Bursting with urban appeal and cultural attractions, Trois-Rivières is a relaxing destination with local color, delightful restaurants, unusual museums and a lively downtown, all nestled on the St. Lawrence waterfront. Enjoy this contemporary town with plenty of style built around a historic district with plenty of soul.
The three rivers of the city’s name are the fingers of the Saint-Maurice River flowing into the St. Laurence River. Swim or sunbathe at Île Saint-Quentin Park or join Family Day in early August at Parc Laviolette. Get a group together and try paddling a rabaska, an Algonquin canoe made of tree bark.
One of the city’s most popular heritage sites is the Old Prison of Trois-Rivières, opened in 1822 and finally taken out of operation in 1986. Experience the harsh conditions prisoners withstood with the unique opportunity to “go to jail” as they did.
Enjoy other varied cultural pursuits. Learn about the region’s history and see inspiring artwork at Musée Pierre-Boucher, named for a French settler who arrived in 1634 and became governor of the region. Visit BORÉALIS inside a former industrial site for fascinating displays showing the importance of the paper and logging trades in Quebec.
Throughout the year, attend one of 20 performances of the city’s philharmonic orchestra. In summer, join thousands on the grassy lawn in front of the stage of Amphithéâtre Cogeco for entertainment under the sun or stars. Watch horse racing at the Hippodrome or challenge friends to video games at the Salon de jeux de Trois-Rivières. Save money by purchasing an annual Museums Pass for access to about a dozen museums and other cultural attractions.
Trois-Rivières offers refreshing choices for gourmet dining and casual snacking. Have warm French bread and cheese or authentic Asian delicacies. Enjoy hot coffee and a macaron on cool days.
Fly to Montréal and drive 1.5 hours northeast to reach Trois-Rivières. Use metered parking on the downtown streets many spaces are free on Thursday and Friday evenings and during weekends.
