‘Tis the season! We’re sending warm wishes to you and yours from one of my favorite spots in the whole world—our kitchen. We’ll be packing our bags for a quick New Year’s getaway but until then, our little crew is cozy at home, and baking up dozens of cookies ahead of Christmas. Wherever you are and whatever travel plans you do or don’t have, we hope that you’re soaking up some quality time with family and have a moment to reset ahead of the New Year.

This week, we’re covering one of favorite winter destinations, Quebec City, which truly feels like a visit to France without the need to book a transatlantic flight. Read on to see why it’s earned a spot on our list of return visits.

Lastly, if you’re in the thick of holiday shopping, you may appreciate a reminder that our Kids Gift Guide is primarily comprised of two-day shipping eligible finds on Amazon 😉 Procrastinators can take a look here!

No newsletter next week; we’ll see ya in 2025!

Discover the Charm of Quebec City:
A Family-Friendly Alternative to France

Have you had visions of fresh croissants, baguette or macarons dancing in your head this holiday season? A little bit of France just might be closer than you think...

Filled with European charm, cobblestone streets and historic architecture, Quebec City in Ontario, Canada is an equally enchanting destination much closer to home, minus an Eiffel Tower. Offering a taste of Europe with a unique North American twist, it's also a perfect choice for families who are ready for adventure, but perhaps NOT a transatlantic flight.

Here are some compelling reasons why Quebec City should top your travel list, along with tips on what makes it ideal for kids.

Affordable European Flair
One of the most appealing aspects of Quebec City is its ability to deliver a European experience at a fraction of the cost. Direct flights are available from NYC and Fort Lauderdale year round and from additional U.S. cities seasonally, but driving is also an option for east coast or Midwest folks. All others can typically nab an easy connection via Toronto.

The exchange rate often works in favor of travelers from the U.S., making dining and activities more affordable than France itself, too.

A Rich Cultural Experience
Wander through Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and feel as though you've stepped back in time. The city's well-preserved historic sites, such as the Citadelle of Quebec and the iconic Château Frontenac hotel (which we absolutely recommend!), provide captivating insights into the region's past.

For families, winter delivers idyllic European-style Christmas markets and carolers that feel straight out of a Hallmark movie. Indoors, the Musée de la Civilisation offers engaging exhibits that cater to children, making learning about history an interactive experience.

Kid-Friendly Activities
Quebec City can feel like a playground for children, with a plethora of activities to keep young adventurers entertained. Here are a few highlights:

Montmorency Falls Park: Just a short drive from the city, Montmorency Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder. Families can enjoy walking trails, a cable car ride, and even a suspension bridge for a thrilling view of the falls.

Aquarium du Québec: Home to over 10,000 marine animals, including polar bears and walruses, this aquarium provides an exciting day of exploration and education for kids of all ages.

Vieux-Québec Funicular: This unique mode of transportation connects Lower Town and Upper Town, offering a fun and scenic ride that children (and grown ups!) will find a little bit exhilarating as you make your way to and from the shops.

Fifteen minutes from town, Entourage sur-le-Lac Resort is a natural respite, sitting on a lake and offering a casual but adventurous setting for traveling families. Rooms sleep up to six and an evening kids program means that parents can dine solo if they choose. An hour outside of the city, kids can take ski or snowboard lessons and parents can relax, at the chic ClubMed Charlevoix, complete with suites that sleep up to six and a kids club.

A Safe and Welcoming Environment
Safety is always a priority when traveling with kiddos, and Quebec City consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in Canada. The friendly locals are known for their hospitality and warmth, and kids bustle through the streets - bundled up to the hilt in wintertime - alongside their parents.

Practical Travel Tips
Language: While French is the predominant language, most locals speak English, making communication easy for English-speaking travelers.

Weather: Be prepared for Quebec City's distinct seasons. Summer offers pleasant weather for exploring, while winter transforms the city into a snowy wonderland—perfect for those who love winter sports.

Transportation: The city's compact size makes it easy to navigate on foot, even with kids, but public transportation, taxis and rental cars are easy to come by for longer distances.

Looking for more inspiration? The Kid-Friendly Stays travel directory is the perfect first stop in your next family vacation adventure, offering a curated collection of hotels, resorts, Airbnbs and VRBOs for your perusal.

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