 3 hours. The visit includes indoor galleries and outdoor habitats, with time needed to move between areas.
What animals can you see at Aquarium of Québec?
The collection includes fish, amphibians, reptiles, invertebrates and marine mammals. Outdoor habitats include polar bears, seals and walruses.
Is there an underwater tunnel?
Yes. An acrylic tunnel passes through a large saltwater tank, with fish swimming around and above you.
Can you touch animals at Aquarium of Québec?
Touch pools let visitors handle some invertebrates, and stingrays are available for hands-on encounters.
